Why does my new quartz countertop look cloudy?

Author: Dr. Susanna Jacobs PhD  |  Last update: Thursday, January 22, 2026

Why Is My Quartz Countertop Cloudy? Soap residue, hard water deposits, and even improper sealing during installation can create a hazy or cloudy surface. Thankfully, with the right quartz polishing approach, you can remove the cloudiness and restore the beauty of your quartz countertops.

How do you fix cloudy quartz countertops?

The following cleaners have been effective in removing cloudy blotches on quartz:
  1. First, try Soft Scrub Oxi. ...
  2. Barkeeper's Friend has been shown to be very effective in combating cloudy blotches.
  3. For a less abrasive cleaner, try Bar Keeper's Friend soft cream.

Why is my new quartz countertop not shiny?

In this case, you can also try good old soapy water. Using soapy water and a soft sponge or cleaning rag, you can clean it as if you were cleaning any other piece of furniture. This way, some other impurities and grease substances are more likely to come out, which will make the quartz more shiny.

How to remove haze from quartz countertop?

Soap and warm water

Simply wet your quartz work surface and then use your choice of soft sponge or washcloth to clean it thoroughly. You should then rinse the surface to remove any residual soap, which can create a hazy layer over your quartz countertop.

Why does my new quartz countertop look dull but?

Resin is biggest culprit when it comes to quartz staining and dull marks, resin is very soft material and it reacts with any household product like lemon juice, vinegar, wine, soap, tomato juice etc.

Are You Cleaning Quartz Countertops Wrong?

How do I get the shine back on my quartz countertop?

To give your quartz countertop its old shine back, make a mix of 1 part vinegar 3 parts water. With the help of a spray bottle and a microfiber cloth, spray the mixture on the countertop and polish it until you get the shine you want.

Is Dawn dish soap safe for quartz countertops?

Here are all the types of surfaces you can clean with Dawn® Powerwash: Stainless steel appliances, pots, handles, and fixtures. Light and dark granite countertops and backsplashes. Quartz countertops and backsplashes.

Is it OK to use Clorox wipes on quartz countertops?

You shouldn't be using Clorox wipes daily, or even often, on quartz countertops because they have citric acid, which can be very harsh on your counter. Long-term use could lead to discoloration of your quartz surface.

Is it OK to clean quartz with vinegar?

For quartz countertops, always choose mild dish soap and water or cleaners specifically designed for quartz. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or vinegar, which can damage the surface. A soft cloth or a non-abrasive sponge is ideal for wiping down your counters.

Can you repolish quartz countertops?

As most quartz worktops are permanently polished during the manufacturing process, they won't need repolishing again unless they sustain damage – but it is possible to repolish them. If your worktops are chipped, cracked or etched, repolishing may be the only way to restore them to their former condition.

Is magic eraser safe on quartz countertops?

Magic eraser may also be used to fight tough quartz stains, simply wet the magic eraser and apply in gentle, circular motion. Clean the area thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel after. For tough to fight grease residue, you may use degreasing cleaners.

Why is my quartz not clear?

Imperfections inside the crystal are a sign it's real.

These naturally cause fractures or bubbles to form inside the crystal, giving the crystal imperfections. Real clear quartz may have inclusions that make the inside of the crystal appear scratched or foggy, while fake glass quartz may appear completely perfect.

Does new quartz countertops need to be sealed?

Quartz countertops do not need to be sealed. Unlike granite, marble, or other porous natural materials, quartz is naturally non-porous. This means you do not have to seal, polish, or recondition your countertop when it is made of quartz.

Is it OK to use Windex on quartz countertops?

Many people use Windex® or similar cleaners to help shine their countertops, while this is okay for most quartz, you should avoid cleaners with bleach or ammonia. Windex®, for example, comes in an ammonia-free version. The real key to caring for quartz is to be gentle.

How do you get the cloudiness out of crystals?

Waterford recommends filling the vase about halfway — at least just beyond where the cloudiness ends — with warm water, a small amount of hand dishwashing detergent, two tablespoons of white vinegar and ¼ cup of uncooked rice. Gently swirl the mixture for a few minutes to remove the residue.

How to make quartz countertops white again?

CLEANING WHITE QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS
  1. STEP 1: SCRAPE OFF DRIED GUNK FROM THE QUARTZ'S SURFACE. ...
  2. STEP 2: WAVE AWAY STUBBORN STAINS WITH PROVEN GREASE REMOVERS. ...
  3. STEP 3: CLEAN YOUR QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS WITH A SOFT CLOTH AND MILD SOAP. ...
  4. GLASS CLEANER. ...
  5. ADHESIVE REMOVERS. ...
  6. ISOPROPYL RUBBING ALCOHOL.

What should you not clean quartz with?

Harsh and acidic cleaning agents such as vinegar, lime, lemon are going to erode the sealant of the countertops' surface over time. This will make the surface more likely to stain.

Why does my quartz countertop look dull?

There are several reasons why your quartz countertop may have lost its shine. Daily use, cooking oil spills, and grime buildup can leave a film on the surface and dull its natural radiance. Improper cleaning or using harsh chemicals can also dull your countertops by etching the surface.

What damages quartz countertops?

Heat Exposure: A Notable Adversary of a Quartz Countertop

While Quartz is more durable than many Natural Stones, it is not immune to damage from high temperatures. Prolonged or direct exposure to hot cookware can lead to discoloration or even cracking.

What is the best cleaner for quartz countertops?

While resistant to scratches, countertops from quartz can still be dulled or etched by harsh chemicals. Opt for mild dish soap mixed with warm water for routine cleaning. Avoid highly acidic cleaners like bleach, ammonia, or any other harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface and leave it looking dull.

Do and don'ts for quartz countertops?

Maintaining quartz countertops
  • Avoid placing hot objects on the surface. Keep in mind that the quartz is not heat resistant like granite countertops. ...
  • Avoid cleaning using strong chemicals. ...
  • Avoid using abrasive materials to clean. ...
  • Keep permanent markers away. ...
  • Avoid staining your quartz.

How to make quartz countertops shine?

Keeping quartz countertops shining requires a minimum care regimen. We recommend keeping an old spray bottle filled with water handy. Once a day, spray the countertops with water and then add a couple of drops of your favorite non-oil-based hand soap (oil-based soaps can dull quartz' shine) or dish detergent.

Is magic eraser safe on quartz?

If you have soft surface countertops like granite or marble, step away from the magic eraser. You can use them on laminate, Corian, quartz, and other solid surface countertops, but do a spot check.

Why was Dawn Powerwash discontinued?

Preferences vary, and on the whole, demand wasn't enough for us to continue making it.

Is baking soda safe for quartz?

Can I use baking soda on quartz countertops? Yes, baking soda is a great product for cleaning quartz countertops, as it's less abrasive than most other options.

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