A clean environment is essential to health. In this lesson, you will learn the proper way to sanitize your countertops. Different materials require different care; however, mild soap and water is a universal go-to. Furthermore, soap and water are deemed as an effective way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as well. How does it fight the virus? Dr. John Williams, chief of the division of pediatric infectious diseases at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, explains that, under the microscope, coronaviruses are covered with spikes, giving them the appearance of having a crown or “corona” (hence the name). Under the crown is the outer layer of the virus, which is made up of lipids, commonly known as fat. Think of soap’s ability to dissolve grease and fats while you do dishes. Dr. Williams states, “It physically inactivates the virus, so it can’t bind to and enter human cells anymore,” in regards to this cleaning method.

Solid Surface

Solid Surface has remarkable hygienic properties. For regular cleaning, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the surfaces. For dirty or stained areas, use mild dish soap mixed with water. You can also use ammonia-based cleaners, such as most glass or general purpose cleaners, without damaging solid surface.

Quartz

To wipe up daily spills, use mild dish soap and a soft, damp cloth. For dried spills or stains, glass or surface cleaner with a nonabrasive sponge is very effective. You can scrub hard without worrying about the sponge scratching your countertops.

Quartzite

For quartzite, use a non-acidic, low pH cleanser, such as mild soap and water or stone-specific cleaners. Keep in mind that not every quartzite has exactly the same makeup, so you should be sure to ask your sales rep what cleaners they recommend for your specific countertop.

Granite

For granite, wipe the surface down with mild dish soap and warm water. Be sure to rinse the surface off thoroughly afterwards. A 50:50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and water is also a safe and effective choice. Avoid using vinegar, Windex, or bleach on granite. Frequent uses of these acidic substances can dull the granite and weaken the sealant.

Marble

You must be cautious when using certain cleaners on marble, as they may damage the surface. Mild soap dish soap and warm water is plenty effective for this material. Be sure to clean with a soft cloth or sponge, as this surface is prone to scratching.

Soapstone

After a mineral oil treatment,  most household cleansers are safe to use on soapstone. Generally, using mild soap dish soap and warm water is a good choice for keeping this material clean.

Laminate

Cleaning laminate is very simple and similar to cleaning solid surface. For regular cleaning, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the surfaces. For dirty or stained areas, use mild dish soap mixed with water. You can also use ammonia-based cleaners, such as most glass or general purpose cleaners, without damaging solid surface.

Wood

For every day cleaning, wiping the surface clean with mild dish soap mixed with water each time it is used will help discourage juices and oils from penetrating the wood. You can also use a very diluted chlorine bleach on occasions.  Do not overdo the chlorine bleach method, as frequent exposure can cause the wood to dry out.

We hope that you found this health class helpful! As for all of the above materials, you should towel dry the surface after cleaning to prevent water marks. Following this lesson will help keep you and your family healthy with clean surfaces!