Keeping quartz countertops clean and stain-free can seem daunting, but with the right techniques and products, it’s easier than you think. Here are some tips on how to get stains off quartz countertops to keep them looking like new.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. This makes them non-porous and resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. However, they are not completely stain proof. Given the right circumstances, stains can occur.
How to Prevent Stains on Quartz
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to your countertops. Here are some tips to help prevent stains from occurring in the first place:
- Use cutting boards when preparing food to prevent stains from juices and oils.
- Clean spills promptly to prevent staining.
- Use coasters under glasses and bottles.
- Avoid using cleaners that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids. These can etch the surface.
- Reseal quartz countertops every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer. This helps repel stains.
How to Remove Common Stains from Quartz
If a stain does occur, here are some techniques to remove the most common offenders:
Food and Beverage Stains
For stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, juice, grease, oil, etc:
- First wipe away any excess liquid.
- Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently clean the stain.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.
For stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently rub into stain with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Ink, Marker, and Crayon Stains
- Try using an alcohol-based product like hand sanitizer first. Rub it into the stain and wipe clean.
- Magic eraser cleaning pads can also work well. Be gentle and don’t scrub too hard.
- If needed, make a paste with baking soda and water. Rub gently into the stain and rinse.
Hard Water Stains
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
- Dip a soft cloth into the solution and place over the stain for 1-2 hours.
- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.
Rust Stains
- Make a paste with cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide.
- Apply paste to the stain and allow to sit for 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed.
How to Give Quartz Counters a Deep Cleaning
For occasional deep cleaning, use a specially formulated quartz cleaner or make your own natural cleaner:
- Mix 1/4 cup white vinegar with 1 tbsp dish soap in 2 cups warm water.
- Apply to quartz surface with soft sponge or cloth.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with clean towel.
This helps remove built-up grime and restore shine. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub pads which can damage the surface.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried these techniques and still can’t remove a stubborn stain, contact a professional stone restoration company. They have commercial-grade cleaners and tools to remove difficult stains without damaging the quartz.
With proper care and prompt attention to spills, it’s possible to keep quartz looking fresh and clean for many years. Follow these tips on removing stains, and your countertops will stay looking like new.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Stains from Quartz Countertops
Can I use bleach or harsh chemicals to remove stains from quartz?
No, avoid using products like bleach, oven cleaner, drain cleaner, etc. These can damage and discolor the surface. Always start with mild cleaners like dish soap and water first.
What is the best homemade cleaner for quartz stains?
A mix of mild dish soap and warm water can tackle many stains. For tougher jobs, make a paste with baking soda and water. Vinegar solutions also work well for hard water stains and disinfecting.
How can I get dried or baked-on stains off my quartz?
Try allowing a paste of baking soda and water to sit on the stain overnight. This can help loosen stubborn dried or baked-on stains. Softened stains can then be gently scrubbed away in the morning.
Can stains come back after removing them from quartz?
It’s possible for light stains or stains not fully removed to show back up later, especially if not sealed properly. Be sure to thoroughly rinse any cleaner residue after treating stains. Periodically reseal quartz to prevent this.
What’s the best way to polish out scratches and etching on quartz?
Light scratches can often be buffed out using fine grit (3000-5000) sandpaper. For deeper scratches or etching, call a professional stone polisher. Improper polishing can further damage the surface.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are incredibly durable, but not 100% impervious to stains. By using coasters, cutting boards, prompt cleaning of spills, and routine care, stains can be prevented and removed. For stubborn stains, try baking soda, vinegar, or commercial quartz cleaners. With proper cleaning methods, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years.