How To Disinfect Quartz Countertops Without Harming The Seal
When cleaning and disinfecting quartz countertops, using the right products is crucial to avoid damaging the sealant. Quartz is a non-porous material, but many homeowners install quartzite countertops in their kitchens, which are porous. So, spillages from soda, tea, or coffee can seep into the tiny holes and create stains that are sometimes challenging to remove. When installing quartzite counters, folks often apply a sealant to protect them but make the mistake of cleaning them with harsh cleaning products. Even though quartz is a durable material, it isn't always ineradicable. Using 70% isopropyl alcohol with water is an excellent way to get your quartzite counters squeaky clean while protecting the sealant.
Rubbing alcohol lifts stains and eliminates bacteria, revealing a clean and shiny surface. Using disinfectant wipes can create yellow stains on the surface, making it harder to remove. According to WebMD, using a 70% concentration is better than anything else because it dissolves slower, allowing it to get past the surface deeper and killing bacteria better than rubbing alcohol with a concentration higher than 80%. Disinfecting your quartz countertops is incredibly easy; you'll be able to do it in your sleep.
You'll need a few materials:
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70% Isopropyl alcohol
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Water
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Measuring cups
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Spray bottle
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Microfiber cloth
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Dish soap
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Non-abrasive sponge
Walmart sells 70% isopropyl alcohol for $2.98 and a spray bottle for $1.18 if you don't have any at home.
Clean off counters
Remove everything from your quartz countertops to reveal the entire surface. Store away appliances and decor on your kitchen table or in another room to thoroughly clean every area of your counters.
Give your counters a quick scrub
Before making your disinfectant solution, use a sponge to remove food bits or debris from your counters. Then, wipe down the surface with your sponge using dish soap and water to eliminate sticky areas. Use a microfiber towel to clean the soap suds.
Measure out the ingredients
Measure 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol and 1 cup of water in a couple of measuring cups.
Add rubbing alcohol and water to the spray bottle
Mix your rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle.
Add any essential oils (optional)
You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to mask the rubbing alcohol smell and leave your kitchen smelling fresh and clean. Lemon oil, specifically, is excellent for cleaning surfaces. Essential oils' antibacterial ingredients will also help kill bacteria and won't damage your quartz counter's sealant.
Spray your countertops
Spray your mixture over your countertop and let it sit for two minutes. After the timer goes off, wipe down the counters with a new microfiber towel.
How often to disinfect quartz countertops
You can disinfect your quartz countertops daily when you're cleaning the kitchen at the end of the day. If you typically cook multiple meals a day, it's best to disinfect the countertops at least once a day to prevent food buildup or stains from staying on the surface. However, if you don't cook every day at home, disinfect the counters two to three times a week or on the days you decide to cook. Always use your rubbing alcohol solution to disinfect your countertops, and avoid using harsh chemicals or highly acidic products to prevent damaging the sealant.