Quartz countertops are durable and low-maintenance, but spills and stains can still occur. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove stains from quartz countertops to keep them looking like new.
What You’ll Need
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baby oil or mineral oil
- Magic eraser
- Acetone nail polish remover (for stubborn stains)
General Tips for Cleaning Quartz Countertops
- Act quickly to clean spills before they have a chance to set in. The longer a stain sits, the harder it’ll be to remove.
- Always use a soft cloth or sponge when cleaning. Avoid abrasive pads or brushes that could scratch the surface.
- Try gentle cleaning solutions first before moving to stronger chemical options which may damage the countertop over time.
- Check the manufacturer’s care guide for your specific quartz brand and pattern before using acidic or alkaline cleaners.
- Spot test cleaning products on an inconspicuous area first to check for any adverse reactions.
- Thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after cleaning to prevent residue buildup.
Removing Common Stains
Coffee and Tea Stains
- Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water.
- Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently rub the stain. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry.
- For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. The baking soda will help absorb discoloration.
Red Wine, Berry, and Fruit Stains
- Immediately blot with a paper towel to absorb excess liquid.
- Pour some hydrogen peroxide over the stain to bubble away pigment. Let sit for 5 minutes before rinsing.
- If needed, apply a few drops of baby oil and let it penetrate for 30 minutes before scrubbing with baking soda and rinsing clean. The oil will help break down stain molecules.
Oil-based Stains Like Grease, Cooking Oil, and Makeup
- Gently scrape any excess oil with a plastic scraper or the edge of a credit card.
- Apply some baby oil or mineral oil and let it soak for 10 minutes. The oil will help dissolve the stain.
- Scrub with baking soda and rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed.
Dried-on Food, Sauce, or Juice Stains
- Soak the area with warm, soapy water for several minutes to loosen the stain.
- Gently scrub away the stain with a soft cloth, sponge, or magic eraser.
- If needed, apply some hydrogen peroxide and let it sit before scrubbing and rinsing clean.
Hard Water Stains and Mineral Deposits
- Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the marks.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing clean. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive.
- For stubborn deposits, cover with a cloth soaked in vinegar for an hour. The acid in vinegar will help dissolve mineral buildup. Rinse well.
Permanent Marker, Pen, Ink, or Pencil Marks
- Try using a magic eraser first to lift off fresh stains. For dried marks, try acetone nail polish remover applied with a cotton ball.
- Apply some hairspray over the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes to dissolve ink. Scrub gently and rinse clean. The alcohol in hairspray can lift pigment.
- Avoid harsh paint removers or thinners which may damage the countertop. Test acetone on an inconspicuous spot first.
How to Avoid Stains on Quartz Countertops
- Use cutting boards, trivets, and coasters under hot pots/pans, candles, oils, drinks etc. to prevent direct contact with the counter.
- Immediately wipe up spills, splatters, and drips when cooking to prevent staining.
- Avoid exposing quartz counters to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, drain openers etc. which can etch or discolor the surface.
- Reseal quartz countertops every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer to protect against stains and make cleaning easier.
- Follow the manufacturer’s care and maintenance instructions specific to your quartz pattern and style.
When to Call for Professional Help
If stains persist after multiple cleaning attempts, or you notice etching or dulling even after cleaning, it may be time to call in a professional for deep cleaning and restoration. Look for companies experienced in quartz countertop care. They have access to stronger chemical cleaners and tools like power polishers to refresh the surface. For severe damage, quartz may need to be fully resurfaced.
Conclusion
With the right techniques, supplies, and immediate action, most stains can be removed from quartz countertops without professional intervention. Always start with the gentlest approach and test products first to avoid damaging the surface. For best results, be vigilant about wiping spills quickly, using cutting boards, and sealing quartz counters regularly.