Quartz is a popular choice in Malaysia due to its durability, ease of cleaning, and stunning appearance. But how do you keep your quartz countertops looking their best and ensure they stay hygienic? This guide will provide you with 5 simple cleaning tips to keep your quartz surfaces sparkling and bacteria-free.
Quartz Countertops Cleaning Tips #1: Cleaning Liquid Spills
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Quartz countertops are beloved for their resistance to staining, including spills from wine and cooking oil. But for optimal hygiene and a sparkling surface, here's how to quickly clean up liquid spills:
- Swift Action: Act promptly! The sooner you address the spill, the less likely it is to leave residue or stains.
- Mild Dish Soap Solution: Gently wipe the spill area with a soft cloth dampened with a mild dish soap solution.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the cleaned area with clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
Why Cleaning Spills Matters:
While quartz resists stains, it's still a good practice to clean up spills for a few reasons:
- Hygiene: Spills can harbor bacteria, so prompt cleaning promotes a clean and hygienic countertop surface.
- Aesthetics: Dried spills can leave streaks or residue, detracting from the beauty of your quartz countertop.
Quartz Countertops Cleaning Tips #2: Cleaning Dried Food Residue
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Even with everyday cleaning, sometimes dried food residue can stick to your quartz countertop. Here's how to tackle it safely and effectively:
- Avoid Metal Scrapers: Resist the urge to use metal spatulas or knives, as these can scratch the quartz surface.
- Gently Loosen Residue: Use a plastic putty knife or a soft plastic scraper to gently loosen the dried food. Be careful not to gouge the quartz.
- Soak Stubborn Stains: For particularly stubborn residue, dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and a mild dish soap solution. Apply it to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes to soften the residue.
Pro Tip: Avoid soaking the quartz surface for extended periods, typically more than 10 minutes. While unlikely, prolonged soaking can dull the finish.
- Wipe and Rinse: Once the residue is softened, wipe the area clean with the dampened microfiber cloth. Rinse the cleaned area with clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.
Quartz Countertops Cleaning Tips #3: Heat Control
Quartz countertops offer good heat resistance, typically up to 150°C (300°F). However, it's important to exercise caution with extremely hot items.
Protect Your Quartz:
- Always Use Hot Pads: Get in the habit of using hot pads or trivets under hot pots, pans, and dishes to shield your quartz surface from direct heat.
Why Use Hot Pads?
While quartz can withstand moderate heat, excessive heat exposure can lead to:
- Burn Marks: Hot cookware can leave unsightly scorch marks on the surface.
- Discoloration: Over time, extreme heat may cause slight color changes in the quartz.
Prevention is Key:
Developing the habit of using hot pads will help you maintain the beauty and longevity of your quartz countertops.
Quartz Countertops Cleaning Tips #4: Avoid Scratch On Quartz
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Quartz countertops are known for their durability, but even the strongest materials have their limits. Here's how to keep your quartz surfaces looking pristine:
Cutting Board is Your Friend:
- Develop the Habit: Always use a cutting board when chopping, slicing, or dicing food. This protects the smooth surface of your quartz countertop from scratches and nicks.
Why Use a Cutting Board?
- Prevent Scratches: Directly using knives on the countertop can leave visible marks, especially on darker quartz colors.
- Protect Your Knives: Cutting on a hard surface can dull your knives. Using a cutting board extends their lifespan and sharpness.
Maintaining Beauty and Functionality:
By incorporating cutting boards into your food prep routine, you'll ensure both the beauty of your quartz countertops and the longevity of your knives.
Do's and Don'ts for Sparkling Quartz Countertops
Maintaining the beauty of your quartz countertops is easy with the right cleaning routine. Here's a quick guide to what to use and what to avoid:
- Do use:
- Mild dish soap and warm water for everyday cleaning.
- A soft microfiber cloth to prevent scratches.
- Non-abrasive cleaning pads for tougher messes.
- Don't use:
- Bleach or harsh chemicals – these can damage the quartz surface.
- Nail polish remover or strong solvents.
- Harsh scouring pads or abrasive cleaners.
- Sealers – quartz is non-porous and doesn't require sealing.
Simple Maintenance, Lasting Beauty
By following these simple cleaning practices, you can keep your quartz countertops looking their best for years to come.
