The kitchen is the center of life at home right now. With the current health risks of COVID-19 it is especially important to use preventive measures against possible infections. Follow these cleaning and disinfecting tips to help avoid infection and properly clean your countertops and other areas in the kitchen:

Countertops can be a landing zone for germs, so it’s a good idea to wash these daily. First, wash surfaces with soap and water to remove dirt and debris. Next, sanitize surfaces with a household disinfectant. Be sure to leave the surface wet for a few minutes before wiping away. Most cleaners have a time frame listed on the bottle, but many people neglect this step.

Marble Countertops – The soap and water method works well with marble countertops, but you should disinfect as well. An alcohol-based solution is the safest to use on marble? Bleach is acidic and can etch the surface of the marble over time.

Granite and Quartz Countertops – Most household cleaners are safe for granite and quartz, just be sure to wipe it clean with a wet cloth to avoid film buildup.

Soapstone – Wipe the surface with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. A mild bleach solution may be used. Don’t use an abrasive cleaner or scrub pads because they may scratch the surface.

Butcher Block – Unfortunately the usual white vinegar, won’t kill viruses like COVID-19. For this type of countertop, you should use a hydrogen-peroxide based cleaner. This will kill the virus without damaging the wood. Leave the solution on the wood, and then wipe it off with a wet cloth. Use a dry cloth to dry the countertop after that.

Always keep the common spaces clean, including the knobs on the doors and cabinets, the light switch, the fridge handle.

Clean the dishes and kitchenware, preferably in a dishwasher, at maximum temperature.

Change and wash kitchen towels frequently at maximum temperature. Leave the scouring pads and sponges to soak in water mixture (10% bleach and 90% water) for five minutes.

For additional tips on how to avoid the spread of COVID-19 in the kitchen visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.html