Cleaning Products to Have on Hand
- Mild dish soap – Avoid harsh detergents that can strip the finish. A gentle soap is best for routine cleaning.
- Baking soda – A gentle abrasive that can help lift stains. Make a paste with water to scrub stains.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Helps lift stains and whiten quartz. Apply a small amount and let sit before wiping away.
- Soft cloths – Microfiber cloths are ideal for cleaning quartz without scratching.
Tips for Preventing Stains
- Use cutting boards and trivets. Never cut directly on the countertop. Place hot pots and pans on trivets.
- Clean up spills quickly. Don’t let liquids sit on the surface. Immediately wipe up oils, wines, coffee, etc.
- Avoid harsh chemicals. Don’t use products with bleach, ammonia or acids. Stick to gentle cleaners listed above.
- Sealquartz annually. Use a stone sealer to protect the surface from stains over time. Reapply as needed.
Removing Common Stains
Coffee and Tea Stains
- Mix baking soda and water into a paste. Gently scrub the stain with the paste.
- Or spray hydrogen peroxide and let sit 5-10 minutes before wiping. Repeat if needed.
Red Wine Stains
- Immediately pour salt on the spill to absorb it. Allow to sit 10 minutes then wipe away.
- Dab hydrogen peroxide on the stain. Let sit 5 minutes before wiping.
Oil and Grease Stains
- Apply a small amount of dish soap and rub with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly.
- Or sprinkle baking soda on the grease stain. Scrub gently with a damp cloth. Rinse.
Dried Food Stains
- Dip a soft cloth in hydrogen peroxide and place over the stain for 5-10 minutes to lift it.
- For stuck-on food, scrape gently with a plastic scraper. Avoid metal scrapers that can scratch.
- Make a baking soda paste and scrub to remove any residue after soaking.
Hard Water Stains
- Use full-strength white vinegar. Apply to the stain and let sit for 5 minutes before wiping.
- For stubborn hard water stains, use a poultice made of baking soda and water. Apply and let dry completely before rinsing.
Ink Stains
- Rubbing alcohol or hairspray will lift fresh ink stains. Apply and wipe immediately.
- For dried ink stains, try making a baking soda paste or use hydrogen peroxide. Let sit before scrubbing.
When to Call a Professional
Some deep set stains may require professional help. Contact a stone restoration company if you are unable to remove:
- Etch marks from highly acidic substances
- Significant damage from sharp objects
- Large stains that have set into the stone
Professionals have commercial-grade cleaners and tools that can restore the quartz surface and remove flaws in the finish.
In most cases, prompt cleaning and the right gentle products can keep white quartz looking like new. Be sure to properly seal and care for your countertops to prevent stains in the high-traffic kitchen area.