Paint spills and splatters are common occurrences in kitchens and bathrooms with quartz countertops. While quartz is an extremely durable material, fresh paint can bond to the surface and create a stubborn stain. Fortunately, with some cleaning know-how and a little elbow grease, you can safely remove latex and oil-based paints from quartz. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get paint off quartz countertops.
Act Quickly
The key is to act fast before the paint has time to set and dry on the quartz. Immediately wipe up any wet paint with a paper towel to remove excess. Avoid scrubbing at this stage, as it can drive the paint deeper into the stone. The quicker you can remove the wet paint, the easier the rest of the process will be.
Remove Excess with Paint Thinner
For oil-based paints such as enamels, use a paint thinner like mineral spirits to break down and dissolve the oily components. Dab a clean cloth in the paint thinner and gently wipe the area to loosen the paint. This makes the next step of scraping away residue much simpler. Avoid paint thinner on latex paints.
Scrape Away Paint Residue
Once you’ve removed any excess wet paint or used paint thinner on dried oil-based paint, use a plastic putty knife, plastic scraper, or wood stick to gently lift away any remaining dried-on paint. Apply light pressure while scraping to avoid scratching or damaging the quartz surface. Scrape slowly and methodically until all visible paint residue is lifted off.
Create a Baking Soda Paste
Make a paste with baking soda and water, applying just enough water so the powder binds together. Use approximately 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Spread a thick layer of the paste over the paint stained area using a soft cloth or paper towel.
Let the Paste Sit for 24 Hours
Allow the baking soda paste to sit on the quartz countertop for 24 hours to fully lift and draw out the paint stain. The paste will dry out during this time. Avoid the temptation to wipe or rinse it away sooner.
Scrub with a Soft Scouring Pad
After 24 hours, use a soft nylon scrubbing pad designed for nonstick pans to gently rub away the dried baking soda paste. Apply light pressure and work in circles to lightly abrade and lift the remaining paint without damaging the quartz. Rinse the area well.
Use Acetone as Needed for Final Cleaning
If any shadow of the paint stain remains after scraping, paste, and scrubbing, use a cloth dipped in acetone for the final clean. Wipe the area gently with acetone to dissolve and remove the last of the paint. Rinse immediately with water and buff dry with a microfiber cloth.
Preventative Cleaning After Paint Jobs
After completing painting projects around quartz countertops, immediately wipe down the counters to remove paint drips or overspray before they have a chance to dry. A quick clean up prevents stains.
With the right supplies and techniques, dried latex or oil paint can be removed from quartz countertops without harming the durable surface or resorting to harsh chemical strippers. By taking action right after the spill occurs, using baking soda poultices, plastic scrapers and only mild solvents when needed, you can safely restore the pristine look of your quartz.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get dried paint off a quartz countertop?
To remove dried paint from quartz, first use a plastic scraper to gently lift off any hardened drips or residue. Then apply a paste of baking soda and water and let it sit for 24 hours to draw out remaining paint. Finally, scrub with a soft pad and rinse. Use acetone only as a last resort if paint remains.
What is the best homemade paint remover for quartz?
A baking soda paste is the safest, most effective homemade paint remover for quartz countertops. Simply mix baking soda with enough water to make a spreadable paste, apply to the paint stain, let sit for 24 hours, and scrub. The alkaline baking soda dissolves paint without damaging quartz.
What should you not use to remove paint from quartz?
Avoid harsh chemicals like paint strippers, turpentine, or very strong solvents like concentrated alcohol or lacquer thinner. The caustic chemicals can damage and etch quartz. Also avoid sharp tools like metal scrapers or abrasive scrubbers that could scratch quartz.
Can you use acetone to remove paint from quartz?
Yes, acetone can be used to remove paint from quartz countertops, but only as a last resort. First try gentler methods like baking soda paste, scraping, and soft scrub pads. If any paint remains, dampen a cloth with acetone to gently wipe it away. Avoid prolonged exposure to acetone.
How do you get oil-based paint off quartz?
For dried oil-based paints, use a paint thinner like mineral spirits to soften and dissolve the paint, wiping gently with a cloth. Then scrape away residue and make a baking soda paste. Let the paste sit for 24 hours before scrubbing and rinsing the area. Acetone can also help remove final oil paint traces.
Conclusion
Paint spills on quartz countertops can be alarming, but in most cases, the stain can be fully removed with the proper cleaning techniques. By blotting up spills quickly, using plastic scrapers, applying baking soda poultices, scrubbing with care, and only using mild solvents when necessary, you can safely restore the pristine, paint-free look of your quartz countertop without damage. With some elbow grease and the right gentle cleaners, dried latex and oil-based paint doesn’t stand a chance against quartz.