Quartz worktops are aesthetically pleasing, durable and easy to maintain, hence why they’re a popular choice with homeowners up and down the country!
But can you use bleach on quartz?
Bleach is an abrasive cleaner that’s widely used around a home to treat stains and clean surfaces, so naturally, you’d expect to be able to use it on quartz too, but this isn’t the case – quartz and bleach don’t mix very well together.
If you were to wash a quartz surface with bleach, you might notice patches of discolouration on the worktop (particularly if your quartz is colourful) or actual physical damage!
These effects, of course, get worse the longer bleach is left on the surface and if you use raw bleach on the quartz worktop (not diluted in water beforehand)!
There are, of course, some people that’ll argue differently. And they will claim that if you dilute a small measure of bleach in several litres of water, you can clean a quartz surface with the bleachy liquid.
But I’d err on the side of caution and stick to less abrasive, chemical-laden products, especially considering quartz is quite pricey!
On that note, let’s take a look at what else you shouldn’t use on a quartz surface.
What Not to Use on Quartz Countertops
To keep your sleek and stylish quartz worktop looking brand new, you should avoid putting or using the following items on it:
- As noted above, bleach will discolour and damage a quartz surface, so steer clear of it.
- Ammonia is a strong alkaline with corrosive properties – so keep it away from quartz.
- Drain cleaners.
- Oven cleaners.
- Abrasive cleaners that contain bleach or ammonia.
- Turpentine.
- Acetone.
- Products that are very acidic or have a high alkaline reading.
- Abrasive cleaning tools – including scouring pads, wire wool balls, and hard-bristled brushes should not be used because they will scratch the quartz surface.
If you do use one of the above, either by accident or on purpose, you must clean the product off the surface immediately!
To do this, you can wipe the surface with a soft, damp cloth. You’ll need to continuously rinse the cloth out and rub the surface clean throughout this entire process, so you remove all of the ‘chemical-ridden item’ from the quartz surface.
Once you’ve done this, you can clean the quartz worktop properly with some warm soapy water!
If you’ve coated the quartz surface in one of the above products, you must not clean the surface with another harsh chemical, as this will cause a chemical reaction.
This would be bad for you and your quartz surface. So, stick to using plain water first and foremost!
To safely and effectively clean a quartz worktop, stick to using the cleaning agents and soft tools mentioned below.
What Is the Best Cleaner for Quartz Countertops?
Quartz may be non-porous and have a high stain resistance, but it isn’t completely stain-resistant, so it still needs to be cleaned and maintained frequently!
The best way to keep your quartz surfaces clean is to use non-abrasive cleaners like the ones listed below:
Washing up liquid and warm water
The simplest way to clean quartz worktops is to wipe them down with a soft cloth that’s been soaked in warm water and washing up liquid.
You don’t need to use anything harsher than this, and if you wipe the surfaces every day, very little dirt will build up on them, and they’ll be super easy to clean.
Make sure your cloth isn’t soaking wet, and remember to dry the quartz worktop with a second dry cloth to buff it!
Vinegar and water
If you’ve got some messy stains to deal with, you can mix one part white vinegar and three parts water in a spray bottle and use this mixture to clean the surface.
Avoid leaving the vinegar on the surface for too long, as its acidic nature may start to affect the quartz worktop.
When you’re done, wipe the entire surface with a fresh, damp cloth to remove any residue! And as above, buff the worktop dry with a soft cloth.
Rubbing alcohol
If you’ve got a difficult stain on your quartz countertop, try to blot the surface with some rubbing alcohol.
The alcohol will get to work in minutes, and the stain should lift away from the surface with ease.
Remember to continuously blot the stained patch with a fresh piece of soft cloth each time. And when you’re done, soak a cloth in some warm soapy water and run the damp cloth over the worktop to remove any rubbing alcohol residue.
You can then dry the surface!
Soft cleaning tools
Every tool you use to clean a quartz surface must be soft. Harsh tools will damage the surface and will leave unsightly marks on the quartz worktop, all of which can be difficult to put right.
So, stick to using microfibre cloths and soft cloths.
Plastic spatula
If you’re having trouble removing a sticky patch of dirt, use a plastic tool to scrape the grime off the quartz surface, but be extra careful when you do this!
If you still can’t remove the gunk, try softening it by placing a warm cloth over it, and then repeat the scraping action discussed above.
Removing toughened dirt might not be the easiest of tasks to carry out, so be patient! Rushing may result in you causing needless damage to the quartz worktop, which could be costly to put right.
Specialised quartz cleaner products
If you’re unsure about using the tools and items listed above, you can, of course, buy an off-the-shelf cleaner that’s designed to wash and maintain a quartz surface.
You may be able to pick up this cleaner in the shop where you bought your quartz countertop, but failing that, you can purchase cleaners online. Just be sure to choose a product that doesn’t contain bleach.
Tip: Remember to wipe your quartz surfaces after they’ve been cleaned with a dry, soft cloth so that they end up really shiny. And always test your chosen cleaner out on a discreet patch of the surface first!
Read our guide on how to clean quartz worktops for some tips and instructions.
Professional help
In addition to the above, you could ask a professional to come in and help maintain or treat your quartz worktop.
You’ll need to find a specialist in your area and get multiple quotes for the work before you go ahead with this option!
Prevention Is Key
When it comes to quartz, it is imperative that you try and stop it from getting too dirty and stained in the first place.
Here are some ‘good practices’ you can action right now so you can keep your quartz in tip-top form
- Clean your worktop every day – that’ll stop the build-up of grime and dust.
- Keep your worktop clear and clutter-free – this can limit potential damage to the surface.
- Place trivets like this product from simplywire on your quartz surface, so you don’t put hot pans/dishes directly onto the surface – that’ll prevent potential burn marks!
- Use chopping boards when cutting up food.
- Mop-up spills as soon as they appear, so they don’t have time to solidify and stain the quartz surface.
- Put paper towels under chopping boards to catch/absorb liquids if you’re chopping acidic foods on a quartz worktop.
Bethan
Bethan has a passion for exploring, reading, cooking and gardening! When she’s not creating culinary delights for her family, she’s concocting potions to keep her house clean!
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FAQs
Will bleach ruin quartz countertops? ›
Quartz countertops are non-porous, making them resistant to bacteria and staining. For this reason, harsh cleaners like bleach aren't required. In reality, bleach can damage the surface of your quartz or cause permanent discoloration to the slab.
What cleaners are safe for quartz? ›A solution of mild dish soap and water is the perfect quartz countertop cleaner for daily care and maintenance. Either cold or warm water works well. However, be sure to use a soft cloth as opposed to brushes with tough brittles. This solution can be used to wipe the countertops as often as needed.
What can ruin quartz countertops? ›Harsh, abrasive cleaners, pads, and sponges should be avoided since they can permanently harm countertops. Scrubbing too hard can leave a dull surface or cause superficial scratches. Oven cleansers, grill cleaners, paint removers, dishwashing detergent, and other high pH cleaners should not be used on quartz surfaces.
Can you use Clorox with bleach on quartz? ›Avoid using the following common disinfectants: Do NOT use Lysol, Clorox or any products containing bleach or vinegar on quartz countertops, as they can cause permanent damage.
Is it OK to use Clorox wipes on quartz countertops? ›You shouldn't be using Clorox wipes daily, or even often, on quartz countertops because they have citric acid, which can be very harsh on your counter. Long-term use could lead to discoloration of your quartz surface.
Can you use magic eraser on quartz? ›Magic eraser may also be used to fight tough quartz stains, simply wet the magic eraser and apply in gentle, circular motion. Clean the area thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel after. For tough to fight grease residue, you may use degreasing cleaners.
Can I use Windex on quartz? ›Most household cleaners you would usually use to do a quick clean with such as Windex, vinegar and Lysol wipes (some of which contain bleach) are not a good idea for quartz countertops. Why? Windex has a high pH level, making it potentially damaging to a manmade material such as quartz.
Is Dawn dish soap safe for quartz countertops? ›Dawn Dish Soap is an effective cleaner that works well in all types of kitchen environments. It contains no phosphates, which means it won't damage it. What is this? If you have a quartz countertop, you should be able to use Dawn Dish Soap without any issues.
How do you get stains out of quartz? ›When preparing the mixture, use this easy formula: equal parts water and vinegar. Allow the solution to sit on the stained surface before wiping with a cloth. For stubborn stains, leave the solution to soak overnight. This is among the best natural methods for cleaning your quartz countertop.
What chemicals can damage quartz? ›You must not expose quartz countertops to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface. Avoid using bleach, oven cleaners, or any other cleaning products containing pumice. Also, you should not use furniture polish, paint removers, silver cleaners, or oil soaps to clean the surface.
What is the best cleaner for white quartz? ›
To make white quartz countertops white again, the best option is to clean it regularly with dish soap dissolved in warm water. If this doesn't work, use a quartz restorer, such as Weiman's Quartz Countertop Cleaner, then rinse thoroughly with warm clean water.
Can I use vinegar on quartz? ›Vinegar-based spray cleaner is another option to keep quartz countertops glistening. In a clean spray bottle, mix one-quarter vinegar with three-quarters water and shake it up. Just as with regular countertop cleaning, keep spraying and wiping across the counter, cleaning a few feet at a time.
Is diluted bleach safe on quartz countertops? ›Quartz will tolerate casual exposure to milder alkaline solutions, such as diluted bleach, but high-pH substances, such as oven cleaners and concentrated bleach, will damage the surface.
Can I use 409 on quartz? ›Is Windex safe for quartz countertops? You can use mild surface spray glass cleaners such as Windex® and mild household cleaners such as Formula 409®. Harsh cleaners with Chlorine bleach should be avoided.
Can you use hydrogen peroxide on quartz countertops? ›Hydrogen peroxide is so effective at removing stains because no matter what stain or how tough it is to get out, hydrogen peroxide can oxidize it to make it easier to wash out. This particular property is not held by other cleaners, which is why hydrogen peroxide is an ideal choice for cleaning your quartz countertops.
How do you disinfect quartz countertops daily? ›Create a simple disinfectant using 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol and two cups water in a spray bottle. You may wish to add 1-2 drops of essential oils to add a nice smell to the mixture. Spray the countertops down, making sure to cover the entire surface. Allow the cleaning solution to sit for 2-3 minutes.
Can I use soft scrub on quartz? ›Quartz countertop care is remarkably simple. Just wipe the surface with water and mild soap or vinegar regularly. If you need to do more stringent cleaning (say, to remove stains), you can use Soft Scrub's gel cleaner, which contains bleach. Outside of that, you don't need to do much else.
Can you use bar keepers friend on quartz? ›Bar Keepers Friend Granite & Stone Cleaner & Polish is specially formulated for use on smooth, polished stone – including granite, marble, and quartz. Its pH-balanced formula won't scratch or mar stone finishes, and it's gentle enough to use every day.
Can you use toothpaste to clean quartz? ›Allow the toothpaste to sit for at least 10 minutes. Rinse with a water-dampened cloth. Then, cover the permanent marker in lemon juice and a generous amount of table salt – if your kitchen countertops are white and the stain remains. Mix it to create a paste-like consistency, rub it into the stain with your fingers.
Is baking soda and vinegar safe on quartz? ›Use baking soda for stubborn stains
Even natural cleaners like vinegar or lemon can be too harsh to use on Quartz or Granite, as they are highly acidic, so they could damage the surface. If you do encounter a stubborn stain, consider using baking soda as a gentler alternative.
Can you use paper towels on quartz? ›
One of the wonderful things about cleaning quartz countertops is that, in most cases, all you need is water and a paper towel. All you have to do during routine, day-to-day cleaning is get your paper towel wet with a little water then wipe down your quartz countertops.
How do you keep quartz clean and shiny? ›Windex, or other window and mirror shining products, are excellent for polishing quartz countertops. Spray from a distance and wipe them with a microfiber cloth. A few cleaning products in your home are not suitable for quartz countertops. Anything with high acidity or alkaline levels can cause etching.
How do I restore the shine to my quartz countertop? ›How to make quartz shiny? To give your quartz countertop its old shine back, make a mix of 1 part vinegar 3 parts water. With the help of a spray bottle and a microfiber cloth, spray the mixture on the countertop and polish it until you get the shine you want.
Can you put a hot pan on quartz? ›Quartz kitchen countertops are heat resistant and can protect against the spread of fire. However, extra caution should be taken as the countertops can get damaged from exposure to excess heat. Ensure you use heat protectors such as coasters, hot pads and trivets to protect the countertops from heat damage.
Does quartz stain easily? ›So, do quartz countertops stain? They can if they are not properly taken care of. Quartz has been proven to be stain-resistant; however, it is not a stain-proof material. In fact, quartz countertops are susceptible to stains from coffee, tea, wine, and chemical spills.
Will dishes scratch quartz countertops? ›Quartz is scratch-resistant, but not scratch-proof. Remember that although your quartz countertops are incredibly durable, they are not cutting boards. Never cut directly on your countertops to avoid scratching the finish and making the stone more vulnerable to staining.
Is Simple Green good for quartz countertops? ›Simple Green Granite & Stone Polish is safe for use on granite, marble, travertine, limestone, porcelain, ceramic, quartz, Corian®*, Silestone®*, and other natural and engineered stone surfaces.
How do you remove water rings from quartz countertops? ›To remove hard water stains on quartz countertops, it is recommended homeowners use Soft Scrub Liquid Gel, a non-abrasive cleaner. This gel should be applied to a damp cloth or paper towel – not applied to the countertop directly. The stain should then be wiped up in a circular motion.
Why did my quartz stain? ›A stain on quartz can be due to a chemical reaction with the resin, food, drink, or sitting water. These show as either a light spot, appearing bleached, or a dark spot. White or light colored quartz countertops are particularly vulnerable to dark stains from tea. Darker quartz is vulnerable to the “bleaching” affect.
Does white quartz stain easily? ›Thankfully, they don't stain! Quartz countertops are not porous like natural stones and therefore do not absorb liquids. Stains cannot penetrate quartz because is has a built-in seal which is created in the fabrication process.
Can you put a coffee maker on quartz countertop? ›
Your coffee pot, a bowl of soup, or mug of hot tea won't damage quartz surfaces. It's best practice to place a barrier of some kind between a slow cooker or pressure cooker and your quartz counter.
How do you maintain quartz countertops? ›Quartz can be cleaned easily with a mild detergent, water and a soft cloth or paper towel, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Abrasive cleansers or harsh scouring pads and cleansers that contain bleach should not be used with quartz.
Is rubbing alcohol bad for quartz? ›Isopropyl alcohol (also known as rubbing alcohol) is a safe and effective cleaning option for quartz counters. You can use it as a regular counter cleaner for more difficult buildups, as a stain remover, or as a countertop polish whenever you want to give your counters a luster boost.
Can you use dawn and vinegar on quartz? ›While quartz is one of the most durable stones, you must avoid using acidic or harsh cleaners. Don't clean your counters with vinegar, ammonia, bleach, or acid-based products.
Can you use rubbing alcohol to clean quartz countertops? ›If you need something a little hardier than the initial soap and water, you can make your own quartz countertop cleaner using rubbing alcohol and dish detergent. Mix three parts dish detergent for one part rubbing alcohol. Mix with warm water. Avoid cleaners with acid.
Can you use magic eraser on white quartz countertop? ›Yes, you can use a Magic Eraser to clean quartz. They won't scratch the surface and can even remove some imperfections you thought you had to live with.
What not to clean quartz countertops with? ›Avoid cleaning with highly acidic or alkaline cleaners, such as nail polish remover, turpentine, oven cleaner, bleach, drain cleaners, dishwasher rinsing agents, etc. Clean immediately with a mild detergent and rinse, if they are spilled.
How do you clean quartz naturally? ›If your quartz crystals are encrusted with calcite, barite, or lime carbonates, you can try cleaning them with ordinary household vinegar and washing ammonia. You'll want to soak them for 8-12 hours in full-strength vinegar. Wash the crystals well, and then soak them for the same amount of time in washing ammonia.
Can you use Murphy's oil soap on quartz countertops? ›Avoid acidic, abrasive, or harsh cleaners.
These can discolor or scratch the surface of your countertops. Avoid bleach, acetone, oil-based soaps like Murphy's Oil, or abrasive cleaners like Soft Scrub.
Many individuals clean their countertops with soapy water, but this should be avoided. Like washing glass with a soapy wet rag or sponge, doing this to your quartz can create a cloudy haze over time from soap scum or leftover mineral deposits.
What cleaner is ammonia free for quartz? ›
Many people use Windex® or similar cleaners to help shine their countertops, while this is okay for most quartz, you should avoid cleaners with bleach or ammonia. Windex®, for example, comes in an ammonia-free version. The real key to caring for quartz is to be gentle.
What chemicals should not be used on quartz? ›You must not expose quartz countertops to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface. Avoid using bleach, oven cleaners, or any other cleaning products containing pumice. Also, you should not use furniture polish, paint removers, silver cleaners, or oil soaps to clean the surface.
Are stains on quartz permanent? ›They can if they are not properly taken care of. Quartz has been proven to be stain-resistant; however, it is not a stain-proof material. In fact, quartz countertops are susceptible to stains from coffee, tea, wine, and chemical spills.
How do you clean and sanitize quartz countertops? ›Create a simple disinfectant using 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol and two cups water in a spray bottle. You may wish to add 1-2 drops of essential oils to add a nice smell to the mixture. Spray the countertops down, making sure to cover the entire surface. Allow the cleaning solution to sit for 2-3 minutes.
Does white vinegar damage quartz countertops? ›Vinegar is very acidic and can cause the quartz to discolour or disintegrate. If you need to use vinegar for cleaning quartz, always make sure you dilute it with water. Lysol wipes may be acceptable for quick cleaning as long as they are bleach free but use them sparingly.
Can you use vinegar on quartz? ›Vinegar-based spray cleaner is another option to keep quartz countertops glistening. In a clean spray bottle, mix one-quarter vinegar with three-quarters water and shake it up. Just as with regular countertop cleaning, keep spraying and wiping across the counter, cleaning a few feet at a time.
Why does everything stain my quartz countertop? ›Quartz Staining
A stain on quartz can be due to a chemical reaction with the resin, food, drink, or sitting water. These show as either a light spot, appearing bleached, or a dark spot. White or light colored quartz countertops are particularly vulnerable to dark stains from tea.
Quartz is an engineered stone. Its composition is of 90-95% quartz crystals, the rest is made out of resins that bind the particles together. These resins are the key to why quartz outstands most natural stones in some aspects. Unfortunately, those resins are also the reason they can stain.
Is baking soda safe on quartz? ›Marble Or Quartz Countertops
As both are natural stone they are sealed to make them suitable for countertops. When you use baking soda to clean them the abrasiveness of the baking soda will scratch the surface. This can damage the sealant and cause permanent damage to the countertops.
That is why you need something that can make those stubborn stains vanish without deteriorating the quality of your quartz. That's where hydrogen peroxide comes in. There are no detrimental effects of using hydrogen peroxide on quartz as such, except for a slight discoloration for lighter colors of quartz.