Quartz Worktops are popular in kitchens and bathrooms for Hertfordshire locals due to their:

• Strong nature
• Ability to resist stains
• Enduring attractiveness

However, they take a beating and deal with a fair share of stains, especially during cooking sessions. It’s practical to understand how to handle these spills properly to avoid worsening or making the stains permanent. If you clean them incorrectly using the wrong products, you might end up seeing damage and colour changes. Even though looking after these is fairly simple, grasp the right cleaning methods to maintain their shine and cleanliness.

Wait before you jump into cleaning with just any cleaner and potentially wave your investment goodbye. Besides, take a moment to understand how to effectively maintain them.

Understanding the Special Features of Quartz Worktops

Low Maintenance

Apart from being non-porous, quartz is also easy to maintain. No need for extensive scrubbing, special cleansers, or poultices. Unlike stone surfaces that demand specific cleansers to prevent issues like etching (surface damage), quartz can be cleaned using common household cleaners or simple soap and water.

Variety of Sizes and Colours

Quartz worktops in Hertfordshire offer an abundance of stylish options at your disposal. Yes, with incredibly wide choices of colours and patterns. Further, it can imitate the appearance of marble, granite, or even concrete. This material comes in hues that might not be available in other materials, like vibrant blue. Each worktop is custom-made to suit your needs. This means that if you have unconventional angles or curves and desire a waterfall edge, quartz can be shaped accordingly.

Additionally, you have choices in finishes. It may be polished or leathered textures. Given that quartz requires less upkeep than granite worktops in Hertfordshire, you stand to benefit every time.

Less Visible Watermarks/Marks

Quartz surfaces are better at hiding watermarks and other blemishes when compared to natural stone. Besides, this attribute provides them with a consistent and even appearance. So, if you spill something on your countertop by accident, it’s less probable that it will leave noticeable stains or marks.

Durability

Quartz is frequently chosen for its impressive strength. In fact, it’s nearly unbreakable! It scores a seven on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, the highest among common worktop materials. Moreover, this resists scratches and is less prone to chipping and cracking than natural stones.

Although it can handle high temperatures, sudden and extreme heat might lead to cracks. Always use hot pads or trivets under hot cookware to keep your quartz in top shape. With the right care, your quartz can maintain its durability and appearance for many years.

Quartz vs. Granite

Although granite has been a popular choice for kitchen worktops in Hertfordshire, a growing number of homeowners are choosing quartz as an alternative. Yes, both materials are sturdy. But one factor driving this change is that quartz tends to resist chipping and cracking more effectively than granite.

5 Tips to Keep Quartz Worktops Clean

Clean Up Spills Right Away

Even though quartz is resistant, the minority of materials it contains can still be stained. Foods and beverages like blueberries, vinegar, wine, and coffee can mess with the worktop’s colour if not addressed in a reasonable timeframe.

If you let items sit overnight, you’ll find blots on your countertops the next day. So, make sure to clean up spills immediately, at least while you’re actively working and cooking.

Gentle Cleaning with Soapy Water (Avoid Bleach)

To keep your quartz surfaces looking like they were just installed, clean them regularly. It must be done using mild soapy water or a neutral detergent. Afterward, rinse the surface with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Also, avoid using harsh substances like bleach on any of these worktops in your Hertfordshire kitchen, as it can easily wipe away the color. If any of these chemicals accidentally come in contact with your worktops, wash them off. It will decrease the chances of potential damage.

No Extreme Temperatures

This material can tolerate heat to a certain extent, that is right. They’re not entirely impervious to it. There’s a specific temperature threshold beyond which quartz might experience thermal shock. Placing something very hot on a cold countertop can trigger molecular changes that lead to cracks.

Remember that quartz countertops also contain materials other than quartz, such as resin. It isn’t heat-resistant! Putting a very hot pot or pan directly on the surface could result in a yellow ring forming. After all, it damages these materials. So it’s wise to err on the side of caution. Instead, consider using cooling racks for baking sheets or leaving hot pots and pans on the stove to avoid potential damage.

Cutting Boards for Countertop and Knife Care

Opt for butcher blocks or cutting boards when chopping rather than cutting directly on the countertop. This helps prevent potential scratches on your countertops and maintains the sharpness of your knives. Moreover, it guarantees that your countertops remain free from food particles and debris.

Maintain Tidy Countertops

• Keep your countertops free from excessive clutter. Too many items on the counters can snowball the chances of scratching and create visual clutter in your kitchen.
• Reducing the number of items on your counters makes it quicker and simpler to wipe the surface during the day, keeping it clean and free of crumbs.
• Additionally, a clutter-free counter allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of your chosen quartz worktop sitting beautifully in your Hertfordshire kitchen.
• Remember, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals on your countertops. Only resort to stain removal techniques when dealing with emergencies.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re preparing meals or starting your day, avoid certain substances that can potentially harm your quartz countertops. On the surface, stay away from using:

• Bleach
• Nail polish remover
• Oil-based soaps
• Paint removers
• Silver polish

Additionally, keep items containing methylene chloride (used for paint stripping and metal cleaning) or trichloroethane (utilized to dissolve glue, paint, or remove grease) 100 feet from your worktop. It’s also wise to prevent the use of permanent markers or ink. Moreover, quartz countertops combine attractiveness with resilience for your space.

By following these straightforward care and cleaning recommendations, your pristine countertops will maintain their appearance for many years. Now that you’ve gained insights into the simple maintenance of quartz, you can explore more on our website. If you need assistance from our design experts, don’t hesitate to reach out to Slabs & Stones Ltd.

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