The Essential Quartz Countertop Care Guide
Quartz countertops are a perfect blend of modern style and everyday resilience. But like any high-quality surface, they’ll last longer and look better with the right care.
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How to Keep Your Surfaces Clean, Safe, and Looking Their Best
Quartz countertops are a perfect blend of modern style and everyday resilience. Their non-porous structure and natural resistance to stains make them a go-to option for busy kitchens and bathrooms. But like any high-quality surface, they’ll last longer and look better with the right care.
At World Stone, we want to help you protect your investment—here’s everything you need to know.
1. Simple Cleaning Is Best
Maintaining quartz doesn’t require expensive products or complicated routines. In fact, less is more.
What to use:
A soft cloth or sponge
Warm water
A mild, non-abrasive household cleaner (without bleach or high pH)
What to skip:
Scouring powders
Steel wool or rough scrub pads
Bleach-based or alkaline-heavy products
Even though quartz is non-porous, leftover residues can create dull spots over time—rinse and dry well after cleaning.
2. Handle Spills Swiftly
Although quartz resists most staining, some pigmented or acidic substances (like curry, wine, or tomato sauce) can discolor the surface if left too long.
If a spill happens:
Wipe it up quickly with warm soapy water
For stubborn messes like dried paint or gum, gently lift the residue using a plastic scraper, then clean the area as usual
Avoid abrasive scrubbers or metal tools—they may leave dull marks or fine scratches.
3. Don’t Push Its Heat Limits
Quartz performs well under daily use, but it’s not built for direct high-heat contact. Sudden changes in temperature can stress the material, sometimes causing cracks or discoloration.
Best practice:
Always use trivets or heat pads under hot pans, slow cookers, or any heat-emitting appliance. Never set anything straight from the oven onto the countertop.
4. Keep Sharp Objects in Check
Though quartz is tough, it’s not immune to damage from sharp or heavy items.
To keep your surfaces flawless:
Always use a cutting board (even for small tasks)
Refrain from dragging pots, metal utensils, or appliances across the surface
Be mindful when handling heavy cookware or tools near edges and corners
5. Know Which Chemicals to Avoid
Certain cleaning agents and solvents can react with quartz resin binders and damage the finish.
Steer clear of:
Paint removers or nail polish remover with acetone
Oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and lye-based products
Permanent markers, ink, and furniture polish
If an accident happens, rinse the surface with clean water immediately and wipe dry.
Final Thoughts
Quartz offers a great return on investment: durable, stylish, and easy to care for. With a little daily attention and some smart habits, your surfaces will maintain their polished look for years to come.
Have questions about quartz or other surface materials? We’re here to help—reach out to the team at World Stone any time!
The Truth About Sealers: Should You Seal Your Natural Stone Countertops?
Sealing natural stone isn’t always necessary, but in many cases, it’s a smart move.
Natural stone countertops—like granite, marble, and quartzite—are known for their timeless beauty and durability. But should they be sealed? At World Stone, we follow the expert guidance of the Natural Stone Institute, and here’s what you should know.
Why Seal at All?
Sealing natural stone isn’t always necessary, but in many cases, it’s a smart move. Some stones are more porous than others, meaning they absorb liquids and are more susceptible to stains. A proper sealant adds a layer of defense without compromising the look or feel of the stone.
The Two Types of Sealants
1. Topical Sealers
What they do:
These sealers form a protective film over the surface of the stone. They’re usually made from wax, acrylic, or other plastics and work well at resisting surface moisture and some staining agents.
Pros:
Quick and easy surface protection
Can add shine (in some finishes)
Cons:
Require frequent reapplication due to wear
Can change the appearance of honed or matte stones
Not ideal for most residential countertop applications
When to avoid:
Topical sealers are not recommended for honed or textured finishes. They can add an unwanted gloss and alter the stone’s intended aesthetic.
2. Impregnating (Penetrating) Sealers
What they do:
These sealers soak into the stone and bond below the surface. They don’t alter the finish but offer long-term resistance to staining by repelling liquids from within.
Types:
Water-based: Easy to apply, low odor
Solvent-based: Deeper protection and longer-lasting effects
Pros:
Won’t affect the natural appearance of the stone
Long-lasting protection
Suitable for kitchen and bath surfaces
Cons:
Slightly more complex application
Some solvent-based sealers may require proper ventilation during use
At World Stone, we apply a professional-grade solvent-based impregnating sealer to all qualifying surfaces during installation. This ensures the stone starts off with a layer of protection that can extend its life and keep it looking great.
How Often Should You Reseal?
There’s no universal answer. Depending on your stone type, usage, and sealant product, reapplication may be needed every 1–5 years.
A simple test:
Place a few drops of water on the countertop. If the stone darkens within 5 minutes, it’s time to reseal.
Choosing the Right Sealer
We don’t recommend a specific brand, but we do strongly advise that you:
Choose a sealer compatible with your specific stone
Ensure the product is non-toxic and food-safe if used in the kitchen
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for best results
Avoid mixing chemical products (e.g., bleach and ammonia)
Final Thought
Sealing doesn’t make your countertops indestructible—but it does make them more resilient. When paired with regular care and smart cleaning habits, sealing helps your stone stay beautiful and functional for years to come.
Have questions about sealing or maintaining your natural stone countertops? Contact World Stone today—we’re here to help.
Natural Stone Care: Cleaning, Stain Removal & Maintenance for Granite, Marble, and More
Natural stone countertops offer unmatched beauty and long-lasting performance—but they do require proper care to preserve their appearance.
Natural stone countertops offer unmatched beauty and long-lasting performance—but they do require proper care to preserve their appearance. Whether you're dealing with a daily mess or an unexpected stain, this guide will walk you through the best practices for keeping your stone surfaces in top shape.
Routine Cleaning
Gentle Is Best
For day-to-day care, stick to simple and safe methods:
Wipe down with a neutral pH stone cleaner or mild dish soap mixed with warm water.
Use a soft cloth for countertops and a clean mop for floors—abrasive pads can scratch the surface.
Avoid overusing soap, which can leave behind a hazy film. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel.
In damp areas like showers or bathrooms, run a squeegee after each use to reduce soap scum buildup.
For outdoor stone (e.g., patios or pool areas), rinse with clear water and spot-clean with a diluted bleach solution to remove algae or moss buildup.
Cleaning Products to Avoid
Natural stone is sensitive to certain chemicals and cleaning habits. Keep these tips in mind:
Avoid acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, or toilet bowl cleaners—they can etch marble and other calcareous stones.
Steer clear of scouring powders or abrasive creams, which can scratch polished surfaces.
Never use rust removers that contain hydrofluoric acid (HF)—this harsh chemical attacks even the strongest stones like granite.
Don’t mix bleach and ammonia. Doing so creates a toxic gas that's harmful to breathe.
If you're ever in doubt, ask your stone supplier to recommend safe cleaning products.
Sealing: An Extra Layer of Protection
Some natural stones benefit from sealing to help resist stains. These sealers—more accurately called impregnators—soak into the stone and create a moisture barrier.
Sealing doesn't make stone stain-proof, but it does buy you time to wipe up spills before they soak in.
Use only non-toxic sealers in food prep areas.
Always follow your supplier's guidance on how often to reseal, which may vary based on stone type and usage.
Identifying & Removing Stains
Before treating a stain, take a moment to investigate:
Where is it located? Is it near a plant, food prep area, bathroom, or makeup station?
What color is it? Different types of stains leave different marks.
What shape or pattern does it have? Rust or metal stains often match the shape of the item that caused them.
What’s nearby? Think about what activities or items are usually around the stained spot.
Once you’ve identified the likely source, use these targeted solutions:
Common Stone Stains & Treatments
Oil-Based Stains
Examples: grease, cosmetics, cooking oils, putty
Appear as dark patches.
Clean gently with mineral spirits, acetone, or a liquid detergent to lift the residue from the stone.
Organic Stains
Examples: coffee, tea, wine, fruit, food spills, paper, leaves
May leave pinkish-brown discoloration.
Indoors: Clean with 12% hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia.
Outdoors: Sun and rain often help fade organic stains over time.
Metal Stains
Examples: rust from cans, screws, nails, furniture
Rust appears orange to brown; copper turns green or muddy brown.
Remove with a poultice—for deep rust stains, professional treatment may be needed.
Biological Stains
Examples: mildew, algae, moss, lichens
Mix ½ cup bleach, ammonia, or hydrogen peroxide in a gallon of water.
Do not mix bleach and ammonia together.
Ink Stains
Examples: markers, pens
On light stone, use hydrogen peroxide or bleach.
On dark stone, try acetone or lacquer thinner.
Paint Stains
Small spots can be scraped carefully with a razor or cleaned with lacquer thinner.
For thick or dried paint, use a commercial paint stripper—but avoid acids and flame tools.
Protect yourself with gloves and eye protection, and use only wood or plastic tools to scrape residue.
Hard Water Spots & Rings
Usually surface-level and caused by mineral deposits.
Buff gently with 0000-grade (super fine) steel wool.
Smoke & Fire Residue
Fireplaces or smoke-stained areas may need a specialized smoke remover.
Acidic residue from smoke can also dull the surface, requiring professional refinishing.
Etching
Caused by acidic contact, even from things like juice or wine.
Etching dulls the finish and may or may not leave a visible stain.
Light etching can sometimes be polished out; deeper etching should be addressed by a stone restoration expert.
Scratches & Surface Dullness
Light scratches can be improved with dry 0000 steel wool.
Deeper gouges or chips require professional refinishing.
Final Thoughts
Natural stone countertops are a premium investment, and with the right care, they’ll reward you with decades of style and performance. Stick to gentle daily cleaning, avoid harsh chemicals, and learn how to respond to stains early. When needed, don’t hesitate to call in a stone care pro—some fixes are best left to the experts.
Warranty Work: Repairing Chips and Cracks in Countertops
No stone is perfect, and sometimes an issue is noticed after the installation. We have specialized service technicians trained in stone repair and restoration.
No stone is perfect, and sometimes an issue is noticed after the installation.
We Warranty Our Work
Every installation is covered by a 1-year warranty, giving you peace of mind that our craftsmanship is built to last.
“World Stone warrants that all materials furnished and labor performed in conjunction with the project, in accord with the contract documents and any authorized modifications, will be free from defects due to defective materials and workmanship.”
Specialized Service Technicians
If something does go wrong, we don’t just send any contractor—we have specialized service technicians trained in stone repair and restoration. They’ll assess the damage and offer the best solution, whether that’s a cosmetic touch-up or a replacement.
Can Your Countertop Be Repaired?
Small chips: Usually fixable with epoxy color-matched to your surface
Cracks: Repairable in some cases, depending on location and depth
Stains: Removable in some cases, depending on cause and severity
Seam separation: Can often be reset
If you’re unsure whether your countertop can be repaired, contact us. We can inspect the damage and offer honest recommendations.
“Nothing in the above deemed to apply to work which has been abused or neglected by the Owner. World Stone retains the right to determine the solution, repair, or maintenance method as required and seen appropriate.”
Care and Maintenance: Quartz vs. Granite vs. Marble Countertops
Here's a quick guide on how to clean and maintain quartz, granite, and marble countertops:
Stone countertops are a beautiful and durable investment, but they each require slightly different care to keep them looking their best. Here's a quick guide on how to clean and maintain quartz, granite, and marble countertops:
How do I clean my stone countertops?
Quartz Quartz is non-porous and low-maintenance. For daily cleaning, use a mild soap or a pH-balanced cleaner with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh chemicals like bleach or oven cleaners, which can damage the surface. Quartz doesn't require sealing, but it's still a good idea to wipe up spills quickly to prevent staining from things like wine or coffee.
Granite Granite is very durable but porous, so it does require sealing to prevent stains. Use a granite-safe cleaner or mild dish soap with water for daily cleaning. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners. It's recommended to reseal granite once a year (or as needed—see below details). Always blot spills, especially oils, wine, and citrus, to avoid etching or staining.
Marble Marble is the most delicate of the three. It's highly porous and prone to etching from acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato sauce. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid anything abrasive. Resealing marble regularly is essential to protect it from stains, and you should wipe up spills immediately to avoid permanent damage.
No matter the material, using cutting boards, coasters, and trivets will help protect your counters and extend their lifespan. A little daily care goes a long way!
Do I Need to Seal My Countertops?
Sealing your countertops helps protect them from stains, etching, and bacteria by filling in their natural pores. But not all stone needs to be sealed. Here's a breakdown:
Quartz Quartz countertops do not need to be sealed. They’re engineered with resins that make them non-porous, so liquids and bacteria can’t penetrate the surface.
Granite Granite is porous and should be sealed to maintain its resistance to stains and moisture. Most granite is sealed before installation, but it’s a good idea to reseal it about once a year. A simple water test (see below) will help you know when it’s time.
Marble Marble absolutely needs to be sealed—and often. Its porosity makes it prone to staining and etching, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Depending on use and the specific type of marble, sealing may be needed every 3 to 6 months.
How to Test If Your Countertops Need Sealing Place a few drops of water on the surface and wait 10–15 minutes. If the water darkens the stone or gets absorbed, it’s time to reseal.
Using the right sealers and maintaining a routine will keep your stone looking beautiful and protected for years to come.
Downloadable Resources:
World Stone Customer Expectations
Selections Sheet
Quote Form
Countertop Layouts