Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for modern kitchens due to their durability, stain resistance, and stylish appearance. However, like any surface, quartz can become stained over time with use. Yellow stains on quartz countertops can occur from a variety of sources, such as oil, mustard, turmeric, and more. The good news is that with the right cleaning methods, these stubborn yellow stains can be removed from your quartz countertop, restoring its original beauty.
What Causes Yellow Stains on Quartz Countertops?
There are a few common culprits that lead to yellow staining on quartz countertops:
Oil-based Stains
Oils like vegetable oil, olive oil, grease, etc. can seep into the pores of the quartz and cause discoloration. Heat from hot pans on the countertop can make oil penetrate deeper.
Spices and Mustard
Spices like turmeric, curry, and mustard contain pigments that can leave behind a stubborn yellow stain if left on the surface. Mustard in particular will quickly stain if not cleaned up promptly.
Other Foods and Drinks
Foods and drinks with bright yellow coloring like sports drinks, soda, ketchup, lemon juice, and more can discolor quartz upon contact. Acidic foods especially can etch into the surface.
Chemicals and Cleaners
Cleaners with dyes or bleaches and chemical spills from products like paint, glue, and sunscreen can also stain a quartz countertop yellow if not wiped up quickly.
Sun Exposure
Over time, UV exposure from sunlight can cause quartz to yellow slightly. Though less likely in kitchens, this discoloration is seen more often on quartz floors and exterior surfaces.
Etching and Wear
General wear, etching and abrasions to the surface over years of use can give quartz a yellowish, worn-out appearance. Cigarette burns also stain quartz yellow.
With many potential sources of yellow stains, it’s important to try removing them as soon as they occur on your quartz countertops. The faster you act, the better chance you have of getting rid of yellow stains completely.
Cleaning vs. Removing Yellow Stains from Quartz
For general upkeep, quartz countertops only need mild soap and water for cleaning. However, removing set-in yellow stains requires a bit more effort. Here is the difference between cleaning and stain removal:
Cleaning:
- Uses dish soap and water
- Removes surface-level dirt and grime
- Maintains shine and appearance
- Should be done daily
Stain Removal:
- Targets specific stains like yellow discoloration
- Uses stronger chemicals and cleaners
- Penetrates and lifts stains from within the stone
- Takes more scrubbing and soaking
- Should be done as soon as stains occur
Cleaning is important for maintenance, while stain removal is crucial for dealing with stubborn spots like yellowing. You’ll need stain removal methods to fully erase yellow stains from your quartz countertops.
How to Remove Tough Yellow Stains from Quartz
Removing yellow stains from quartz countertops requires using the right techniques and products. Here are the most effective methods:
1. Immediately Wipe Up Spills
The #1 rule is to wipe up food, drink and chemical spills as soon as they happen. Give any yellow-hued spills a thorough wipe down right away. This prevents setting and staining.
2. Try Dish Soap and Warm Water
For mild stains, the first step is rubbing the area with dish soap, warm water and a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. The slight abrasion can lift some staining, along with the degreasing effect of dish soap.
3. Make a Baking Soda Paste
For more stubborn yellow stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stained area, allowing it to sit for a few hours. The abrasiveness of baking soda along with the alkaline properties help deactivate stains. Rinse well after letting it soak.
4. Use Hydrogen Peroxide
As a bleaching agent, hydrogen peroxide can reduce the yellow color caused by certain substances. Pour it directly on the stain undiluted. Allow to sit for an hour before rinsing. Be careful, as this can lighten quartz color with prolonged use.
5. Try A Degreasing Cleaner
Look for degreasing cleaners like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, Soft Scrub, Bon Ami Powder Cleanser or Bar Keepers Friend. These can be more effective at breaking down oil and grease stains than regular dish soap. Use a damp sponge to work into stain.
6. Make a Bleaching Paste
For the most stubborn yellow stains, make a paste with bleach, flour, and water. Carefully apply only on the stained area and allow to sit for 1-2 hours before rinsing thoroughly. This is highly effective but can also damage the quartz surface if overused.
7. Use Acetone or Denatured Alcohol
As a heavy-duty solvent, acetone or Denatured alcohol can be applied with a soft cloth to lift many yellow stains. Use caution, as excessive rubbing or scrubbing can damage the finish.
8. Try Commercial Quartz Cleaners
Look for specialty stone cleaners made for quartz in hardware stores. Products like CLR Quartz Cleaner, Granite Gold Daily Cleaner, and Hope’s Perfect Countertop cleaner help remove stains.
9. Consult a Professional
For yellow stains that you are unable to remove on your own, consult a professional stone restoration company. They have access to professional-grade cleaning solutions and tools that can erase stubborn discoloration without damaging quartz. This may be the best solution for counters with extensive staining or etching.
Tips for Preventing Yellow Stains on Quartz
Once you get your quartz counters stain-free, be sure to keep them that way by preventing future stains:
- Wipe up spills immediately, don’t let them sit
- Use cutting boards and trivets to protect the surface
- Clean with a quartz-safe cleaner regularly
- Re-seal quartz every 1-2 years with a specialty sealant
- Avoid exposing quartz to excess moisture or chemicals
- Don’t let oils, spices, or other staining ingredients sit directly on quartz
- Clean quartz thoroughly after working with staining foods
- Keep quartz away from direct sunlight to inhibit yellowing
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Yellow Stains from Quartz Countertops
How do you remove yellow turmeric stains from quartz?
For turmeric stains, immediately wipe up excess. Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the stain, allowing it to sit for a few hours before rinsing. Use a degreasing cleaner afterwards to help break down any remaining oily turmeric residue.
How do you get mustard stains off quartz?
Mustard stains need quick action. First try dish soap, warm water and gentle scrubbing. If that fails, use a mix of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda, applying it as a paste and letting it sit before rinsing. For tougher set-in stains, a bleach paste may be required.
What removes yellow dye stains from quartz?
For yellow dye stains, try hydrogen peroxide, acetone, or denatured alcohol applied directly to the stain. Protect surrounding areas and wipe carefully to prevent damage to the finish. Start with milder options like peroxide before attempting heavier-duty solvents.
Why is my quartz countertop turning yellow?
Yellowing of quartz over time is often caused by exposure to sunlight, which can break down compounds in the stone. Staining from oils, spices and chemicals can also cause a yellowish discoloration. Make sure to clean and re-seal regularly to inhibit yellowing.
Can you bleach quartz countertops?
It’s best to avoid using bleach and harsh chemicals frequently on quartz. However, as a last resort when dealing with very stubborn stains, a paste of bleach and flour applied carefully to just the affected area can lift discoloration without damaging the overall finish.
What is the best homemade cleaner for quartz countertops?
A good homemade daily cleaner is a mix of dish soap, warm water, and a few drops of lemon essential oil. For deeper cleaning power, make a paste of baking soda and water. Hydrogen peroxide can also help remove some stains. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Conclusion
Yellow stains on quartz countertops, whether from oil, spices, chemicals or other sources, can be frustrating. But with the right stain removal methods, even set-in yellow discoloration can be erased. The key is addressing stains early before they have time to penetrate the quartz pores. A combination of commercial cleaners and homemade solutions like baking soda pastes, hydrogen peroxide, and degreasers can safely lift yellow stains without damaging quartz. With some effort and patience, you can restore the original pristine look of your quartz countertop.