Can You Steam Clean Quartz Countertops?

Cleaners Talk is reader-supported. This post contains affiliate links, we may earn a commission at no additional costs to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Many homes have quartz countertops because not only are they beautiful, but they are durable as well. However, quartz countertops do need regular cleaning because they come in contact with a lot of dirt, grime and bacteria. For this reason, many homeowners look for natural cleaning solutions such as steam cleaning.

Can you steam clean quartz countertops? Steam cleaning is safe for quartz countertops. You can steam clean quartz countertops because quartz is non-porous, waterproof, and does not scratch easily. However, it is best to not let quartz countertops come into contact with jets of steam for long periods of time.

While steam cleaning eliminates 99% of bacteria and will not stain your quartz countertops, there are several factors to consider when cleaning them. In this post, we will explore everything you need to know to best take care of your beautiful quartz countertops with a steam cleaner. Let us get started.

Why Are Quartz Countertops So Good?

You can always find quartz with any color scheme you want.

The number one reason why quartz countertops are so good and better than granite is because it is super strong. It is non-porous, does not scratch easily, and is nearly indestructible. Additionally, it is waterproof and does not stain. Quartz is arguably the most durable countertop material on the market.

Another reason why quartz is very popular is because of its manufacturing process. These new processes allow designers to be creative and come up with different looks that can go with any design. So, no matter what kind of color scheme you have in your kitchen, you can always find quartz countertops that match.

You can always find quartz countertops that look like other material. One of the most popular types is the faux marble quartz. The quartz looks like marble, but you are not paying for the marble price tag. And because it is non-porous, you can spill red wine or black coffee, and wipe it off as if nothing happened.

Can You Steam Clean Quartz Countertops?

Now, while quartz is a high-quality man-made material, there are some considerations when cleaning them. If you are often dealing with dirty and messy countertops, you are probably aware of the many choices of cleaning solutions available in the market today. This includes liquids and sprays. 

When it comes to cleaning countertops, however, chemical-based cleaning products may leave a residue, which may lead to stains. Additionally, chemicals can also create a biofilm which traps bacteria on your countertops. These bacteria can slowly grow over time, becoming harder for you to remove thoroughly.

Because of this, we recommend cleaning and disinfecting your countertops, either quartz or granite, with a steam cleaner. Not only is steam cleaning safe for your countertops, but it will not leave potentially harmful chemicals on your kitchen area. This leaves you worrying less about food and skin contamination.

How to Steam Clean Quartz Countertops

Now that you have had the chance to understand quartz countertops better, let us talk about how to care and maintain them properly. Steam cleaning, as it turns out, is one of the best methods for cleaning and disinfecting quartz countertops. Here is how to steam clean quartz countertops effectively and efficiently:

1. Remove All Visible Dirt

Before steam cleaning your quartz countertops, start by removing all visible dirt and crumbs so you have a smooth surface to work with. Wipe off any obvious spills that are still wet. You can simply use a microfiber cloth to wipe any visible messes. Doing so will make the overall steam cleaning process easier.

2. Prepare the Steam Cleaner

Many steam cleaners come with multiple attachments for cleaning different surfaces.

Next, fill your steam cleaner tank with water and allow it to heat up to the ideal temperature for cleaning and disinfection. After the water is hot enough, apply a toweling bonnet to the head of the steamer. If you want the quickest and easiest way to steam mop, invest in a steam mop that works with different attachments.

Fortunately, there are many 2-in-1 steam mops that convert to a handheld steamer. They also come with versatile attachments. We recommend these handheld steamers for cleaning kitchen countertops, kitchen appliances, floors, grout, even pet toys. For countertops, the flat surface tool with mop pad works best.

PRO TIP: After countless hours of research and testing, we found the best cleaning tool for your kitchen and countertops. This steam mop converts to a handheld steamer easily and works with seven versatile attachments. It is basically a mini steam mop for your countertops! You can check it on right here.

3. Steam Clean Thoroughly

After applying the towel on the head of the steamer, hold it over the sink and turn it on to allow excess water to run off. Some steamers produce hot dry steam after you turn it on. However, modern handheld steamers like this one, can steam on command and work seamlessly without spouting hot steam all over the place. 

BISSELL Powerfresh Slim Steam Mop,...
  • Every BISSELL purchase helps save pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets..Power source type:...
  • Powerful handheld steam cleaner and steam mop in one
  • Clean and sanitize sealed hard floors without the use of harsh chemicals; eliminate 99. 9 percent of germs and bacteria with the natural power of steam

Begin to steam mop your countertops with steamers gently and in one direction. If your quartz countertops are particularly dirty, you may need to replace the cloth or mop pad before you continue the steam cleaning process. Be sure to steam clean thoroughly for optimal cleaning and disinfection.

4. Dry the Quartz Countertops Completely

It is important to wipe quartz countertops dry after steam cleaning for maximum longevity.

After steam cleaning, be sure to let your quartz countertops dry completely. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the surfaces thoroughly. It is important to allow your countertops to be completely dry with no leftover moisture. This is when you will start to see the glitter and sparkle of your beautiful quartz countertops.

Remember, while quartz are resistant to permanent staining from liquids like tea, wine, vinegar, soda, and lemon juice, it is important to clean spills and liquids immediately before they have a chance to dry. While you do not need to steam clean quartz countertops everyday, you can wipe them with a microfiber cloth everyday.

Final Words

And there you go, the answer to the question: can you steam clean quartz countertops? If you have a beautiful quartz countertop, there is little you need to worry about simply because the material is very durable. However, understanding how to steam clean them properly will ensure its beauty for years to come.