What You’ll Need
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Non-abrasive cleaning pad or scrubbing sponge
- Paper towels
- Rubbing alcohol (optional)
General Cleaning
For general surface stains:
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
- Dampen a soft cloth or sponge in the soap solution.
- Gently wipe the stained area using circular motions. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
- Rinse with clean water and dry with a paper towel.
This method should remove most light staining from food, drinks, dirt, etc. For tougher stains, see special cleaning methods below.
Tough Stain Removal
For stubborn stains that don’t come out with regular cleaning:
Grease and Oil
- Sprinkle some baking soda on the greasy stain.
- Using a damp sponge, scrub gently for 30-60 seconds.
- Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry.
Dried Food and Sauce Stains
- Soak a non-abrasive cleaning pad or scrubbing sponge in warm water.
- Gently scrub the stain for 1-2 minutes.
- Rinse and dry the area thoroughly.
Wine, Coffee, and Dark Liquid Stains
- Immediately soak up excess liquid with a paper towel. Don’t let it sit.
- Mix a paste of baking soda and water. Spread onto the stain.
- Let it sit for up to an hour, then scrub with a sponge.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly. Repeat if needed.
Hard Water Stains
- Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply to the stain.
- Scrub gently with a non-abrasive pad. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Spray vinegar and let fizz for 2-3 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse clean. Dry thoroughly.
Dye Transfer and Permanent Marker
- Use a paper towel soaked in rubbing alcohol to gently blot the stain. The alcohol will help break down the pigments.
- For tough permanent marker, try nail polish remover with acetone. Always spot test first.
Preventing Future Stains
There are a few simple habits that can help prevent stains on quartz countertops:
- Always use cutting boards and trivets for hot items. Never place hot pots and pans directly on the countertop.
- Clean up spills immediately before they have a chance to set in.
- Use coasters for drinks.
- Apply mineral oil or sealant occasionally to protect the surface.
- Avoid using cleaners and chemicals that can damage the finish.
When to Call a Professional
If a stain won’t budge after trying these methods, contact a professional countertop installer for help. They have industrial cleaners and tools that may be needed for deep-set stains. Avoid abrasive scouring pads, strong acids, or repeatedly scrubbing, as this can damage the quartz surface over time.
FAQs About Cleaning Quartz Countertop Stains
What’s the best way to clean quartz daily?
Use a microfiber cloth with warm, soapy water or a specially formulated quartz cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads or scrubbing. Quartz is stain-resistant, but not stain-proof, so prompt cleaning is key.
Can you use bleach to clean quartz?
No, avoid using bleach or hydrogen peroxide. The chemicals in these cleaners can discolor or damage the surface over time. For stubborn stains, try a baking soda paste instead.
What household items can damage a quartz countertop?
Avoid using any highly acidic or abrasive cleaners that can etch the surface. This includes glass cleaner, vinegar, lemon juice, etc. Store-bought quartz cleaners or mild soap and water are safest.
How do you clean dried food or grease stains?
For dried or baked-on food stains, let a damp cleaning pad or paper towel soak on the spot for a few minutes to soften it, then gently scrub off. For grease, sprinkle baking soda and scrub gently with a soft sponge before rinsing.
Can you use Magic Eraser on quartz countertops?
Yes, Magic Eraser sponges can be used to remove some stains with gentle scrubbing. Be sure to wring it out well so it is just slightly damp. Avoid excessive repeated scrubbing in one spot.
How do you deep clean quartz countertops?
For a deep clean, use a gentle quartz cleaner or mix of dish soap and warm water. Scrub entire surface with non-abrasive pad. Rinse thoroughly and follow up by applying mineral oil to condition and protect the quartz. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners.
Conclusion
The good news is quartz countertops are very low-maintenance compared to other surfaces. By using the proper gentle cleaning methods for your type of stain, you can easily remove spots and prevent permanent damage. Avoid abrasive chemicals or tools, work stains as soon as possible, and regularly apply sealant to keep quartz counters looking like new for years. With some care and minimal effort, you can enjoy durable, worry-free quartz countertops.