UPDATED
Countertops Product Guidance
Use the red-to-green product guidance below to select safer product types by avoiding those in red and preferring yellow and green, which are safer for occupants, fenceline communities, and workers.
When choosing countertops:
- Prefer mineral or stone-based countertops that do not need to be sealed after installation. Good options include porcelain slabs, quartz, and some natural stone.
- Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as cultured marble, solid surface, and those that introduce formaldehyde, like laminate.
- If using laminate countertops, specify that the substrate be made with a no added formaldehyde (NAF) resin. Additionally, CDPH-certified laminate materials are preferred.
- Avoid countertops that may introduce lead, such as ceramic materials that may contain contaminated recycled content and/or lead-based glazes. If products contain recycled content, ask about the origin and if it is screened to avoid hazardous chemicals.
- Avoid products marketed as antimicrobial.