Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance. However, like any countertop material, quartz can be susceptible to staining if not properly cared for. Here are some tips on how to prevent stains on quartz countertops.
Clean Quartz Regularly
- Wipe counters daily with mild soap and water to prevent buildup of dirt and grime that can lead to staining. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Every week, clean with a PH-balanced quartz cleaner to remove residue and enhance shine. Popular options are Method Daily Granite & Stone Cleaner or Granite Gold Daily Cleaner.
- Occasionally use a deep-cleaning quartz polish like Granite Gold Polish to remove stuck-on grime and restore luster.
- Always follow manufacturer’s care guidelines for your specific quartz brand.
Handle Spills Promptly
- Immediately wipe up food and liquid spills with a soft cloth. Don’t let spills sit.
- For stubborn dried spills, use a plastic putty knife to gently scrape off food or gum. Avoid metal scrapers that could scratch.
- Use a gentle stone-safe cleaner like Bar Keeper’s Friend or Bon AMI to tackle set-in stains. Test on a small area first.
- For water spots, rub with a cloth dipped in distilled white vinegar followed by a quartz cleaner.
- Avoid abrasive scrub pads and powders that could damage the quartz surface.
Practice Preventative Care
- Use trivets, hot pads, and cutting boards to protect quartz from excess heat and cut marks.
- Seal porous materials like wood or concrete that contact quartz to prevent moisture damage.
- Re-seal quartz every 1-2 years with a quartz sealer to boost stain resistance.
- Clean up food, liquids, grease spills immediately before they have a chance to soak in.
- Keep quartz looking like new with regular thorough cleaning and prompt attention to spills.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Don’t use products containing lemon, vinegar or other acids. They can etch quartz.
- Avoid bleaches, alkaline drain cleaners, oven cleaners and abrasive products.
- Never mix cleaning products together—toxic fumes can damage quartz.
- Check cleaner labels for chemicals that could interact with quartz—when in doubt, consult your installer.
- Stick to gentle PH-balanced cleaners made specifically for natural stone.
How to Remove Common Quartz Stains
Coffee and Tea Stains
- Mix baking soda and water into a paste and gently rub stain. Rinse and repeat as needed.
- Alternatively, use a quartz polish or powdered cleanser like Soft Scrub to buff out stains.
Grease and Oil Stains
- Remove excess grease then clean with baking soda paste or degreasing dish soap like Dawn.
- For tough oil stains, use an oil stain remover like Krud Kutter after testing on a small spot.
Red Wine Stains
- Immediately soak up excess wine. Cover stain with baking soda or salt, allowing it to draw out the wine.
- Mix hydrogen peroxide and baking soda into a paste and apply to stain for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
Fruit and Berry Stains
- Mix cream of tartar with hydrogen peroxide into a paste. Apply to stain for 5 minutes then rinse.
- For stubborn stains, rub with a cloth dipped in diluted ammonia then rinse thoroughly.
Hard Water Stains
- Wet stain with distilled white vinegar and allow to sit for a few minutes.
- Use a soft cloth to gently rub vinegar over marks. Rinse with warm water.
Ink Stains
- Gently dab stains with rubbing alcohol or hairspray, testing first. Avoid excessive rubbing.
- For permanent marker, try dabbing with toothpaste or baking soda paste. Rinse thoroughly.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY efforts can tackle many stains, contacting a professional may be advisable for:
- Large, deep stains that require more intensive cleaning methods
- Permanent dyes/inks that have soaked deep into the quartz
- Repair of etching, chips, cracks or other physical damage
- Issues under warranty—the installer can evaluate and handle any covered defects
- If stains persist after multiple cleaning attempts
Maintaining Quartz’s Beautiful Shine
With regular gentle cleaning and prompt attention to spills, quartz countertops will retain their like-new sheen and appearance for years of stain-free beauty in your home. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives, follow manufacturer care instructions, and utilize quartz-safe products for optimal results. A small amount of preventative maintenance goes a long way in keeping quartz counters gorgeous long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use bleach on quartz countertops?
No, avoid using bleach and other harsh chemicals like oven cleaners on quartz. The chlorine in bleach can damage and discolor the quartz. Opt for a specially formulated quartz cleaner instead.
What happens if you leave an oil stain on quartz?
Left for too long, oil can soak into the porous areas of quartz leaving a permanent dark stain. Promptly clean up any oil/grease spills to prevent staining and use a degreaser to remove residue.
How do you get dried food off quartz?
For stuck-on dried food, gently scrape off with a plastic putty knife. Avoid using metal scrapers to prevent scratches. You can also let a damp paper towel or microfiber cloth sit on top of the dried food to moisten and loosen it before wiping away.
Can you use magic eraser on quartz?
Yes, Magic Erasers can be used sparingly to remove some marks from quartz counters. Avoid excessive scrubbing and test on a small spot first. Be prepared to follow up with a quartz polish to restore any eraser abrasion.
How do you clean quartz countertops naturally?
Mix a paste of baking soda and water and use a soft cloth to gently rub stains. For shine, massage counters with a small amount of olive oil then buff with a microfiber cloth. Always avoid harsh chemicals and stick to gentle natural cleaners.
Conclusion
Preventing stains on quartz counters comes down to quick cleanup of spills, regular gentle cleaning with PH-balanced products, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage quartz, and using trivets and cutting boards to protect the surface. Putting some effort into routine care will maintain the flawless beauty and longevity of your investment in quartz countertops. With the proper cleaning methods, quartz can retain its elegant appearance stain-free for many years.