How to Remove Stains From Quartz Countertops — and Why They Happen

Few things are more frustrating than starting your day, only to notice an unsightly stain on your white countertops. 

But there’s good news: Quartz surfaces are highly stain resistant and are easy to clean regardless of the color. 

Nonporous surfaces may stain because of their composition. But with the right cleaning products, it’s easy to take care of any stains that happen on your kitchen’s quartz countertops or island. 

Caesarstone’s quartz combines natural materials with about 5% to 10% resins. Although quartz is stain resistant, the resin may react with dyes, intensely colored foods (e.g., coffee and red wine), and certain cleaning products. When coming into contact with such items, the polymer resins can undergo slight chemical transformations, causing discoloration of the surface. 

As a result, it’s important to always clean up spills as quickly as possible to avoid permanent damage. 

Cleaning Stains on Quartz Countertops With the Right Products

Life happens. Containers tip over. Glasses break. Food spills. The best line of defense is wiping up these accidents immediately and then using warm, soapy water to clean the surface.

If a stain does set, however, take care in which cleaning products you choose.

How to Use a Gel Cleaner 

1. Apply a generous amount of a cleaner, such as Soft Scrub gel, to a damp soft cloth or paper towel. Do not apply directly onto the countertop.
2. Wipe the stained area using a circular motion.
3. Rinse thoroughly with water.
4. Dry with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Note: Do not leave the gel cleaner on the countertop for a long time, as any acidic cleaning substance can cause discoloration when not used properly.

How to Use Scouring Powder 

Scouring powder, such as Bar Keepers Friend, can safely be used on quartz with care. As a bonus, it is also handy for cleaning cookware, sinks, backsplashes, stoves, and other surfaces. It is especially effective on metal marks or rust. 

1. Sprinkle scouring powder onto the wet countertop surface.
2. Rub gently with a damp cloth.
3. Rinse thoroughly with water after the stain is lifted.

Note: Do not leave the product for a long time or overapply it in a small area.

How to Use Vinegar or Glass Cleaner

A mixture of white vinegar and water or a store-bought glass cleaner can remove stains from countertops, particularly water marks. The acidic property of vinegar makes it ideal for breaking down stains on countertops, faucets, and backsplashes. For a DIY cleaner, use equal parts water and white vinegar.

1. Apply the solution to the stained surface.
2. Allow the solution to sit on the stained surface for a few minutes.
3. Wipe clean with a cloth.

Removing Stains From White Quartz Countertop

While the nonporous nature of quartz means stain removal is similar regardless of color, stains from coffee, tea, and red wine are more visible on light-colored surfaces. When removing stains from white quartz countertops, be extra diligent with the rinsing and drying steps to avoid any cleaner residue, which can sometimes be more noticeable on lighter-colored surfaces.

When to seek professional help for deep stains 

There are some cases when you may need professional help if the countertops are deeply stained. If a mark is impossible to remove with regular cleaners or the countertop has blotches, haziness, or discolored patches, then the stains may have been caused by permanent chemical reactions.  

In such cases, reach out to the retailer where you purchased the countertop for next steps.

Prolonged exposure to any cleaning solution may cause permanent damage or discoloration to quartz. Avoid chemicals such as oven grill cleaners, floor strippers, paint removers/strippers, toilet bowl cleaners, oil soaps, tarnish removers, furniture cleaners, drain products, battery acid, and dishwasher detergent.

Should the surfaces be exposed to any potentially damaging products, rinse immediately with water to neutralize the effect.

For more guidance, read “What Not to Use On Quartz Countertops: Expert Guide.”

Want to Test It Out?

Our surfaces are highly resistant to stains. Order a sample today to see for yourself how easy they are to clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countertop surfaces stain the easiest?

Materials that are more porous are generally more prone to staining than nonporous surfaces. Marble, limestone, travertine, wood, granite (especially lighter colors), and concrete are all porous and must be sealed regularly to avoid staining. Nonporous materials such as quartz, porcelain, Corian, stainless steel, and advanced fusion surfaces are stain resistant. 

Do white and light-colored countertops stain more than darker surfaces? 

Stains from things such as wine, coffee, and tomato sauce are more visible on light-colored countertops and could cause etching and dull spots. Conversely, water streaks/spots and flour, sugar, and dust are more visible on darker countertops. But, ultimately, the porosity of the countertop material is more important than the color, and nonporous surfaces resist staining.  

What kinds of foods or liquids cause particularly tricky stains? 

Foods and liquids with intense coloring or dyes and substances that are highly acidic cause the trickiest stains. Substances such as red wine, coffee, tea, tomato sauce, mustard, turmeric, and curry, along with ink, permanent markers, and paint, are all common culprits of countertop staining. Acidic foods, such as lemon or lime juice, vinegar, soda, and alcohol, can cause etching (especially in natural stone) leaving the surface dull or chalky.