Ever since the 1990’s, quartz countertops have seen a significant increase in the modern home. When one takes a moment to think about the many benefits of quartz as countertop material, it is easy to understand why it has become so popular. Its gorgeous designs and colors are complimented by their durability and high resistance to damage.
However, there will come a time when a homeowner starts noticing their quartz countertops may look less bright than usual. That glorious sheen from a healthy countertop is becoming dull and faded from constant use. While it may seem impossible to prevent this from happening, there are many things a homeowner can do to make sure your quartz countertops remain shiny and healthy.
Why Do Stone Countertops Fade
Stone countertops can fade from general wear and use over time. It is unfortunate that shiny objects never stay shiny forever. While stone does not naturally shine, there is a finishing layer placed on stone countertops to give it that new countertop sheen homeowners are used to seeing. Some of the main reasons of your countertop losing its shine are:
- Constantly cleaning
- Improper cleaning products
- Small scraping and scratches
Keeping Quartz Shining
Never fear, for there are many ways to keep your quartz countertops glistening bright for years to come by implementing these 8 strategies.
1. Clean Regularly: While constantly cleaning your countertops may fade the sheen over time; the shine will fade much quicker if you do not clean it on a regular basis. Things such as dust, dirt, crumbs, and spills will dull the countertop much faster if they are left to sit for extended periods of time. Take time to clean the countertop with a mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft cloth a couple of times a week to ensure the shine gleams bright.
2. Deep Cleanings: Cleaning on a regular basis in the week is important, but performing a deep cleaning once a week is a good ritual to keep the countertop and kitchen clean and free from pests. Take the time at the beginning or end of the week to remove everything from the countertop and wipe down every nook and cranny in the kitchen. Being meticulous and thorough as possible will only benefit you, your home, and your quartz countertop; ensuring everything is clean and healthy.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemical Cleaners: A big mistake many homeowners make when cleaning is immediately going for bleach when they encounter a stain. In most situations, bleach is amazing to remove any stain, dirt, or grime in the house; but countertops are not where you want to use it.
Quartz and other stone countertops could become stained and permanently lose their shine if bleached is used on them. The same is also true if grime removes, grout cleaners, ammonia, citric acid sprays, glass cleaners, or other high pH cleaners are used.
4. Remove Stains: Removing stains as quickly as possible will save you a lot of money and time in the future. The longer a stain rests on the countertop, the harder it will be to clean.
Thankfully, quartz countertops are exceptionally easy to clean as they are non-porous and manufactured to be simpler to maintain. Stains do not sink into the stone because there are no pores for the stained material to fill. The best way of removing stains on quartz countertops is with regular cleanings, using some diluted rubbing alcohol and a soft rag, or making a poultice of baking soda.
5. Avoid Hard Scrubbers: Abrasive scrubbers are useful in removing hard to scrape gunk off of plates, but they are not ideal for quartz or stone countertops. The abrasive scrubs will not damage the quartz, but the hard bristles will dull the shine very quickly.
Instead of using hard bristle brushes or abrasive scrubs, use soft cloths or a microfiber cloth which can gently clean the countertop without damaging its luster.
6. Use Quartz Specific Cleaners: Purchasing products that are clearly labeled as quartz cleaners are great in keeping the countertop shining. Products such as Stone have high-quality cleaners which are proven to clean and make your countertops sparkle with each usage.
7. Professional Polishing: In the event your quartz countertops have dulled over time, then all hope is not lost. You can hire professional polishers to come to your house and polish the quartz countertop, so it looks brand new! Prices may vary depending on your region and service, but it is a possibility for those interested. There are also polishing kits available online, with instructions, for homeowners to follow so they can polish their quartz countertops themselves.
8. Keep Out of Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight is great every once in a while, but quartz countertops can fade and look dull when exposed to sunlight for too long. The UV rays and exposed heat can weaken the resin binding the quartz minerals together. This not only weakens the stone, but also overexposes the colors with too much light, making them fade over time. To prevent this, keep the blinds closed when you are not home or install the countertop where there is little direct sunlight beaming on them.
Conclusion
Keeping your quartz countertops shining is not as difficult as you would believe. As long as you are paying close attention to properly maintaining your quartz and following our tips, then your countertop will glisten bright like it’s brand new for many years.