Quartz countertops are popular in modern kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, like any surface, quartz can get stained from spills and daily use. Fortunately, most stains can be removed from quartz with the proper cleaning methods. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove a stain from quartz countertops.
What You’ll Need
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Non-abrasive scrub pad
- Magic eraser sponge
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Try Dish Soap and Warm Water
For most stains, your first course of action should be a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water.
- Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the stain liberally and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the stain in circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry with a cloth.
Dish soap helps break down oils and grease while the warm water can loosen and lift stains from the pores of the quartz. This simple solution takes care of most spills before they have a chance to set in.
2. Make a Baking Soda Paste
For stubborn stains that remain after trying soap and water, make a paste with baking soda and water. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can lift stains without damaging the quartz surface.
- Add a few tablespoons of baking soda to just enough water to form a spreadable paste.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently rub the paste onto the stained area.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
- Dry the area with a clean cloth.
The baking soda paste is effective at removing stains from coffee, wine, grease, and other liquids. The longer you let the paste sit, the better it works to lift the stain.
3. Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another household staple that can remove stubborn stains from quartz countertops. It works as a mild bleach to lift the discoloration without damage.
- Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and warm water.
- Use a soft cloth to apply the solution to the stain.
- Allow it to bubble and lift the stain for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Hydrogen peroxide can help remove stains that the other methods cannot, like dye transfers or permanent marker. It may take a few applications to fully remove intense stains.
4. Scrub with a Magic Eraser
For really stubborn stains that remain after trying the other methods, try using a magic eraser sponge. The melamine foam material acts as a very fine abrasive to lift stains from the quartz.
- Dampen the magic eraser and wring out excess water.
- Gently rub the stain in a circular motion. Apply light pressure.
- Rinse the area thoroughly once the stain is gone.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
Magic eraser sponges work well on stains that have set into the stone, like coffee and tea stains. Be careful not to over-scrub, which can dull the quartz finish.
5. Use a Non-Abrasive Scrub Pad
For large stains or overall grime buildup, use a non-abrasive scrub pad made of soft plastic bristles or silicone.
- Add a few drops of dish soap to the pad and wet under warm running water.
- Gently scrub the soiled areas using even, circular motions.
- Take care on seams or edges to avoid damaging the quartz.
- Rinse and dry the countertop well after cleaning.
Scrub pads give extra cleaning power to lift messes while still being soft enough not to scratch or etch the quartz material.
Helpful Tips for Avoiding Stains
- Clean up spills immediately before they have a chance to soak in.
- Use coasters under glasses and wipe up condensation.
- Avoid using cleaners that contain oils, dyes, or abrasives.
- Seal quartz every 6-12 months to add stain resistance.
- Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners.
- Use a cutting board for food prep to prevent staining from juices.
Can All Stains Be Removed from Quartz?
In most cases, stains can be removed from quartz surfaces with the proper cleaning methods. However, some intense stains may permanently discolor the stone if they are allowed to set in the pores:
- Prolonged exposure to strong chemicals can etch or bleach quartz.
- Burns or scorches from hot pans can damage the resin coating.
- Dyes from fabric or colored liquids can leave stubborn stains.
Your best bet is to clean any spills right away before lasting damage occurs. For the most part, quartz resists stains better than other natural stone and provides a very durable surface.
When to Call a Professional
If you have tried all the recommended methods but cannot remove a difficult stain from your quartz countertop, call a professional stone restoration company. They have access to more powerful cleaning solutions and tools that can extract stains without harming quartz.
Factors like the type of stain and length of time it set in will determine if professional cleaning is required. But skilled specialists can often remove stains without needing to refinish or replace the quartz.
Removing stains from quartz countertops is possible with the right techniques. With some elbow grease and cleaning solutions found in most homes, you can keep your quartz surfaces looking like new. Be sure to promptly clean any spills and avoid exposing quartz to harsh chemicals whenever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent stains on my quartz countertop?
- Wipe up spills immediately before they have a chance to set
- Always use cutting boards for food prep
- Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals
- Apply a sealant every 6-12 months for added protection
What is the best homemade stain remover for quartz?
A paste of baking soda and water can remove many common stains like coffee, grease, and food. For tough stains, try hydrogen peroxide and water.
Should I use bleach to clean my quartz countertop?
No, avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals on quartz. The chlorine in bleach can damage and discolor the resin coating. Opt for mild dish soap or hydrogen peroxide instead.
What happens if I can’t remove a stain from my quartz countertop?
Call a professional stone restoration company. They have industrial cleaners and tools that can often remove stubborn stains without needing to replace the quartz.
Can hot pans permanently stain quartz countertops?
Yes, placing extremely hot pans directly on quartz can scorch and damage the resin coating resulting in permanent discoloration. Always use trivets or hot pads.
Does sealing quartz help prevent stains?
Yes, sealing quartz every 6-12 months adds an invisible protective barrier that helps repel stains. It makes the surface easier to clean and maintain.