A quartz countertop is an artificial stone made from a combination of stone-like particles and plastic resin. They are easy to clean, maintain, glamorous and sturdy, which makes them one of the top choices of homeowners.
Quartz countertops may be stain resistant, but they are not resistant to certain stains like water and scratches. The water we use in kitchens and bathrooms is hard, and it can cause surfaces to stain.
Quartz countertops are prone to water stains because they are used mostly in areas where the use of water is almost unavoidable. Water stains are one of the hardest stains to clean, and that is why this article is all about removing hard water stains from countertops. So if you are ready, let’s begin!
Do Quartz countertops get water stains
Yes, quartz countertops get water stains. Ordinarily, quartz countertops are supposed to be stain-resistant because they have a non-porous surface, which protects them against liquid and spills that could cause stains.
When most people see red oil or wine stains on quartz countertops, they will be quick to wipe it off knowing full well that leaving it there will cause great discoloration, but are most likely to ignore water droplets probably because they think it cannot cause a dent.
If water is left on quartz countertops without any immediate attention, it can cause a blemish on the surface and may lead to loss of its glamorous appearance.
Why do quartz countertops have hard water stains
That is because hard water contains minerals like iron, calcium, and lime. These minerals will get themselves attached to the quartz surface, forming a chalk-like stain that wouldn’t come off easily. A hard water stain is so difficult to clean that quartz cleaner is not potent against it.
Can water stains be removed from quartz countertops
Yes, you can remove water stains from quartz countertops, but I wouldn’t promise it will come out easily. However, with the right cleaner and persistence, they will become as they used to be.
Later in this article, some carefully selected cleaners are suggested and discussed in so read on.
How to remove watermark from quartz countertops
You can get rid of watermark stains on your quartz countertop surface using any of the following methods. The methods discussed in this section do not require any cleaner, all you have to do is get the appropriate too and follow the guidelines to be provided.
Attack the watermark stain using a plastic spatula
- Crate enough working space by clearing out every on the countertop.
- Scratch off mineral deposits on the countertop surface with a plastic spatula. If the stain refuses to budge after few trials, you can use a razor blade.
- Brush off any watermark stain residue and clean the treated surface with a mild detergent.
Note: Using a sharp object on your quartz countertop surface can be dangerous, so you will have to be extremely careful.
Steel wool
You can break down watermark stains on a quartz countertop surface by using steel wool.
Steel wool usage
- Wipe the steel wool on the entire quartz countertop surface, ( doesn’t matter whether they are stained or not) in a circular direction. This should help break down the watermark stain.
- Clean loosened stains remnant on the countertop surface with a dry cloth or towel.
Note: This method is weak and should only be used to attack fresh watermark stains.
Plastic wrap
As opposed to steel wool that is best used on fresh watermark stains, plastic wrap on the other hand is best used for tougher watermark stains on quartz countertops but more effective when used in combination with a cleaner. In this case, I will be using a poultice cleaner which is very useful for removing tough stains on any surface.
Plastic wrap usage
- Pour poultice cleaner on the stained spot and leave it to sit for few minutes.
- Rub the poultice cleaner on the countertop surface with plastic wrap. 3. Once the stain has been successfully lifted off from the surface, clean stain remnants on the surface with a sponge or towel.
How to remove water stains from quartz countertop with Vinegar
- Make a solution from the mixtures of equal amounts of distilled white vinegar and water.
- Sprinkle the solution moderately on the affected spot and leave it to sit for about 10 minutes.
- Rub the solution on the affected spot using a wet cloth or towel until the stain is completely lifted.
- Wipe the lifted stains off the surface using a clean dry cloth or towel.
If after application, you found vinegar odor offensive, you can add a few drops of essential oil on the treated surface to help deodorize it.
Note: You may be tempted to attempt using vinegar alone without diluting it, but don’t. Using undiluted vinegar on your quartz countertop can damage it and leave it dented.
How to remove water stains from quartz countertops with baking soda
- Make a paste from the combination of baking soda and water.
- Apply the paste to the affected spot and leave it to sit for 10 minutes.
- Rub in the paste using a soft cloth or towel and scrub until the stain is lifted.
- Rinse the treated spot and wipe a clean dry cloth or towel on the surface to dry it up.
How to prevent water spots on quartz countertops
Quartz countertops are mostly used in kitchens and bathrooms, places where we use water daily therefore, you cannot prevent water spots or stains on quartz countertops altogether. However, you can prevent them from setting. You can prevent water stains from setting by dipping a soft sponge or cloth in warm water and gently scrub it on the surface after use.
Conclusion!
Removing water stains may be difficult, but if you treat it almost immediately it happened, it shouldn’t be a big issue. Also, you should refrain from using abrasive or acidic cleaners on your quartz countertops because they can cause permanent damage to your countertop.
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