Quartz countertops are popular options for modern kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, like any countertop material, quartz can be susceptible to stains over time if not properly cared for. The good news is that most stains can be removed from quartz with the right cleaning methods and products. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove different types of stains from quartz countertops.

What is Quartz?

Before learning how to remove stains from quartz, it helps to understand what quartz countertops are made of. Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces that are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments.

The exact composition varies by brand and product line, but a typical quartz slab contains:

90-94% ground quartz
6-10% polymer resins
Pigments for color

The combination of quartz aggregates and resin creates a very hard, non-porous material that resists scratches, heat, and stains. However, quartz is not completely stain-proof. When stains do occur, following the proper cleaning process is key to removing them.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops

For general, routine cleaning of quartz, follow these steps:

1. Use Mild Soap and Water

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap like Dawn in warm water. Avoid using harsh detergents or cleaners not specifically made for stone.
With a soft cloth or sponge, gently wipe down the entire surface using the soapy water.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft towel.

2. Blot Spills Quickly

Immediately blot any spills on quartz with a paper towel or cloth. Don’t let liquid sit too long before cleaning.

3. Sanitize Regularly

Occasionally disinfect the quartz by wiping it down with a soft cloth moistened with a stone-safe sanitizing spray.
Let the sanitizer sit for a few minutes before rinsing. This helps kill bacteria and prevent buildup.

4. Reseal Every 1-2 Years

Though quartz itself is non-porous, the seams between slabs can absorb stains over time.
Resealing these seams every 1-2 years will prevent stains from penetrating. Use a product specifically made for sealing stone.

Following these best practices will prevent most stains. But if a stain does occur on your quartz, take action right away with targeted stain removal techniques.

How to Remove Common Stains from Quartz Countertops

Quartz can become stained by oil, grease, food, beverages, residue from cleaning products, and more. Here are some of the most effective ways to tackle various quartz countertop stains.

Removing Dried Food Stains

Foods like coffee, tea, wine, oil, and tomatoes can leave behind dried, caked-on stains. To lift these stains:

Scrape off any crusted material with a plastic putty knife or spatula. Avoid metal scouring pads.
Mix baking soda and water into a spreadable paste.
Apply the paste to the stain and let sit for 5 minutes.
Scrub with a soft cloth, sponge, or nylon brush. Rinse and dry the area.
For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner formulated for stone after trying baking soda.

Eliminating Grease and Oil Stains

Greasy stains from food prep, oily cleaners, and more require a degreasing solution:

Mix equal parts warm water and ammonia in a spray bottle.
Spritz the mixture onto the grease stain and let sit for 5 minutes.
Wipe away the grime with a clean cloth.
If needed, apply a bit of liquid dish soap and scrub gently before rinsing.

Lifting Wine, Coffee, and Juice Stains

Discoloration from pigmented beverages like wine, coffee, and juice can be tricky but are removable:

Mix a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to work the paste into the stain.
Let it fizz for 2-3 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry.
For stubborn stains, follow up with a quartz-safe stain remover.

Cleaning Up Dye Transfer Marks

Items like handbags and dyed fabrics can leave colored markings on quartz. To lift these stains:

Apply a few squirts of stain remover like Krud Kutter to the stain.
Let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
Scrub with a soft brush or sponge in circular motions.
Rinse with clean water and dry the area thoroughly.
Repeat as needed for hard-to-remove marks.

Removing Rust Stains

Rust stains caused by metal cans, cast iron cookware, or steel wool require a rust remover:

Look for a rust stain remover formulated for stone. Bar Keepers Friend is a commonly recommended product.
Apply the rust remover and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Lightly scrub with a soft cloth or brush.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
For tough rust stains, repeat the process as needed.

Cleaning Up Grout Haze

Grout haze left behind after re-grouting nearby tile can stain quartz. To remove:

Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water.
Apply the soapy water and scrub gently with a soft cloth. Take care not to scrub too aggressively.
Rinse and dry the quartz.
If needed, polish the countertop with a quartz polish to restore the shine.

By tailoring your cleaning method to the type of stain, you can effectively restore your quartz countertops’ pristine appearance. Act quickly when stains occur, and avoid abrasive scrubbing to prevent dulling the quartz surface.

How to Prevent Stains on Quartz Countertops

Preventing stains on quartz is easier than removing them. Follow these proactive care tips:

Clean up spills immediately to prevent absorption.
Use cutting boards and trivets to protect quartz from hot pans and food prep.
Clean quartz regularly with mild soap and water.
Avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive pads that can damage the surface.
Reseal quartz every 1-2 years to prevent stains in seams.
Don’t use quartz as a cutting surface. Use a cutting board to protect from knives.

When to Call a Professional for Quartz Stains

For most stains, consistent cleaning using the right methods will successfully remove marks on quartz. However, some situations may require calling in a professional for stain removal:

Etching from highly acidic liquids like lemon juice or battery acid. These can damage the quartz surface.
Significant discoloration in the quartz from long-term exposure to staining agents.
Stains covering a very large area of the countertop.
Cases where DIY efforts have failed to remove the stain.

Professionals have access to more powerful cleaners that can treat stubborn stains without harming quartz surfaces. For severe staining or etching damage, a full resurfacing of the quartz may be required.

Conclusion

Quartz countertops are naturally stain-resistant, but not 100% impervious to stains. By addressing stains immediately with the proper cleaning techniques, most marks can be removed at home without issue. Allowing stains to set will make them harder to eliminate, so act fast when spills happen. With prompt care and regular sealing, your beautiful quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Stains from Quartz Countertops

Can you remove all stains from quartz countertops?

Most stains can be removed from quartz countertops with the proper cleaning methods. However, deeply set stains, etching damage from acidic liquids, and significant discoloration may require professional help. The key is addressing stains quickly before they have a chance to penetrate the surface.

What household items can remove stains from quartz?

Common household cleaning staples effective for removing many quartz stains include baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, mild dish soap, ammonia, and stone-safe stain removers like Bar Keeper’s Friend. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and cleaners with acids or bleach.

How do you get dried food stains off quartz?

For dried food stains, first scrape off any caked-on material with a plastic scraper. Mix baking soda and water into a spreadable paste and let it sit on the stain for 5 minutes before scrubbing. For tough stains, use a specially formulated stone cleaner after trying baking soda.

How do you clean oil stains from quartz countertops?

Mix equal parts warm water and ammonia in a spray bottle. Spritz it onto oil stains and let sit for 5 minutes before wiping clean with a soft cloth. If needed, apply some liquid dish soap to scrub away remaining grime before rinsing. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.

What removes coffee and juice stains from quartz?

For coffee, wine, juice, and other deeply pigmented stains, make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Use a soft toothbrush to work it into the stain for 2-3 minutes before rinsing. Follow up with a stone-safe stain remover for stubborn marks.

How do you get dye transfer off quartz countertops?

Dye transfer stains can be lifted with stain removers like Krud Kutter. Apply it to the stain, let sit 1-2 minutes, then scrub with a soft brush in circles. Rinse and repeat if needed. Take care not to scrub too hard.

What is the best way to clean rust stains on quartz?

Use a dedicated rust remover formulated for stone, like Bar Keepers Friend. Apply to the rust stain, wait 5 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft cloth before rinsing thoroughly. Repeat if needed for difficult rust marks. Avoid metal scouring pads.

How can you prevent stains on quartz countertops?

Prevent stains by immediately wiping spills, using trivets and cutting boards, cleaning regularly with mild soap and water, avoiding abrasives, and resealing every 1-2 years. Don’t cut directly on the quartz surface.

How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops