A typical homeowner putting thousands of dollars into new kitchen countertops understandably wants something durable and long lasting. Both natural and engineered stone are good choices. But there is always a question about staining. So what is the deal with quartz? Does it stain easily?
Quartz countertops are considered engineered stone products. While quartz itself is a natural mineral, it needs to be combined with other materials to make a solid surface – like a countertop. This should tell you something about quartz and the staining question: quartz countertops are purposely made to be stain resistant.
Stain Resistant vs. Stain Proof
It is important to point out that being stain resistant does not mean being stain proof. As tough and durable as quartz countertops are, they can be stained. The good news is that most materials capable of staining quartz are only likely to do so if they remain in contact with the surface for a long period of time.
Here is another way to look at it: if you clean up food spills and other substances likely to stain quartz right away, staining is not likely to be an issue. But if you let those substances sit on the counter for any length of time, you could end up with a stain.
Things to be concerned about with quartz countertops include:
- Wax.
- Acidic foods.
- Alkaline cleaners.
- High pH detergents.
- Nail polish and makeup.
In terms of foods, you are looking mainly at things like orange and lemon juice, carbonated soft drinks, wine, and other highly acidic foods. You should also be careful with different oils, cooking grease, and vinegar. The general rule is to simply clean up messes right away.
Regular Care and Maintenance
Quartz countertops, by and large, hold up very well against daily wear and tear. The key to keeping them looking new and beautiful is regular care and maintenance. Once again, preventing staining is a matter of quickly cleaning up spills. As for regular daily cleaning, a pH neutral cleaner is the best way to go.
An acidic cleaner is likely to damage the quartz surface. However, an alkaline cleaner is likely to leave stains. So your best bet is something that is non-acidic and pH neutral.
You can buy countertop cleaners made specifically for quartz. We think they are worth the investment even though they might cost slightly more than your other options. If you have a cleaner that you are not sure of, take a look at the active ingredients or search online for information before you use it.
Use Cutting Boards and Trivets
Another way to prevent unsightly damage to a quartz countertop is to always use a cutting board when working with knives. A nice butcher block cutting board offers a thick work surface that will keep your knives clear of the countertop. Butcher block also tends to be a smooth surface. You should find it easy enough to work with.
Some people recommend laying down a towel and then the cutting board on top. That way, when you set the knife down, you are likely to set it on the towel rather than directly on the countertop surface.
One last thing to remember is to make ample use of trivets or potholders. Although quartz can withstand pretty significant heat, there’s no point in taking chances. Place hot pots and pans on a trivet or potholder instead.
Remember that quartz countertops are stain resistant. That does not make them stain proof. If you are careful with knives and hot pots and pans, and you quickly clean up any spills, you shouldn’t have stain issues with quartz.
