Removing candle wax from quartz countertops can seem daunting, but with the right techniques and a little elbow grease, it can be done. Quartz is an extremely durable material, so while wax can leave a residue, it won’t permanently damage the countertop. Here are the best methods for how to remove candle wax from quartz countertops.
Gather Your Materials
- Paper towels
- Plastic scraper or old credit card
- Hot water
- Dish soap
- Cleaning sponge
- Magic eraser sponge
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Soft cloth
Prepare the Countertop
Before attempting to remove the wax, make sure the countertop is clean and free of debris. Sweep away any loose wax pieces with a paper towel. Run hot water over the surface to help soften the wax residue.
Scrape Off Excess Wax
Use a plastic scraper or old credit card to gently lift off any large clumps of wax. Hold the scraper at a 30 degree angle against the countertop and push along to peel off pieces of wax. Avoid using a metal scraper or knife, as this could scratch the quartz.
Work slowly and carefully. Let the hot water continue to soften the wax for easier removal.
Use Dish Soap and Hot Water
Place a small amount of dish soap on the wax stain. Using a damp cleaning sponge, work the dish soap into the wax in circular motions. The heat from the water will melt the wax, while the soap will help break down the wax so it can be wiped away.
Rinse thoroughly with hot water and dry with a paper towel. Check if any wax remains, and repeat as needed. The soap helps emulsify the wax so it can be removed.
Try a Magic Eraser
For stubborn remnants of wax, use a melamine foam magic eraser sponge. Get the magic eraser slightly damp, then gently rub it over the wax stain. The melamine foam will help lift off the wax.
Rinse the area well after using the magic eraser. Wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Use Oil to Dissolve Wax
If any wax still remains after the other steps, try using some olive oil or cooking spray. Apply a small amount of oil directly onto the wax. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The oil will help break down the wax.
Wipe away the oil and wax residue with a paper towel. Follow up by washing the area with dish soap and hot water.
Prevent Future Wax Stains
To help avoid wax stains in the future:
- Keep candles towards the center of the countertop, not near edges
- Put candles on candle plates or use LED flameless candles
- Trim wicks to 1⁄4 inch before lighting to prevent smoking
- Extinguish candles when 1 inch of wax remains
- Don’t leave burning candles unattended
With some common household items and a little time and care, it is possible to remove candle wax from quartz. Avoid using sharp metal tools, and work slowly to protect the countertop. The heat and cleaning agents will dissolve the wax so it can be wiped away. Regular maintenance and care will keep quartz looking beautiful and wax-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to remove dried candle wax from a quartz countertop?
Scrape off any excess dried wax with a plastic scraper. Then apply hot water to soften the remaining residue before using dish soap and a damp sponge to remove. The heat helps melt the wax while the soap emulsifies it.
Can I use an iron to remove wax from quartz?
No, do not use an iron directly on the countertop. The heat could damage the quartz. Use hot water instead to soften the wax before scraping and cleaning.
Will wax stain my quartz countertop?
No, wax will not permanently stain quartz. It may leave behind a residue, but with the proper removal methods, you can eliminate the wax entirely without damage. The key is working slowly and letting heat and cleaners dissolve the wax.
Can I use acetone or nail polish remover on quartz?
It’s not recommended. Acetone and nail polish remover can damage and dull the quartz finish. Stick to gentle cleaning solutions like dish soap and hot water. If needed, try a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to help dissolve the wax.
How can I prevent wax from dripping on my countertop?
Use candles with deep dishes or votive holders to catch dripping wax. Place candles toward the center of the countertop instead of near edges. Trim wicks before lighting to prevent smoking and dripping. Extinguish candles before they burn down too far.
Will wax damage the sealant on my quartz countertop?
No, wax will not damage properly applied sealants on quartz countertops. The sealant protects the surface from stains. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for resealing over time. Avoid abrasive cleaners which could strip off the sealant coating.
Conclusion
Removing candle wax from quartz countertops is very doable with the right gentle cleaning solutions and techniques. The most important steps are softening the wax with hot water, gently scraping away excess wax, and then using dish soap and water to remove any remaining residue. With some elbow grease and care, you can keep your beautiful quartz countertops looking like new and wax-free. Be sure to take precautions with future candle use by placing them carefully and extinguishing before they drip.