Quartz countertops are popular kitchen and bathroom surfaces due to their stylish appearance and durability. However, many homeowners wonder if red wine will stain these surfaces. Here is a detailed guide on whether red wine stains quartz and how to prevent and remove stains.

What is Quartz?

Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a non-porous material that is resistant to scratches, heat, and stains.

Quartz is an excellent choice for kitchens and baths because it is:

Durable and long-lasting
Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
Resistant to stains, scratches and heat
Non-porous so it does not require sealing
Easy to clean and maintain
More affordable than natural stone

Does Red Wine Stain Quartz?

The short answer is yes, red wine can stain quartz countertops. However, quartz is less prone to staining than other natural stones like marble or granite.

The pigments in red wine contain anthocyanins and tannins that can leave behind a stubborn stain if left untreated. Red wine is acidic, with a typical pH between 2.8 – 4.0, making it more likely to etch or stain surfaces.

However, quartz is resistant to staining due to its non-porous nature. The color and pigments in quartz run throughout the material, making it more resistant to stains sinking in compared to porous natural stone.

But it’s still possible for red wine to leave surface level stains on quartz that require removal. The longer the wine sits on the surface, the higher chance it will stain.

Tips to Prevent Red Wine Staining on Quartz

While quartz is stain-resistant, you’ll want to take precautions against red wine staining. Here are some tips:

Wipe up spills immediately. Don’t let wine sit for more than a few minutes. The sooner you wipe, the less likely a stain will set.
Use coasters under glasses and bottles to contain condensation rings.
Apply a penetrating food-safe sealer to add extra protection, though check with your manufacturer first.
Avoid using materials that could scratch quartz when wiping up spills, like paper towels. Use a soft cloth instead.
Rinse the surface with water after wiping up wine and dry thoroughly.
Clean quartz regularly with a pH-neutral stone cleaner to prevent buildup.

How to Remove Red Wine Stains from Quartz

If you happen to get an unfortunate red wine stain, try these removal methods:

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

Make a paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide and apply it to the stain. Allow it to sit for an hour before scrubbing and rinsing clean. The peroxide will help lift the stain while baking soda absorbs it.

Lime or Lemon Juice

Apply fresh lime or lemon juice to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping away. The citric acid will help break down the wine pigments. Rinse thoroughly.

Barkeeper’s Friend Cleanser

This oxalic acid-based cleanser can help remove some stubborn stains and discoloration on quartz surfaces. Make a paste and use a soft cloth to gently rub onto the stain. Rinse thoroughly after.

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Gently rub a damp magic eraser on the stain to lift it. Be careful not to scrub too hard or you may dull the surface.

Quartz Cleaner or Polisher

Use a specialty quartz cleaner, or a gentle polishing cream, to buff out stains. Apply with a soft cloth and minimal pressure.

For dried or set-in stains, try repeating these methods several times. Always finish by cleaning the entire quartz surface to remove any haze and restore shine.

Can I Ruin My Quartz with Red Wine?

With prompt cleanup and proper care, red wine is unlikely to permanently ruin or damage quartz countertops. The non-porous material is designed to withstand moderate staining.

However, deep set staining and repeated exposure to wine over time may require professional help. Consult a countertop specialist for deep cleaning and stain removal beyond DIY methods.

Significant damage such as etching from highly acidic wines left for prolonged time is possible, but unlikely with proper care. Avoid exposing quartz to wine or juices for more than a few minutes.

Maintaining Your Quartz to Prevent Stains

Regular cleaning and maintenance is the best way to prevent red wine stains on quartz surfaces:

Clean quartz at least once a week using a pH-neutral stone cleaner.
Wipe up spills immediately, especially wine and acidic liquids.
Use coasters, trivets and cutting boards to protect the surface.
Avoid using abrasive cleansers or scrub pads that may dull the surface.
Consider applying a penetrating sealer to add stain protection.
Have surfaces re-polished and re-sealed by a pro every 2-3 years.
Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners.

Is Quartz Worth It If It Stains?

Quartz countertops remain among the most stain-resistant options outside of porcelain. But no material is 100% stain-proof. With proper care and prompt cleanup of spills, staining should not be an issue for most quartz owners.

The advantages of quartz like durability, low maintenance, appearance and affordability outweigh small risks of staining. For homeowners wanting an attractive, fuss-free counter surface, quartz remains a top choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to prevent red wine stains on my quartz?

Using coasters, wiping up spills immediately, and applying a penetrating sealer will help prevent stains. Clean with a pH-neutral quartz cleaner weekly.

How long can red wine sit on quartz before staining it?

It’s best to wipe up red wine spills within 5 minutes. The longer wine is left, the more likely it will stain even non-porous quartz.

Will white wine also stain quartz counters?

White wine has less staining potential than red, but could still leave a mark if left for too long. All spills should be wiped up quickly.

Can I remove dried or old red wine stains from quartz?

It becomes more challenging once dried, but stains can still be removed with baking soda paste, lime juice, MR Clean erasers and dedicated quartz cleaners.

Is it possible to permanently stain or damage quartz?

With proper care, quartz should resist permanent staining or etching. But deep set stains may require professional help. Avoid prolonged exposure to wine or acids.

Conclusion

Although quartz counters are less prone to staining than other surfaces, red wine can still leave behind stubborn marks if prompt cleanup and care are not taken. But the good news is even set-in stains can often be removed with the right cleaning methods. With routine maintenance and immediate wiping after spills, most homeowners should have minimal issues with red wine staining their beautiful quartz countertops.

Does Red Wine Stain Quartz Countertops?