Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom surfaces due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, many homeowners wonder – can quartz countertops get stained? The short answer is yes, quartz can become stained, but it is much more resistant to stains than other natural stone countertop materials.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from crushed quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90-94% of the material. The rest is polymer resins that bind the quartz together and provide color and pattern.
Unlike natural stone countertops like granite and marble, quartz is non-porous, so liquids and stains have difficulty penetrating the surface. The resin also makes quartz more flexible and resistant to cracks and chips. The end result is an extremely durable, low-maintenance countertop that keeps its beautiful appearance for years.
How Stain Resistant is Quartz?
Quartz has excellent stain resistance compared to other countertop materials for a few reasons:
- Non-porous – The lack of pores means spills and stains cannot seep into the countertop. They remain on the surface where they can be wiped away.
- Resin binder – The polymer resin makes quartz impervious to moisture.
- Durability – Quartz’s hardness makes it highly scratch and stain-resistant.
However, quartz is not completely stain-proof. With concentrated effort or time, stains can occur. Here are some examples:
What Can Stain Quartz Countertops?
Oil-based Stains
Oils like canola oil, olive oil, and vegetable oil can stain quartz if left for prolonged time periods. The oil seeps into microscopic imperfections in the surface. Wipe up food prep messes and spills containing oils immediately.
Liquids with Dyes
Spills like wine, fruit juice, and soda contain dyes that can leave stains if not cleaned quickly. The color pigments penetrate the surface given enough time.
Strong Chemicals
Exposure to very strong chemicals like paint removers, drain cleaners, oven cleaners, etc. can damage and discolor quartz. Avoid letting these touch your countertop.
Hard Water Stains
Mineral deposits from tap water can leave behind white, chalky hard water stains on quartz, especially around the faucet and sink. Use a limestone and rust remover to dissolve the minerals.
Burns
Excessive heat from pots, pans, and other heated objects can scorch quartz and create permanent burn marks. Always use trivets and hot pads.
How to Remove Stains from Quartz
If stains occur, all is not lost. Unlike natural stone, quartz can often be cleaned with strong chemicals without damaging the surface. Here are tips for removing some common quartz countertop stains:
Oils, dyes, and food stains – Mix a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide and apply to the stain. Let sit for 20 minutes then scrub with a soft brush. Rinse clean.
Dried-on spills – Use a razor blade scraper to gently lift off the substance, then clean with soapy water.
Hard water spots – Wipe on some white vinegar and let sit for 15 minutes before rinsing. Use a limestone remover for tough buildup.
Burn marks – Carefully scrape off the burnt area with a plastic putty knife. Sand down stubborn marks.
Tough stains – Apply a cleaning paste containing alkaline salts or hydrogen peroxide. Leave on for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Deep-set stains – Use cleaning powders containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide with a stiff scrub brush. Rinse thoroughly.
Be sure to read the care instructions for your specific quartz material and test cleaners on inconspicuous areas first. Aggressive scrubbing can damage the surface. Call in a pro for severe discoloration.
How to Prevent Stains on Quartz
With proper care, quartz countertops will stay beautiful and stain-free for many years. Follow these best practices:
- Wipe up spills immediately, especially oils, wines, and other pigmented liquids
- Always use cutting boards for food prep to prevent knife scratches and nicks
- Avoid direct heat exposure by using trivets and pads under hot items
- Seal any cracks near sinks and faucets to keep out moisture
- Clean with mild soap and water regularly
- Re-seal quartz annually with a penetrating sealer
- Don’t let strong chemicals like paint solvents touch the surface
- Remove hard water stains and mineral buildup regularly
With its superior stain resistance, quartz offers peace of mind for busy kitchens and baths. But some care and prompt cleanup of spills is still required to keep quartz surfaces in flawless condition for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stains on Quartz Countertops
Can quartz countertops get stained?
Yes, quartz can become stained, but it has excellent resistance compared to other countertop materials. Stains are less likely to occur and easier to remove from quartz.
What household liquids can stain quartz?
Oils, wines, coffees, vinegars, fruits juices and sodas could potentially stain quartz if allowed to sit for an extended time. Prompt clean-up is key.
Do quartz countertops stain from hard water?
Hard water deposits can leave white, chalky stains on quartz surfaces near faucets and sinks. A limestone remover can dissolve the mineral deposits.
Can you get grease stains out of quartz?
Yes, grease and oil stains can be removed from quartz using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide mixed into a paste. Apply and let sit before scrubbing clean.
How do you get dye stains out of quartz?
For dye stains from liquids like wine, juice, or soap, immediately try cleaning with soapy water. For stubborn stains, apply a mix of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Scrub after letting it sit on the stain for 15-20 minutes.
Does bleach stain quartz countertops?
Undiluted bleach could potentially cause discoloration of quartz. However, bleaches are often used as ingredients in quartz-safe cleaning compounds. Always spot test them first.
Can you buff out stains in quartz?
For light stains, gently buffing with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive paste made for engineered stone may help remove marks from the surface. But deep stains require other removal methods.
Conclusion
Although quartz countertops are not 100% impervious to stains, they are remarkably stain-resistant compared to surfaces like granite and marble. With prompt cleanup of spills, regular cleaning, and careful use of trivets and cutting boards, quartz can stay bright, glossy and Looking new for decades. For homeowners seeking long-lasting beauty with little maintenance, quartz remains an excellent choice for kitchen and bath design.