Water spots on quartz countertops can be unsightly and frustrating to deal with. However, with a bit of effort and the right cleaning solutions, you can remove them and restore the beautiful, glossy surface of your countertops. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to effectively remove water spots from quartz.
What Causes Water Spots on Quartz?
Quartz countertops are made from engineered stone composed of natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. When water sits on the surface, minerals in the water evaporate and leave behind mineral deposits that etch into the surface, causing white marks known as water spots.
Hard water, which contains a higher concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium, is more likely to cause water spots. Other contributors include:
- Letting water air dry instead of wiping it up
- Spills and condensation from household items like houseplants, coffee makers, etc.
- Cleaning with harsh chemicals that degrade the protective sealant
Removing Light Water Spots from Quartz
If the water spots on your quartz counters are light or just beginning to form, you may be able to remove them with a gentle cleaner and soft cloth:
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Clear everything off the countertop you’ll be cleaning to give you ample working room. Remove any dirt or debris around the water spots.
Step 2: Mix a Mild Cleaning Solution
Make a cleaning solution by mixing a couple drops of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Avoidusing anything too harsh or abrasive.
Step 3: Spray and Wipe
Liberally spray the solution directly onto the water spots. Let it sit for a minute or two. Then take a soft, damp microfiber cloth and wipe in a circular motion. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.
This method should lift light water spotting. For stubborn spots, move onto the next solutions.
Removing Moderate Water Spots from Quartz
For more pronounced water spotting, you’ll need to pull out the big guns. The following solutions have the power to dissolve the mineral deposits causing the spots:
Baking Soda Paste
Make a paste by sprinkling baking soda on the dampened spots and adding just enough water to form a spreadable consistency. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse and wipe dry with a microfiber towel.
Vinegar
Full strength white vinegar will help dissolve water deposits. Dip a cloth in undiluted vinegar and place it on the spots for several minutes. Scrub and rinse away. Straight vinegar can dull the shine of quartz, so polish with a quartz cleaner afterward.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another mild acid that breaks down mineral buildup. Apply it directly to the water marks and let bubble for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Ammonia
Ammonia is effective at removing water spots on quartz. Dilute some household ammonia with an equal part water in a spray bottle. Spritz it on and let it sit for 5 minutes before wiping away.
Always spot test chemicals in an inconspicuous area first to ensure they don’t damage the quartz.
Eliminating Stubborn Water Stains on Quartz
For water spots that resist gentle cleaners, it’s time to bring in the big guns – polishing powders and compounds. These mildly abrasive cleaners safely remove all signs of etching on quartz:
Baking Soda & Water Paste
Make a paste with baking soda and water, spreading it over the stained area. Let it dry completely until it forms a white crust. Wipe it off using a damp microfiber cloth with a bit of pressure. Rinse thoroughly.
Soft Scrub & Water Paste
Instead of baking soda, you can mix Soft Scrub with water to make an effective abrasive paste. Follow the same method as above.
Bar Keeper’s Friend
This powder cleanser contains oxalic acid and abrasives that polish away the toughest water stains. Make a paste, apply to the spots, allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes, then scrub. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Polishing Compound
As a last resort, use a polishing compound made specifically for quartz countertops. Apply with a buffing pad and buff the spots in circular motions. This will remove the top layer of the quartz, so use sparingly.
Always avoid abrasive cleaning pads, steel wool, and alkaline chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as these can damage the quartz surface.
Preventing Water Spots on Quartz
Prevention is key to keeping your quartz gleaming and spot-free for the long run:
- Wipe up spills and water splashes immediately with a dry cloth
- Use coasters under glasses and bottles
- Seal quartz every 6-12 months with a stone sealer
- Avoid exposing quartz to harsh cleaners or chemicals
- Use cutting boards instead of slicing directly on the counter
- Clean quartz regularly with a pH-neutral quartz cleaner
FAQs About Removing Water Spots from Quartz
How do you remove dried water spots from quartz?
For dried water spots that have set into the surface, use a solution of vinegar, ammonia, or hydrogen peroxide. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to dissolve the deposits before scrubbing and rinsing.
What is the fastest way to remove water spots from quartz?
Bar Keeper’s Friend powder cleanser works fastest to remove stubborn water spots from quartz. Make a paste, apply to spots, let sit briefly, then scrub. The oxalic acid dissolves the spots quickly.
Can I use a Magic Eraser on quartz countertops?
Yes, Magic Erasers can be used to safely remove water spots and stains from quartz. Dampen the eraser and gently rub stained areas. Avoid excessive scrubbing as it may dull the surface over time.
How do you polish out water spots on quartz?
For etched in water spots, use a polishing compound made for quartz along with a buffing pad. Apply in circular motions to remove the top layer of the quartz and buff out the spots. Avoid polishing the entire surface which can lead to a wavy appearance.
What home remedy removes hard water stains from quartz?
For hard water stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply to the spots, allowing it to dry completely into a crust. Buff away with a damp cloth using moderate pressure. The baking soda will lift out hard water mineral deposits.
Conclusion
Removing water spots from quartz countertops is possible with the right techniques and cleaning solutions tailored to the severity of the stains. For light spotting, a gentle cleaner like dish soap and water should do the trick. Moderate stains will require a bit of elbow grease and chemical solutions like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or ammonia applied to dissolve the deposits. Severe etched-in water spots call for the power of polishing powders and compounds. With this comprehensive guide, you can banish water spots from your quartz surfaces. Consistent prevention and maintenance will help keep your quartz counters gorgeous for years to come.