Quartz countertops are popular in many homes for their durability, beauty, and minimal maintenance requirements. However, like any surface, quartz can be stained by ink spills if not promptly cleaned. Removing ink from quartz takes patience and the right cleaning solutions, but these stains can be eliminated with the proper technique.
What You’ll Need
Before tackling ink stains on your quartz countertop, gather these recommended supplies:
- Paper towels or clean cloths
- Dish soap
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Acetone nail polish remover
- Magic eraser sponge
- Soft-bristle toothbrush
Avoid using any abrasive scouring pads, powders, or harsh chemicals that could scratch or dull the surface. Test cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Act Quickly After a Spill
Fresh ink stains are easiest to remove before they have time to set into the stone. As soon as an ink spill happens:
- Blot up excess ink with paper towels. Don’t wipe, as this can spread the stain.
- Flush the area with warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Allow to sit briefly before rinsing clean.
- Dry thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
- If any trace of the stain remains, move on to the next steps.
Getting to ink stains quickly gives you the best chance of lifting them without too much effort.
Use Baking Soda and Peroxide
For dried or stubborn ink spots, make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Mix a spoonful of baking soda with just enough peroxide to form a thick paste.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub the stained area with the paste. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse clean with warm water. The baking soda provides a gentle abrasive action, while the peroxide lifts and bleaches the stain.
Try Acetone nail Polish Remover
If the baking soda paste isn’t effective, try applying a small amount of acetone nail polish remover to the stain. Use a cloth to gently rub the acetone over the ink spot for 30-60 seconds.
Acetone can be quite harsh, so don’t let it sit too long or scrub aggressively. Rinse immediately with warm water and pat dry. The acetone may lift stubborn pigments left behind by the ink.
Magic Eraser to the Rescue
Magic eraser cleaning sponges can be highly effective for removing ink on quartz. Simply dampen the sponge and gently rub it over the stain in a circular motion. The melamine foam “erases” the ink without being too abrasive on the quartz.
Rinse thoroughly after rubbing with the magic eraser sponge. It may take several applications and some elbow grease, but this method often works wonders!
When to Call for Help
If you’ve tried these methods without success, reach out to a professional countertop repair company. They have commercial-grade cleaners and polishers that can remove the most stubborn ink stains without damaging the quartz.
A pro can also resurface the countertop if the stain has etched into the stone. This involves buffing off a thin layer of the quartz so fresh, clean stone is revealed.
Prevent Future Ink Stains
Once you’ve successfully removed an ink stain from your quartz, take steps to avoid a repeat incident:
- Keep pens and markers capped and out of reach of young children.
- Use sealants or coasters under glasses to prevent drips and condensation rings.
- Clean up spills with an absorbent cloth immediately.
- Avoid letting harsh cleansers or dyes sit on the surface.
- Apply a quartz sealant every 1-2 years for added protection.
With prompt attention and the right techniques, you can get rid of ink on quartz. A bit of prevention will also ensure your countertops stay pristine for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of ink can stain quartz counters?
Ballpoint pen, sharpie marker, stamp pad ink, and newspaper ink are common culprits. Liquid inks tend to penetrate deeper than gel inks.
Is it possible to completely remove set-in ink stains?
Yes, even dried or aged ink stains can usually be removed from quartz with the right cleaning methods. Stubborn stains may take repeated applications.
Can I use bleach to remove ink stains?
Bleach is not recommended, as it could discolor or pit the quartz surface over time. Use hydrogen peroxide instead for bleaching action without damage.
Will nail polish remover etch my quartz countertop?
If left for too long, acetone remover could etch quartz and make it appear dull. Use sparingly and rinse immediately to avoid damage.
Should I reseal my quartz after removing an ink stain?
It’s a good idea to reapply a quartz sealant if extensive cleaning was required. This adds a protective barrier against future stains.
In Conclusion
Removing ink stains from quartz countertops is very achievable with a bit of patience and the proper cleaning solutions. Acting quickly after a spill occurs gives you the best results. For stubborn stains, use baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, acetone remover, or magic eraser sponges. Preventative steps will also help keep your quartz pristine and ink-free for the long run. With some care and effort, ink stains don’t stand a chance against quartz!