Quartz Countertop Looks Cloudy: 9 Solutions for a Clear Finish

If you’ve noticed that your quartz countertop looks cloudy, you’re not alone. This is one of those things that’s actually super common and generally easy to fix.

Our Tip: Try creating a paste out of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the cloudy area and let it soak for a few minutes. Then gently wipe it away.

If this doesn’t work you will likely need a specialty product. We recommend this one.

There are several factors that can result in a cloudy quartz countertop:

• Defects in manufacturing
• Prolonged exposure to sunlight
• Harsh cleaners
• Placing hot items directly on the surface
• Water and soap buildup
• Food and drink stains

If you want to return your countertop back to its pristine and shiny state, you’ll need to determine how it got cloudy in the first place. Once you figure that out, then you can look at solutions.

Related: How to fix a chipped quartz countertop

Causes of Cloudy Quartz Countertops

Food and Drink Stains

Food and drink spills are one of the main culprits that can cause a cloudy quartz countertop. Anything that causes a stain can dry on the surface, which can mar the finish. And since spilling drinks are, unfortunately, just a normal part of life, the only way to prevent this is to wipe your skills as soon as they occur.

Permanent Damage

Some substances can leave permanent stains on quartz countertops, like ink or deeply colored liquids. If you have to place them on your quartz surface, be sure to use a protective barrier like a placemat or coaster.

Harsh Cleaners

Using the wrong type of cleaning products can also lead to cloudy quartz countertops. Common abrasive agents like acetone and high-strength bleach can damage the surface, especially if it’s undiluted. Instead, opt for milder cleaning solutions like a gentle dish soap or products that are specifically design to clean quartz.

Sunlight Exposure

Continuous exposure to sunlight, and more specifically ultraviolet rays can cause cloudiness in quartz surfaces. Over time, direct sunlight can affect the stone’s ability to produce a uniform luster.

Hot Items

Placing hot pots and pans directly on your quartz countertop can leave a stain or cloudy mark. Even though quartz is heat resistant, there is a threshold.

Manufacturing Defects

Sometimes, cloudy marks on quartz countertops can be due to defects in the manufacturing process. In such cases, you may need to consult your countertop supplier or manufacturer to fix the issue (or replace the faulty segment).

Prevention Techniques

There are several ways you can prevent your quartz countertop from looking cloudy. By following these best practices, you can keep your countertop looking shiny and new for years to come.

Proper Installation

To begin with, make sure your quartz countertop is installed by a professional. You want someone who knows what they’re doing when they’re installing it, because improper installation can lead to defects that causes cloudiness later on.

Avoiding Extreme Heat

As much as you can, try to avoid putting hot pots or pans directly on your countertop. Use some sort of barrier like a trivet or potholder or better yet, allow them to cool before placing it on the countertop.

Regular Cleaning

Regularly cleaning your quartz countertop can prevent the build-up of water, soap, and dirt that cause cloudiness. To clean your countertop, simply mix warm water and a few drops of (mild) dish detergent in a spray bottle. Spritz the countertop and wipe it down with a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, as these can scratch the surface.

Protection from Sunlight

Although quartz is generally UV-resistant, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause discoloration or cloudiness in some cases. If your countertop is exposed to direct sunlight, consider installing shades or blinds to protect it. You can also re-arrange your furniture to limit (or block) the sunlight so that your countertop isn’t as exposed.

Cleaning and Maintenance Solutions

Removing Mild Stains and Spills

Since spilling is a part of life, the best thing you can do when it happens is to wipe it up straight away. Using a soft cloth or microfiber rag, wipe up any liquids like tea, soda, or water that might stains.

If the spill appears more difficult to remove, dampen a sponge with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Gently scrub the stained area until the discoloration disappears.

Dealing with Permanent Stains

In the case of stubborn or permanent stains, you’ll need to treat affected area carefully to avoid further damage. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or bleach, as these can cause your quartz countertops to look cloudy.

Instead, create a paste using a small amount of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the area. Rinse and dry the surface thoroughly after removing the stain.

You probably have seen some tips about using vinegar. Opinions on the internet seems mixed, with some touting diluted solutions as the way to go while others advise staying away from it because of its acidity. Personally I’ve had mixed success when it comes to using vinegar to remove stain—there are times when it has worked and times when it hasn’t, so if you want to be safe it’s probably best to use something else.

Restoring Shine

Over time, your quartz countertops may lose their shine due to residue buildup or aging of the sealant. To restore the shine, you can use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth.

Spray the glass cleaner onto the countertop and gently buff the surface in a circular motion until it becomes shiny again. This method is ideal for monthly maintenance or when your countertops look dull.

Fixing Scratches and Cracks

If your quartz countertops develop scratches or cracks, cleaning products aren’t going to cut it. You’ll need to consult a professional for advice and repair.

By following these cleaning and maintenance solutions, you’ll be able to keep your quartz countertops clean, stain-free, and looking their best for years to come.