Assessing the Scratch
The first step is to assess the scratch and determine how deep it is. Light, superficial scratches can often be buffed out, while deeper scratches may require professional resurfacing.
To assess scratch depth:
- Clean the area thoroughly and dry it. Look at the scratch under good lighting conditions.
- Run your fingernail over the length of the scratch. If you can’t catch your nail on it, it is likely a light surface scratch.
- Use a coin to check – if the ridge of the coin catches in the scratch, it is deeper and may require professional help.
Trying Easy Fixes First
For light surface scratches, you can try these simple fixes first:
Baking Soda and Water Paste
- Make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the scratch with a soft cloth.
- Rub gently in a circular motion for 2-3 minutes. Rinse with water and dry.
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
- Dampen a Magic Eraser and rub over scratch gently. Avoid excessive scrubbing.
- Rinse with water and dry. Magic Erasers can help buff out surface level scratches.
Soft Scrub with Bleach
- Apply a small amount of Soft Scrub with bleach to the scratch.
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush to gently rub for 2-3 minutes. Rinse and dry.
- Check to see if the scratch has lightened or disappeared.
Trying Polishes and Compounds
If simple fixes don’t work, the next step is to use polishes and compounds specifically designed for stone surfaces:
Use Fine Grit Wet Sandpaper
- Wet 400-600 grit sandpaper and gently rub over the scratch. Be patient and take your time.
- Make sure the scratch is going in one direction. Rinse with water.
Apply Stone Polish
- Use a polish like Gel-Gloss or Hope’s Perfect Countertop Polish.
- Rub a small amount into the scratch with a soft cloth using circular motions.
- Remove residue and buff surface. Repeat if needed.
Use Automotive Buffing Compound
- Apply a small amount of automotive buffing compound to a soft cloth.
- Gently rub compound over the scratch for 2-3 minutes.
- Wipe residue away and rinse thoroughly. Buff dry.
Preventing Future Scratches
To prevent new scratches, be sure to:
- Use cutting boards and hot pads when prepping food. Never cut directly on the quartz.
- Don’t drag pots, appliances or utensils across the countertop. Lift them when moving.
- Clean spills promptly to avoid staining/etching. Use a pH-neutral cleaner.
- Avoid abrasive cleansers that could scratch. Use soft sponges and cloths.
With patience and the right techniques, you can minimize and remove some light scratches from white quartz. But deeper scratches will likely require a professional fabricator or restoration company to resurface and polish the quartz.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best products for removing scratches from white quartz?
Some of the best products are baking soda paste, Magic Erasers, Soft Scrub with bleach, fine grit sandpaper, stone polishing compounds like Gel-Gloss or Hope’s Perfect Countertop Polish, and automotive buffing compounds. Start gentle and work up to more abrasive methods as needed.
How can I determine if a scratch is superficial or deep?
Run a fingernail over the scratch – if you can’t catch the nail, it is likely superficial. Use a coin to check – if it catches, the scratch is deeper. Also assess under good lighting. Light surface scratches can often be buffed out, while deeper ones can’t.
Will resurfacing remove scratches from quartz counters?
Yes, professional resurfacing by a fabricator or restoration company can remove deeper scratches and restore the smooth finish of quartz. This involves mechanical grinding/polishing with diamond abrasives. It removes a thin layer to get rid of scratches.
Can I use a magic eraser on all quartz countertop colors?
Magic erasers are safe for use on most quartz colors, but avoid using them too aggressively. On darker quartz colors, the eraser can create light spots. Test on a small inconspicuous area first before using on visible areas.
What household items can I use to buff out quartz scratches?
Baking soda, soft toothbrushes, Mr Clean Magic Erasers, Soft Scrub with bleach, automotive buffing compound, and fine grit wet sandpaper can all be used to gently buff out light surface scratches on quartz. Avoid making scratches worse with anything too abrasive.
Conclusion
Scratches on white quartz countertops, if light and superficial, can often be minimized or removed with household supplies using gentle buffing and polishing methods. Assess the depth of the scratch first. Try simple fixes like baking soda paste, Magic Erasers or Soft Scrub first. For deeper scratches, use fine sandpaper, specialized stone polishes and buffing compounds. Prevent future scratches by using cutting boards, cleaning spills promptly, and avoiding abrasives. With some patience and the proper techniques, you can restore the pristine look of scratched white quartz counters.