Hair dye is a fun way to express yourself and remove some gray hairs you might be seeing pop up. But hair dye can be a messy endeavor and if you let it sit on your quartz countertops for too long, it can be difficult to remove.
Before you start breaking out the high-end cleaning products, take a moment to learn the best methods of removing hair dye from quartz countertops.
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Why Does Hair Dye Stain
Hair dye contains a combination of chemicals designed to change your hair color from its natural color to something else. In a way, you are purposely staining your hair for a desired hair color. These chemicals are designed to stay in your hair so you can keep the chosen color you want for longer. In contrast, this same chemical combination also makes it difficult to remove from countertops.
Quartz is Stain Resistant
Quartz is an artificial stone which built to be stronger in comparison to natural stone. Quartz is known to be incredibly stain resistant, but that does not make it stain proof. Being stain resistant means that it is very difficult to change or damage something. Essentially, it is possible to stain quartz, but it requires some work to do so. Stain proof means in most case scenarios, a stain should not ever appear.
Quartz slabs are artificially created to be non-porous, giving them a smooth surface for easy cleaning. Meaning, quartz is constructed to be more durable than others.
How to Remove Hair Dye from Quartz Countertops
There are a few methods on cleaning quartz countertops, depending on how long the dye has been left to sit. The most common and effective ways for removing hair dye are:
1. Soap + Water
The best way to clean quartz countertops is with a combination of a mild dish soap, warm water, and a microfiber cloth. Wiping in small circles allows the soapy water to reach the most surface area and remove the spill.
When using hair dye, be observant to clean any spills you see immediately to prevent the dye from drying. The faster you can wipe off the dye, the easier it will be to maintain your quartz countertop.
2. Rubbing Alcohol
By using a combination of rubbing alcohol, warm water, dish soap and soft cloth, the diluted alcohol should be enough to clear away any dye residue. It may benefit you to have the solution in a spray bottle for future use.
Similar to the regular dish soap and water strategy, spray the affected area and wipe with a microfiber cloth in a circular motion until the stain is removed. After all traces of dye are removed, rinse with warm water and dry or paper towel.
3. Vinegar + Water
A popular DIY solution is using a combination of 50% vinegar and 50% warm water. Vinegar is a natural stain remover and deodorizer, allowing it to remove any stains without harming the quartz.
Combine your vinegar-water solution into a bowl and use a microfiber cloth to lightly apply onto the affected area. Allow the cloth to sit for 1-2 minutes before wiping away. If the stain persists, apply the solution to sit and allow it to sit overnight to help break down the dyes chemicals. Once the stain has been removed, wipe away with warm water and a soft cloth.
4. Baking Soda and Water
Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent which is less abrasive than other cleaning products. Mix some baking soda into a bowl of warm water until it becomes a paste. Using a microfiber cloth, spatula or applicator, place the paste onto the stain and gently rub it in until the paste covers the entire stain. Let the baking soda sit overnight to remove the hair dye chemicals. The following morning, remove the paste with a blunt tool and the hair dye should be removed. Clean the excess baking soda residue with warm water and a dry towel.
5. Multi-Purpose Cleaners:
Some quartz countertop companies have specific instructions on how to clean stains. Caesarstone’s Care Guide suggests using Soft Scrub® Liquid Gel with Bleach to remove dried spills and cosmetics.
Keep in mind that every quartz company has their own care and maintenance guide on how to clean their product. Find your quartz provider and call their helpline to see what is allowed to be used on their products. Do not mix cleaning chemicals or use a product one company approves for another company's product. Mixing chemicals or improper cleaning can damage your quartz countertops and possibly void their warranty.
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Preventing Hair Dye from Staining Quartz Countertop
The simplest way of removing a hair dye from quartz is by making sure it is never left on long enough to stain. When using hair dye, make sure to follow these simple steps to keep your countertops safe.
1. Wipe away hair dye immediately with a clean, damp cloth.
2. Use a towel, old shirt, or rag to cover your countertop when hair dye is being applied. The added protection will allow the hair dye to land on the covering instead of your countertops.
3. Have a solution of dish soap and water ready to clean up any dye that might spill.
Do Not Use on Quartz Countertops
It is imperative you never use certain chemicals or cleaning solutions for your quartz countertops. Certain products like bleach, paint remover, oil soaps or oven cleaners can discolor the slab or damage it.
Always use caution when using chemicals that stain.
With this helpful guide, you have all you need to safely dye your hair, protect your quartz countertop, and clean up any mess that comes your way.