White quartz countertops are gorgeous additions to any kitchen. Their bright, crisp look instantly makes the space feel clean and fresh. However, like all countertops, quartz can get messy over time with food stains, grease splatters, and other marks. The good news is that quartz is non-porous, so stains don’t soak in like they would with natural stone. With the right cleaning methods, you can get your white quartz gleaming again. Here are some tips on how to clean marks off white quartz countertop surfaces.
What You’ll Need
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft sponge or non-abrasive scrub pad
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda
- Distilled white vinegar
- Non-abrasive cleaner formulated for stone (optional)
- Clean water
Cleaning Tips for Common Marks
For Food Stains and Dirt
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
- Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the solution and wring out excess water.
- Gently wipe the stained area using a circular motion. Take care not to scrub too aggressively.
- Rinse well and dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
For Grease Splatter
- Sprinkle some baking soda directly onto greasy spots.
- Using a damp sponge, gently rub the baking soda around to help lift and absorb grease.
- Rinse clean and wipe dry with a cloth.
For Hard Water Marks
- Make a solution of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water.
- Pour a small amount directly onto marks and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Wipe away with a soft, damp cloth.
- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.
For Dried-On Spills or Grime
- Try a non-abrasive stone cleaner formulated for quartz.
- Spray directly onto the mess and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Wipe away with a soft cloth, scrubbing gently if needed.
- Rinse and dry the area thoroughly after cleaning.
Daily Cleaning Tips
- Use a microfiber cloth to wipe up spills as soon as they occur. This prevents staining.
- Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Disinfect periodically with a non-abrasive, quartz-safe disinfectant cleaner.
- Use a cutting board and trivet to protect your counters from cuts and hot pans.
How to Avoid Damaging Your Quartz
- Never use abrasive pads, scouring powder, or anything acidic when cleaning. This can etch the surface.
- Don’t apply sealants, waxes or polishes which can cause buildup.
- Avoid placing hot pans directly onto the quartz. Always use trivets.
- Don’t use quartz as a cutting surface. Always use a cutting board.
When to Call a Professional
If you have stubborn stains that won’t budge after multiple cleaning attempts, contact a professional stone restoration company. Professionals have access to more aggressive cleaning solutions that can tackle difficult stains without harming the quartz. They can also re-polish scratched or dulled areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to clean dried food and grime from my white quartz?
For dried-on messes, let a non-abrasive stone cleaner soak on the area for 5-10 minutes before gently wiping away. This allows the cleaner time to break down the grime so it can be removed without scrubbing.
Will lemon juice remove stains from my quartz countertop?
No, you should avoid using lemon juice. While the citric acid may lift some staining, it can also potentially etch or dull the quartz surface over time. Opt for a mildly acidic vinegar solution instead.
How can I get water spots off my quartz?
Hard water spots can be removed with a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water. Pour it on generously and allow several minutes of dwell time before wiping off with a soft cloth.
What household items should not be used to clean white quartz?
Avoid abrasive pads, scouring powders, bleach, alkaline cleaners, and anything acidic like lemon juice. Stick to gentle dish soap, baking soda, vinegar and stone-safe cleaners.
Will a Magic Eraser remove marks from quartz countertops?
Magic Erasers are too abrasive for quartz and can potentially scratch or etch the surface. Stick to non-abrasive cleaning methods to keep your counters damage-free.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and prompt spot treatment can keep white quartz counters looking like new for years. Stick to gentle cleaners like dish soap, baking soda, vinegar and microfiber cloths for day-to-day maintenance. For tougher stains, allow a specially formulated quartz cleaner to sit before wiping. With some basic care, your bright white quartz surfaces will stay spectacular.