How to Get a Stain Off Quartz Countertop

Introduction

Quartz countertops are popular in many homes today due to their durability, stylish appearance, and low maintenance. However, like any countertop material, quartz can get stained from spills and day-to-day use. Thankfully, there are techniques you can use to remove stains from quartz and restore its original beauty.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about getting stains out of quartz countertops. We’ll discuss the most common stains and the best cleaning methods and products to use based on the type of stain. With some elbow grease and the right stain removal process, you can get your quartz counters looking like new again.

Common Stains on Quartz Countertops

Quartz is resistant to most stains, but it is still possible for some stubborn substances to leave their mark if not cleaned up promptly. Here are some of the most common stains homeowners encounter on quartz:

Grease and Oil

Greasy splatters from cooking are a major culprit when it comes to soiling quartz. Oil and grease stains often appear as dark or orange splotches. The longer they sit, the harder they can be to remove.

Wine and Fruit Juice

Sugary drinks like wine, fruit juice, and soda can lead to sticky residues. Acidic substances like citrus juice may even etch light marks into the surface over time.

Coffee and Tea

Like juice, coffee and tea can leave behind hard-to-clean rings if spills are not wiped up right away. The tannins in these beverages can slightly stain the stone.

Marker and Pen

Permanent markers and pens often contain dyes that can discolor the surface of quartz. The sooner these marks are treated, the less likely they’ll leave an indelible stain.

Hard Water Marks

Mineral deposits from water can leave unsightly spots and film, especially around sinks and faucets. These marks make the quartz look dingy.

Rust

Rust stains may occur if a metal object sits on the quartz while wet. These orange-brown marks can be stubborn to remove.

With the right techniques and cleaning solutions, even tough stains like these can be eliminated to restore the quartz to its original beauty. The key is using the proper method for the specific type of stain.

How to Remove Common Stains from Quartz Countertops

Removing stains from quartz requires using the appropriate cleaner and technique for that particular type of stain. Here are some tips for getting out the most common quartz stains:

For Grease and Oil Stains

Blot up excess oil immediately using a paper towel. Avoid aggressive scrubbing initially, which can drive the grease deeper into the stone.
Apply a degreasing cleaner like basic dish soap or an all-purpose cleaner to the stain. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
Use a soft sponge or non-abrasive pad to gently scrub the degreaser over the stain in circular motions. Rinse well.
For stubborn oil stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Spread the paste over the grease stain and let sit for up to an hour before scrubbing and rinsing. The baking soda will help draw out the oil.

For Wine, Juice, and Soda Stains

Immediately absorb any excess liquid using a clean paper towel or cloth.
Mix a solution of mild dish soap with warm water. Use a soft bristle brush or sponge to gently scrub the soapy solution onto the stain.
Rinse several times with clean water. Dry completely with a soft cloth.
For stubborn sugary stains, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. Let bubble for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. This will help lift the stain.

For Coffee and Tea Stains

Place a paper towel or rag over the stain and apply a warm iron to the towel. The heat will help draw out the stain.
Make a baking soda paste, spread over stain, and let sit for up to an hour before rinsing.
Use hydrogen peroxide and let sit for 10 minutes before rinsing.
Mix lemon juice with cream of tartar to make a paste. Apply to stain for 15 minutes then scrub and rinse away.

For Marker and Pen Stains

Apply rubbing alcohol to the stain and let sit for 5 minutes. Gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge.
Make a paste with baking soda and water. Let it sit on the stain for up to an hour before scrubbing and rinsing. The baking soda will help absorb the stain.
For stubborn permanent marker, use acetone nail polish remover. Dip the corner of a cloth in the acetone and gently rub the stain. Rinse thoroughly.

For Hard Water Stains

Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Use a soft cloth to apply the solution to the mineral deposits.
Let the vinegar solution sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a soft bristle brush and rinsing. Repeat as needed.
For tough hard water stains, apply lemon juice and let sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. The acidity helps dissolve the minerals.

For Rust Stains

First, gently scrub the rust stain with a soft nylon brush and mild dish detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
Next, make a paste with cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide. Apply this paste to the rust stain.
Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing again and rinsing away. The cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide will lift the rust.

No matter what type of stain you are dealing with, be sure to thoroughly rinse the quartz surface after cleaning to remove any residue left behind from cleaners. Wipe dry with soft cloth or paper towels to prevent new water spots.

Powerful Cleaners that Remove the Toughest Quartz Stains

For really stubborn, set-in stains on quartz that don’t respond to basic cleaning methods, you may need to reach for a more powerful cleaner specifically designed to remove waxes, dyes, grease and other problem stains. Here are some of the best heavy duty cleaners to eliminate tough quartz stains:

Quartz surface cleaner: Many reputable quartz manufacturers make their own specialty cleaners, like Cambria’s Quartz Cleaner or Silestone’s Cleaner and Rejuvenator. These are engineered to deep clean quartz without damaging the surface.
Alkaline cleaners: Cleaners like Simple Green Concrete & Driveway Cleaner contain alkaline salts and detergents that are formulated to cut through grease, oils, grime, and waxes.
Degreasing cleaners: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and ZEP Commercial Purple Degreaser are excellent for breaking down oil and greasy messes. Use with a soft scrub brush.
Acetone: For super tenacious stains, acetone (nail polish remover) can be dabbed on the stain with a cloth very gently. Avoid widespread use which may dull the finish.

Always spot test powerful cleaners first on an inconspicuous part of the quartz to ensure they don’t damage the finish. Check the quartz manufacturer’s care guide before using any potent cleaners as well. With the right product and some elbow grease, you can conquer the most stubborn quartz stains.

Tips for Preventing Stains on Quartz Countertops

While it is possible to remove stains from quartz, prevention is always preferable. Here are some handy tips to help keep your quartz counters in pristine shape:

Use cutting boards and trivets when prepping food to protect quartz from knives and hot pans which can scratch and scorch.
Clean up spills immediately before they have a chance to set and stain. A quick wipe with a paper towel or cloth can prevent permanent damage.
Use coasters under glasses and bottles to avoid etching from condensation rings.
For kitchen quartz near the cooking area, apply a stone sealer every 6 months to make the surface more stain resistant.
Avoid using cleaners that contain bleach, alkaline additives or acidic solutions which can dull quartz over time with repeated use.
Rinse the surface after cleaning with water and wipe dry to prevent mineral deposits from tap water.

With proper care and maintenance, your beautiful quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years. But even if stains eventually appear, this guide will help you safely remove them without harming the quartz. With a little time and effort, you can achieve stain-free, sparkling quartz counters again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get oil stains out of quartz?

Use a degreasing cleaner like dish soap first, then make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the stain for 1 hour before scrubbing and rinsing away. The baking soda will draw out soaked in oil.

How do you remove red wine from quartz?

First blot up excess wine, then mix dish soap with warm water and scrub onto the stain with a soft brush. Rinse several times and dry. For a stubborn stain, apply hydrogen peroxide and let bubble for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

What removes tea and coffee stains from quartz?

Place a paper towel over the stain and put a warm iron on top to draw out the stain. You can also make a baking soda paste and let it sit for an hour before scrubbing and rinsing. Hydrogen peroxide applied for 10 minutes is also effective for coffee and tea stains.

How do you get marker off of a quartz countertop?

Apply rubbing alcohol and let sit for 5 minutes before gently scrubbing with a soft brush. Alternatively, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply for up to an hour before scrubbing the marker stain and rinsing the quartz surface.

What is the best cleaner for quartz countertops?

Look for cleaners specifically made for quartz, like those made by quartz manufacturers such as Cambria, Silestone, Caesarstone, etc. You can also use alkaline-based cleaners and degreasers like Simple Green and Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to eliminate tough stains on quartz.

Can you use vinegar to clean quartz?

Yes, you can safely use a diluted vinegar solution to remove hard water stains and other marks from quartz counters. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water and wipe onto the stains. Let sit 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.

What should you not use to clean quartz?

Avoid cleaners with bleach, alkaline additives, hydrofluoric or hydrochloric acids as these can etch or discolor quartz. Also do not use abrasive pads or scrub brushes which can dull the surface over time. Check manufacturer recommendations before using any potent cleaners.

How can I make my quartz counters stain resistant?

Apply a stone sealer to quartz about every 6 months, especially around cooking and eating areas. Sealers can make quartz more stain proof. Also immediately wipe up spills when they occur to prevent stains from setting in the first place. Use trivets and cutting boards to protect the surface.

Does quartz need to be sealed?

Sealing is not mandatory, but it can add extra stain protection. High quality quartz is non-porous so a sealer is not required, but applying a topical sealer every 6 months will make quartz even more stain, scratch and scorch resistant.

Conclusion

Although quartz countertops are pretty impervious to damage, stains can occur from time to time. By understanding what causes quartz stains and learning the proper techniques to remove them, you can keep your quartz counters looking like new. With a little bit of time and elbow grease, even dried, set-in stains can be eliminated.

Be sure to use the right cleaning solutions and methods for the type of stain you are dealing with. Test heavy duty cleaners first to ensure they won’t dull the finish. Maintaining your quartz countertops with regular care and prompt stain removal will help preserve their pristine beauty and function for many years of use.