How to Remove Tough Stains from Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are popular in many homes due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance. However, like any surface, quartz can still get stained from spills, oils, and other materials. Some stubborn stains can be challenging to remove from quartz. With the right techniques and cleaning solutions, you can effectively eliminate tough stains from your quartz countertops.

What Causes Stains on Quartz?

Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz bound together with polymer resins. This makes quartz harder and less porous than natural stone. However, quartz is still prone to staining from:

Oil-based products like grease, cooking oils, and cosmetics
Pigmented liquids like wine, coffee, tea, juice, and colored sauces
Acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato products
Hard water deposits and soap scum
Metal marks from pans, belt buckles, jewelry, etc.
Dyes from fabric, paper, and food

When these materials interact with the surface, they can leave behind discoloration that simple cleaning cannot remove. Thankfully, with a bit of extra effort, you can get quartz looking like new again.

Cleaning vs. Removing Stains from Quartz

Regular cleaning helps maintain your quartz and prevent buildup of stains over time. For day-to-day care, follow these tips:

Wipe up spills as soon as they occur
Wash frequently with mild soap and warm water
Use a non-abrasive quartz cleaner for a deeper clean
Avoid abrasive pads and powders

However, set-in stains need more aggressive stain removal methods. Be sure to avoid:

Abrasive pads, which can scratch the surface
Harsh chemicals like bleach, oven cleaners, etc.
Acidic or alkaline cleaners not formulated for quartz
Applying too much pressure while scrubbing

The key is using the right stain removers and techniques suited to your specific type of stain.

How to Remove Tough Oil-Based Stains from Quartz

Oily substances like cooking grease, motor oil, lipstick, and lotion can soak into quartz and leave unsightly discoloration if not dealt with promptly. Here is how to tackle these pesky oil-based stains:

Step 1 – Blot the Stain

Immediately wipe up any excess oil from the surface using a clean paper towel or cloth.
Take care not to smear the oil around, which can spread the stain.
Gently blot to absorb as much of the grease as possible.

Step 2 -Use a Degreasing Cleaner

Look for a specially formulated quartz degreaser or all-purpose cleaner like Simple Green.
Check the product label to ensure it is safe for use on quartz.
Spray directly onto the stain and allow it to sit for 5 minutes.
This helps break down the oily residue so it can be removed.

Step 3 – Scrub with a Soft Brush

Use a soft-bristled cleaning brush to gently scrub the stained area.
Apply light pressure and scrub in circular motions.
This mechanical action helps loosen the stain from the porous quartz surface.
A toothbrush works well for small, localized stains.

Step 4 – Rinse Thoroughly

Once the stain appears lifted, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.
Wipe dry with a soft microfiber cloth.
This removes any cleaner residue that could redeposit back onto the surface.

Step 5 – Repeat as Needed

Check if the stain has lightened or been eliminated.
You may need to repeat the process for stubborn oil stains.
Let the quartz dry fully between applications.

With a bit of elbow grease, you can break down even old, set-in oil stains from your quartz countertops.

Removing Dried-On Food Stains from Quartz

Foods like wine, coffee, tea, and sauces often leave notoriously difficult stains on quartz surfaces. Here are some tips for tackling set-in food stains:

Step 1 – Scrape Off Food Debris

Use a plastic spatula or scraper to gently lift off any crusted-on food.
Try not to gouge or scratch the quartz surface.
Removing chunks helps ensure your cleaner can penetrate and act on the stain.

Step 2 – Apply a Stain Remover Paste

Opt for a pasty stain remover like Bar Keeper’s Friend or Zud.
These contain oxalic or citric acid to help break down organic stains.
Rub a small amount directly onto the stained area.

Step 3 – Let It Sit

Allow the stain remover paste or gel to sit for 5-10 minutes.
This gives the active ingredients time to work on lifting the stain.
Come back and check on it occasionally.

Step 4 – Scrub the Quartz

Scrub the paste over the stain using a soft-bristle brush or cleaning pad.
Apply light pressure and use circular motions.
This mechanical action will help slough off the stained material.

Step 5 – Rinse Thoroughly

Once the stain appears gone, rinse the area well with clean water.
Make sure to remove all of the cleaning product residue.
Wipe dry with a clean, soft cloth.

Step 6 – Repeat as Needed

Check if the stain has lifted after drying.
For stubborn stains, repeat the process until the discoloration has been removed.
Severe stains may take a few applications and elbow grease.

With some targeted scrubbing, you can remove pesky food stains from your quartz countertops.

Cleaning Ink, Dye, and Pigment Stains on Quartz

Ink and other deeply pigmented liquids can penetrate into quartz and become a permanent stain if not dealt with quickly. Follow these steps:

Step 1 – Blot Excess Stain

Immediately wipe up any wet ink with a clean absorbent cloth.
Avoid rubbing, which can grind the stain deeper into the pores.
Blotting helps lift stained material out of the quartz.

Step 2 – Apply Stain Remover

Look for a stain remover designed for granite, marble or quartz.
Chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or sodium percarbonate work well on organic pigment stains.
Apply a small amount directly onto the stained area.

Step 3 – Let It Sit

Allow the remover to sit and penetrate for 5-10 minutes.
This gives it time to break down and lift the pigment.
Come back and reapply if it starts to dry out.

Step 4 – Scrub the Surface

Use a soft brush or cleaning pad to gently scrub the paste over the stain.
The mechanical action will help loosen the discoloration from the quartz.
Take care not to scrub too harshly on a small area.

Step 5 – Rinse Thoroughly

Once the stain appears lifted, rinse the area well with clean water.
Make sure to remove all cleaner residue which could redeposit later.
Wipe dry with a clean, soft microfiber cloth.

Step 6 – Check Results

Inspect to see if the stain has lightened or been removed.
For stubborn stains, repeat the process as needed until it lifts.
Severe stains may take multiple applications to fully remove.

With persistence and the right stain removers, you can eliminate pesky ink and pigment stains from quartz surfaces.

Lifting Hard Water Stains and Soap Scum from Quartz

Buildup of mineral deposits from water and soap scum can leave an unsightly haze on your quartz. Here is how to remove these stains:

Step 1 – Mix a Vinegar Solution

Make a cleaning solution of one part white vinegar to two parts warm water.
Vinegar helps dissolve alkaline-based hard water stains and soap scum.

Step 2 – Apply the Solution

Use a soft cloth to apply the vinegar solution directly over the stained area.
Ensure you wet the entire stain.
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes so the vinegar can work.

Step 3 – Scrub with a Soft Scrub Brush

Use a soft bristle brush designed for nonstick pans to gently scrub.
Apply light pressure and work in circular motions.
This mechanical scrubbing will help slough off stains.

Step 4 – Rinse Thoroughly

Once stains appear gone, rinse the area well with clean water.
Vinegar can be corrosive if left on some surfaces, so rinsing is key.
Wipe dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

Step 5 – Repeat as Needed

Check results once the surface has dried.
You may need to repeat to remove stubborn buildup or stains.
Severe stains may take a few applications to fully dissolve.

With some scrubbing and vinegar cleaning power, you can conquer hard water stains on quartz.

Removing Metal Marks from Quartz Surfaces

Metal objects like pans, utensils, jewelry, and more can leave grey metal markings on quartz countertops. Follow these steps to remove:

Step 1- Remove Any Stuck-On Metal

First, remove any pieces of metal that may be stuck to the surface.
Avoid scratching or gouging the quartz.

Step 2 – Make a Baking Soda Paste

Create a paste with 3 parts baking soda and one part water.
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can lift metal oxidation stains.

Step 3 – Apply the Paste

Use a soft cloth or sponge to rub the paste onto the metal mark.
Ensure you cover the entire stain.

Step 4 – Let It Sit

Allow the paste to sit for 5-10 minutes.
This gives the baking soda time to lift and dissolve the metal stain.

Step 5 – Clean with Vinegar

Wipe up the paste with a damp cloth soaked in undiluted white vinegar.
The acidity in vinegar will further help remove metal oxides.

Step 6 – Rinse and Dry

Once the stain appears gone, rinse the area well with clean water.
Wipe dry with a soft microfiber cloth.

Step 7 – Repeat if Needed

Check if the metal mark has lifted after drying.
For stubborn stains, repeat the process until the mark has been removed.

With some scrubbing, baking soda, and vinegar, metal marks don’t stand a chance against your quartz!

Erasing Crayon, Marker, and Pen Stains from Quartz

Kids can leave behind crayon, marker, pen, and other artistic stains on quartz. Try these steps to remove:

Step 1 – Scrape Off Any Solids

Use a plastic scraper or knife to gently lift off any crayon or marker chunks you can.
This helps ensure the solvent can penetrate and act on the remaining stain.

Step 2 – Apply Stain Remover

Look for a solvent-based stain remover designed for permanent marker or graffiti.
Apply a small amount directly onto the stain.

Step 3 – Let It Sit Briefly

Allow to sit for just 1-2 minutes, as solvents act quickly on porous surfaces like quartz.
Come back and reapply if it starts to dry out.

Step 4 – Scrub the Surface

Use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the area and lift the staining.
Take care not to scrub too harshly on a small area.

Step 5 – Rinse Thoroughly

Once the stain appears gone, rinse the area well with clean water.
Make sure to remove all cleaning product residue.
Wipe dry with a clean, soft cloth.

Step 6 – Repeat if Needed

Check if any hint of the stain remains after drying.
For stubborn stains, repeat the process until the stain has been removed.

With the right solvent remover, you can erase pesky kid stains from quartz surfaces.

Tips for Preventing Stains on Quartz Countertops

While no surface is totally stain-proof, there are some habits you can form to minimize stains on your quartz:

Always use cutting boards, trivets, and hot pads. Avoid direct food prep on the quartz.
Clean up spills immediately before they have a chance to soak in.
Seal quartz regularly with a penetrating sealer to create a protective barrier.
Avoid using cleaners containing bleach, ammonia, acids, or abrasives. Use only recommended products.
Rinse quartz well after cleaning to remove any chemical residue.
Don’t let stains sit for prolonged periods. Address them with stain removers promptly.

When to Call for Professional Help

If you’ve attempted multiple stain removal methods without success, it may be time to call in professional help:

For etched or corroded areas of quartz, you may need professional refinishing or re-polishing.
Severe stains that have soaked deep into the stone may require professional-strength stain removers or pressure washing.
Old or baked-in stains that have set for a long time often need a pro’s touch.
If you are wary about handling chemicals or power washing, professionals have specialized tools and expertise.

Have your countertops professionally cleaned and restored periodically to keep them looking like new. Be sure to verify that any products used are quartz-safe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Stains from Quartz Countertops

Can I use bleach or oven cleaner to remove stains from quartz?

No, avoid using bleach, ammonia, oven cleaners, and acidic or alkaline cleaners on quartz. Harsh chemicals like these can etch, corrode, and even yellow the surface over time. Always use specifically designated quartz cleaners.

What is the best way to clean set-in stains on quartz?

For tough set-in stains, look for quartz-safe cleaning pastes or gels that contain compounds like oxalic acid or sodium percarbonate. Gently scrubbing with these stain removers can lift deeply soaked-in stains without damaging quartz.

How do I get rid of rust or metal stains on my quartz countertop?

Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it over metal stains on quartz. Allow it to sit briefly before scrubbing and then wiping clean with undiluted vinegar. The baking soda is a mild abrasive that lifts oxidation while the vinegar dissolves metal stains.

Can I use nail polish remover to eliminate stubborn stains from quartz?

No, avoid acetone-based products like nail polish remover on quartz. The harsh solvents can damage the resin binders that hold quartz together. Opt for dedicated enzyme-based quartz stain removers instead for tough stains.

What is the best way to prevent stains on quartz?

Using trivets, cutting boards, and coasters can help prevent stains by protecting the surface. Quickly wiping up spills before they soak in is key. Also, sealing quartz every 6-12 months will create a repellent barrier against stains. Cleaning frequently keeps staining to a minimum.

Conclusion

While quartz countertops are pretty stain-resistant, stubborn stains can still occur that require some elbow grease to remove. With the proper quartz-safe cleaners and techniques matched to your type of stain, you can erase tough oil stains, food messes, pigment discoloration, hard water buildup, metal marks, and more. Just be sure to scrub gently, rinse thoroughly, and repeat treatments as needed on severe set-in stains. With some persistence and the right products, you can keep your quartz surfaces looking like new.