Quartz countertops are popular in many homes due to their durability, stylish appearance, and low maintenance. However, grout and mortar can sometimes get on the surface during installation or repairs. Thankfully, there are several effective methods for removing dried grout from quartz.
What You’ll Need
- pH-neutral cleaner or dish soap
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Plastic scraper or putty knife
- Magic eraser/melamine foam
- Kum and Go paste
- Eye protection
Cleaning Tips and Methods
Mix a Mild Cleaning Solution
Mix a few drops of pH-neutral dish soap or cleaner with warm water in a spray bottle. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Lightly spray the area and let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps loosen the grout.
Try Vinegar and Baking Soda
For a natural option, make a paste with equal parts white vinegar and baking soda. Apply it to the grout and let it bubble for 2-3 minutes before scrubbing with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly.
Use a Plastic Scraper
Gently scrape at the grout with a plastic putty knife or scraper. Take care not to scratch the surface. The scraper can help break up stubborn spots.
Scrub with a Magic Eraser
Dampen a melamine foam magic eraser and rub it over the grout residue. Apply light pressure and the foam helps lift off the grout. This works well for lightly dried grout.
Apply Kum and Go Paste
Specialized Kum and Go paste available at hardware stores can help dissolve mortar and grout. Apply a thin layer, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with a sponge and rinse. Wear gloves when using.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and acetone. While they may work, they can also damage and discolor the quartz. Milder methods are safer.
Work in Small Sections
Don’t try to remove large areas of grout at once. Work in smaller sections for the best results. Let cleaning solutions or paste sit and penetrate before scrubbing.
Rinse and Dry Completely
Be sure to rinse the countertop thoroughly after cleaning to remove any soapy residue. Blot dry with a soft cloth. Residual moisture can lead to buildup.
Tips to Prevent Grout Stains
- Cover the countertop during installation or repairs.
- Wipe up spills immediately before they have a chance to dry.
- Use a grout sealer on tile to protect quartz from stains.
- Clean quartz regularly with pH-neutral cleaner to prevent buildup.
How to Get Grout Off of Quartz Countertop – FAQ
How long does dried grout take to remove from quartz?
It depends on the amount and thickness of the grout. Allow 10-30 minutes for pastes and cleaning solutions to penetrate and soften the grout before scrubbing. Removing heavy grout buildup can take over an hour.
What is the safest grout remover for quartz?
Vinegar, baking soda, pH-neutral dish soap, and melamine foam are gentle enough for quartz. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. Kum and Go paste works well but requires gloves.
Can I use a grout saw on quartz countertops?
No, grout saws and electric grout removers are too abrasive for quartz. They could scratch or dull the surface. Use manual scraping and scrubbing methods instead.
Will grout stain quartz permanently?
If removed promptly, grout generally won’t stain quartz permanently. However, the longer it sits, the harder it will be to remove. Darker grout colors like black are more likely to stain.
What household items can remove dried grout?
You can make an effective grout remover from items like vinegar, baking soda, dish soap, magic erasers, and plastic scrapers that are gentle enough for quartz.
Conclusion
Removing excess grout from quartz countertops takes some elbow grease but is definitely doable with the right methods. The key is using mild cleaners and manual scrubbing techniques to protect the surface. Kum and Go paste also works very effectively. Patience and persistent scrubbing will help lift off stubborn dried grout. Just take care not to use anything too abrasive on these beautiful counters!