From Fixtures To Textiles: All The Antimicrobial Decor Your Home Needs Right Now

There’s no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live in a very short period. It’s not only the temporary the stay-at-home orders or social distancing. The long term impact is likely a collective fear of germs, which will ultimately lead to a cultural shift towards having cleaner homes and a greater interest in antimicrobial building materials, decor, and textiles. 

To be clear, there are no naturally or chemically antimicrobial products that have been proven to kill or protect against COVID-19 or other strains of coronavirus. It’s essential to follow CDC guidelines and clean all surfaces in your home regularly. However, anything antimicrobial is still a useful first line of defense against the spread of germs, bacteria and other pathogens.

Whether you are building a home from scratch, renovating or want to give your space a refresh right now, with all the free time you suddenly have, here is everything you need for a home with less germs, but more style.

Antimicrobial Flooring

Start from the bottom. It’s no secret that floors are some of the dirtiest surfaces. So installing antimicrobial flooring is a wise decision. One of the best types is cork, which is not just naturally antimicrobial, but it’s also water-resistant. This helps prevent the formation of mold and mildew. 

Build.com has beautiful cork flooring including APC’s Truly Green Cork Flooring. It has a modern look and is sustainably harvested.  

For those who prefer the look of traditional hardwood floors, Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a better alternative than laminate or wood veneer, because the chemicals used to finish the surface are antimicrobial. Some LVT flooring even has the texture of wood, such as Armstrong Flooring’s Historic District LVT. With distressed gradation and other detailing, no one will know it’s not real hardwood. 

Ceramic and porcelain tile can also be antimicrobial. The Protect Collection by Karen Pearse Global Direct is a great example of this. Made with Microban technology, these tiles and slabs are resistant to 99.99 percent of bacteria. The aesthetics of this line instantly elevate any space with a variety of finishes including options that resemble wood, marble and terrazzo. Just be sure to use antimicrobial grout.

Antimicrobial Countertops

From hands physically touching the countertop to salmonella and other food-related bacteria, an antimicrobial countertop like Silestone is a smart way to contain germs.

These quartz countertops are made from a composite of natural and manmade materials, which have look of marble and other stones. While marble countertops are very much on-trend, they aren’t the most practical finish because it’s a porous stone that scratches easily. When countertops become scratched, bacteria can settle into those grooves, making them more challenging to disinfect. Silestone has the same aesthetic without the impracticality.

Antimicrobial Paint

While antimicrobial paint is often used in commercial and institutional settings, consumer products are available. Painting rooms like kitchens, laundry rooms and bathrooms with Sherwin-Williams Paint Shield prevents bacteria from growing on walls. This paint kills 99.9 percent of bacteria including Staph and E.Coli. 

Copper Fixtures, Hardware, And Decor

Copper not only has a showstopping look, but it’s far superior for keeping bacteria at bay compared to stainless steel or other materials—four hours versus 72. 

Available in antique and polished copper, the Santorini bathtub by Native Trails instantly elevates any bathroom. It’s more than a bathtub, it’s a true object d’art.

For anyone looking for an immediate and affordable germ fix, it’s easy to install copper hardware like knobs, handles and drawer pulls.

With a contemporary look, Hickory Hardware’s Forge Center To Center Arch Pull from Wayfair adds charm to kitchens and bathrooms.

It can even be used on built-ins or other furniture. 

Don’t forget about copper decor like this incense holder from ABC Carpet and Home.

Forged and handmade in the San Juan Mountains, every piece is uniquely one of a kind. A love of incense isn’t required to appreciate the craftsmanship and design.

Antimicrobial Textiles

Chilewich has several textiles with a chic, modern look that are easy to clean and incorporate Microban technology.

With several weaves to choose from, the floormats are perfect for kitchen floors, dining rooms, hallways or other high traffic areas. Cushioned with latex, they don’t require a separate rug pad. Because they’re easily cleaned with soap and water, these accessories are great for homes with kids and pets. Resistant to mold, mildew and stain-causing bacteria, there are several sizes and shapes readily available, with the option to customize as well.

The floormats can be perfectly mixed and matched with Chilewich’s placements and runners.

Antimicrobial Bedding

Beds are breeding grounds for germs, so anyone concerned should consider sleeping on antimicrobial fabrics such as Rove Concepts Rora Organic Bamboo Sheet Set. 

This hypoallergenic material is a sustainable alternative to cotton, with an incredibly soft 300 count sateen weave. Available in charcoal and white, each set comes with a fitted sheet, flat sheet and two pillowcases.

Antimicrobial Towels

If a bathroom doesn’t have proper air circulation, towels tends to stay wet, which leads to the spread of bacteria and mildew. So switching to antimicrobial towels is best, especially during a time like this.

With eight color options, the White Lytham Turkish 4 Piece Bath Towel Set from Wayfair has a look to compliment any style bathroom. While versatile, this set is anything but minimalist and extra fluffy.

This post first appeared on Forbes.com. To see the original, click here.