Quartz countertops are popular in many homes for their durability, easy maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, like any surface, quartz can become stained from spills and regular wear and tear. Follow these helpful tips to learn how to remove stains on quartz countertops and keep them looking like new.
What You’ll Need
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Non-abrasive scrub pad or brush
- Specialized quartz countertop cleaner (optional)
Act Quickly When Stains Occur
The key to removing stains on quartz is to act fast. Address spills and stains as soon as they happen. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove. For wet spills like wine, coffee, or juice, immediately blot the area with a paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible.
Try a Mild Soap and Warm Water
For most basic stains, a mixture of mild dishwashing liquid and warm water is very effective. Add a couple drops of soap to the warm water and use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the stained area. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which can permanently scratch the quartz. The mild soap solution lifts stains safely from the surface. Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth.
Use Baking Soda or Hydrogen Peroxide for Tougher Stains
If warm, soapy water does not remove the stain entirely, reach for baking soda or hydrogen peroxide next. Both can target and lift more stubborn stains without damaging the quartz:
- Baking Soda – Make a paste by mixing baking soda with just enough water to form a thick solution. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently rub the paste onto the stain in circular motions. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes then rinse clean. The baking soda paste will bubble and lift stains from the porous quartz surface.
- Hydrogen Peroxide – Hydrogen peroxide can bubble away stubborn organic stains like coffee, wine, tea, or fruit juice that soap did not fully remove. Dip a soft cloth in undiluted hydrogen peroxide and dab it onto the stain. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse clean with water. Check that the stain is fully removed.
Use a Specialized Quartz Cleaner
For really tough, set-in stains that resist other methods, reach for a store-bought quartz countertop cleaner. Look for ones made specifically for quartz. The concentrated formula and powerful active ingredients in quartz cleaners can target stains that regular household products cannot. Carefully follow the cleaner’s instructions, applying it to stained areas with a soft brush or sponge. Avoid abrasives when using any commercial cleaner.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasives
It’s important to avoid certain products when cleaning quartz countertops. Avoid:
- Abrasive cleansers and scrub pads
- Bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners
- Vinegar or lemon juice
- Harsh chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners
- Scouring powders or anything gritty
These can all damage, etch, or dull the quartz surface. Always stick to mild, gentle cleaning solutions when removing stains from quartz.
How to Avoid Stains on Quartz
Regular cleaning and prompt attention to spills will keep quartz stain-free. Follow these tips to avoid stains on quartz countertops:
- Wipe up spills immediately
- Clean quartz regularly with mild soap and water
- Rinse any acidic substances like tomato sauce or lemon juice promptly
- Use trivets and mats under hot pans and dishes
- Avoid leaving liquids sitting overnight
- Reseal quartz annually with a professional quartz sealer
Common Questions About Removing Stains from Quartz
Can you use magic eraser on quartz countertops?
Magic erasers can technically be used on quartz but should be avoided. The melamine foam is slightly abrasive and you risk dulling the surface over time with repeated use.
What removes dried on stains from quartz?
For dried-on stains, make a paste with baking soda and water and gently rub it into the stain using a soft brush or cloth. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. Hydrogen peroxide can also help lift stubborn, dried-on stains.
How do you get oil stains off quartz?
Dish soap and warm water can remove fresh oil stains. For dried oil stains, make a baking soda paste and rub gently into the stain. Rinse after 5-10 minutes. Hydrogen peroxide or a quartz-specific cleaner also helps remove dried oil stains.
Can you use Clorox wipes on quartz?
No, avoid Clorox and other bleach-based wipes on quartz countertops. The bleach can discolor and damage the quartz over time.
In Conclusion
Quartz countertops are prone to stains but nearly all of them can be removed with mild cleaners and non-abrasive scrubbing. Address any spills immediately and regularly clean quartz surfaces to prevent stains from setting in. With the proper cleaning methods, you can keep your quartz countertops looking like new for many years.