How Do You Keep Quartz Countertops Shiny?

How to polish quartz countertops: tips for a long-lasting shine

We see quartz in almost every upscale kitchen we build now. Contractors like it because it performs well, looks consistent, and doesn’t require the ongoing maintenance that natural stone demands. It handles heavy use in residential kitchens, busy bathrooms, and commercial spaces without showing wear the way other materials do.

The issue comes down to expectations. Homeowners hear “low maintenance” and after a few months of basic neglect, they wonder why their counters look cloudy or dull. The problem isn’t with the quartz – it’s the layer of soap film and cooking residue that builds up when you don’t clean it properly.

Why quartz behaves differently

Despite what people assume, quartz isn’t natural stone. Manufacturers combine crushed quartz crystals with polymer binders, then form slabs under extreme heat and pressure. This process creates a completely non-porous surface – no microscopic openings where liquids can penetrate like they do with granite or marble.

The factory finish stays permanently sealed, eliminating the need to reseal every couple years like other stone surfaces require. However, that same smooth, polished surface reveals every streak, film buildup, or residue that gets left behind during cleaning. Think of it like maintaining a glossy black car – the finish itself is durable, but it shows everything.

Manufacturers now offer alternatives to high-gloss finishes. Textured and matte surfaces reflect less light, making minor cleaning issues less obvious while maintaining the same durability benefits.

Daily cleaning routine for quartz countertops

The secret to keeping quartz looking good is cleaning it regularly with gentle products. We tell all our clients this, and the ones who listen have countertops that still look new years later.

Here’s what works:

1. Prepare your cleaning solution – Put some plain dish soap in a spray bottle with water. Avoid the fancy products with lotions or oils added.
2. Spray your counters – Lightly mist the countertop surface with the solution.
3. Wipe with a microfiber cloth – This is literally all you need to do most days. The soap cuts through the film that builds up from cooking and daily use, which is what makes quartz look cloudy.
4. Adjust frequency for usage – If you’re running a restaurant or busy office kitchen, you may need to clean several times throughout the day. For most homes, once daily does the trick.