Quartz countertops are popular for their durability, sleek look, and low maintenance. However, even quartz surfaces can sometimes develop stains from spills, oils, or food that lingers. One of the safest and most effective natural ways to clean quartz countertops is using baking soda. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use baking soda to remove stains from your quartz surfaces.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need to clean the stain effectively:
- Baking soda
- Water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Plastic scraper (optional)
- Non-abrasive cleaner (optional)
2. Create a Baking Soda Paste
To tackle stubborn stains, you'll need to make a paste using baking soda and water. In a small bowl, mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to create a thick, spreadable paste. The consistency should be like toothpaste, so it sticks to the surface rather than running off.
3. Apply the Paste to the Stain
Once you’ve created the baking soda paste, apply it directly to the stained area of your quartz countertop. Use a soft cloth or your fingers to gently rub the paste into the stain. Make sure the stain is fully covered with the paste.
4. Let the Paste Sit
After applying the baking soda paste, allow it to sit on the stain for at least 15-30 minutes. For deeper or more stubborn stains, you can leave it on for a few hours or even overnight. The longer the paste sits, the more it will work to lift the stain from the surface of the quartz.
5. Wipe Away the Paste
Once the baking soda paste has had time to work, use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe it away. Be sure to remove all of the paste, as baking soda can leave a residue if not thoroughly cleaned off.
6. Rinse with Water
After removing the baking soda paste, rinse the area with clean water to ensure that no residue remains. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the countertop and ensure that the surface is fully clean.
7. Check the Results
Once you've wiped away the paste and rinsed the surface, check the stain. In most cases, the baking soda should have lifted the stain, leaving your quartz countertop looking clean and fresh. If the stain is still visible, you can repeat the process or use a non-abrasive cleaner for additional cleaning power.
8. For Tougher Stains
For more stubborn stains, like oil or grease, you can combine the baking soda paste with a non-abrasive cleaner. Apply the cleaner to the stain, followed by the baking soda paste, and gently scrub the area with a soft cloth or sponge.
9. Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Quartz is a durable material, but harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners can damage its surface. Avoid using acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon, or ammonia, as they can degrade the resin that holds the quartz together. Stick to mild, non-abrasive cleaners and natural solutions like baking soda for the best results.
10. Regular Maintenance
To prevent future stains, clean up spills immediately, especially liquids like wine, coffee, and oils, which can stain quartz over time. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water will also help maintain the beauty of your quartz countertops.
Using baking soda to clean quartz countertops is a simple and effective way to remove stubborn stains without causing damage. Whether you're dealing with oil stains, food spills, or general grime, this method will help restore your quartz surfaces to their original, polished look. Remember to clean your countertops regularly to prevent stains from forming and always use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning techniques to protect your investment.