If you have recently installed quartz countertops in your kitchen, you may love the way the stone complements the decor and gives the space an earthy touch. However, if this is your first experience with quartz, you may be wondering if there is anything special you need to do to take care of it. While caring for quartz counters is not difficult, there are a couple of mistakes you should avoid making that could ruin the surface's natural finish.

1. Cleaning the Surface Using Harsh Cleaners

The first mistake you should avoid while taking care of your countertops is using any harsh chemicals while cleaning the stone. While quartz is a crystalized stone, it is vulnerable to breakdown when exposed to certain solutions.

Unlike other stone counters, quartz is not sealed, so it does not have an added layer of protection. If you use ammonia, bleach, or another harsh chemical, the surface of the quartz will break down, leaving you with a dull, uneven finish.

Instead of using harsh cleansers, simply use soapy water made with mild dish soap. Then, rinse away the soap thoroughly with clean water. These two things should be enough to keep your counter's finish sparkling without wearing down the surface.

2.  Scrubbing the Counter with a Scouring Pad

While preparing food on the countertop or cooking food near it, you are likely to get food on the surface. Especially if you are unable to wipe up the mess right away, you may find yourself with a stuck-on mess. 

With other types of countertops, you may reach for a scouring pad to remove the stuck-on stain. However, you should never use any type of scouring pad, including nylon, to scrub a quartz counter, as doing so will leave micro-scratches on the surface. These micro-scratches will then collect dirt and grime, causing permanent dulling and eventual deterioration of the quartz.

Whenever possible, wipe up food with mild soapy water as soon as it lands on the counter. If this is not possible, rub a small amount of straight dish soap on the stuck-on stain, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a dishcloth or soft sponge to work the soap into the stain, and rinse thoroughly afterward.

Avoiding the above mistakes and taking care while cleaning your countertops can help them retain their beauty for many years. For more information on the care of your new quartz kitchen countertops, speak with a remodeling contractor in your area today.