As students gear up and head back to school, you can expect an influx of germs in your home. With everyone coming and going, you'll want to make sure your kitchen stays clean and free of germs. Here are some tips for keeping your kitchen clean and safe, particularly when it comes to your countertops.
Keeping Your Kitchen Clean While You Cook
In addition to the well-known threat of coronaviruses, there are other germs you need to protect yourself against, especially in the kitchen where food is prepared. Common bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, and listeria can be found lurking in the kitchen and are known to cause illnesses. The Los Angeles Times provides helpful advice on how to keep your kitchen as clean as possible:
Wash dirty dishes, cutting boards, pots, and pans immediately.
Wash your hands regularly, including before sitting down to eat after preparing a meal.
Create a cleaning routine that includes wiping down surfaces regularly.
Remove trash frequently.
Clean up as you cook.
Prevent cross-contamination by ensuring that raw meat does not come into contact with other surfaces and by using a separate cutting board.
Avoid "double-dipping" by using a new spoon each time you taste your culinary creation.
Germs on Kitchen Countertops
It's important to note that many beautiful materials such as wood and natural stone are porous, providing a breeding ground for bacteria. These surfaces can trap food, and moisture, and create a comfortable environment for germs to thrive. To minimize the presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, as well as fungus and mold, we recommend using non-porous countertop surfaces in your kitchen. These surfaces are free of cracks and fissures and are less prone to etching, staining, or divots, which are signs of more porous surfaces.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz is a highly durable and hygienic countertop surface made from a mixture of natural minerals held together using polymers and resin. Quartz countertops are non-porous, leaving no place for bacteria to hide. Cleaning your quartz countertop is easy—simply use a non-abrasive cleaning cloth with soap and water.
Granite Countertops
Granite is a popular natural stone countertop surface created by Mother Nature. At Universal Stone, we offer granite that is composed of the highest grade naturally occurring material. Granite, like marble, needs to be sealed to reduce its porousness. Professional sealing not only maintains the natural beauty of granite countertops but also helps prevent the harboring of harmful bacteria and germs. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or bleach to clean your granite countertops.
No matter the material of your kitchen countertops, we always recommend following the appropriate care and maintenance guidelines.
If you're ready to turn your dream kitchen into a reality, Universal Stone is here to help. Our expert team can install the quality materials you choose from our extensive selection. Schedule your free in-home consultation today!
