Caring for your quartz and porcelain kitchen worktops
Imagine a kitchen where every surface gleams. With quartz and porcelain worktops, achieving and sustaining a sparkling kitchen is easier than you think!
Both materials are known for their elegance and low-maintenance appeal, but a little care goes a long way in preserving their beauty.
Let us share our top maintenance tips to keep your quartz and porcelain worktops looking as stunning as the day they were installed.
Why choose porcelain or quartz kitchen worktops?
Engineered to combine natural quartz crystals with resins, quartz offers the timeless beauty of stone with the added benefit of a non-porous, stain-resistant surface. It’s available in a stunning variety of colours and patterns, making it a versatile choice for any kitchen style.
Fired at high temperatures, porcelain worktops are ultra-durable, resistant to heat and scratches, and perfect for creating sleek, modern spaces. With its impermeable surface, porcelain resists stains and requires minimal upkeep.
Top maintenance tips for quartz and porcelain
Although both quartz and porcelain require minimal upkeep, following these tips will help preserve their beauty and functionality for years to come.
Clean regularly
For both quartz and porcelain, daily maintenance is as simple as wiping down surfaces with warm water and a mild washing up liquid. Use a soft cloth or sponge to remove crumbs, spills and everyday dirt. For sticky or greasy marks, a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner will work wonders.
Tackle spills quickly
Quartz and porcelain worktops are resistant to stains, but that doesn’t mean you should just leave spills sitting there. Clean up liquids like coffee, wine and oils right away to avoid any chance of staining. For quartz, acidic liquids like lemon juice can sometimes leave marks, so it’s a good idea to wipe them off promptly.
Use cutting boards and trivets
While quartz and porcelain worktops are durable, it’s still best practice to use cutting boards to protect the surface from potential scratches or knife marks. Similarly, always use trivets when placing hot pots or pans on your worktop. Both materials are heat-resistant but prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to damage.
Avoid harsh cleaners
Harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers can damage the surface of your quartz or porcelain worktops over time. Avoid using anything too abrasive, as these can leave marks and dull the surface.
Keeping quartz breathtaking
Quartz is one of the most durable surfaces available, but like all materials, it’s best to take a few precautions:
Avoid heavy impact – Quartz is resistant to scratches but can chip if subjected to a heavy blow. Take care not to drop heavy items onto the surface or use it as a cutting board.
No need for sealing – One of the advantages of quartz is that it does not require sealing, unlike granite or marble. Its non-porous nature means liquids won’t soak in, so you can avoid the hassle of resealing every year.
Making your porcelain worktop sparkle
Porcelain is an incredibly tough material, but it benefits from a little extra attention:
Preventing surface scratches – Although porcelain is resistant to scratches, using cutting boards and trivets will prevent unwanted marks on the surface.
Use mild cleaners – For general cleaning, mild washing up liquid and water will do the job. If you need to tackle stains, use a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid anything too acidic or alkaline, which could damage the finish.
Don’t panic over stubborn stains
If you find yourself dealing with a particularly stubborn stain, don’t panic – both quartz and porcelain are designed to stand up to tough messes.
For quartz – Apply a paste made from baking soda and water to the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft cloth. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals as they could damage the surface.
For porcelain – Most stains will come off with soap and water, but for tougher spots, a very very very diluted bleach solution can work wonders. Apply it sparingly and wipe clean after a few minutes to avoid damage.
Why it’s worth the effort
The beauty of quartz and porcelain worktops is their resilience, but a little maintenance ensures that they’ll continue to shine for years. Regular cleaning and careful use will protect your investment and keep your kitchen looking pristine. Plus, with both materials being highly durable, you can be confident that your worktop will handle everything life throws at it.
Need more advice?
At Granite and Marble Shop, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from choosing the perfect porcelain or quartz worktop to providing expert care advice. If you ever need advice or have questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Our specialist team would be more than happy to help you maintain the beauty of your kitchen for a lifetime.
Call us on 0161 480 4676 today.
