Why are my quartz countertops staining?

Author: Pablo Doyle  |  Last update: Thursday, October 2, 2025

Common Causes of Staining Prolonged Exposure to Substances: The non-porous nature of quartz counters generally prevents substances from penetrating the surface. Yet, if spillages like coffee, wine, tea, or oily substances are left unattended for an extended period, they can leave superficial stains.

How do you get stains out of quartz countertops?

Tea, coffee or fruit juice. Tea, coffee or fruit juice can stain quartz worktops if left for too long. To remove the stain, use a three parts baking soda, one part water solution. Apply the solution onto the countertop and let sit for a few minutes, after which you can gently rub with a soft cloth and wipe away.

How to prevent quartz countertops from staining?

Quartz Countertops: Avoiding Those Pesky Stains
  1. Clean spills immediately using a soft cloth or sponge.
  2. Use cutting boards, trivets, and coasters – they're not just decorative!
  3. Avoid placing hot pans directly on the countertop surface.
  4. Use mild dish soap and mildly warm water (not hot water!) for regular cleaning.

Is it normal for quartz to stain?

So, do quartz countertops stain? They can if they are not properly taken care of. Quartz has been proven to be stain-resistant; however, it is not a stain-proof material. In fact, quartz countertops are susceptible to stains from coffee, tea, wine, and chemical spills.

Can stained quartz be fixed?

Stains and Discoloration

In some cases, gently cleaning with a mild detergent or a specialized quartz cleaner can resolve the issue. For more stubborn stains, a professional may need to lightly polish the surface.

Are You Cleaning Quartz Countertops Wrong?

Can you use Clorox wipes on quartz?

You shouldn't be using Clorox wipes daily, or even often, on quartz countertops because they have citric acid, which can be very harsh on your counter. Long-term use could lead to discoloration of your quartz surface.

What destroys quartz countertops?

Harsh, abrasive cleaners, pads, and sponges should be avoided since they can permanently harm countertops. Scrubbing too hard can leave a dull surface or cause superficial scratches. Oven cleansers, grill cleaners, paint removers, dishwashing detergent, and other high pH cleaners should not be used on quartz surfaces.

Can you seal quartz so it doesn't stain?

NATURAL STONE COUNTERTOPS: SEALING REQUIREMENTS. While natural stone countertops like marble countertops require regular sealing to maintain their appearance and protect them from stains and etching, quartz countertops do not need to be sealed.

Can I use a magic eraser on quartz?

A 1:1 water and vinegar solution is great for fighting these stains, whether in the kitchen or bathroom. Use the instructions above for the detailed vinegar and water cleaning solution. Magic eraser may also be used to fight tough quartz stains, simply wet the magic eraser and apply in gentle, circular motion.

Does sitting water stain quartz?

Not every water will leave a water stain, only the ones with a high mineral percentage. Those stains are especially visible on darker coloured quartz. Although they are not hard to remove, they can be very annoying and make your worktops looking dirty even when they are not.

How to keep quartz stains free?

Day-to-day, wipe down any spills and mess immediately, and simply use warm water and a non-abrasive cleaner on your quartz worktops to keep them sparkling. It's best to stay away from cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals such as bleach and chlorine.

What is the best cleaner for quartz countertops?

While resistant to scratches, countertops from quartz can still be dulled or etched by harsh chemicals. Opt for mild dish soap mixed with warm water for routine cleaning. Avoid highly acidic cleaners like bleach, ammonia, or any other harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface and leave it looking dull.

Can you put hot pans on quartz?

Can You Put Hot Cooking Utensils On A Quartz Countertop? The quick answer is no, you should aim to not place a hot pan on a quartz kitchen worktop as the heat from the pan will cause the quartz to burn. The resin that is in the quartz material can only withhold 150 degrees in heat before it reaches its maximum.

Is it OK to use Windex on quartz countertops?

Many people use Windex® or similar cleaners to help shine their countertops, while this is okay for most quartz, you should avoid cleaners with bleach or ammonia. Windex®, for example, comes in an ammonia-free version. The real key to caring for quartz is to be gentle.

Can you use Dawn dish soap on quartz countertops?

Here are all the types of surfaces you can clean with Dawn® Powerwash: Stainless steel appliances, pots, handles, and fixtures. Light and dark granite countertops and backsplashes. Quartz countertops and backsplashes.

How to protect quartz countertops from staining?

Protective Measures: Utilize kitchen accessories like trays, cutting boards, trivets, and coasters to reduce direct exposure to potential stains. Daily Cleaning Routine: Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge with mild dish soap and water for everyday cleaning.

What should you not clean quartz with?

Harsh and acidic cleaning agents such as vinegar, lime, lemon are going to erode the sealant of the countertops' surface over time. This will make the surface more likely to stain.

Why does my quartz have dull spots?

High pH Substances: Highly alkaline or acidic cleaning agents can damage the resin in quartz, leading to dull spots or discoloration.

Can you use Clorox wipes in quartz?

The harsh truth is that Clorox wipes are not an effective way for cleaning quartz countertops. While using them gives the appearance of cleanliness, it actually causes unintentional damage to the countertop after prolonged use.

How often should I reseal quartz countertops?

Quartz counters do not need sealing due to their lack of porosity. Liquids and stains cannot penetrate non-porous materials because they have a built-in seal. Natural stone countertops, such as polished marbles or granite, have pores and small splinters that require sealing on a regular basis.

Can I use bar keepers friend on quartz countertops?

Do not use abrasive cleaning agents such as regular Comet and Ajax. If needed, Bon Ami and Bar Keepers Friend are both approved non-abrasive cleaning powders that will clean without affecting Q's finish.

How to remove a stain from a quartz countertop?

Simply mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with equal parts water until you form a paste. Then, apply it to the stain and let it sit for several minutes. After a few minutes, wipe it away with a soft cloth. This method is gentle enough to use on quartz countertops and will help to lift even the tough of stains.

Can I put my microwave on my quartz countertop?

So, can you put a microwave on a quartz countertop? Absolutely. Quartz countertops are incredibly strong and can easily support the weight of a microwave, making them a practical and stylish choice for your kitchen.

Is vinegar ok on quartz?

For quartz countertops, always choose mild dish soap and water or cleaners specifically designed for quartz. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or vinegar, which can damage the surface. A soft cloth or a non-abrasive sponge is ideal for wiping down your counters.

Why is quartz not good for countertops?

2) It's Vulnerable to Heat Damage

Excessive heat can damage a quartz countertop because its resins melt when in contact with heat.

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