bob vila’s secrets to easy-upkeep kitchens and baths (part 1)

Bov Vila reveals secrets to easy-upkeep for kitchens and baths in the September 1 Bottom Line (and eventually available via BottomLineSecrets.com. While “easy” is never a Clean+istry requisite, these are worthy guidelines to consider. We’ve added editorial where necessary.

1. Favor a contemporary look over traditional. Raised panels cornices and embellishments that increase surfaces are dust traps to be avoided.
2. While gazing out the window and showering may soothe the mind, avoid the temptation of installing a window in the shower. Have you ever seen one without rot, mold, mildew….shall we continue?
3. For ceramic or tile floors, choose large formats (preferably one square foot) and reduce the grout. Also, choose dark colored grout.
4. If you are stubborn and demand a wood floor in the kitchen (don’t even think about it in the bath), choose a hardwood (oak, rock maple) and apply two or three coats of urethane coating.
5. Kitchen and bath sinks. Repeat: under-counter mount, under-counter mount, under-counter mount.
6. Villa recommends stainless steel sinks over porcelain because you can use abrasive kitchen cleaners without fear of damage. We grudgingly agree.
7. Kitchen backsplashes (essential) must be tightly sealed at the counter/wall joint to prevent mold and mildew buildup. When using tile, we think the previously mentioned large format point is relevant here as well.
8. Choose tile for bathroom walls. Clean+istry does not believe that this point receives sufficient attention during construction or renovation. Tile is far easier than paint or (god forbid) wallpaper to maintain under damp circumstances. The grout maintenance issue (outside of a shower) is not significant. Don’t let the cost dissuade you. It’s a clean investment.

We’ll share countertop, cabinetry and lighting/ventilation tips Friday.