How To Maintain Quartz And Keep Your Quartz Countertop Stain-Free
July 25, 2025
A quartz countertop is more than just a work surface—it’s a design statement. Known for their timeless elegance, durability, and low maintenance, quartz countertops have become a top choice for kitchens and bathrooms alike. While quartz is celebrated for being highly resistant to stains, scratches, and chips, no surface is entirely carefree. To keep your quartz countertop looking pristine and stain-free for years to come, a little bit of consistent care goes a long way.
Quartz Stain Resistance: What to Expect
One of the biggest advantages of a quartz countertop is its stain resistance. Because quartz is an engineered stone—made from natural quartz crystals combined with resins—it is nonporous. This means it does not easily absorb liquids the way natural stone surfaces like granite or marble do. As a result, substances such as oil, grease, coffee, or juice are less likely to seep in and cause permanent marks.
However, it’s important to note that stain-resistant does not mean stain-proof. Prolonged exposure to certain substances, particularly acidic or pigmented liquids like red wine, tomato sauce, or tea, can lead to discoloration if left untreated. Quartz countertops are tough, but they still need your attention.
Preventing Quartz Stains
The best way to maintain your quartz countertops is through prevention. A few proactive steps can make a big difference in avoiding stains and damage:
- Act quickly on spills. Wipe up coffee, wine, and juice as soon as they happen.
- Use trays and coasters. Place drinks and bottles on coasters to reduce direct contact.
- Cut on cutting boards. Avoid slicing directly on your quartz countertop to prevent scratches and protect the surface resin.
- Use trivets and hot pads. Quartz is heat resistant but not heatproof. Hot pans and baking sheets can leave scorch marks if placed directly on the surface.
By treating your quartz countertop with care, you’ll ensure it continues to look as polished and beautiful as the day it was installed.
Quartz Maintenance
Caring for your quartz countertops doesn’t require special products—just consistency. Incorporate these easy cleaning steps into your routine:
- Everyday Cleaning: Wipe down surfaces with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge and mild dish soap diluted in warm water.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stay away from cleaners with bleach, ammonia, or strong solvents. These can break down the resin binders in quartz and dull the finish.
- Gentle Stain Removal: For stubborn spots, make a paste of baking soda and water. Spread it over the stain, let it sit briefly, and then gently scrub with a soft cloth before rinsing clean.
- Polishing: While quartz doesn’t need regular sealing like natural stone, you can occasionally apply a quartz polish to enhance shine and add an extra layer of protection.
Protection Against Heat
While quartz countertops are more resilient than many other surfaces, there are still a couple of important protection tips to remember:
- Heat Protection: Always use trivets, hot pads, or heat-resistant mats when setting down cookware. Direct heat can leave permanent burn marks or discoloration, especially on lighter, marble-look quartz.
- Sunlight Protection: Quartz countertops can fade or discolor if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. In sun-drenched spaces, consider window treatments or UV-filtering film to protect your counters.
Why Quartz Countertops Don’t Need Sealing
Unlike granite or marble, quartz countertops never need sealing. The engineered, nonporous surface naturally resists moisture and bacteria, which makes it an excellent option for kitchens and bathrooms. This means one less step in your maintenance routine and greater peace of mind knowing your counters are hygienic and low-maintenance.
Quartz Recommendations
- Regular Sealing Not Required: Unlike natural stone, quartz does not require sealing.
- Avoid Cutting Directly on the Surface: Use cutting boards to prevent scratches.
- Polishing: Use a quartz polish occasionally to enhance the shine and protect the surface.
- Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure: To prevent discoloration, minimize direct sunlight on the countertops.
Long-Lasting Beauty with Quartz
The beauty of a quartz countertop is that it combines luxury with practicality. With just a few daily habits—like wiping up spills quickly, avoiding harsh chemicals, and using heat protection—you’ll enjoy countertops that remain sleek, glossy, and stain-free for decades. Whether you’ve chosen the soft elegance of Carrara Breve Quartz or the dramatic veining of Calacatta Miraggio Duo, quartz countertops are designed to perform as beautifully as they look.
Quartz is one of the easiest materials to maintain and care for, and most of these care tips and tricks would apply to any type of countertop. These are just a few simple things you can do to keep your quartz countertops looking beautiful for many years to come. For more cleaning inspiration for your entire cooking space, reach out to one of our design experts. We're available to chat through our online feature, you can visit one of our showrooms, or find an MSI authorized dealer near you.
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