Getting water rings off of quartz countertops can seem daunting, but with the right techniques and products, it can be done. Quartz countertops are prone to water marks from glasses and other containers left on the surface. The good news is that with a little elbow grease, you can remove these unsightly stains and restore the beautiful look of your quartz.

What Causes Water Rings on Quartz?

Quartz is made from ground natural stone and resin. When moisture sits on the surface, minerals from the water are deposited onto the countertop. As the water evaporates, these minerals are left behind, etching a ring into the surface.

Hard water, water with higher mineral content, is more likely to cause water rings. Areas with hard water will find water marks appear more frequently on quartz countertops.

How to Remove Water Rings from Quartz

Dry Towel Method

For light water rings that have just occurred, a dry towel may do the trick.

Blot the ring with a dry towel to soak up as much moisture as possible.
Buff the area in a circular motion to help lift the minerals from the quartz.
Repeat blotting and buffing until the ring is gone.

This method works best on new water rings before they have time to set into the surface.

Baking Soda and Water Paste

For more stubborn rings, make a paste of baking soda and water.

Mix a spoonful of baking soda with just enough water to form a spreadable paste.
Use a soft cloth to rub the paste onto the ring in a circular motion.
Let it sit for 5 minutes before rinsing clean with water.
Dry completely with a soft towel.

Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that will help scrub the minerals away without damaging the quartz.

Vinegar

Vinegar’s acidic properties break down mineral deposits and water rings.

Pour some white vinegar directly onto the ring.
Let it sit for several minutes before wiping away with a damp cloth.
Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Use undiluted white vinegar for the best results. Repeat as needed for stubborn buildup.

Soft Scrub Paste

For heavier duty cleaning, use a paste made of Soft Scrub and water.

Mix a small amount of Soft Scrub with water to make a thick paste.
Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently rub the paste onto the ring.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry the area with a soft towel.

The abrasives in Soft Scrub can help scrub away stubborn rings without damaging the quartz.

Quartz Cleaner

Specialized quartz cleaners are formulated to dissolve minerals and lift stains.

Spray the cleaner directly onto the ring according to product directions.
Let it sit for the recommended time before wiping away with a soft cloth.
Rinse thoroughly and dry.

Look for a quartz cleaner that specifically states it is safe for use on quartz surfaces.

Call a Professional

For rings that won’t budge, consider calling in a professional quartz restoration company. They have commercial grade tools and cleaners that can remove even the most stubborn water marks without harming quartz. This may be the best solution for heavy etching or buildup that has set into the surface.

Tips to Prevent Water Rings on Quartz

Preventing water marks in the first place will save you from having to remove them later. Here are some tips to keep your quartz gleaming:

Wipe up spills immediately with a dry towel. Don’t let moisture sit.
Use coasters under glasses and containers.
Buff dry any wet areas with a towel after cleaning.
Use a topping sealer to create a protective barrier.
Have water softener systems installed if you live in a hard water area.
Clean quartz regularly with a pH-neutral quartz cleaner.

Can You Remove All Water Stains from Quartz?

In most cases, yes – water rings can be removed from quartz with the right cleaning methods. But if the minerals have etched deeply into the surface, the damage may be permanent. A full resurfacing and polishing by a professional may be required for deep etching. But for light to moderate water marks, the above techniques will restore the original beauty of your quartz. With some strategic preventative care, you can keep your quartz surfaces spotless.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Water Rings from Quartz

Can I use bleach to remove water stains from quartz?

No, avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals like oven cleaners on quartz countertops. They can damage and discolor the surface. Opt for gentle cleaning solutions specifically formulated for use on quartz.

Will lemon juice remove water spots on my quartz?

Yes, lemon juice can help! The citric acid in lemon juice breaks down mineral deposits. Simply rub a cut lemon over the ring and let sit for 5 minutes before wiping clean with a damp cloth. Rinse thoroughly.

How do you remove dried water spots?

For dried water spots, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to the ring and let sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing with a soft cloth. The baking soda will help lift the dried mineral deposits. Rinse clean.

Why do my quartz countertops get so many water stains?

Frequent water marks are usually caused by hard water, which contains a high concentration of minerals. A water softening system can help reduce the mineral content in your home’s water. Also be sure to wipe up spills right away.

Will a Magic Eraser remove stains from quartz?

Magic Erasers can be too abrasive for quartz surfaces. Instead, try rubbing the stain with a paste of baking soda and water using a soft cloth. The baking soda will lift the stain without scratching.

How do I get white spots off my quartz?

White spots are typically mineral deposits left behind after water evaporates. Make a paste of baking soda and water and rub it into the spots using a soft cloth and circular motion. Let sit briefly before rinsing. Repeat as needed.

Why does my quartz countertop look blotchy after cleaning?

Blotchiness is likely caused by mineral deposits that have etched into the surface. Try cleaning with a quartz-specific cleaner formulated to dissolve the minerals causing the blotchy look. Thorough rinsing is key.

Can I use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on quartz?

Magic Erasers contain melamine foam which can scratch quartz surfaces. It’s best to avoid Magic Erasers and instead use a soft cloth with baking soda paste or a quartz-specific cleaner to gently lift stains. Test any cleaner on a small inconspicuous spot first.

How do you remove hard water stains from quartz?

For hard water stains, make a paste of baking soda and vinegar. Apply and let it fizz on the stain for 5 minutes. The vinegar will react with the baking soda to better dissolve mineral deposits. Scrub gently with a soft cloth before rinsing.

Conclusion

Water rings and mineral deposits on quartz countertops are unavoidable at times. But with the right cleaning solutions and techniques, they can be removed to restore the counters’ original brilliance. Gentle abrasives like baking soda, soft scrub pastes, or vinegar work well to lift stains without damaging the quartz surface. Implementing prevention habits like using coasters and wiping spills quickly can also help minimize water marks. With some periodic cleaning elbow grease, you can keep quartz looking its best.

How to Get Water Rings Off of Quartz Countertops