Quartz countertops are popular in many homes today due to their durability, aesthetics, and easy maintenance. However, many homeowners wonder if quartz can become stained and how to prevent stains. This definitive guide will explore everything you need to know about staining and caring for quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The resins bind the crushed quartz into a hard, non-porous material. Quartz countertops are about 90% crushed quartz and 10% polymers and pigments.
The resins make quartz more flexible and workable than natural stone. It also makes the material non-porous, so it resists staining better than granite and other natural stones. The pigments added during manufacturing give quartz its color and pattern.
The Stain Resistance of Quartz
One of quartz’s biggest benefits is its stain resistance. The resins used to create quartz fill in the natural pores found in stone, making quartz impervious to stains. Liquids and oils sit on top of the surface instead of absorbing in.
However, while quartz has excellent stain resistance, it is not completely stain-proof. With the right substances and enough time, stains can occur. How easily quartz becomes stained depends on:
- The Quality of the Quartz: Higher-quality quartz contains more quartz and less resin. More resin means more pores for stains to absorb into. Higher quartz content leads to better stain resistance.
- How Porous the Surface Is: Micro-porosity can occur during manufacturing. More pores mean it’s easier for stains to take hold.
- The Finish: Quartz can have a polished, matte, or rough finish. Polished quartz is more impervious to stains than matte or rough finishes.
- Exposure Time: The longer a spill sits on quartz, the more likely staining becomes. Quick clean-up is key for preventing stains.
With proper care and maintenance, quality quartz countertops should remain stain-free for many years.
What Can Stain Quartz Countertops?
While quartz has excellent stain resistance, it is still possible for some substances to leave permanent stains if left on the surface for prolonged periods. Here are some of the top staining culprits:
Oil-based Products
Oils, greases, and oil-based products can penetrate and stain quartz if not cleaned up promptly. Food oils, like olive and vegetable oil, along with products like makeup and lotions that contain oil can leave stains if left for hours.
Wine, Juice, and Other Pigmented Liquids
Pigmented liquids like red wine, fruit juice, and tomato sauce contain color compounds that can stain if not wiped up quickly. The acidity in wine and citrus juices also increases quartz’s vulnerability.
Harsh Household Chemicals
exposures can damage and discolor quartz over time, especially chemicals with strong pigments like bathroom cleaners, tile cleaners, paint strippers, and more. Avoid letting these come into contact with quartz.
Prolonged Heat Exposure
Excessive heat can damage quartz and make it more porous and prone to stains. Hot pots and pans straight from the stove should not be placed directly on quartz. Using trivets and hot pads is advised.
With prompt clean-up of spills, these common household substances should not permanently stain quartz.
How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops
If a spill does occur and a stain appears, take action as soon as possible. Here are the best ways to tackle quartz countertop stains:
Step 1: Blot the Stain ASAP
Immediately wipe up any spilled liquids or grease with a paper towel or cloth. Don’t scrub aggressively at this point which can drive the stain deeper into the pores. Gently blot to lift as much of the spill as possible.
Step 2: Clean with Mild Soap and Water
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap like Dawn in warm water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently clean the stain and surrounding area with the soapy water. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry.
Step 3: Use a Poultice
If the stain persists after cleaning, make a poultice using a mix of water and an absorbent powder like talc, flour, or baking soda. Apply the paste to the stain thicker than the stain’s width and allow to dry completely. This will draw out the staining. Rinse and dry the area afterwards.
Step 4: Try a Quartz Cleaner or Hydrogen Peroxide
For stubborn oil-based stains, apply a specially formulated quartz cleaner designed to break down oil residue. Or, make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide and apply to the stain for 2-3 hours before rinsing.
Step 5: Sand the Stain
If all else fails, gently buff the stained spot with 400 grit sandpaper. This removes a thin top layer of the quartz along with the stained area. Use a rubbing compound afterwards to blend and restore the finish.
With prompt attention, the majority of stains can be removed from quartz countertops without permanent discoloration.
How to Prevent Staining
Preventing stains in the first place is ideal to keep quartz counters looking pristine. Here are top tips for stain avoidance:
- Clean up spills ASAP, don’t let them sit
- Always use cutting boards, never cut directly on quartz
- Apply sealers/impregnators to increase spill resistance
- Avoid abrasive cleansers or scrubs
- Use trivets and hot pads under hot pans and dishes
- Don’t place hair dye/coloring or paints on the surface
- Clean quartz regularly with a mild cleaner
With proper care, quartz countertops will stay beautiful and stain-free for many years. Be attentive during food prep and cooking, and prompt with cleanup of any spills for best results.
Cleaning and Caring for Quartz Countertops
Regular cleaning and proper care is essential for quartz countertops. Here are the best practices:
Daily Cleaning
- Clear counters of clutter to prevent substances from being spilled directly on quartz.
- Use a soft, damp microfiber cloth to wipe up food, dust, and other debris.
- Rinse and wipe dry to prevent buildup.
Weekly Cleaning
- Clean counters thoroughly using a pH-neutral quartz cleaner or mild soap and warm water.
- Use a soft scrub sponge if needed for cooked-on messes. Avoid abrasive pads.
- Rinse soap off thoroughly and pat dry.
Treating Stains
Immediately blot liquid spills and clean using the steps outlined earlier. This prevents staining.
Polishing and Sealing
- Every 6 months, apply a quartz polish to enhance shine and repel stains.
- Consider applying a professional quartz sealer upon installation and every 2-3 years. This improves stain resistance.
Avoiding Damage
- Use cutting boards and trivets to prevent scratches and burns.
- Don’t use harsh cleaners like bleach, alkaline, or abrasive products.
- Avoid hitting, dropping or placing excessively heavy objects on quartz.
By caring for quartz properly and cleaning spills quickly, you can keep counters pristine for a lifetime.
FAQs About Stains on Quartz Countertops
Can you stain quartz countertops?
Quartz has excellent stain resistance but is not 100% stain-proof. Prolonged exposure to pigmented liquids like wine and oil-based products can stain quartz if not cleaned promptly. High-quality quartz is less prone to staining.
What removes stains from quartz?
Blotting immediately, cleaning with mild soap and water, using a poultice, quartz cleaners, hydrogen peroxide, and sanding as a last resort can all remove stains from quartz.
Do coffee stains come out of quartz?
Yes, coffee stains can be removed from quartz countertops. Blot immediately and clean with mild soap and water. For dried stains, make a poultice with baking soda and water to draw out the stain.
Can permanent marker stain quartz?
It’s possible for permanent marker to stain quartz if not wiped off quickly. Use rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth as soon as possible to remove permanent marker before it sets. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
What is the best quartz countertop cleaner?
Look for a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for quartz. Popular options include Method Daily Quartz Cleaner, MaryCrafts Quartz Cleaner, and Granite Gold Daily Cleaner. Avoid bleaches, alkaline cleaners, and abrasive products.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are less prone to staining than other stone surfaces, but they can become stained if not cared for properly. The best ways to prevent stains on quartz include prompt cleanup of spills, using trivets and cutting boards, and regular cleaning with a quartz-safe cleaner.
If stains occur, act immediately to blot, clean, and treat the spot for the best chance of removal. With some care and attention, quartz countertops will stay beautiful and stain-free for many years of use.