Quartz countertops are popular in modern kitchens and bathrooms because of their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, like any surface, quartz can get stained from spills, grease, food, and other materials. Removing stains from quartz requires using the right techniques and products to avoid damaging the material. With some effort, patience, and the proper process, you can get quartz looking like new again.
What Causes Stains on Quartz?
There are a few common culprits that lead to staining on quartz countertops:
- Oils and grease – Cooking oils like olive and vegetable oil can seep into quartz leaving behind stains. Greasy handprints around cooking areas are also common.
- Tomato sauce – Acidic foods like tomatoes, wine, and citrus fruits can etch into the surface leaving red or cloudy marks.
- Spices and dyes – Turmeric, curry powder, and artificial coloring from foods can stain quartz yellow, orange, or red.
- Ink and dye – Permanent markers, pens, makeup, and hair dyes contain pigments that soak into the material.
- Hard water spots – Mineral deposits in water when left to dry can leave behind whitish colored spots.
- Mold and mildew – Moisture that lingers can allow mold or mildew to grow leaving black or green stains.
- Rust – Iron leaching from pots, pans or hardware can oxidize and leave behind rust discoloration.
- Heat damage – Excessive heat from hot pots and pans can scorch some quartz leaving burns.
Cleaning Supplies to Prep for Stain Removal
Before tackling stains, it is a good idea to have the right supplies on hand. Here are some recommended products to have for cleaning quartz countertops:
- Soft clean cloth – Use microfiber cloths or soft towels that will not scratch the quartz. Paper towels work too.
- Warm water – Warm, soapy water is effective for cleaning general dirt and stains. Avoid using hot water.
- Dish soap – A mild detergent like dish soap mixed with warm water can lift some stains.
- Baking soda – The abrasiveness yet gentleness of baking soda makes it ideal for absorbing stains.
- Hydrogen peroxide – For disinfecting and whitening, hydrogen peroxide kills germs and bleaches stains.
- Cleaning vinegar – The acetic acid in vinegar breaks up residue while removing bacteria and grime.
- Sponge or soft-bristle brush – Use a non-abrasive sponge or brush to gently scrub stained areas.
- pH-neutral granite cleaner – Look for cleaners specifically designed for natural stone.
- Plastic scraper – A plastic spatula can help dislodge stuck-on food and gunk.
- Razor blade – For removing dried material, use a single razor blade to gently scrape.
- Colorless clay – For absorptive stain removal, apply these gentle clay-based cleansers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Stains
Follow these steps to treat and remove the most common stains from quartz countertops:
Step 1 – Blot Wet Spills
For fresh wet spills like wine, coffee, juice or grease, immediately blot the area with a paper towel or clean rag. Soak up as much of the spill as possible right away to prevent deep staining. Avoid vigorously wiping or scrubbing right away.
Step 2 – Clean with Soapy Water
For an initial overall cleaning, use warm water mixed with a few drops of dish soap on the stained area. Dampen a soft clean cloth or sponge in the soapy water then gently wipe down the stain and surrounding surface. This helps lift general grime and residue.
Step 3 – Baking Soda Paste
Make a paste with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Spread the paste over the stain generously using a soft-bristle cleaning brush or sponge. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Baking soda will draw out and absorb stains.
Step 4 – Vinegar Rinse
Dampen a clean cloth with undiluted white vinegar. Wipe the area to neutralize and remove the baking soda paste. The vinegar helps deodorize and brighten the quartz. Completely rinse away any soapy residue with clean water on a fresh cloth.
Step 5 – Hydrogen Peroxide
For stubborn organic stains, use a 50/50 dilution of hydrogen peroxide and water. Apply it directly on the stain and allow to sit for 2-3 hours. The bubbling action will help break down and lift the discoloration. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Step 6 – Granite Cleaner
Use a specially formulated quartz or granite cleaner following label directions to treatPersistent stains. These cleaners contain active ingredients like EDTA salts and citric acid to remove minerals and lift deep set stains without harming the finish.
Step 7 – Bleach Gel
For mold or mildew stains, apply a thick bleach gel directly on the affected area. Carefully follow product instructions and precautions. Check first for color-fastness on a hidden spot. Allow the gel to work for 5-10 minutes before a thorough rinsing. This disinfects and removes the stain.
Step 8 – Colorless Clay
For stubborn embedded oil stains or etched marks, apply an absorbent clay-based cleaner to the area overnight. These clays work to draw out deep stains. The next day scrape off the dried cleaner and rinse thoroughly with water. Reapply if needed.
Step 9 – Automotive Polishing Compound
Use a fine polishing compound designed for cars to buff out etched or abraded areas on quartz. Use a soft cloth and apply a small amount rubbing in a circular motion. This fills in and shines the surface. Avoid over-polishing.
Step 10 – Razor Scrape
For stuck-on food or gum residue, carefully scrape the area using a single-edge razor blade. Keep the blade flat against the surface to avoid scratching the quartz. This allows you to precisely remove the material.
Tips for Preventing Stains on Quartz
Preventing stains in the first place will minimize the need for removing them from quartz later on. Here are handy tips for stain avoidance:
- Wipe up spills immediately before they have a chance to set and stain.
- Use cutting boards, trivets and heatproof mats when preparing food to prevent etching and burning.
- Seal and treat quartz countertops every 6-12 months using a penetrating quartz sealer to repel stains.
- Use coasters under glasses, bottles or cans to prevent moisture rings.
- Keep quartz free of dirt and grime by cleaning frequently with mild soap and water.
- Avoid using cleaners containing ammonia, bleach, acid or alkali on quartz which can damage the finish.
- For food prep areas, apply a thin layer of mineral oil to create a barrier against stains but avoid getting oil near sinks or faucets.
- Thoroughly rinse and dry any spills from acids like wine, juice or tomatoes which can etch quartz.
Home Remedies to Remove Quartz Stains
In addition to specialized cleaners, some common household ingredients provide an effective stain removal arsenal:
- Baking soda – Creates a gentle abrasive paste that absorbs stains
- White vinegar – Removes bacteria, residue, and odors
- Lemon juice – Breaks up mineral deposits and bleaches stains
- Hydrogen peroxide – Oxidizes and lifts organic stains
- Dish soap – Cuts through grease and oils
- Sodium bicarbonate – Makes a mild alkaline cleaner to dissolve stains
- Olive oil – Lifts oil-based stains and polishes
- Salt – Works as a mild abrasive scrub
- Natural magic eraser – Safely removes surface marks and scuffs
- Flour – Absorbs greasy residue
When to Call for Professional Help
For quartz stain problems that do not respond sufficiently to standard cleaning methods, contacting a professional may be required:
- Etching damage from highly acidic liquids is very hard to remove at home without special compounds and polishers.
- Large dark burns from hot pots and pans might require refinishing or resurfacing procedures.
- Permanent dyes from inks and colorants can penetrate so deeply normal cleaners cannot remove the stains.
- Heavy hard water scale buildup may need stronger acidic cleaners.
- Extensive mold or mildew growth will require disinfectant solutions.
- A professionally applied quartz sealer provides longer lasting stain protection.
FAQs About Removing Stains from Quartz
How do you get oil stains off quartz countertops?
For oil stains on quartz, immediately soak up excess oil then clean with dish soap on a damp soft cloth. For dried on oil stains, make a baking soda paste and let it sit on the oil stain for 10 minutes before rinsing and scrubbing. Also try using vinegar, ammonia-free window cleaner, or alcohol.
What removes tomato stains from quartz?
To remove tomato stains from quartz, use baking soda and vinegar – make a paste with baking soda and water, apply to stain for 5 minutes then rinse with vinegar to neutralize. For tougher stains, use a quartz cleaner containing EDTA or hydrofluoric acid which remove minerals and acids.
How do you get marker off of quartz?
To get marker off quartz, try rubbing alcohol, baking soda, or acetone nail polish remover applied with a soft cloth and gently rubbed on the stain. Avoid scrubbing too hard. For stubborn permanent marker, use a clay-based cleaner or we recommend calling a professional for the best stain removal.
Can Claude stain be removed from quartz?
Yes, Claude stain can be removed from quartz countertops. The most effective method is to create a paste of baking soda and water. Generously apply the paste to the Claude stain and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. The abrasiveness of the baking soda will lift the stain while absorbing any residue. Rinse clean with warm water and dry thoroughly.
What removes yellow stains from quartz?
To remove yellow stains from quartz, mix together hydrogen peroxide and baking soda into a paste. Spread onto the yellowed area and allow to bubble for 2-3 hours, then rinse clean. The hydrogen peroxide whitens and lifts stains while the baking soda scrubs. For tough turmeric stains, try a colorless clay-based cleaner left on overnight to draw out discoloration.
Does Windex remove stains from quartz?
Yes, Windex can help remove some stains from quartz counters. The ammonia in Windex helps dissolve and lift grease, dirt and grime. Spray Windex onto the stain, allow to sit briefly then wipe clean with a soft cloth. Avoid using on etched or damaged quartz. For best results, use a quartz-specific cleaner.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are prone to staining from acidic foods, oils, dyes and other materials. Fortunately, with the right techniques and cleaning solutions, most stains can be effectively removed keeping quartz looking like new. Act swiftly when stains occur and use a combination of baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide and commercial quartz cleaners as needed. Pay attention to prevention by promptly cleaning spills, using cutting boards and applying sealers. With some periodic effort, your beautiful quartz countertops will stay stunning for years to come.