Do Quartz Countertops Stain? What You Need to Know About Maintenance
One of the biggest selling points of quartz countertops is their low maintenance and durability. But many homeowners still wonder: Can quartz stain? And if so, how do you prevent it?
Let’s clear the air and walk through what you should know about quartz care — and what makes it such a smart choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms.
What Is Quartz, Really?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone, made from around 90–95% natural quartz crystals combined with resins, pigments, and binders. The result is a non-porous, highly durable surface that resists many of the issues that affect natural stones like granite or marble.
So… Can Quartz Stain?
In general, quartz is highly stain-resistant, but not 100% stain-proof.
Because it’s non-porous, liquids like wine, coffee, oil, or juice don’t immediately soak in like they might with natural stone. However, if spills are left to sit for a long time — especially if the surface is exposed to strong dyes, chemicals, or heat — slight staining can occur.
Common culprits:
Permanent markers
Strong chemical cleaners
Dyes from spices (like turmeric)
Burnt-on residue from hot pans
How to Protect Your Quartz Counters
Here’s how to keep your counters looking as flawless as the day they were installed:
✅ Wipe Spills Promptly
Even though it won’t absorb liquids right away, it’s still smart to clean up spills as soon as possible — especially acidic or deeply pigmented ones.
✅ Use Mild Cleaners
Stick to warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, oven cleaner, or anything abrasive that might damage the finish.
✅ Avoid Heat Damage
Quartz is heat-resistant, not heat-proof. Always use trivets or hot pads to protect against scorching or discoloration from hot pots and pans.
✅ Skip the Sealer
Unlike natural stone, quartz does not require sealing — ever. That’s one of the biggest advantages of choosing quartz over granite or marble.
Removing Stains (If They Happen)
If you do get a stubborn spot, try:
A paste of baking soda and water
A soft cloth and glass cooktop cleaner
Non-abrasive cleaning pads
Still stuck? Contact your fabricator or quartz manufacturer for stain-specific solutions. Most brands also offer cleaning guides tailored to their surfaces.
Bottom line:
Quartz countertops are one of the most low-maintenance surfaces available. With a few simple habits, yours will stay clean, beautiful, and stain-free for years to come.