White quartz countertops can add a bright, clean look to any kitchen. However, like any surface, quartz can become stained over time from spills and regular use. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to clean stained quartz and restore its original beauty.
Supplies Needed
Before tackling quartz stains, assemble the following cleaning supplies:
- Mild dishwashing liquid or detergent – Avoid abrasive cleansers.
- Soft cloths – Microfiber cloths work well.
- Warm water
- Baking soda – Helps lift stains.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Bleaching agent to whiten quartz.
- Scotch-Brite scrubbing pad – For gentle scrubbing of stubborn stains.
- Clean toothbrush – To scrub crevices and seams.
Cleaning Tips and Tricks
Follow these useful tips when cleaning white quartz countertops:
- Act quickly to clean spills before they have a chance to set in and stain.
- Always use a soft cloth or sponge when cleaning. Avoid abrasive pads or brushes that could scratch the surface.
- Apply cleaners gently, never scrubbing aggressively on quartz.
- Rinse surfaces thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue.
- Buff dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
- For food stains, try blotting with a damp cloth first. If needed, use an approved quartz cleaner.
- For dried-on spills, allow 10-15 minutes for cleaners to penetrate before scrubbing.
Removing Common Stains
Here are tips for cleaning some typical stains on white quartz countertops:
Coffee and Tea Stains
- Mix a paste of baking soda and peroxide and apply to the stain.
- Let sit 5-10 minutes then scrub gently with a soft cloth or toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. The peroxide will help lift the stain.
Grease and Oil Stains
- Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid and scrub with a damp Scotch-Brite pad.
- Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. Repeat if needed for stubborn grease.
Red Wine, Berries, and Fruit Juice
- Blot as much as possible immediately with an absorbent cloth.
- Mix a mild detergent with warm water and scrub stain gently.
- For stubborn stains, apply hydrogen peroxide and let sit before scrubbing and rinsing.
Dried Food and Sauces
- Soak stained area with warm, soapy water for 5-10 minutes. This softens dried-on messes.
- Gently scrub with a soft bristle toothbrush, getting into crevices.
- Rinse thoroughly and wipe completely dry.
Hard Water Spots and Mineral Deposits
- Wipe with a cloth dipped in full-strength white vinegar.
- Let the vinegar sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
- For tough deposits, make a paste with baking soda and vinegar. Let sit briefly before scrubbing and rinsing.
Mold and Mildew Stains
- Apply hydrogen peroxide to the affected area and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Scrub gently with a soft toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly and wipe completely dry.
Preventing Future Stains
To help keep your white quartz counters looking their best:
- Use coasters under glasses and wipe up spills immediately.
- Clean counters frequently with a mild soap and water.
- Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners.
- Use trivets and hot pads when placing hot pans on the counter.
- Reseal quartz every 6-12 months with an approved sealer.
- Avoid using knives or abrasive pads directly on the counter. Use a cutting board.
When to Call a Professional
For stains that you are unable to remove with normal cleaning, consider calling in a professional quartz cleaner. They have access to more powerful cleaning solutions that can tackle the toughest stains without damaging the quartz.
Signs it’s time to call a pro include:
- Stains that reappear shortly after cleaning
- Permanent looking yellowing or discoloration
- Unusual etching, pitting, or corrosive damage
- Widespread stains covering a large surface area
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ok to use bleach on quartz?
No, avoid using bleach or hydrogen peroxide at high concentrations as this can damage or discolor quartz over time. Always test cleaners on a small inconspicuous spot first.
What happens if I leave a stain too long?
The longer a stain sits, the harder it’ll be to remove. Dried, caked-on stains often require more aggressive scrubbing, which can damage the quartz. Act fast to clean spills before they have a chance to set in.
Can I use vinegar to clean quartz counters?
Yes, you can safely use vinegar to clean quartz. The mild acidity helps dissolve stains and buildup. Mix with water and wipe on, rinse thoroughly. Avoid soaking the surface.
How can I make my quartz counters shine?
For extra shine, mix a couple tablespoons of olive oil with lemon juice. Wipe this solution onto the quartz, allow to sit briefly, then wipe dry with a soft cloth. The acid and oil will buff the surface beautifully.
Should I reseal my quartz countertops?
It’s a good idea to reseal quartz every 6-12 months using a silicon-based sealer made for quartz. This helps prevent stains from setting into the microscopic pores of the surface.
Conclusion
While white quartz countertops are fairly stain-resistant, discoloration can happen over time. By acting quickly and using the proper cleaning methods, you can often remove stains and restore the bright white luster. For stubborn stains that resist normal cleaning, call on a professional quartz cleaner to renew the surface. With proper care, white quartz countertops will maintain their beauty for many years.