White quartz countertops can add a clean, elegant look to any kitchen. However, like all countertop materials, quartz can be prone to stains over time if not properly cared for. The good news is that quartz is non-porous, making it more stain-resistant than natural stone. Most stains can be removed from quartz with the right cleaning methods. Here is a detailed guide on how to get stains off of white quartz countertops.
Cleaning White Quartz Countertops
Use a pH-neutral cleaner. The best way to clean white quartz countertops is with a store-bought pH-neutral cleaner made specifically for stone surfaces. Look for a cleaner that says “safe for quartz” on the label. pH-neutral cleaners will not etch or damage the quartz surface.
Try a mix of mild soap and warm water. For routine cleaning, mix a few drops of mild dish or hand soap into warm water. Use a soft cloth to wipe the countertop. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads that could scratch the surface.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning. It’s important to rinse the countertop well after applying any cleaner. Residual soap or cleaning agents left on the surface can lead to buildup and streaks over time.
Blot spills immediately. Quickly blotting spills with a paper towel or cloth can prevent staining on quartz countertops. Avoid abrasively scrubbing at spills.
Removing Dried Stains From Quartz
If stains have dried on the quartz, a bit more effort will be needed to remove them. Here are some tips:
Use a baking soda paste. Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply the paste to stained areas and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft cloth or sponge. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can lift stains without damaging the quartz.
Try a diluted bleach cleaner. Mix a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Apply it to the stain, let it sit briefly, then wipe clean. Only use this method for stubborn stains, and rinse several times afterwards. Never leave diluted bleach on the countertop for more than a few minutes.
Spray with hydrogen peroxide. For organic stains like coffee or tea, spray undiluted hydrogen peroxide directly on the stain. Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes before wiping clean with a damp cloth.
Use a poultice. Mix a paste with an absorbent powder like kaolin clay or whiting and water. Apply the poultice paste to the stain thickly and cover with plastic wrap. Let the poultice draw out the stain for 24 hours before scrubbing and rinsing clean.
Try a colorless dishwasher detergent. For greasy oil stains, apply a small amount of colorless gel dishwasher detergent directly on the stain and let it sit for 20-30 minutes before wiping clean with a damp cloth.
Removing Specific Stains From White Quartz
Here are some tips for getting out some of the most common stains on white quartz countertops:
Coffee and tea stains – Spray with hydrogen peroxide and let bubble for 2-3 minutes before wiping. Can also use baking soda paste.
Red wine – Pour some salt on the stain and rub gently with a cloth. Can also try hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach.
Oil/grease stains – Use a degreasing dish soap or colorless gel dishwasher detergent. Let sit before wiping.
Spaghetti sauce – Scrub gently with baking soda paste. Can also try a diluted bleach cleaner.
Markers – Use a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover. Test on a small area first.
Rust stains – Use a rust stain remover made for stone. Commercial rust removers containing oxalic or phosphoric acid often work well.
Hard water marks – Wipe with equal parts white vinegar and water. Can also use calcium-lime-rust remover.
Etch marks – These occur when acids damage the surface. Try rubbing compound or automotive polishing compound. Re-polishing may be needed for deep etching.
Maintaining White Quartz Countertops
Once you’ve succeeded in removing stains from your white quartz, be sure to take steps to protect the surface going forward:
- Use cutting boards and trivets to protect from knives and hot pans.
- Clean up spills promptly to avoid staining.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners and scouring pads. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners.
- Reseal quartz countertops every 1-2 years with a stone sealer. This helps prevent staining.
- Regularly wipe down quartz with a soft, damp cloth to keep the surface clean and shining.
With proper care and prompt attention, it is possible to keep white quartz countertops looking like new for many years. Be gentle yet persistent when attempting to remove stains, and your beautiful quartz countertops will maintain their pristine white surface.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning White Quartz Countertops
How can I make my white quartz countertops shine?
Use a stone polish or sealant formulated for quartz to restore the original shine and luster. Avoid wax-based polishes which can cause buildup.
What should I avoid putting on quartz countertops?
Avoid exposing quartz counters to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. Also avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that could scratch the surface.
Does white quartz stain easily?
Quartz is less prone to staining than marble or granite since it is non-porous. However, spills should still be cleaned promptly as stains can set over time. Annual sealing also helps prevent staining on quartz.
Can you use magic eraser on quartz?
Yes, Magic Erasers can be safely used on quartz countertops as long as you avoid excessive scrubbing pressure. The melamine foam is a mild abrasive. Be sure to wring eraser thoroughly before use.
How do you clean dried food on quartz?
For dried food, let a damp cloth soaked in hot water sit on top to soften the food residue. After a few minutes, the food should wipe away easily. Avoid using sharp tools to scrape at dried food.
Does quartz need to be resealed?
It’s recommended to reseal quartz about once a year to maintain stain resistance. Use a sealant specifically formulated for quartz. Resealing helps prevent stains from absorbed liquids.
Conclusion
White quartz countertops add a clean, fresh look to any kitchen decor. While durable, quartz can be susceptible to staining from spills over time. Thankfully, most stains can be removed with the proper cleaning techniques. Always start with mild options like pH-neutral cleaners, baking soda paste, or hydrogen peroxide. For stubborn stains, move up to diluted bleach, poultice, or polishing compounds. The key is attending to stains quickly and using a gentle, consistent approach. With regular care and maintenance, white quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years.