If you’ve done your research on countertop materials, you probably have heard that quartz countertops are stain resistant. The reason they’re called stain resistant instead of stain proof is that they do stain—just not easily.
Why Quartz Stains
Quartz countertops qualify as an engineered stone; it has a base of natural quartz along with resins added in to seal the pores. Sometimes, these resins can react with other chemicals and create stains.
Chemicals that resins react to include alkaline cleaners, high pH detergents, and certain acids—and this can result in discoloration (white/bleached stains).
Chemical Stains and Dried-On Stains
Many everyday materials include chemicals in their composition. Makeup, processed foods, nail polish, and wax are a few common items that could harm your quartz countertop.
But don’t worry, simply spilling one of these substances on your quartz countertop isn’t going to stain it. The problem begins when you let these stains dry, because then they become hardened to the countertop’s surface. Word to the wise—clean up stains right away to prevent this from happening.
Preventing Stains
It’s always a good idea to get ahead of a problem before it can start, and the same can be said for stains.
How you get ahead of quartz staining is by refraining from using harmful chemicals on your countertop. Make sure only to use pH-neutral cleaners and, even better, quartz-specific cleaners. When in doubt, check with us at Washington Marble Works. We’re the experts on all things about quartz countertops.
Common Stains
A few substances to look out for include the following:
– lemon juice
– vinegar
– wine
– soda
– citrus
Remember, if you do happen to spill one of these substances, it’s not the end of the world. Just make sure to clean it up as soon as possible!
Another way to prevent staining on your quartz countertops is by making a habit of using cutting boards and hot pads. Direct heat or knife use is never a good idea with quartz countertops, and this is how you can keep them safe.
Stain Removal
There are certain strategies you can use to remove stains from quartz countertops yourself. The first step includes using a cleaning pad (that’s nonabrasive) with some quartz-specific cleaner, or a different kind of pH-neutral cleaner. This is mainly for recent stains.
If you’re dealing with a dried-on stain, try scraping it with a plastic knife (so as not to harm the surface of your countertop), and once the debris is cleared, try the pad.
If you’re worried about harming your countertop, don’t hesitate to call the pros.
Your Quartz Countertop
At the end of the day, quartz countertops are extremely durable and stain resistant, and they’re a great choice for homeowners everywhere. To learn more about this material, give Washington Marble Works a call at (253) 891-1823.
