Cleaning and maintaining Calcutta Grey quartz is quite straightforward if you make it part of your routine. The durability of quartz makes it a popular choice for countertops, but like any surface, it needs proper care to stay looking new. So, let's dive into how I keep my Calcutta Grey quartz countertops pristine.
I start with daily cleaning. After every use, I wipe down the surface with a soft cloth soaked in warm water and a bit of mild dish soap. For a spec, using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners can harm the quartz. You might wonder, "What about disinfecting?" Well, according to industry standards, a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution is safe for quartz and highly effective in killing 99.9% of germs. This keeps my family safe without damaging the surface.
I also avoid excessive heat exposure. Quartz can withstand temperatures of up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, but placing a hot pan directly on it isn't a good idea. Using trivets or hot pads is essential to prevent potential damage. An example from a friend who works in a countertop installation company shared a horror story where a customer placed a 400-degree pot on their new quartz, leading to permanent blemishes.
For stain prevention, I always clean spills immediately. Leaving coffee, wine, or olive oil sitting on the quartz can lead to stubborn stains. A good rule of thumb is to pretend like my quartz has the same stain vulnerability as a white shirt. Immediate action means stains are easy to remove and I maintain that beautiful, consistent look of Calcutta Grey quartz.
Scratches are another concern. Even though quartz is quite scratch-resistant, it's not scratch-proof. I always use cutting boards and avoid dragging heavy items across the surface. Just last month, a news report highlighted a chef who wore down his quartz countertops in just six months by consistently chopping directly on the surface. It goes to show how certain practices can expedite wear and tear.
When it comes to deep cleaning, I do it once a week. This involves using a specialized quartz cleaner that I got for $15.99 from the hardware store. These cleaners are formulated to keep quartz shiny and streak-free without wearing down its surface. A guy at the store explained to me that these products often have a neutral pH, which is crucial because acidic or alkaline solutions can degrade the resin binders in quartz over time.
If you are wondering about the cost of these practices, they are pretty minimal. A bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol costs around $2.50, and a soft microfiber cloth can be bought for as little as $5. This minimal investment keeps my quartz looking like it was installed yesterday. When compared to the cost of potential repairs or replacements—anywhere from $500 to over $2,000—it’s clear how critical regular maintenance is.
Overall, maintaining Calcutta Grey quartz is simpler and less time-consuming than one might think. Regular cleaning, immediate attention to spills, and using protective measures can extend the lifespan of quartz surfaces significantly. Quartz may remain pristine for up to 25 years with proper care, showcasing just how durable this material can be. By doing so, my Calcutta Grey quartz never loses its elegance and continues to be a functional centerpiece in my kitchen.