It’s natural to be concerned when you notice that your quartz countertops have started to stain. Quartz is a popular material for countertops because it is durable and easy to clean – but even this material is not immune to staining. In this article, we will explore the causes of quartz staining and offer some tips on how to deal with it.
1. Humidity
One of the most common causes of quartz staining is humidity. If your countertops are located in a bathroom or kitchen, the steam from cooking or showering can cause the quartz to begin to stain even without any contact with water.
Also, if you live in an area with high humidity, this can also be a contributing factor – even if your countertops are not located in a damp room. Once the quartz countertop has had enough time to absorb the moisture, the staining will begin to appear.
To combat this, make sure that you have proper ventilation in any rooms where your quartz countertops are located. This will help to ensure the room is not too damp and will also help to prevent the formation of mold or mildew, which can also cause staining.
In addition, you should wipe down your quartz countertops on a regular basis with a clean, dry cloth. This will help to remove any moisture that has been deposited on the surface and will also help to keep the countertop clean.
2. Exposure To Sunlight
Another type of staining that occurs so gradually that you may not even notice it at first is sun bleaching.
Just like with fabric, exposure to sunlight can cause the color of your quartz countertops to fade over time. This type of staining is not harmful and can actually be reversed by simply moving the countertop out of direct sunlight.
If you do notice that your quartz countertops are starting to fade, you can try using a quartz countertop cleaner that contains UV protection. This will help to prevent further fading and will also help to restore the original color of the countertop.
You can also try using a window treatment or placing a piece of furniture in front of the countertop to protect it from direct sunlight. Once you have done this, you should see the color of the countertop begin to improve over time.
3. Cleaning Products
You would be surprised how much damage some common household cleaners can do to your quartz countertops.
Many of these cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can etch the surface of the quartz or even cause it to discolor. Usually, this type of staining is so gradual and subtle that you will not see it happening until it’s too late.
The way this happens is that the chemicals in the cleaners interact with the quartz, causing a chemical reaction that results in staining.
To avoid this, you should always read the labels of any cleaning products before using them on your quartz countertops. If a product contains anything that could potentially damage the quartz, you should avoid using it.
In addition, you can try using a natural stone cleaner on your quartz countertops. These cleaners are designed to be gentle on stone surfaces and will not cause any damage.
If you do use a harsher cleaning product on your quartz countertops by accident, you can try diluting the cleaner with water or using a stone cleaner to remove the residue.
4. Hard Water Stains
Your quartz countertops may also be staining due to the type of water running through your pipes.
If you have hard water, the minerals in the water can build up on the surface of the quartz and cause staining. This type of staining is usually more difficult to remove than other types and may require the use of a special cleaner.
You can try using a vinegar and water solution to remove hard water stains from your quartz countertops. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and mist the solution onto the stained areas. Let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a clean, dry cloth.
You can also try using a store-bought hard water stain remover. Follow the instructions on the product to remove the stains from your quartz countertops.
If you have very hard water, you may need to have your quartz countertops professionally cleaned in order to remove the stains.
5. Etching From Acidic Foods or Drinks
Another common type of staining is an etching, which occurs when acidic foods or drinks are spilled on the surface of the quartz.
The acid in the food or drink reacts with the quartz, causing it to etch. This type of staining is usually also more difficult to remove than other types and may require the use of a special cleaner.
You can try using a vinegar and water solution to remove etching from your quartz countertops. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and mist the solution onto the stained areas. Let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a clean, dry cloth.
6. Spills
There may also be spills that you’re not even aware of that is causing your quartz countertops to stain.
One example of this is if you have a pet that likes to drink from the sink. While their water bowl may be clean, the water they’re drinking can contain minerals that can leave behind stains.
Another example is if you use harsh cleaning products on your countertops. Over time, the chemicals in these products can break down the sealant on the quartz and cause it to absorb spills more easily.
To avoid this type of staining, you should always wipe up any spills as soon as they happen. You should also be sure to use mild cleaning products on your quartz countertops and avoid using anything that is too harsh.
If you have a pet, you may also want to consider getting a water fountain for them to drink from so that they are not using your sink.
7. Oils and Grease
If your quartz countertops have had time to accumulate oil or grease stains, then you may begin to see some discoloration over the surface of your countertop.
These types of stains are more difficult to remove than other types of stains, but it is still possible to get rid of them.
One way to do this is to use a degreaser on your countertops. This will help to break down the oils and grease that have stained the quartz and will make it easier for you to wipe them away.
You can also try using a poultice to remove the stains. This is a type of paste that you apply to the stained area and then cover with plastic wrap.
After letting it sit for 24 hours, you should then be able to wipe away the stain. If you have stubborn stains that just won’t come out, you may need to call in a professional to have them removed.
8. Cosmetics
Another thing that may be causing staining on your quartz countertop without you even realizing it is your cosmetics.
Powders, foundations, and other cosmetics can contain minerals that will stain your countertop if they are not cleaned up properly. The worse part is the chemicals in these products can still remain active even when they have been wiped off of your countertop.
To avoid this type of staining, you should always wipe up any cosmetics that have been used as soon as possible. You should also avoid using any products that contain mineral oil or other harsh chemicals.
If you do use these types of products, you should be sure to clean your quartz countertops on a regular basis with a mild cleaning solution.
9. Dirt and Dust
Also, little tiny pieces of dust and dirt particles can also cause your quartz countertops to become stained over time.
This is because these particles can eventually work their way into the pores, cracks, and scratches of the quartz and cause a build-up of dirt and dust.
This can ultimately lead to discoloration and staining of the quartz and is one of the main reasons why it’s important to keep your countertops clean.
To avoid this type of staining, you should wipe down your quartz countertops on a regular basis with a mild cleaning solution. You should also be sure to vacuum or dust around your countertops on a regular basis to remove any dirt or dust that may have built up.
Final Words And Conclusion
If you’re noticing stains on your quartz countertops, there are a few possible explanations. One is that the area is particularly humid – this can cause staining even in materials that are resistant to it.
Another possibility is exposure to sunlight, which can cause fading and discoloration over time. Spills can also cause staining, especially if they’re not cleaned up immediately.
And finally, cosmetics, oils, and grease can all contribute to staining quartz countertops. To avoid stains, be sure to wipe up spills promptly, clean your countertops regularly, and use mild cleaning solutions rather than harsh chemicals.