If you are looking to have quartz worktops in your house or have just had them installed recently, you are making a great decision. Quartz worktops are a very appealing feature for your bar, bathroom, or kitchen space. They not only look amazing, but they are also very hard-wearing and durable. An alternative to quartz worktops is a limestone worktop. Or you can also choose touch marble instead of limestone.
However, there are a lot of actions you can take to keep your quartz worktops in tip-top condition and ensure that they appear just as stunning in the months and years to come as they were when you first had them installed.
So in this read, we will be reviewing:
- Knowing more about quartz worktops
- How to clean quartz worktops
- How to shield quartz worktops against damage
Knowing more about quartz worktops
Quartz worktops are an artificial product consisting of 6-7% polymer resins and 93-94% crushed natural quartz. The polymer resins function as a binding component and assist in retaining a consistent texture, pattern, and colour throughout the worktop.
There are various advantages of quartz worktops. Some of which include:
- You don’t have to worry about quartz worktops staining easily.
- The quartz worktop surface is non-porous and as such, doesn’t engross water.
- Quartz worktops are unaffected by scratches.
- The quartz worktop surface is also unaffected by acids.
- Quartz worktops are resistant to heat, and will also be enclosed during the manufacturing process to support this.
- Quartz worktops are super hygienic.
- Quartz worktops often come with a polished finish, but some manufacturers can make them available in either a leather or satin finish.
How to clean quartz worktops
Generally, quartz worktops are relatively low maintenance. Nevertheless, it is crucial that you get into a cleaning routine with your quartz worktops to make sure that you preserve their aesthetic appeal. Follow these basic steps:
Wipe them after use
You should adopt the habit of cleaning your quartz worktops immediately after usage. This will avoid crumbs and dust from accumulating on the quartz surface. Additionally, make a point of wiping any spills right away. A damp soft cloth – like an e-cloth or microfibre – is suitable for this job. Drying the surface with another clean, dry cloth will ensure that the surface remains in good condition.
Take away any buildup of debris right away
Don’t allow debris like ingrained dirt or sticky food to accrue. The longer you leave it unattended, the more likely it will stain or spoil your quartz worktops. However, don’t use harsh cleaning products like chemical cleaners, abrasive cloths, or scouring pads.
Alternatively, lift the debris gently using a blunt object like a putty knife, then proceed to clean with a soft cloth as described above.
Degrease them frequently
Your kitchen quartz worktop can especially get greasy, so make a point of degreasing them on a regular basis. Search for degreasing products that are quartz-friendly and do not have bleach. Wipe it or spray generously on the quartz worktops, wipe it clean, and then rinse the surface with a wet towel or sponge. Lastly, buff the worktops dry to regain the finishing.
Deal with tough stains immediately after you spot them
As mentioned earlier, quartz worktops are very stain resistant. Nevertheless, if you notice a dried-in stain, deal with it right away. There are various stain-eliminating products available on the market, or you can try using isopropyl rubbing alcohol or homemade solutions like vinegar and water concoction. If you aren’t sure of the right product to use, consult with your quartz worktop supplier or manufacturer for recommendations as to the ideal product to use.
How to shield quartz worktops against damage
In addition to scheduled cleaning, there are a couple of measures you can take to shield your quartz worktops from damage. Some of the things you can do to protect your worktop include:
Clean up immediately
We have already discussed the importance of wiping quartz worktops after usage and handling debris right away. On top of ensuring that your worktop is clean, these actions are both very essential in shielding your worktops from experiencing damage. Dirt, crumbs, or untreated spills could potentially scratch or stain your worktops. Therefore, make sure that you clean up right away to avoid this from occurring.
Shield them from acid and heat
Even if quartz worktops are extremely resistant to acid and heat, it makes sense for you to create an extra layer of protection as well. For this reason, use trivets or mats when handling hot dishes or pans. And also make a point of using coasters to place drinks that are either too hot, vulnerable to stain, or have citrus. All of these things have the ability to damage your quartz worktops.
Use chopping boards for cutting food
Although quartz worktops are quite sturdy don’t use them in place of chopping boards. It is way better to use detached chopping boards instead of using the worktop surface as your base. Keep in mind that quartz is resistant to scratches but not entirely scratch-proof, and it isn’t a pleasant look for small scratches to begin popping up on your quartz worktops.
Don’t use harsh cleaning products – ever!
You know all too well that when you first acquire something – a quartz worktop in this instance – you will be very keen to treat it properly and ensure it is looking in tip-top shape. But as time lapses, you may begin falling into poor habits without even realising it. Regardless of the duration you have had the quartz worktop, don’t cut corners and use harsh cleaning products.