How to Clean Stains from Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are popular in many homes due to their durability, visual appeal, and low maintenance. However, like any countertop material, quartz can become stained from spills and regular wear and tear. The good news is that quartz is non-porous, making stains unlikely to soak in deeply or cause permanent damage. Here is a guide on how to clean stains from quartz countertops.

What Causes Stains on Quartz Countertops?

Quartz countertops can become stained by:

Food and beverages – Spilled wine, coffee, juice, oil, vinegar, etc. can lead to stains.
Grease and oil – Cooking splatters and spills from frying can leave greasy residues.
Hard water spots – Mineral deposits in tap water when left to dry.
Mold and mildew – Typically caused by moisture buildup.
Rust – From metal pans, utensils or sinks/faucets.
Dyes and pigments – From colored foods or household products that contain dyes.

How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops

Cleaning Quartz Surfaces

Quartz is fairly stain-resistant but not stain-proof. Spills should be cleaned up promptly to minimize staining.
For routine cleaning, use a soft sponge or cloth with warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Disinfect quartz periodically with diluted bleach – 1 part bleach to 9 parts water.
For dried spills, use a plastic putty knife to gently scrape off debris before cleaning. Avoid metal utensils.

Removing Tough Stains

Grease and oil – Use baking soda and water paste and scrub with a soft brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Dried spills – Spray with diluted vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Hard water spots – Use vinegar full-strength and let sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Mold and mildew – Make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Let sit for 15 minutes then scrub and rinse.
Rust stains – Use a rust remover made for stone. Let it sit before scrubbing and rinsing thoroughly.
Dyes and pigments – Try hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach. Let sit for several minutes before scrubbing.

Helpful Cleaning Tips

Always use a circular motion when scrubbing stains. Avoid abrasive scrub pads.
For dried or stubborn stains, let cleaning solutions sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing.
Rinse thoroughly after applying any cleaning solutions. Residual cleaners can damage the finish.
Blot spills immediately with a dry towel to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Re-seal and polish quartz countertops every 6-12 months for added protection.

How to Prevent Stains on Quartz

Use cutting boards, trivets and heat pads under hot pans and appliances.
Clean up food prep messes and spills right away.
Avoid letting liquids sit for prolonged periods.
Use placemats under ceramic dishes to prevent scratching.
Clean with soft sponges, never abrasive scouring pads.
Keep quartz dry with a towel after use to prevent water marks.
Re-seal quartz regularly with a sealant made for engineered stone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bleach to clean quartz counters?

Yes, diluted bleach can be used to disinfect and remove stubborn stains from quartz. Mix 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Never use undiluted bleach.

What is the best daily cleaner for quartz?

For routine cleaning, use a mild soap with warm water and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.

How can I get dried food stains off my quartz?

For dried stains, let a diluted vinegar solution sit on the stain for 5 minutes before gently scrubbing with a soft brush or plastic scraper. The vinegar will help loosen the stain.

My quartz has a rust stain from a can. How do I remove it?

Rust stains will require a rust remover specifically formulated for stone/quartz. Let the product sit before scrubbing and rinsing thoroughly. This helps lift the rust.

I have hard water stains on my quartz. What’s the best removal method?

Hard water or mineral deposits respond best to pure vinegar. Pour some over the stain, let sit for 5-10 minutes, then scrub and rinse away the staining.

Conclusion

Quartz countertops are prone to stains from daily use. Thankfully most stains can be removed with the proper cleaning techniques and solutions. Be sure to clean spills quickly, use only non-abrasive scrubbers, and re-seal quartz regularly to prevent stains from setting in. With some periodic maintenance, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for years of beauty and enjoyment.