You’ve invested time, effort, and money in picking out the perfect cabinets for your kitchen and bath.
Now you want to keep your quality wood cabinetry looking like new. Unfortunately, with so many other places in those rooms that need regular cleaning, it’s easy to overlook the cabinetry. After all, it’s just sitting there – quietly collecting dust, dirt, grease, splatters, crumbs, and other messes.
What should you use to clean your cabinets so they don’t get in such a state?
- dusting cloth
- soft sponge
- cleaning rags
- grease-cutting dish soap
- baking soda
- soft toothbrush (a great use for all those old toothbrushes!)
- old, clean towel
It’s important to only use mild, non-abrasive cleaners. Also, use sponges, cloths, and towels that are dedicated to your beautiful cabinetry and not used for anything else.
The first step is to use a clean, soft, dry cloth to brush away dust and crumbs while they’re still dry. Next, mix 3 tablespoons of a grease-cutting dish soap in half a sinkful of warm water. This solution is strong enough to remove smudges, smears, splatters, and a mild build-up of grease. Yet, it’s gentle enough to not damage your beautiful cabinetry.
When you’re wiping down your cabinetry, don’t forget the edges and the sides. Also open all of the doors and drawers so you can clean the frames. Rinse out the sponge frequently as you go. Use the soapy toothbrush to get in around the hinges and handles to get them really clean. It’s also handy for that beautifully detailed trim. Because it’s so small, you’ll have to rinse and dip it frequently.
After your cabinetry is all nice and clean, go back over everything with a clean cloth and fresh water to rinse off the soap. Finally, you’ll need to dry it all off with that old clean towel. Water left on the cabinets can leave nasty water spots and possibly damage the finish.
If you have some really tough spots, use the toothbrush and a paste of baking soda and water. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and also an effective grease cutter; just don’t scrub too hard. Oil soap is another option for degreasing wood and is mild enough to not do any damage. Always test it in an inconspicuous spot and follow the manufacturer’s directions. You can make a homemade version by mixing a paste of baking soda and clean cooking oil, instead of water. Just wash it off with the soapy water afterwards, then rinse and dry as normal.
Once you have your cabinetry nice and clean, treat the wood to a rubdown with lemon-oil. It conditions the wood and helps keep grease from sticking. As always, test in an inconspicuous spot and follow the manufacturer’s directions.
If you haven’t upgraded your cabinets yet, and your current cupboards are looking old and tired, contact us for a beautiful new set. We’ll be happy to help you design a roomful of cabinetry you’ll enjoy cleaning!
