Best Cleaners for Quartz Countertops: What to Use and What to Avoid

Quartz kitchen countertop. Image generated by AI.

Introduction

Hello, it’s Mary Jones here! As a blogger, I’m always excited to share the latest and most helpful home care tips with you. This time, I’m diving into a hot design trend—quartz countertops. My latest kitchen upgrade features one of these countertops. As you might recall, I previously had a ceramic countertop, which served me well for 8 years, but I felt it was time for something more modern and practical.

If you’re currently choosing the perfect design for your quartz countertop, be sure to check out my article “How to Choose a Stylish and Durable Countertop for Your Kitchen: Trendy Solutions for 2025”. In it, I dive deep into the different types of quartz countertops, their unique features, and the best color options available!

When I began thinking about a new countertop, I started researching everything I could about quartz surfaces. At first glance, they might seem low-maintenance, but I soon discovered that selecting the right material is just the beginning. Choosing the right cleaning products for daily upkeep and deep cleaning is essential to maintain its beautiful appearance and extend its lifespan for years. That way, your guests will always be impressed, saying, “Wow! Your countertop looks flawless, like it’s brand new. I need one just like that!”

In this article, I’m sharing my personal experience with selecting the best cleaning products for quartz countertops. I’ll guide you on what works and what can save you money while still keeping your countertop looking pristine. So, whether you’re updating your kitchen or simply looking for tips on caring for an existing quartz countertop, settle in and take note of my advice!

1. How to Choose the Best Cleaning Product for Quartz Countertops?

Before we dive into a review of specific brands and products, let’s first take a moment to understand what quartz is and why it requires special care.

What is Quartz?

Quartz is one of the most common minerals on Earth. It’s very hard and durable, but during the manufacturing process of quartz countertops, it’s combined with polymer resins, which make the surface more flexible and resistant to damage. These countertops are known for their longevity, stain resistance, and water resistance. However, due to the use of resins, they can be susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals or overly abrasive cleaners.

Features of Quartz Countertops:

• Durability: Quartz is a strong material that doesn’t scratch as easily as natural stones like marble.
• Stain Resistance: The resins used in quartz countertops help the material repel stains from food, drinks, and oils.
• Sensitivity to Chemicals: Despite all its advantages, quartz can be sensitive to acids and strong chemicals. Therefore, it’s essential to carefully choose cleaning products.

What to Look for When Choosing a Cleaning Product?

Photo sourced from the stock photo website Pexels.

When I started choosing cleaning products for my new quartz countertop, I realized that not all products are equally suitable for this material. Here are a few key points that will help you select the best cleaning solution.

1. 1. Surface Safety The first thing to consider when choosing a cleaning product is its composition. It’s crucial that the product doesn’t contain abrasive particles that could scratch the surface of the countertop. This is especially important for dark and glossy surfaces, where even small scratches are noticeable.
      
      • Choosing a Cleaning Product: Look for products with gentle cleaning ingredients specifically designed for use on quartz countertops. These could be sprays or gels that don’t contain large particles.
      • What to avoid: Avoid using cleaning powders, as well as harsh sponges and scrapers that could leave scratches.
   2. Effectiveness in Removing Contaminants The next important factor is the effectiveness of the cleaning product. The product should easily handle typical stains, such as grease, beverage marks, sauce stains, or even fingerprints. Additionally, it should not leave streaks, and the countertop surface should remain clean and shiny.
      • What to look for: Sprays or liquids that provide quick and easy surface care are ideal for regular use. For example, products that both clean and add shine can easily tackle most stains.
      • What to avoid: Products with strong chemical components that may damage the surface. Also, avoid products containing acids like vinegar or lemon juice, as they can damage the resins in quartz.
   3.  Ease of Use As someone with a large family, I value simplicity and convenience. Cleaning products for countertops should not only be effective but also easy to use. It’s important to me that the product applies easily, leaves no residue, and rinses off quickly without requiring much time to clean.
   • • What to look for: Choose products that can be easily sprayed onto the surface and wiped off with a soft cloth or paper towel. They should be quick to absorb and not require extra effort to remove stains.
     • What to avoid: Avoid products that require complicated procedures, such as mixing or dissolving. The simpler, the better, especially when you don’t have time for lengthy cleaning sessions.

Thus, when choosing a cleaning product for quartz countertops, pay attention to its composition, effectiveness, and ease of use. Remember, the wrong product can not only fail to clean properly but also damage the surface of your countertop.

2. Review of the best cleaning products for daily care.

Now, let’s talk about the products that are perfect for daily care of quartz countertops.

Here are real reviews from those who have already used popular products and were thrilled with the results. I’ve included approximate prices and usage instructions:

1. Weiman Quartz Clean & Shine

Pros: This product is perfect for regular use. It adds shine to the surface, cleans light stains, and doesn’t leave streaks. It’s ideal for maintaining the countertop in good condition every day.

Cons: Contains a small amount of chemicals, which may cause irritation for people with sensitive skin or allergies. It is recommended to be cautious when using it in large areas.

Approximate Price: $6 - $8 for 16 oz (473 ml)*

Where to Buy:

• Amazon
• Home Depot

Instructions for Use:

• Simply spray the product onto the countertop surface.
• Use a soft cloth or paper towel to evenly distribute and remove the product.
• Wipe the countertop to a shine, avoiding contact with hot surfaces.

2. Method Daily Granite Cleaner

Pros: This is an eco-friendly product that contains no harsh chemicals and is safe for health. It effectively disinfects and cleans surfaces, including quartz countertops, without leaving chemical residues.

Cons: It doesn’t always handle tougher stains, such as greasy spots or sauce residues.

Approximate Price: $4 - $6 for 28 oz (828 ml)*

Where to Buy:

• Amazon
• Target

Instructions for Use:

• Spray the product onto the countertop surface.
• Leave the product for a few seconds to allow it to penetrate the stains.
• Use a soft cloth to wipe the countertop clean.
• For best results, use daily to maintain shine and cleanliness.

3. Granite Gold Daily Cleaner

Pros: Specially designed for care of stone surfaces, including quartz. It effectively cleans, disinfects, and helps prevent stains, keeping the surface in excellent condition.

Cons: This product may be more expensive than similar products and may not fit every budget.

Approximate Price: $9 - $12 for 24 oz (710 ml)*

Where to buy:

• Amazon
• Home Depot

Instructions for Use:

• Apply the product to the countertop.
• Wipe the surface with a soft cloth or sponge, evenly distributing the product.
• To prevent staining, use the product daily to keep the surface in excellent condition and maintain its durability.

All of these products are great choices for daily care of quartz countertops, each with its own unique features. Weiman Quartz Clean & Shine is perfect for those looking for shine and cleanliness without streaks, Method Daily Granite Cleaner will appeal to those who prefer eco-friendly solutions, and Granite Gold Daily Cleaner provides maximum protection against stains and dirt. Choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and preferences!

3. Deep Cleaning: Which Products Are Suitable and Which Are Not

When your quartz countertop is stained with wine, sauce, or other tough stains, regular cleaning products may not be effective. For deep cleaning, stronger products are needed, but be cautious—some of them can be too harsh for your surface. Let’s take a look at two popular products that can help in such cases.

Product 1: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Pros: This product has an amazing ability to remove even the toughest stains, such as grease marks or marker stains. Magic Eraser effectively handles various stains, and I’ve used it several times to restore the cleanliness of my countertop after using oil or wine.

Cons: While this product cleans excellently, it may leave slight scratches if used too intensively or with too much pressure. Therefore, it should not be used daily, but only for deep cleaning.

Approximate Price: $3 - $5 for a pack of 2-4 sponges*

Where to buy: 

• Amazon
• Target

Instructions for Use:

• Slightly dampen the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
• Wipe the stained area of the countertop, applying light pressure to avoid damaging the surface.
• Wipe the countertop with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any remaining dirt and moisture.

Product 2: Soft Scrub Gel with Bleach

Pros: Soft Scrub Gel with Bleach is a powerful product that helps remove even the toughest stains, such as marker marks, grease, sauces, and other hard-to-remove stains. It is more effective than many other products, especially when cleaning old or deep stains.

Cons: It’s important to remember that the product contains bleach, which can damage certain types of quartz, particularly dark shades. Use this product with caution and in limited amounts to avoid damage.

Approximate Price: $4 - $6 for 24 oz (710 ml)*

Where to buy:

• Amazon
• Walmart

Instructions for Use:

• Apply a small amount of Soft Scrub Gel with Bleach to the stained area.
• Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently spread the product over the stain.
• Let the product sit for a few minutes for deeper action.
• Wipe the surface with a clean cloth to remove any residue and dirt.

Deep cleaning of quartz countertops requires the use of stronger products, but it is important to be cautious to avoid damaging the surface. If you decide to use these products, follow the instructions and avoid excessive pressure to keep your countertop in perfect condition for years to come.

* Price as of March 10, 2025 – Published for reference and may differ at the time of reading.

4. What to Avoid: Harmful Cleaning Products and Common Care Mistakes for Quartz.

Photo sourced from the stock photo website Pexels.

My friend, Laura, has had a quartz countertop in her kitchen for five years, and, as I found out, she has encountered several issues with maintaining it. Before purchasing a quartz countertop, I decided to learn from her experience to avoid mistakes that could affect the durability and appearance of the countertop.

"When I first installed my quartz countertop, I thought it required almost no care. I used all the usual cleaning products I had used for ceramic tiles, but quickly realized that doesn’t work with quartz. The biggest mistake I made was using vinegar and ammonia, thinking they would handle the stains," shares Laura.

 Photo of Laura’s damaged countertop due to improper care.

From her experience, I made several important conclusions that are worth considering when caring for a quartz countertop.

Mistakes to Avoid:

Using Abrasive Cleaning Products
Abrasive powders and brushes with stiff bristles can seriously damage the countertop surface, leaving micro-cracks and scratches. Although quartz is a relatively durable material, any scratches can collect dirt and stains, which over time degrades the appearance of the countertop.

1. Cleaning with Vinegar or Lemon Juice
   Some people believe that vinegar and lemon juice are universal cleaning agents. However, they are harmful to quartz countertops. These acids can break down the components of the countertop and cause fading or color changes to the material.
2. Using Harsh Sponges and Scrapers
   This is another common mistake. Harsh sponges or metal scrapers can scratch the countertop surface, even if they appear soft at first. It’s better to avoid them to prevent damage to the material’s structure.
3. Using Harsh Chemicals
   Chemical products such as bleach, ammonia, or solvents can break down the surface of the countertop and cause premature wear. Quartz requires gentle care, and using such substances can lead to long-term damage.
4. Ignoring Temperature Changes
   Despite its durability, quartz countertops can react to sudden temperature changes. Never place hot pots or pans directly on the countertop, as this can damage it.

How to Avoid These Mistakes?

• Use mild cleaning products and avoid harsh chemicals.
• Clean the countertop regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and stains.
• Use trivets for hot items and avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
• Wipe the surface with soft cloths or sponges to avoid damage.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your quartz countertop and keep it looking great.

5. How to Properly Care for Different Types of Stains: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you notice a stain on your quartz countertop, it’s important to choose the right cleaning method. Here’s how I deal with various stains:

1. Grease Stains: I use a mild cleaner, such as Method Daily Granite Cleaner. I simply spray the product on the stain and wipe the surface with a soft cloth in circular motions.
2. Coffee or Tea Stains: I wipe the countertop with a damp cloth and a small amount of dish soap, like Weiman Quartz Clean & Shine. This product effectively removes beverage stains and rinses off easily.
3. Wine or Sauce Stains: For tougher stains like wine or sauce, I use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. This product helps tackle these stains, but you need to be cautious not to leave scratches by using it too aggressively.

Conclusion

Proper care of a quartz countertop is key to keeping it beautiful and functional for many years. I hope my experience and tips help you maintain your countertop in excellent condition. Remember, regular care, choosing the right cleaning products, and attention to detail can extend the lifespan of your countertop.

If you haven’t ordered your quartz countertop yet, I recommend selecting a contractor from The First National Ranking of Stone Countertop Fabricators and Installers in the U.S., just like I did. This ranking will help you find professionals who guarantee high quality in both material and installation. Good luck with your countertop care and in choosing the best specialists for your renovation!

Author: Mary Jones