What Stains Quartz Countertops and How to Prevent It

Quartz countertops are so low-maintenance that you don’t have to worry about stains — ever.

And if you believe that, we’ve got a granite quarry on the moon to sell you.

Here’s the thing: Quartz is definitely easier to maintain than some natural stone countertops. It doesn’t need sealing, it’s nearly non-porous, and it handles everyday messes like a champ. But the myth that quartz is stain-proof? That’s where things go sideways.

Yes, quartz is tough — but it’s not invincible. And if you’re not careful, certain spills and habits can leave behind some stubborn reminders. Let’s talk about things your contractor doesn’t want you to know—what actually stains quartz countertops and how to keep yours looking like the day it was installed.

The Myth of Maintenance-Free Quartz Countertops

“Quartz doesn’t stain.”

You’ve probably heard it from a contractor, designer, or even a well-meaning friend. It’s one of the most common selling points used to push quartz, and it’s everywhere.

So, where did the myth come from? And why does it stick?

1. It Feels True — at First

Quartz really does stand up to most everyday messes. It’s nearly non-porous, unlike natural stones like marble or granite, so it doesn’t soak up oil or wine in the same way. That’s why people say it’s stain-resistant.

But that doesn’t mean it’s stain-proof — and that’s where the confusion begins.

2. Contractors and Salespeople Oversimplify It

In an effort to make quartz sound like the easiest choice, a lot of pros skip the fine print. They focus on the fact that quartz doesn’t need sealing and can handle most messes — which is true.

But they leave out what happens if you let a spill sit too long… or if you use a cleaner that breaks down the resin in the surface. That’s when staining on quartz becomes a real issue.

3. Homeowners Want the “Easy Button”

No one wants to babysit their countertops. So when someone hears that quartz means no maintenance, it’s tempting to believe it — and pass it along. The myth spreads because you want it to be true.

Quartz is low-maintenance — not no-maintenance. The resin binders that hold the material together can still react to heat, harsh chemicals, or highly acidic spills.

And if that happens, you could be stuck dealing with tough stains on a surface you thought was invincible.

What Actually Stains Your Quartz Countertop?

Let’s clear this up: quartz countertops don’t stain because the stone itself is fragile — they stain because of what’s holding the whole thing together.

Quartz is tough. It’s one of the hardest minerals out there. But the resin used to bind the quartz pieces into a countertop? That’s the part that can react — especially when a spill is left to sit or hit with the wrong cleaning products.

So, what causes trouble? Usually, it’s everyday stuff you don’t think twice about.

Common Stain Offenders:

Red wine, tea, and coffee: These are rich in pigment and slightly acidic, which makes them a double threat. If they’re not wiped up quickly, especially on white quartz countertops, they can leave behind subtle discoloration that’s tough to reverse.
Curry, turmeric, and tomato sauce: Natural dyes might sound harmless, but they can cling to the quartz surface like they’ve moved in permanently, especially if they’re allowed to dry or sit for too long.
Cooking oils and grease: These usually don’t show up right away, but over time, they can dull your countertop’s shine. That “why does this spot look different?” feeling? That’s oil sneaking in.
Markers, nail polish, and makeup: These kinds of spills can leave more than color — some contain chemicals that react with the resins, especially if they stay on the surface too long without a soft cloth in sight.
Chemical cleaners like bleach: This one surprises people. Using something strong, like bleach or oven cleaner, can break down the bonds in the resin and cause fading, discoloration, or even dull patches. These aren’t stains, technically, but they sure look like it.

Most stains on quartz countertops happen not because of the mess itself, but because of the delay. Life gets busy — it’s easy to forget a few drops of sauce or a coffee ring until it’s too late. But if you want to keep your quartz countertops looking beautiful, the best move is quick action and smart prevention.

How to Prevent Stains on Quartz Countertops

You don’t need to baby your countertops — just treat them like they matter. Quartz is a highly resistant and low-maintenance countertop material, but even the best surfaces can wear down without a few smart habits.

Here’s how to keep your countertops safe — and keep your quartz countertops looking beautiful long-term:

Clean spills immediately: Don’t let sauces, wine, or oils hang out. The longer a spill sits, the more likely it is to become a quartz stain, especially on light-colored surfaces.
Always use a cutting board: Not just to avoid a scratch, but to stop acidic juice or sticky messes from sitting directly on the quartz. It’s a simple move that protects your investment.
Use trivets or hot pads: Even though quartz is heat-resistant, placing a scorching pan directly on the countertop can discolor the resin. Hot pads to protect your surface are always worth it.
Skip abrasive cleaners: Abrasive cleaners and rough scrubbing can wear down the finish. Stick to mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft cloth for regular wipe-downs. A microfibre cloth is recommended for a streak-free shine.
No bleach, ever: Avoid anything with ammonia, bleach, or other harsh cleaning agents. These can break down the resin and ruin the look of your quartz surface.

Need more help cleaning your kitchen counters? Read: 5 Easy Kitchen Cleaning Tips.

How to Treat Stains (If It’s Too Late)

Okay, so a spill sat too long. It happens. But before you reach for the chemical cleaners, know this: the wrong product can make the stain worse.

Here’s what’s recommended for cleaning quartz countertops safely:

For minor stains and oils: Try a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently wipe away with a soft cloth or microfibre cloth. Don’t scrub too hard — patience beats pressure.
For hard water marks or buildup: Mix white vinegar and warm water, then rinse thoroughly. It’s gentle, effective, and safe to use on quartz countertops when needed.
For everyday messes: Use a pH-balanced quartz cleaner. These cleaning agents are made specifically for quartz maintenance and won’t mess with the surface.

For deeper insight into safe cleaning habits (especially if you’ve got more than one type of stone in your home), check out our tips on the best way to clean granite countertops.

What not to do:

Don’t use metallic objects to scrape off dried spills — they can scratch or damage the countertop surface.
Don’t go in with heavy-duty chemicals or mystery “stain removers” that aren’t meant for quartz.
Don’t panic and start trying every product under your sink — proper maintenance starts with restraint.

If you’re stuck with stubborn stains, it might be time to call in a pro. In some cases, DIY fixes can do more harm than good. But with regular care and a little awareness, you can avoid most problems — and remove stains from quartz countertops before they set in.

Because quartz is one of the most beautiful, durable materials out there — and with the right habits, it’ll stay that way for years.

Final Thoughts

Quartz may be highly resistant to stains, but no countertop is immune to everyday life. With the right habits and a little knowledge, you can avoid common mistakes, treat the occasional slip-up, and keep your quartz countertops looking beautiful for years to come.

And if you’re still in the planning stage or thinking about upgrading your space, we’re here to help. At Cutting Edge Countertops, we don’t just offer quartz — we guide you through the best material, finish, and maintenance plan for your home, your habits, and your style.

Stop into one of our showrooms or reach out to talk to a real countertop expert (not a salesperson). Let’s make sure your next surface is beautiful, durable, and built to last.

Ready to find your perfect countertop? Experience the difference with Cutting Edge Countertops.

Facebook