White quartz countertops can add a clean, modern look to any kitchen. However, keeping them looking their best requires a bit of care and attention, as they can be prone to stains. Here is an in-depth guide on how to clean stains off white quartz countertops.
What Causes Stains on White Quartz?
Before learning how to remove stains from white quartz, it’s helpful to understand what causes them in the first place. Here are some of the most common culprits:
- Food and beverages: Spilled wine, coffee, juice, oil, tomatoes and other foods can leave behind colored stains.
- Beauty products: Makeup, nail polish, hair dye and self-tanners can stain.
- Household cleaners: Harsh cleaners like bleach or acidic products can etch or discolor the surface.
- Hard water: Mineral deposits in hard water can leave behind spotty stains.
- Heat: Hot pots and pans can scorch the surface.
Cleaning Tips for Common Stains
Here are some tips for getting out the most stubborn stains on white quartz countertops:
Food Stains
For stains from coffee, tea, wine, juice, grease, oil, tomato sauce and other foods:
- First, blot up any excess liquid immediately with a paper towel. Don’t rub it in.
- Mix a paste of baking soda and water and gently rub it onto the stain using a soft cloth or sponge.
- Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to lift the stain.
- Rinse clean with warm water and dry thoroughly.
- For tougher stains, use a nonabrasive cleaner formulated for stone surfaces after trying baking soda.
Dye Stains
For removing stains from hair dye, makeup, nail polish, self-tanner, etc:
- Use a nonabrasive stone cleaner, rubbing alcohol or acetone nail polish remover.
- Check the product on an inconspicuous spot first to ensure it won’t damage the finish.
- Apply a small amount directly on the stain and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth, being careful not to rub it in.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry.
Hard Water Stains
To get rid of spotty hard water stains:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Use a soft cloth to apply the solution directly to the stains.
- Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits.
- Rinse clean with warm water and dry thoroughly.
- For stubborn buildup, use a stone-safe alkaline cleaner.
Heat Stains
To remove scorch marks from hot pans/pots:
- First, gently scrape off any burnt on food residues with a plastic spatula or the flat edge of a knife.
- Make a baking soda paste and apply it to the scorched area.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing clean.
- If any discoloration remains, use a stone-specific poultice as directed.
- Avoid using abrasive scouring powders as they may scratch the finish.
Everyday Cleaning for Quartz
Regular cleaning and maintenance is key to keeping white quartz looking its best. Follow these habits:
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent stains.
- Clean frequently with a mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh cleaners.
- Disinfect surfaces with a stone-safe disinfectant.
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and dry with a soft cloth.
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a stone sealer to prevent buildup of grime.
- Use trivets and hot pads under hot plates and pans.
How to Avoid Stains When Caring for White Quartz
Prevention is the best way to keep white quartz stain-free. Follow these tips:
- Always use cutting boards, never cut directly on the countertop.
- Clean up food prep messes immediately. Don’t let stains set.
- Keep beauty products and self-tanners away from the counters.
- Use placemats under dishes to prevent etching.
- Avoid using cleaners containing bleach, ammonia or acids.
- Reseal quartz regularly to protect from stains.
- Don’t place hot pots/pans directly on the surface.
Common Questions about Cleaning White Quartz
Can I use vinegar to clean white quartz counters?
Yes, you can safely use a diluted vinegar solution to clean quartz. The acidic vinegar helps dissolve stains and hard water deposits. Mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water and wipe onto the stain. Rinse thoroughly after 5-10 minutes with warm water and dry. Never use undiluted vinegar.
What kind of soap is safe for cleaning white quartz?
Use a mild dish soap or a stone-specific cleaner. Avoid harsh detergents, abrasive cleaners, or anything containing bleach, ammonia or acids as these can etch or discolor the quartz.
How can I make quartz counters shine?
For an extra shine, mix a few drops of olive oil into your usual soap and water cleaning solution. Wipe the counters down with this solution using a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly with a clean towel. The oil will add shine while the soap cleans.
What should I never use to clean white quartz?
Avoid scouring powders, alkaline drain cleaners, oven cleaners, and acidic cleaners like toilet bowl cleaners. Also avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads or brushes as these can scratch the surface.
Conclusion
While white quartz countertops are prone to staining, with the proper cleaning methods most stains can be removed. Be sure to blot spills quickly, use nonabrasive cleaners formulated for stone, and clean routinely with mild soap and water. Follow the prevention tips to keep your counters in top condition. With a little care, white quartz can stay looking bright and beautiful for many years.