Keeping your house clean can already be a daunting task, but keeping it germ-free will certainly be a challenge. Some areas of your home can be a hotbed for diseases, and the kitchen is one of those places that can breed sickness-causing germs that can lead to serious repercussions.
According to the CDC, foodborne diseases cause about 76 million illnesses and 5,000 deaths in the U.S. every year. This is why, apart from regular cleaning and disinfection, homeowners should consider installing antimicrobial countertops in the kitchen to stop the spread of these harmful germs.
Is Your Counter to Blame?
You may be vigilant about washing your hands after using the bathroom, but if you’re prone to getting diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems, there’s a good chance that your kitchen, and the way you prepare your food, may have something to do with it. According to research, foodborne illnesses, such as hepatitis A, are spread by hand-to-hand or hand-to-food contact. Additionally, raw meats, poultry, unpasteurized cheese, and fish contain a large variety of harmful bacteria that can cause salmonella, diarrhea, and listeria, among others. Even vegetables and fruits carry organisms and parasites that can make you unwell.
You can wash your hands while handling food to avoid cross-contamination or disinfect your prep area to lessen the chances of getting sick. Antimicrobial countertops can keep you healthy by also killing microorganisms causing foodborne illnesses. If you’d like additional protection against kitchen germs and bacteria, consider any of these 3 antimicrobial countertops which can kill germs and stop illnesses in their tracks.
Copper
Copper countertops are often used in hospitals to stop the spread of microbes. According to results of a clinical trial in the U.S., it was found that antimicrobial copper surfaces in intensive care units can kill up to 97% of bacteria that cause infections such as norovirus, characterized by flu-like symptoms coupled with vomiting and diarrhea.
Silestone
Silestone quartz countertops are non-porous which makes it difficult for bacteria, mildew, and mold to grow. Silestone can also fight the buildup of bacteria and provide an extra measure of protection against foodborne illnesses.
Pewter or Zinc
These metal countertops have antibacterial properties just like copper countertops. Pewter and zinc countertops are also stain and heat resistant, making them very durable. However, it should be noted that these types of antibacterial countertops are susceptible to scratches and dents over time.
Choose from any of these antimicrobial countertops to keep your family free from foodborne illnesses. However, keep in mind that just because these countertops are antimicrobial doesn’t mean that you don’t have to clean them. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of your countertops, and all the little nooks and crannies of your kitchen, can go a long way toward keeping your family healthy.
Jane Sandwood is a professional freelance writer with over 10 years experience across many fields. When Jane isn’t writing, she is busy spending time with her family. She also enjoys music, reading, and traveling whenever she can.
