How to clean white quartz countertops – an expert guide for good-as-new results

Q: My white quartz countertops are probably the single most successful addition to my kitchen. They look pristine – nine years on – they’re tough, bacteria-resistant, and need next to no upkeep nor maintenance. For a long time, I have used a solution of dish soap and warm water alone to clean my white quartz countertops, but I've noticed they're dulling and yellowing a little. How can I bring them back?

A: Quartz is made of around 90% natural quartz mixed with around 5 to 10% polymer resin; the quartz is non-porous, which means it’s stain-resistant and usually easy to clean. However, the polymer can absorb stains. Over time, you may have noticed that your countertop has yellowed in places – and hard water stains may be a problem, too.

However, with the right approach and products, you can clean white quartz countertops effectively, and even restore their shine. Here's how.

What can damage or stain quartz?

As tough as quartz is, it can be damaged by prolonged contact with harsh chemicals, such as bleach. All cleaners that aren't made for purpose should be applied to your countertops on a damp cloth, not poured directly on to the surface. 

Oil-based cleaners, paint remover, nail polish, permanent markers and food dyes can also leave stains behind, as can turmeric. You should also be careful, day-to-day, not to place and leave hot pans on quartz countertops.

How to clean white quartz countertops

The best way to keep white quartz countertops as good as new is to wipe up stains immediately. To clean white quartz countertops, simply wipe them with a soft cloth (non-abrasive) dipped in warm soapy water, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. For continued upkeep, and to help them keep their shine, it's recommended to use specialist cleaners, with Weiman's Quartz Countertop Cleaner Polish being a top-rated buy. 

Weiman's Quartz Countertop Cleaner Polish, $13.98 at Amazon
The pH neutral formula of this cleaner means it will safely remove grease, soil, surface stains, and watermarks from quartz. It's also widely praised by users for protecting quartz from fading or darkening, and for the shine it can restore to dull countertops. We love its fresh scent, too.

Cleaning white quartz with white vinegar

We are big fans of cleaning with white vinegar, mixed in equal parts with water. Apply it to white quartz countertops with a soft cloth, allow it to soak for 15 minutes, then wipe away and rinse. 

‘For stubborn stains, leave the solution to soak overnight,’ say the experts at stone countertop experts Caesarstone. 

Cleaning white quartz with glass cleaner

If you use Windex to clean windows without streaks, you’ll be happy to know that you can also use it to give white quartz countertops a shine. 

‘Products such as Windex, are not likely to damage bonds between quartz and the resin,’ say Caesarstone’s quartz experts. ‘Some also dissolve grease, and lift dirt from the surface.’  

Windex Original Glass and Window Cleaner Bundle, $8.30 at Amazon
You may already have Windex at home; it's a marvel at cleaning windows and can also be used on white quartz countertops to remove smudges and grease, leaving behind that streak-free shine. 

Can you clean white quartz countertops with Bar Keeper’s Friend?

We’ve talked about items you can successfully clean with Bar Keeper’s Friend before and, with caution, this includes white quartz countertops. To apply it, simply wet the countertop, sprinkle it on and then rub to remove it with a soft cloth. Do not leave it to soak or use it too often - this is an ‘in case of stubborn stains’ application, not an every day one.

As Bar Keepers Friend is largely made of the chemical oxalic acid, it is advisable to wear cleaning gloves (like these from Amazon) and open windows or doors to help with ventilation when using it around your home.  

Bar Keepers Friend Original Powder | $11.41 at Walmart
This multi-surface cleaner can be used for cleaning white quartz countertops, though you need to do so with caution: do not rub excessively, do not use routinely, and do not allow to soak. 

View Deal

Can you clean white quartz countertops with bleach?

It’s better to use a Soft Scrub Gel with Bleach rather than neat bleach, though you can use the latter in an emergency. However, in both cases, do not leave it to soak into your countertop as it will cause discoloration. 

Soft Scrub Gel with Bleach, $18.63 for a pack of two at Amazon
Generally used as an all-round disinfectant, this cleaner can be used on white quartz countertops, although again, with caution. Do not let it sit on the countertops as the harsh chemicals can cause yellow staining over time. Instead, wipe, then rinse and buff dry.

How to remove hard water stains from white quartz countertops

Hard water stains on quartz are best removed regularly. We recommend using Weiman's Quartz Countertop Cleaner, but you can also use Soft Scrub Liquid Gel, which should be applied with a damp cloth (not directly on to the countertop) then immediately rinsed and wiped.

When to call in the professionals

If you can’t remove stains from your white quartz countertops, it may be time to call in a trusted professional. The best place to start is with the manufacturer of your countertop, who will be able to advise the best course of action. 

How to remove dried on food from white quartz countertops

Rather than using an abrasive cloth, tackled dried on food by wetting a dishcloth and laying it over the surface. Once the food has become wet, it will loosen and you can simply wipe it off.

FAQs