How to Clean Quartz Countertops: Easy, Streak-Free DIY Guide

Quartz countertops are engineered for durability and beauty, but even this low-maintenance surface needs proper care. Improper cleaning can leave streaks, dull the finish, or even damage the resin that binds the quartz. The good news? With the right methods and products, keeping your quartz spotless is simple.

This guide will show you how to clean quartz countertops safely, handle stubborn spills, and maintain a streak-free, glossy surface.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Quartz Countertops

1. Remove Loose Debris

Start by wiping the countertop with a soft microfiber cloth. This removes crumbs, dust, or any small particles that could scratch the surface during cleaning.

2. Choose a Safe Cleaner

• Use mild dish soap mixed with warm water.
  
• Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or high-acid cleaners that can damage the resin in quartz.
  
• For everyday use, consider a pH-neutral quartz cleaner for optimal results.
  

💡 Pro Tip: For comparison, check out our guide on clean granite countertops without streaks to understand safe cleaning techniques for natural stone.

3. Wipe in Circular Motions

Dampen your microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution and wipe the surface in gentle circular motions. Focus on sticky spots, but avoid scrubbing aggressively, as quartz can be scratched by rough materials.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

After cleaning, use a separate damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Leftover cleaner can leave streaks or dull the finish over time.

5. Dry and Buff

Finish by drying the surface with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Buff in circular motions to enhance the natural shine and prevent streaks.

6. Handle Tough Stains

Even quartz can get stubborn marks from coffee, wine, or grease. Try these safe methods:

• Grease stains: Make a baking soda and water paste, apply briefly, and wipe off.
  
• Coffee or tea stains: Use mild dish soap and warm water; avoid bleach or acidic cleaners.
  
• Persistent marks: See our full guide on removing stains from quartz countertops for step-by-step treatments.
  

7. Regular Maintenance

• Wipe up spills immediately.
  
• Use trivets for hot pots and cutting boards for knives.
  
• For ongoing care, follow our daily quartz countertop maintenance guide to keep surfaces pristine.
  

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Quartz

Quartz countertops are durable but require proper care to maintain their shine and longevity. Avoid these common cleaning mistakes:

1. Using abrasive pads or scrubbers → can scratch the surface
   Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, or rough brushes. Use soft microfiber cloths or non-abrasive sponges to clean gently.
   
2. Harsh chemicals → bleach, vinegar, or ammonia
   Strong acids or bases can degrade the resin that binds quartz, dulling the surface and reducing durability. Stick to pH-neutral, stone-safe cleaners.
   
3. Skipping rinsing → soap residue causes streaks and dullness
   Cleaning products left on the surface can leave filmy streaks. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
   
4. Letting spills sit too long → can leave stains
   Wipe up spills immediately, especially wine, coffee, or oil, to prevent permanent marks even on quartz’s non-porous surface.
   

💡 Pro Tip: Consistent, gentle care preserves quartz’s color, shine, and smooth finish while preventing costly damage over time.

FAQs About Cleaning Quartz Countertops

Can I use vinegar or bleach on quartz?
No — these chemicals can damage the resin and dull the finish. Stick to mild soap or pH-neutral cleaners.

How do I remove coffee or wine stains from quartz?
Use a mild dish soap solution or a safe baking soda paste. For tougher stains, refer to our quartz stain removal guide.

Will quartz scratch if I use a scrubbing pad?
Yes — always use soft microfiber cloths or sponges. Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads.

How often should I clean quartz countertops?
Daily wiping with mild soap and water is sufficient for most kitchens. For deep cleaning, follow your weekly or monthly routine.

Can I polish quartz to restore shine?
Buffing with a dry microfiber cloth restores natural shine. Avoid chemical polishes unless designed specifically for quartz.

Final Thoughts

Quartz countertops are resilient, low-maintenance, and beautiful — but proper cleaning is key to keeping them streak-free and long-lasting. By following these steps, avoiding harsh chemicals, and handling tough stains carefully, your quartz surfaces will stay glossy and protected.

After cleaning, consider resealing granite countertops if you also have granite surfaces, and check out our step-by-step kitchen cleaning routine to integrate quartz care into your broader cleaning plan.