Quartz countertops are popular for use in kitchens and bathrooms, thanks to their good looks, durability, and ease of care. They are less prone to damage than other natural stones, like granite and marble, making them ideal for use in highly trafficked spaces in the home.

One of the best qualities of quartz is its relative stain resistance, but it is not stain-proof. When treating a stain on quartz, it is easy to cause more damage by using the wrong cleaning agents or tools. This guide covers the basics of treating stains on quartz countertops; methods for removing particularly stubborn stains, such as water spots or rust; and what to avoid to prevent costly or irreversible damage. 

Carson Downing

How to Remove Stains on Quartz Countertops with Soap and Water

In many cases, the best general cleaning agent for use on quartz and other natural stones is a mild soap, such as liquid dish soap. To use dish soap to clean and remove many stains from quartz countertops, follow these steps.

1. Treat the Stain with Dish Soap

Apply a small drop of dish soap to a damp microfiber cloth, and wipe the stained surface with the cloth.

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2. Rinse Well with Water

Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the countertops well. Soap residue can create a dull appearance on natural stone, so it is essential to rinse the quartz well after cleaning.

3. Dry Thoroughly

Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to dry the quartz after cleaning. Use a circular motion to prevent water spots from forming, and buff the stone dry.

Avoid the use of harsh chemical cleaning agents, acids, and abrasives, except in specific cases as listed in this guide. They can leave the stone stained or pitted.

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Products to Avoid When Treating Stains on Quartz Countertops

Quartz is durable and highly stain-resistant, but it is easy to damage the stone by using the wrong cleaning agents or tools. The most important thing you can do to preserve the looks of quartz countertops is to avoid using the following products or any products that contain them as ingredients: 

• Chlorine bleach
• Lemon
• Vinegar
• Acetone
• Paint thinner, mineral spirits, and turpentine
• Abrasive powders, pastes, and scouring sponges or brushes

Using these cleaning agents can discolor and stain the stone. When possible, avoid them in favor of pH-neutral cleaners or products formulated specifically for use on quartz.

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How to Remove Water Rings or Spots from Quartz Countertops

Water spots or rings are common stains on natural stone. To remove unsightly water marks, make a cleaning paste by diluting baking soda with enough hydrogen peroxide to achieve a thick yet spreadable consistency. Apply the paste to a damp microfiber cloth or a non-scratch scrub sponge, such as a Dobie pad, and gently scour the stain, working in a circular motion.

Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe away the paste. Then, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to dry the quartz after cleaning to prevent new water spots from forming.

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How to Remove Rust Stains on Quartz Countertops

Many rust stain removers contain acids, such as lemon juice, that should not be used on quartz countertops. Before using any type of rust remover on quartz, apply it to an inconspicuous spot to test that it will not damage the stone.

To remove a rust stain on a quartz countertop, try one of these methods. Use a sparse amount and limited contact time, and take care to monitor for damage to the stone as you work.

• An eraser sponge, like the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, can remove stains from quartz.
• A mild abrasive paste made from baking soda, or commercial products like Bar Keepers Friend, The Pink Stuff, or Bon Ami, can be effective at removing rust and other stubborn stains on quartz.
• A bleach-based cream cleanser like Soft Scrub can be used to lift rust stains from quartz. Apply a small amount to a damp sponge or cloth and work it into the stain in a circular motion. Allow brief contact time—no more than five minutes—before thoroughly rinsing and wiping up the cream cleanser to avoid causing further damage to the stone.

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How to Remove Coffee, Soda, and Tea Stains on Quartz Countertops

Stains from coffee, soda, and tea can stain quartz if not wiped up immediately. To clean food or drink stains that have set into the stone, make a paste of baking soda and water, then apply it to the stain with a damp microfiber cloth. Use a gentle circular motion to work the paste into the stain, scrubbing until it lifts. Rinse the counter with clean water to remove the paste, and dry with a clean cloth to prevent water spots or streaks. 

How to Remove Grease and Oil Stains on Quartz Countertops

Like soda and other drinks, grease and oil do not stain quartz if they are wiped up immediately. However, prolonged contact can leave quartz countertops stained by grease or oil. To remove an oily stain from stone, start by cleaning the area with a soft cloth or sponge and mild detergent, such as Dawn dish soap, which is especially effective on oil-based stains.

If the stain is still present, dry the area thoroughly and make an anthill-style mound of cornstarch or talcum powder on top of the grease stain. Allow it to sit undisturbed for an hour, or up to overnight; the absorbent powder will slowly draw the oil out of the stone. Then, brush the powder into a trash can, wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth to remove the powdery residue, and repeat the process if traces of the stain still linger.

How to Remove Lipstick, Nail Polish, and Ink from Quartz Countertops

Lipstick, nail polish, ink, and other highly pigmented stains can be tricky to remove from quartz without damaging the stone. Exposure to acetone and other ingredients commonly used to treat those stains can damage or dissolve the resin that binds the quartz particles. Before using stain removers formulated for lipstick, nail polish, or ink on a quartz surface, test them on an inconspicuous spot.

Commercial graffiti removers that are safe for use on natural stone, such as Motsenbocker’s Lift Off, are a good choice for treating these types of stains on quartz. Rubbing alcohol is another option for removing lipstick, nail polish, and ink stains on quartz.