White quartz countertops can add a clean, bright look to your kitchen. However, like all countertop materials, quartz requires regular cleaning to keep it looking its best. Quartz is less porous than natural stone, making it more stain-resistant, but not completely stain-proof. Foods and liquids can still penetrate the surface over time and leave discolorations if not promptly cleaned. Fortunately, most stains can be removed from white quartz with the proper cleaning techniques.
What Causes Stains on White Quartz?
White quartz gets its color from ground quartz crystals added to the engineered stone mix during manufacturing. This results in a consistent white color that resists staining and etching better than marble. However, it is still prone to some staining over time. Common causes of stains on white quartz include:
- Oils and grease – Cooking oils, butter, and greasy foods can leave behind oily residue that penetrates the quartz.
- Dark liquids – Coffee, tea, wine, juice, and soda contain pigments that can soak into the surface.
- Metal marks – Pots, pans, and metal utensils can rub off grey marks onto the quartz.
- Mold and mildew – Moisture that sits on the surface allows mold and mildew to grow.
- Hard water spots – Mineral deposits in water evaporate and leave behind spotty residue.
- Rubber marks – Bottle stoppers, mats, and rubber feet can transfer grey marks that stain.
Cleaning Supplies for White Quartz
Removing stains from white quartz requires using the proper cleaning solutions. Here are the most effective options:
- Mild liquid dish soap – A small amount mixed with warm water can lift up grease and daily grime. Avoid highly concentrated detergents.
- Stone cleaner – Specialty stone cleaners contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide to dissolve stains without damaging the quartz.
- Baking soda – Forms a gentle abrasive paste with water to scrub away stubborn marks.
- Distilled white vinegar – Helps dissolve grease, water spots, and leftover soap residue.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Breaks down organic stains when applied directly and left to sit.
- Barkeeper’s Friend – Contains oxalic acid to lift rust, mineral deposits, and some organic stains.
- Mr. Clean Magic Eraser – Useful for scrubbing off dried-on food and drink stains.
Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, acids, or abrasive scrubs on quartz, as they can damage the surface.
Easy Cleaning Steps for Stain Removal
Follow these steps to safely clean and remove a variety of stains from white quartz:
1. Blot Up Spills Immediately
As soon as you notice a spill, blot it up with a paper towel or clean cloth. Avoid aggressive rubbing, as this can grind the stain deeper into the pores. Quick action prevents permanent staining.
2. Clean With Mild Dish Soap
Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap into warm water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently clean the entire surface where the stain occurred. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft towel.
3. Make a Baking Soda Paste
For tougher stains, mix baking soda with just enough water to form a spreadable paste. Apply the paste directly to the stain and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Gently scrub and then rinse clean. The baking soda particles will help lift the stain without damaging the quartz.
4. Use Stone Cleaner
For persistent stains not removed by dish soap or baking soda, reach for a specialty stone cleaner. Check the product label to make sure it is safe for engineered quartz. Spray or wipe the cleaner directly on the stain. Let it sit for the recommended time before rinsing.
5. Try Hydrogen Peroxide
For old or deeply set organic stains, apply 3% hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain. Let it bubble and oxidize the stain for 10-15 minutes before wiping and rinsing clean. This technique works well for faded coffee and tea stains.
6. Remove Hard Water Spots
Hard water spots and calcium deposits can be lifted using white vinegar. Pour a small amount of vinegar directly on the spots and let it sit for 5 minutes before wiping and rinsing. For larger areas, mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water and wipe down the entire surface.
7. Use a Magic Eraser
Mr. Clean Magic Erasers utilize melamine foam to safely scrub away all kinds of dried, caked-on spills and stains. Wet the eraser and rub gently over the stain in a circular motion. Rinse the quartz clean afterwards. This works great for food, grease, and drink spots.
Preventing Future Stains
Your white quartz will stay beautiful longer by taking steps to prevent stains in the first place:
- Dry spills immediately to avoid absorption.
- Use cutting boards and trivets to protect from knives and hot pans.
- Seal and re-seal quartz regularly with a penetrating stone sealer.
- Clean up spills from pets, plants, and household chemicals quickly.
- Wipe up cooking oils and grease splatters right after cooking.
- Rinse soap residue thoroughly after washing dishes.
With regular cleaning and prompt stain removal, your white quartz countertops will continue looking fresh and bright for many years. Follow these stain removal techniques, while taking preventative measures, and you can confidently use your quartz surfaces without worry. Just be sure to avoid harsh chemicals and always treat the quartz gently to maintain its durability. With some persistence for difficult stains, your countertops will shine like new again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove dried food stains from white quartz?
For dried food stains, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before gently scrubbing and rinsing clean. For stubborn stains, use a melamine foam eraser like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser while the area is wet.
What removes coffee and tea stains from quartz?
Hydrogen peroxide works well to lift these organic stains. Apply peroxide directly to the stain and let bubble for 10-15 minutes before wiping and rinsing thoroughly. Repeat as needed for tough stains.
How do you get grease off of white quartz countertops?
Mix a mild dish soap with warm water and wash the greasy areas. Rinse thoroughly and dry well. For heavier grease stains, spray with a stone-safe degreaser before wiping in circular motions and rinsing.
What is the best homemade quartz cleaner?
An effective DIY quartz cleaner combines 1 part white vinegar with 1 part water. The vinegar helps dissolve grease, soap scum, hard water deposits and stains. Spray directly on stained areas before wiping clean with a soft cloth.
How do you remove rust stains from quartz?
Make a paste with Bar Keepers Friend and water. Apply the paste to rusted areas, wait 5 minutes, then scrub gently. Rinse thoroughly. The oxalic acid in Bar Keepers Friend will dissolve and lift rust stains.
Does white vinegar damage quartz countertops?
No, white vinegar is safe for cleaning quartz surfaces. Its high acidity helps remove many common stains without damaging the quartz. Mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water and wipe over entire countertop to clean and disinfect.
Can Magic Eraser damage quartz?
Mr. Clean Magic Erasers contain melamine foam which is safe for scrubbing quartz. Just be sure to use the Magic Eraser gently and avoid excessive rubbing that could dull the surface shine. Rinse well after use.
Conclusion
White quartz countertops bring a clean, contemporary look to the kitchen while providing a durable and low-maintenance surface. While quartz resists staining better than other stone, spills and daily use can result in discoloration over time. Knowing the right techniques and cleaners for removing stains can help keep your white quartz surfaces looking like new. Quick action when spills occur prevents absorption into the stone. With proper regular care and prompt stain removal, those bright white counters will maintain their beauty for many years.