How to Clean Quartz Countertops (Without Dulling or Scratching)

Inside: Learn the best way to clean quartz countertops using gentle, safe methods that remove stains without damaging the surface.

Bright kitchen with freshly cleaned quartz countertops

Recently, I was so happy to replace our darker granite countertops with lighter, brighter quartz. As you can see in the picture, it really lightens up our whole kitchen.

Quartz countertops are beautiful, durable, and one of the easiest surfaces to care for...but only if you’re cleaning them the right way.

Before you grab the nearest spray or scrub too hard at a stubborn spot, let’s walk through exactly how to clean quartz countertops so they stay in great condition for years to come.

Why Quartz Countertops Are So Easy to Clean

Quartz counters are a popular choice in modern kitchens for a reason. They’re made from engineered stone, combining natural quartz crystals with resins to create a non-porous surface. That means quartz doesn’t absorb spills the way some natural stone countertops do, making it highly stain resistant and a little lower maintenance than other countertop materials.

The best part? With proper care, keeping quartz clean is simple and fast.

Cleaning a white quartz countertop with a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner

Everyday Cleaning for Quartz Countertops

For everyday cleaning and routine maintenance, you really don’t need much. This is the best way to clean quartz counters on a regular basis:

Wipe away crumbs and food particles using a paper towel or dry cloth.
Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap in a spray bottle.
Lightly spray the countertop surface.
Wipe using a soft microfiber cloth, moving in a gentle circular motion.
Go over the surface again with a clean cloth dampened with clean water.
Dry with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

Be sure to grab my kitchen cleaning checklist while you are at it!

Scrubbing a small stain on a quartz countertop with a soft sponge

Deep Cleaning Quartz Countertops

If your counters need more than a quick wipe (think grease, cooking residue, or sticky substances) a deeper clean is a good idea.

Use warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge.
Focus on seams, edges, and areas around the sink.
Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

Deep cleaning doesn’t need to happen often, but it’s helpful for maintaining the appearance of your quartz countertops over long-term use.

See how I deep clean my kitchen and my hacks for making it go a little faster.

Lifting stubborn hard water residue from a quartz countertop

How to Remove Common and Stubborn Stains

Quartz is stain resistant, but spills left sitting for a long time can still cause issues. Here’s how to handle common stains and tough stains safely:

Always begin with warm water and mild detergents using a soft cloth.

For stained areas, use a cleaner made specifically for quartz or a mixture of dish soap and warm water. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean.

When it comes to stuck-on messes, use a plastic putty knife to gently lift dried food or residue. Avoid sharp objects that could scratch the surface.

Hard water stains are common around the faucets. Use a magic eraser with warm water to break down hard water stains.

Don't miss my 7 Homemade Cleaners That Work, because I really try to make my own when I can and avoid harsh chemicals.

Specific Stains

Red wine or food dyes: Clean as soon as possible with soap and water.
Oil based stains: Dish soap works well when allowed to sit briefly.
Permanent markers: Start with mild soap. Avoid jumping straight to harsh products.

Some also use a 50/50 mixture of white distilled vinegar and water. As long as it is diluted it shouldn't hurt the countertops, but you should not use full strength vinegar.

Cleaners You Should Never Use on Quartz

Using the wrong cleaner is one of the easiest ways to damage quartz. Avoid the following:

Oven cleaner, paint stripper, or products containing methylene chloride
Harsh chemicals or harsh cleaning agents
Abrasive cleaners or abrasive pads
Steel wool
Strong solvents like nail polish remover or bleach
Glass cleaner unless it’s specifically approved for quartz

These can dull the finish, damage the resin, or cause discoloration over time.

Best Practices for Long-Term Quartz Care

Cleaning is only part of proper maintenance. Here are a few other tips that will keep your countertop in the best shape possible:

Always use a cutting board to prevent scratches.
Use hot pads/trivets under hot pans and pans to avoid heat damage.
Wipe spills quickly, especially oils and dark liquids.
Avoid leaving harsh cleaning products sitting on the surface.

Quartz is durable, but a little extra care goes a long way.

Do You Need Special Cleaners?

Not necessarily. While products like Granite Gold Quartz Brite are popular, the best bet for most homes is still warm water and mild soap. That’s the added bonus of quartz, it looks high end without demanding high-effort cleaning.

Common FAQs

Can I use a wet towel?

Yes, just follow up with a dry cloth to avoid water spots.

Is quartz really low maintenance?

Yes. Compared to other stone surfaces, quartz requires less sealing and is easier to clean.

What if a stain won’t come out?

Stop before reaching for stronger chemicals. Check the care instructions for your specific brand of quartz or contact your installer for guidance.

Quartz countertops are designed to be durable, stain resistant, and easy to live with. With gentle cleaning products and a consistent routine, you can keep your counters looking brand new without overthinking it.