Removing Sharpie stains from quartz countertops can seem daunting, but with the right techniques and products, it is very possible to get them looking bright and clean again. Here are some helpful tips for removing Sharpie marks from quartz.
What You Need
- Soft cloth
- Diluted isopropyl alcohol
- Acetone nail polish remover
- Baking soda
- Distilled white vinegar
- Non-abrasive scrubbing pad
- Eye protection and gloves
Step-By-Step Process
Try Diluted Isopropyl Alcohol
- Mix equal parts isopropyl alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Shake well.
- Liberally spray the staining and let sit for 5 minutes. This allows the alcohol to break down the ink.
- Wipe with a soft cloth. Check to see if the stain has lightened or come up.
- Repeat as needed until the stain is removed. The alcohol should dissolve the Sharpie ink.
Use Acetone Nail Polish Remover
- Pour a small amount of acetone onto a soft cloth.
- Gently rub the stained area in a circular motion. Take care not to scrub too aggressively.
- Once it has soaked in, use a dry area of the cloth to blot up the excess remover and ink.
- Check if the stain has lifted. Reapply acetone and blot as needed.
- When finished, wash the area with soap and water to remove any residue.
Make a Baking Soda Paste
- Mix 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda with just enough water to form a spreadable paste.
- Using a soft cloth, gently spread the paste over the stained area.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes to lift the stain.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth and rinse.
- For stubborn stains, leave the paste on for up to 30 minutes before rinsing.
Use Distilled White Vinegar
- Pour undiluted white vinegar directly onto the stain.
- Allow it to soak in for 5-10 minutes. This will help break up the ink.
- Wipe with a damp cloth and rinse clean.
- For tougher stains, rub lightly with a non-abrasive pad after soaking. Take care not to scrub too hard.
Try a Stain Removal Gel
- Look for gels made for countertops and stone surfaces.
- Apply a thick layer directly to the stained area. Follow product instructions.
- Most will need to sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping clean with a damp cloth.
- Repeat applications may be needed for stubborn stains.
Seek Professional Help
For stains that resist all your efforts, consider contacting a professional stone restoration company. They have access to more powerful cleaning solutions that can dissolve difficult Sharpie stains without damaging your quartz. This may be your best solution for large or very set-in stains.
Tips for Prevention
- Use coasters under glasses and bottles.
- Keep countertops clean and dry to avoid stains setting in.
- Clean up spills immediately with an absorbent cloth.
- If allowing writing on the surface, use dry erase markers instead of Sharpies.
- Consider applying a penetrating sealer to make the counters more stain resistant.
With some persistence and the right cleaning methods, you can remove Sharpie stains from quartz. Take care not to scrub too aggressively, as this could damage the surface. With a light touch and the proper products, you can erase those marks and restore the beauty of your countertops.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to remove Sharpie from quartz?
It depends on the stain, but most mild stains can be removed with 5-10 minutes of soaking and gentle wiping. More stubborn stains may take repeated applications and up to 30 minutes of dwell time before the Sharpie ink lifts.
Will acetone damage my quartz countertop?
Acetone is generally safe for quartz when used correctly. Pour a small amount on a cloth and rub gently. Don’t pour directly on the surface. Rinse with water after to remove residue. Heavy scrubbing or soaking can etch quartz.
What household items can remove Sharpie from quartz?
Isopropyl alcohol, acetone, baking soda, and white vinegar are common household products that can safely tackle Sharpie when used properly. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
How do I prevent Sharpie stains on my quartz countertop?
Use coasters, clean spills quickly, and switch to dry erase markers. You can also apply a penetrating sealer to make quartz more stain resistant. Keeping counters clean and dry prevents stains from setting in.
What kind of cloth should I use?
Soft cloths like microfiber prevent scratching. Hard scrubbing can damage the surface, so vigorous rubbing with rough cloths is not recommended. Use a light touch.
Conclusion
Sharpie stains can be a nuisance, but with a gentle approach and the right cleaning solutions, you can remove them from quartz successfully. Diluted isopropyl alcohol, acetone, baking soda paste, and vinegar often do the trick with a little dwell time. Avoid abrasives and vigorous scrubbing. For really tough stains, call a professional stone cleaner. With some care and elbow grease, you can erase those marks and restore the flawless look of your quartz countertop.