Since COVID, hygiene has made its way to the forefront of many people’s minds. Since the kitchen is a place that can get quite dirty, homeowners want to do what they can to keep their space clean.
A great way to keep your environment clean is to invest in antimicrobial countertops. These types of countertops prevent the growth of microorganisms like bacteria, mold, and mildew—things that love to flourish in the kitchen under the right (or wrong!) set of circumstances.
So people are wondering, Are stone countertops resistant to bacteria and other pathogens? Here at Washington Marble Works we’re excited to tell you that yes, they are. Quartz, marble, and granite are three of our best bacteria-resistant materials.
Quartz
Engineered quartz countertops are some of the best antimicrobial options because of how they’re made. These countertops are formed by combining natural quartz with polymers and resins that bind the particles together and seal the pores of quartz, transforming it into a nonporous material. This nonporous nature makes it easy to clean and highly resistant to bacteria. It’s a win-win!
These countertops are so easy to clean—all you need is a damp sponge or cloth to wipe up spills. You can also use a mild cleanser like dish soap, just make sure to rinse it off thoroughly after you scrub, because soaps can leave behind a film that dulls quartz’s shine.
If you’re interested in the look of natural stone without the maintenance that those countertops are known for, engineered quartz is a viable and hygienic option.
Natural Stone
Natural stone is inherently more porous than quartz, but it is still naturally resistant to bacteria, viruses, and other harmful germs. When you seal these countertops, they are just as nonporous as quartz and are pretty easy to clean and maintain too.
All you need to clean granite with is a sponge and soapy water. Wipe it down, rinse it off, and you’re done. Make sure to stay far away from cleaners like vinegar, Windex, and bleach, though, because those can weaken the sealant of granite and give bacteria the opportunity to sneak in.
There are tons of natural stone options to choose from—options that have varying degrees of porosity and all sorts of designs and colorations.
Your Clean Home
The countertop you choose plays a role in how clean your home is overall. Make sure you choose one that fits your hygiene needs. Get in touch with Washington Marble Works today to learn more!