What NOT to Use on Your Quartz Worktop (The 5 Cleaners to Avoid)

By Tudor Granite, Worktop Specialist | Updated: October 2025 | Reading time: 3 minutes

Quartz is incredibly durable, but it's not indestructible. Using the wrong cleaning product can cause permanent damage to the resin that binds the stone together. This essential guide, part of our complete worktop care series, lists the absolute no-go chemicals for your quartz surface.

The 5 Types of Cleaner to Avoid on Quartz

Never let these products come into contact with your quartz worktop. If an accident happens, rinse the area immediately and thoroughly with water.

1. Bleach and Bleach-Based Cleaners

   Any product containing sodium hypochlorite (bleach) can chemically burn the resin, causing permanent yellowing or discoloration. This includes many multi-purpose kitchen sprays.

2. Abrasive Cleaners and Scouring Pads

   Cream cleaners (like Cif) and scouring powders contain micro-abrasives that will create fine scratches on the surface, dulling its finish over time. The same goes for wire wool or the rough side of a washing-up sponge.

3. High-pH / Alkaline Cleaners

   Harsh alkaline products like oven cleaners and heavy-duty degreasers are designed to dissolve organic matter. They will break down the polymer resin in your worktop, leading to surface damage.

4. Highly Acidic Cleaners

   Products with a very low pH, such as limescale removers or neat concentrated vinegar/lemon, can also react with and damage the resin.

5. Harsh Solvents

   Chemicals like nail polish remover (acetone), paint stripper, or turpentine can dissolve the resin, causing irreversible softening or discoloration.

So, What Should You Use Instead?

It's simple: for 99% of your cleaning needs, a soft cloth with warm water and a drop of pH-neutral soap (standard washing-up liquid) is all you need. For very stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water is a safe, effective option. You can learn how to use it in our guide on safe stain removal.