Dos and Don’ts with Quartz Countertops

Quartz is non-porous, which means it resists stains far better than natural stone surfaces like granite or marble. However, this doesn’t mean it’s completely immune to marks. Liquids such as coffee, tea, wine, and even cooking oils can still cause discolouration if they’re left sitting for a prolonged period. The safest approach is to wipe up spills as soon as they happen.

Keeping a soft, damp cloth or sponge handy in the kitchen can make this easy. Simply wipe away the spill, then follow up with a gentle cleaner if necessary. By getting into the habit of acting quickly, you’ll prevent stubborn marks and keep your worktops looking pristine.

When it comes to cleaning quartz countertops, gentle really is best. A microfibre cloth or non-abrasive sponge will effectively lift away dirt and grime without scratching the polished surface. Over time, abrasive cleaning pads can dull the finish, making your worktop appear less glossy.

For daily cleaning, warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap will do the job perfectly. Not only does this method protect the surface, but it also helps maintain that fresh, showroom-quality look. By avoiding aggressive scrubbing tools, you’re preserving the surface’s smooth, reflective finish for the long term.

Although quartz is an incredibly strong surface, it’s not designed to withstand repeated knife cuts. Using your worktop as a chopping surface might seem convenient, but it can leave small scratches over time, which can dull the appearance and create areas where bacteria may gather.

A chopping board doesn’t just protect your worktop – it also protects your knives. Quartz is much harder than a knife blade, so cutting directly on it will quickly dull your tools. By keeping a set of chopping boards within easy reach, you can prepare food efficiently without risking damage to your beautiful surface.

Quartz is heat-resistant to an extent, but direct contact with very hot pans, trays, or casserole dishes can cause thermal shock, which may result in cracks or surface damage. Even brief exposure to high temperatures can weaken the resin within the quartz.

To be safe, always place a heat-resistant mat or trivet between your hot cookware and the quartz. This simple habit can prevent costly repairs and maintain the structural integrity of your worktop. It’s especially important when moving dishes straight from the oven or hob, as these can be significantly hotter than you might expect.

Quartz is bound together with resins, and harsh chemicals like bleach, oven cleaner, or highly acidic solutions can break these down, leading to permanent damage. Even natural acids like concentrated lemon juice or vinegar can cause etching if left in contact for too long.

If you need to disinfect your worktop, choose a quartz-safe antibacterial spray or simply use warm, soapy water. This will sanitise the surface without risking chemical burns, fading, or discolouration.

Even if you’re in a rush, placing a hot pan or tray directly onto your quartz countertops can cause irreversible damage. Thermal shock happens when a surface experiences a sudden, extreme change in temperature, and while quartz is durable, the resin can still be affected by intense heat.

Protect your worktop every time by using a trivet or heat mat. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in preventing cracks, warping, or resin damage.

Abrasive tools like steel wool or heavy-duty scourers can cause micro-scratches that may not be immediately visible but will dull the finish over time. These tiny scratches can also trap dirt and make cleaning more difficult.

Instead, stick to gentle tools like microfibre cloths or soft sponges. If you’re tackling dried-on food or stubborn residue, let a damp cloth sit on the area for a few minutes to loosen it before wiping clean.

Every quartz countertop brand has its own care instructions, tailored to its specific composition and finish. These guidelines aren’t just suggestions – they’re designed to help you get the best life out of your worktop and maintain your warranty.

When you have your worktop installed, keep the care leaflet in a safe place or bookmark the manufacturer’s care page online. Following these rules will ensure you don’t accidentally void your warranty and will keep your quartz looking its best.