It’s a classic dilemma: You want a kitchen counter that’s beautiful and stays free of germs without needing a ton of maintenance. But which material should you use? Believe it or not, there are countertop materials that fit these exact criteria.
Kitchen remodels involve many decisions. What kind of cabinets do I want? Should I go with a classic look or a more modern style? How can I best utilize space? Among those decisions/questions is countertop choice. In many ways, the countertop is the linchpin of the kitchen. It’s what makes or breaks the look. It’s also one of the most interactive aspects of any home. People cook on it, touch it, spill things on it, and so much more, which means it’s crucial to keep it clean and free of germs. With that in mind, here are some countertop choices that are easy to maintain and look great!
Quartz
Quartz countertops are a great choice for those who spend a lot of time in the kitchen and/or those who sometimes forget to clean up right away. Quartz (also known as engineered stone) is man-made, extremely durable, and requires very little maintenance. It is non-porous, which means water and other messes are unable to penetrate the material and create breeding grounds for bacteria. Quartz countertops only require warm water, soap, and a non-abrasive cloth to maintain, and don’t need to be resealed. Best of all, quartz comes in a variety of styles and designs that can give any kitchen that polished look.
Solid Surface
For those who might not know, solid surface is a man-made, non-porous, seamless type of countertop material. Solid surface countertops are self-supporting and can be easily repaired if scratched or dented. Because they are not porous like other materials, such as granite, they do not create ideal environments for germs/bacteria. This also makes solid surface countertops simple to maintain; just use a little soap and water with a non-abrasive cloth. Additionally, this material allows for the installation of other features, such as sinks and backsplashes, without the presence of seams (little gaps where bacteria can thrive). On top of all these features, solid surface countertops come in a wide assortment of styles and can even be made to look like other high-end materials (marble, granite, etc.).
Laminate
If you’re looking for a kitchen counter that is easy to clean but is also affordable, you might be interested in a laminate countertop. Laminate is a cost-effective material that requires simple cleaning with soap and water to maintain. It is also stain-resistant, and some laminate materials contain antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth of bacteria. While laminate in the past was looked at as a cheap and less desirable material, today, it can be made to look like almost any high-end countertop. Laminate comes in a wide variety of colors, designs, and patterns that can easily fit any kitchen style.
While there are many factors that play into countertop choice, it’s important that sanitation maintenance be one of them. A kitchen counter is a high traffic area and can increase the risk of illness if not properly maintained. Materials that are not only easy to clean but are also resistant to bacteria development can significantly reduce this risk.