Published on 13th March 2020
By Louise Barnes
Clients have reached out to us for advice regarding cleaning lab worktops. In response to these requests and to the COVID 19 pandemic, we have put together some advice.
At APMG we only use the toughest of materials for our work surfaces. Our worktops are Trespa® TopLab®BASE, Trespa® TopLab®PLUS, Velstone, epoxy resin or hardwood.
Not sure which TopLab® worktop you have? Look underneath. If it’s the same finish as the top, it’s Base. If it’s black, it’s Plus. However, the same cleaning advice applies to both materials.
If you’re in a school or university you’re likely to have TopLab®BASE.
It’s generally supplied for education applications including labs, food tech rooms and classrooms.
In these environments impact, resistance is important whereas chemical resistance is not critical. Because it’s not adversely affected by moisture BASE is ideal for worktops and cabinetry where severe use and frequent cleaning are expected.
If you’re operating in a commercial or university chemistry environment, you may well have this surface.
It’s suited to environments where hygiene, avoidance of contamination, sustainability and safety are important.
It’s easy to clean and has excellent resistance to the most aggressive chemicals and cleaning agents. It doesn’t support bacterial growth.
Clean the surface of Trespa® TopLab® with household cleaners, water or soap. Abrasive or polishing agents should not be used.
If you require more thorough cleaning, use stronger cleaners or disinfectants adapted to the usage such as:
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using any cleaning agent or disinfectant. Using a combination of products may cause unwanted chemical reactions which produce harmful gases.
Surfaces that have been cleaned with aggressive cleaning agents should be thoroughly rinsed. This dilutes the cleaning agent and prevents it from drying on the panel surface.
Hardwood worktops are tough and look beautiful. Some species of hardwood, for example, iroko, have natural antibiotic properties. While it can be more porous than some man-made materials, even when dirty it can harbour fewer microbes.
The cleaning regime for hardwood worktops will vary. It depends on the wood, the application, the type of oil applied and the maintenance routine.
Due to the number of variables, if APMG has supplied you with a hardwood work surface, please contact us. Have the details to hand and we’ll give you tailored advice.
Velstone is a high-end, solid material which is non-porous, chemically resistant and fire retardant.
Velstone lab worktops should be wiped down with a soap or clear cleaning liquid and water daily. To remove normal stains use domestic non-bleach cleaners available from local supermarkets. Specialist products such as UNIKA Solid Surface Worktop Cleaner can also be used.
Epoxy resin worktops should not be cleaned using alcohol or with an abrasive cleaning solution or abrasive cloth or pad. Hot soapy water in combination with a non-abrasive cleaner will keep your epoxy worktop clean. Any spills and leakages should be cleaned off the surface immediately to avoid staining.
Don’t forget, to wash your hands, stay safe, and follow government advice. If you have any queries, don’t hesitate to contact our team.