Getting spots off a quartz countertop can seem daunting, but with the right techniques and products, it can be easy. Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz bound together with resin. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. However, like any surface, quartz can get dirty over time. Follow these tips to clean and remove spots from your quartz countertops.
What Causes Spots on Quartz?
There are a few common culprits that can leave spots on quartz:
- Oils and grease – Cooking oils like olive oil along with greasy foods can leave oily spots on quartz.
- Wine and coffee – The pigments in dark liquids like red wine and coffee can stain quartz.
- Hard water – Mineral deposits in hard water can leave limescale spots.
- Mold and mildew – Moisture buildup can allow mold or mildew to grow, leaving black or green spots.
- Metal marks – Pots, pans, and metal utensils can mark the surface.
- Etch marks – Acidic foods and cleaners can etch or dull the surface.
Cleaning and Preventing Spots on Quartz
Here are some tips for keeping quartz counters clean and spot-free:
Daily Cleaning
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Use a mild soap and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
- For dried-on messes, let warm soapy water sit for a few minutes before wiping.
Weekly Cleaning
- Clean quartz weekly with a quartz-specific cleaner or a mix of warm water and clear ammonia.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth, sponge or paper towel. Avoid abrasive pads.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry the surface completely.
Prevention Tips
- Always use trivets, cutting boards and coasters under hot pots/pans, cutting tools, and glasses.
- Seal and reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a quartz sealer to prevent staining.
- Fix plumbing leaks immediately to prevent moisture buildup and mold/mildew growth.
- Clean up spills quickly before they have a chance to stain.
How to Remove Stubborn Spots from Quartz
For spots that don’t come out with regular cleaning, try these methods:
Oils, Grease Spots
- Mix 2 tbsp baking soda with 1 tbsp dish soap and make a paste.
- Apply the paste to the spot and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Scrub with a soft cloth or sponge rinse and dry.
Wine, Coffee Stains
- Make a paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Limescale Spots
- Use undiluted white vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Mold, Mildew Spots
- Mix equal parts water and bleach into a spray bottle.
- Spray on spots, let sit 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
Metal Marks
- Use a non-abrasive cleaner like Bar Keeper’s Friend.
- Make a paste, apply and let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing.
Etch Marks
- Rub a polishing compound designed for quartz into the marks using a soft cloth.
- Buff until the etch mark disappears.
Stubborn Spots
- For any leftover spots, use a soft white polishing pad designed for quartz along with the polishing compound. Gently rub in a circular motion until the spot vanishes.
Tips for Preventing Future Spots
Preventing spots and stains on quartz counters in the first place is ideal to maintaining their beauty. Follow these pro tips:
- Seal quartz counters once a year to protect from staining. Use a dedicated quartz sealer.
- Always use cutting boards, trivets and coasters. Never place hot pans directly on quartz.
- Clean up spills ASAP before they have a chance to stain.
- Use only pH-balanced quartz cleaners. Avoid vinegar, bleach and abrasives.
- Rinse quartz thoroughly after cleaning. Residual chemicals can etch the surface.
- Reapply sealer after heavy cleaning to maintain protection.
- Consider a quartz cleaner with antibacterial properties to discourage mold growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean quartz countertops daily?
Use a mild detergent or soap and warm water to clean quartz daily. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads that could scratch the surface.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
It’s a good idea to seal quartz about once a year to protect from stains. Use a dedicated quartz sealer, not one made for granite or marble.
What is the best way to get water spots off quartz?
Pure undiluted white vinegar applied for 5-10 minutes can help remove limescale and water spots on quartz.
How do you get dried on food off of quartz?
Let warm soapy water sit on dried-on messes for a few minutes to soften them before gently scrubbing and rinsing. Use a soft cloth, sponge or brush. Avoid abrasives.
Can you use Comet on quartz?
No, avoid using Comet or other abrasive cleaners on quartz counters. They may scratch or dull the surface over time. Use a dedicated stone cleaner instead.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are prone to a variety of spots from oil, wine, and hard water stains. Thankfully, with the right gentle cleaning methods, even stubborn spots can be removed. Be sure to take preventative steps as well, like sealing quartz and using trivets, to minimize spots and keep quartz counters looking like new. With regular light cleaning and immediate attention to spills, you can enjoy durable, low-maintenance quartz counters that stay spot-free for years.