Use Coasters and Trivets
One of the most common ways quartz gets stained is from hot items being placed directly on the surface. Hot pans, baking dishes, and mugs can potentially scorch or discolor quartz. Always use coasters under glasses, trivets under hot pans and dishes, and placemats under plates to protect the surface.
Clean Up Spills Quickly
Don’t let spills of any kind sit on quartz. Liquids like wine, coffee, juice, and oils can seep into seams or micro-fissures in the material over time and cause staining. Immediately wipe up spills as they occur. For dried or stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner designed for stone surfaces.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Cleaners
While quartz is resistant to acids, prolonged exposure to harsh cleaners and chemicals can damage the surface sealant over time. Avoid using products containing oils, alkalis, or solvents. Simple mild soap and water or stone-safe cleaners are best for routine cleaning.
Use Cutting Boards
Avoid cutting any foods or materials directly on your quartz countertop. The impact and scraping from knives can create nicks and scratches in the surface that allow stains to seep in. Always use a cutting board for food prep.
Re-seal Countertops Yearly
Quartz countertops are pre-sealed by manufacturers to prevent staining and damage. However, sealants can slowly erode over time with regular use. Resealing your quartz surface every 12 months will replenish the protective barrier and help prevent absorption of stains.
Address Stains Promptly
If stains do occur on your quartz surface, address them quickly. For oil-based stains, use baking soda mixed with water to create a paste and gently rub onto the stain. For water-rings or dye stains, try hydrogen peroxide mixed with a few drops of ammonia. More stubborn stains may require help from a professional stone cleaner.
With proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops should remain beautiful and stain-free for many years. Following these preventative steps will help boost the longevity and look of your investment. Be sure to contact your manufacturer or installer for any additional care recommendations specific to your quartz product. With some diligence about spills and cleaning routines, you can enjoy stain-free, low-maintenance quartz countertops for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventing Stains on Quartz Countertops
Can quartz countertops stain?
Quartz is resistant to stains but not stain-proof. Prolonged exposure to spills, oils, acids, and chemicals can cause staining over time if not cleaned up promptly. Following manufacturer care guidelines is key to preventing stains.
What causes quartz countertops to stain?
Common causes of staining include hot pans/dishes, spills of liquids like wine or juice, oils, dyes, chemicals, and mildew buildup. Cutting food directly on the surface can also lead to stains over time from the impact of knives.
What is the best cleaner for quartz countertops?
Mild soap and water is best for routine cleaning. For occassional deep cleaning, look for stone-safe cleaners without acids, alkalis, bleach or abrasives. Avoid any cleaners containing lemon, vinegar or other acids.
Can quartz countertops stain from oil?
Yes, oil can stain quartz countertops. Oils seep into the microscopic pores in the material over time. Immediately clean any oil/grease spills using a degreasing cleaner made for stone. For dried stains, use baking soda and water paste.
Do quartz countertops stain from coffee?
Hot coffee mugs can potentially burn or stain quartz. The material is resistant to occasional coffee spills if cleaned up quickly. Allowing liquids like coffee to sit for prolonged time periods can lead to staining as it seeps into surface.
How do you get stains out of quartz countertops?
For oil-based stains, make a paste with baking soda and water and gently rub onto the stain. For water-rings or dyes, apply hydrogen peroxide and ammonia. More stubborn stains may need a professional stone cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
With proper preventative care, quartz countertops can remain resilient against stains for years. Using trivets, addressing spills quickly, avoiding direct food contact, and resealing annually are key steps to maintaining a pristine surface. If stains do occur, prompt removal using the proper techniques for oil, water and dye based stains is recommended. Follow your manufacturer’s guidance and quartz countertops will stay looking like new for the long-term.