Act Quickly
The key is to act quickly before the wine stain has time to set into the quartz. Immediately after spilling the wine, absorb as much of the liquid as possible with paper towels or a clean cloth. Avoid scrubbing or wiping the stain at this point as it may drive the wine deeper into the pores of the stone. Speed is important for preventing a stubborn stain.
Dilute With Water
After soaking up excess wine with a cloth, rinse the stained area with clean water and wipe with more paper towels. This helps dilute any remaining wine residue. Avoid using hot water as it can set the stain. Lukewarm or cool water works best.
Use Dish Soap and Baking Soda
Make a cleaning paste by mixing a few drops of dish soap with some baking soda and just enough water to make a spreadable paste. With a soft cloth or sponge, gently rub this paste onto the stained area using small circular motions. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. The alkaline baking soda helps lift the stain while the soap helps emulsify it.
Hydrogen Peroxide
As an alternative cleaning agent, hydrogen peroxide can also help lift red wine from quartz. Dip a cloth in undiluted 3% hydrogen peroxide and blot the stain. Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing. Be careful not to get hydrogen peroxide on any wood or metal surfaces as it can discolor them.
Vinegar
White vinegar is another mild acid that can help remove red wine stains. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, and wipe the solution onto the stain with a soft cloth. Allow to sit for 15 minutes before rinsing clean. The acetic acid in vinegar breaks down the wine pigments.
Bleach-Based Cleaner
For tougher wine stains, use a mild bleach-based cleaner specifically made for stone countertops. Carefully read and follow label instructions. Apply the diluted bleach cleaner, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. This is a good option for older, dried-on stains. Use bleach cleaners sparingly and cautiously on quartz.
Polishing With Baking Soda
As a final step after cleaning, mix baking soda with water to form a gritty paste. Buff this paste gently over the stained area using small circular motions. The mild abrasives in the baking soda will help remove any leftover residues. Rinse and towel dry the countertop after polishing.
Do’s and Don’ts
- DO blot spills immediately, don’t scrub aggressively at fresh stains.
- DO use mild cleaners like dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar or bleach cleaner.
- DON’T use harsh chemicals like paint removers, turpentine, etc.
- DON’T use abrasive pads, they may scratch the quartz surface.
Tips to Prevent Wine Stains on Quartz
- Use coasters under glasses and wipe up spills quickly.
- Re-seal quartz countertops yearly with a stone sealer.
- Avoid using materials that can stain like grape juice, berries, mustard, etc.
- Clean quartz routinely with a mild soap and water.
With some care and these cleaning methods, you can keep your quartz looking pristine even after the occasional red wine spill. Act fast when it happens, use gentle cleaners, and you can remove that wine stain from your quartz countertop.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a red wine stain take to set into quartz?
Red wine stains can set into quartz quite quickly, sometimes in as little as 15-20 minutes. This is why it’s crucial to act immediately as soon as wine is spilled to clean it up before the stain has a chance to set.
What household items can remove dried red wine stains?
For dried or older wine stains, try baking soda mixed with water into a paste, undiluted hydrogen peroxide, diluted bleach cleaner, or full-strength white vinegar. Gently rub onto stain and let sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. Repeat as needed.
Can I use lemon juice to remove red wine from quartz?
Yes, lemon juice can help lift red wine stains thanks to the citric acid it contains. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the stain, let sit briefly, then wipe and rinse. Be careful using lemon juice too aggressively as the acidity can etch quartz over time.
Is Windex effective for cleaning red wine spills on a quartz countertop?
Windex is not recommended. While it can lift some pigment, Windex contains dyes and additives that may restain the quartz surface. It’s best to stick to milder cleaners like dish soap, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or baking soda.
What temperature water should be used when rinsing a red wine stain?
Lukewarm or cool water is best for rinsing quartz after cleaning a red wine spill. Hot water could potentially set in the stain. Very cold water is okay but not necessary.
Can I use a Magic Eraser to remove red wine from a quartz countertop?
Magic Erasers are too abrasive for quartz surfaces. The melamine foam can damage the glossy finish. It’s better to use non-abrasive cleaning methods to safely lift wine stains without scratching the quartz.
Conclusion
Removing red wine stains quickly and effectively takes the right techniques, but it can be done to restore the beauty of your quartz countertop. Blot immediately, dilute with water, use mild cleaners like baking soda or hydrogen peroxide, and avoid abrasives. With some elbow grease and prompt action, you can get rid of that pesky wine stain on your quartz countertop. Consistent care will keep quartz surfaces in top shape for years of staining and spill-free use.