Care & Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance of your quartz and natural stone surfaces will greatly extend the life and beauty of your investment. To learn how to care for your stone, refer to our recommended care and maintenance tips below.

Natural Stone

Your new natural stone surface is an investment in lasting beauty, promising many years of wear and enjoyment. By following some simple precautions, including properly sealing and use of the correct cleaning methods and products, you’ll ensure a long, vibrant life for your natural stone.

Sealing your stone

Natural stone has been formed over millions of years, but improper care can ruin nature’s beauty. Although we usually think of stone as being hard, it‘s a porous material that can absorb spills and stains if left untreated. Sealing your stone with a quality impregnating sealer will prevent most spills from damaging your investment. Urban Quarry technicians have sealed your countertops prior to installation, and it’s recommended that this process is repeated annually.

Cleaning procedures and recommendations

Once properly sealed, your stone is protected against everyday dirt and spills. Proper cleaning will help the sealer last longer and keep your stone protected without diminishing its natural beauty. Keeping your stone free of dust, dry dirt and other gritty substances will minimize the scratches and wear patterns that can develop with everyday use. Sweep or dust surfaces regularly to remove loose dirt and dust, and clean them on a regular basis with warm water and mild liquid soap using a clean, non-abrasive cloth or sponge.

We recommend DuPont™ StoneTech® Professional Revitalizer® Cleaner and Protector. Its unique blend of neutral cleaning agents is gentle on your stone while leaving behind a protective shield every time you clean. Never use scouring powders or creams, as these products contain abrasives that will scratch the surface.

Etch marks

Highly acidic substances such as orange juice, coffee, vinegar, wine, tomato products, mustard and soft drinks will “etch” most calcareous material stone (e.g., marble, limestone and travertine), whether the stone is sealed or not. Although sealing will allow you time to wipe up the spill, it can’t stop the chemical reaction that may leave a dull area or etch mark in the stone. Alkaline cleaners not specifically formulated for natural stone may also cause surface damage or etching. Professional refinishing is the best way to permanently remove etches and restore your natural stone’s even finish.

What to Do When a Spill Occurs

No matter how careful you are, spills will happen. A quick response and the right cleaning solutions can keep them from damaging your stone or the sealer. Improper cleaning or cleaning products may cause permanent damage. Remember to pre-test any cleaning method in a hidden area of the stone before attempting to remove a stain.

  • Liquid spills: Blot away the excess with a clean, dry, white cloth, turning the cloth frequently. Spray the area with DuPont StoneTech Professional Revitalizer Cleaner and Protector. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
  • Food spills: Scoop up the food with a plastic spoon and blot the spill with a dry, white cloth. Spray the area with DuPont StoneTech Professional Revitalizer Cleaner and Protector. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
  • Mud: Let the mud stain dry completely, then remove the dried mud with a soft plastic or nylon brush. Spray affected area with DuPont StoneTech Professional Revitalizer Cleaner and Protector. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. If the stain remains, contact a professional cleaner.
  • Oily stains: For stains with an oil base (e.g., salad dressing, cooking oils, butter and some cosmetics), you may be able to remove the stain using a poultice. Please contact a professional cleaner or stone restoration technician.

Dos and Don’ts 

  • Do use coasters under glasses, especially with alcohol or citrus juices.
  • Do use trivets or mats under hot dishes or cookware.
  • Do use place mats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that may scratch your stone’s surface.
  • Do dust countertops, islands and vanities frequently.
  • Do blot up spills immediately to minimize permanent damage to the stone.
  • Do clean surfaces by wiping with clean water or by spraying with DuPont StoneTech Professional Revitalizer Cleaner and Protector, then wiping dry with a clean cloth.
  • Don’t use vinegar, bleach, ammonia or other general purpose cleaners.
  • Don’t use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub and tile cleaners.
  • Don’t use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
  • Don’t use alkaline cleaners not specifically formulated for natural stone.

Care & Maintenance by Product Line

For more specific information about how to care for your surfaces, please refer to the care and maintenance recommendations from each product line.