Disinfecting high-touch surfaces in your household is one of the most important ways to combat Covid-19 and other illnesses, and there are few areas as high-touch as the kitchen. Most studies agree that the virus can live on many surfaces for up to several days so disinfecting will be necessary if you want to guarantee a virus-free kitchen. Here are some tips on disinfecting your kitchen surfaces to meet Covid-fighting standards that will not ruin your countertops, cabinetry, and other feature parts of your kitchen.
Granite and Quartz
Though both Granite and Quartz are classically resistant to lingering bacteria no significant studies have been done on how long viruses, and specifically COVID-19, can remain infectious on stone surfaces. For Granite and Quartz, you’ll want to avoid using bleach or any high acidity or abrasive cleaner as that can wear away at the seal. Fortunately, one of the main methods that is recommended for cleaning Granite and Quartz is also one of the most effective methods of disinfecting for Covid. Use a solution of at least 70% Alcohol and there are many premade 70% Isopropyl Solutions available for purchase. This meets the guidelines for eliminating COVID-19 on surfaces.
Laminate
Like stone, Laminate should not be cleaned with bleach as it can discolor it but thankfully the same alcohol solution used for Granite and Quartz is just as effective and non-damaging to laminate.
Wood
Unlike with Granite and Quartz, Bleach is one of the best methods for disinfecting wooden parts of your kitchen. To combat COVID-19 it is recommended that you use Bleach that contains at least 5.25% to 8.25% sodium hypochlorite, a percentage that can fortunately be found in many commercial bleaches. The common household bleach that you can buy at the supermarket has 5.25% sodium hypochlorite. So long as your cabinets are finished, and you rinse and dry them this method should cause no lasting damage to the finish.
Hopefully, we’ve provided you with several methods to safely disinfect your high-touch surfaces without risking the beauty of your kitchen.
Elite Kitchens and Bathrooms, based in Langley, BC, is your source for everything custom cabinetry related. As the 2019 winner of the Vancouver Consumer Choice Award, they pride themselves on stellar customer service to match the quality of their cabinets.
If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about cabinets, we encourage you to contact us at [email protected].
