Quartz countertops are an incredibly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects thanks to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance. However, like any countertop material, quartz can suffer from stubborn stains over time. The good news is that yes, you can get stains out of quartz countertops with a bit of effort and the right techniques.
What Causes Stains on Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops are non-porous, so stains have a hard time penetrating the material. However, stains can still occur on the surface from:
- Food and beverages like wine, coffee, oil, and tomato sauce
- Hair dye and cosmetics
- Ink and marker
- Rust and metal marks
- Hard water spots and mineral deposits
The slightly porous nature of quartz means it is more prone to staining than natural stone. However, quartz is much less porous than softer natural stones like marble, making stains easier to remove.
How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops
Here are the best methods for tackling various types of stains on quartz:
Cleaning Products
- Mild detergent: An everyday household cleaner or degreaser works well for cleaning minor stains from food, dirt and grime.
- Baking soda: Creates a gentle abrasive scrub to lift stains. Mix with water to make a paste.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Helps lift stubborn organics stains like coffee and tea.
- Bar keeper’s friend: Contains oxalic acid to dissolve rust, mineral deposits and soap scum.
Cleaning Steps
- Wipe up any excess spill immediately to prevent staining.
- Mix a cleaning solution according to the stain type.
- Apply the cleaning solution directly to the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub the stain in a circular motion using a soft cloth, sponge or non-abrasive scrub pad.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
- For stubborn stains, repeat process as needed.
Stain-Specific Tips
- Dried food stains: Soak a paper towel in warm water and vinegar. Place it on the stain for 15 minutes before scrubbing.
- Grease and oil: Immediately sprinkle some baking soda on the stain and scrub with a damp sponge.
- Wine: Pour some hydrogen peroxide directly on red wine stains. It will fizz and lift the stain.
- Rust: Make a paste with bar keeper’s friend and water. Apply to rust marks and scrub.
- Hard water: Wipe with a cloth dampened in a 50/50 vinegar and water solution.
How to Prevent Stains on Quartz Countertops
Preventing stains in the first place will save you the hassle of frequent stain removal. Try these proactive measures:
- Clean up food and drink spills immediately. The quicker you act, the less likely a stain will set in.
- Use cutting boards and trivets for food prep and hot pots to prevent direct contact with the quartz surface.
- Re-seal your quartz countertops every 1-2 years with a stone sealer to reinforce stain resistance.
- Don’t let cleaning products like bleach or oven cleaner sit on the surface, as they can damage the finish.
- Daily cleaning with a quartz-safe cleaner will keep oil and grime from building up.
When to Call a Professional
For stubborn stains that don’t budge after multiple attempts, it may be time to call in a professional quartz countertop cleaner. They have access to more powerful cleaners and tools like steamers. Professionals can also re-polish your countertops if staining has noticeably damaged the surface.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are prone to staining from time to time. However, with the right cleaning techniques, most stains can be removed at home without damaging the surface. Quick action is key—the sooner you treat a stain, the better your chances of lifting it. With regular care and maintenance, you can keep your quartz counters looking like new for many years.