Cleaning 101: Kitchen Cabinet Care Tips

Everyday Care for Your Stained Wood Cabinets

Tonya Hillukka
I am asked regularly about how to care for wood kitchen cabinets. There really is no secret to keeping your cabinets clean. It's just a matter of light, everyday cleaning and damage prevention. Here are some tips for regular cabinet care, as well as some tricks for getting rid of a heavy buildup of grease.

Regular, Everyday Cleaning

As long as you take the right steps, you should not have to do a thorough cleaning of your kitchen cabinets very often. Mainly, clean up any spills immediately and wipe your cabinets dry to avoid warping and damaging the finish. Use the hood fan while cooking to prevent a heavy buildup of grease on your cabinets. For light, regular cleaning, simply wipe them down with water and a mild dish washing detergent. Dry immediately with a soft cloth. If you want to dust your cabinets on a daily basis, use a dry microfiber cloth or a Swiffer duster.

Removing Heavy Buildup

Sometimes you will get a heavy buildup of grease residue on your cabinets. Keep in mind that you should never use abrasive cleaners to clean this residue to avoid damaging the finish. To remove grease, make a solution of half ammonia and half warm water. Dip a sponge in the solution, wring out the excess and wipe the grease away. Dry immediately.

Freshening the Interior

Every six months, clean out the inside of your cabinets. Begin by removing their contents. Wipe down each shelf with a mild dish soap and water, then dry with a clean cloth. Place the shelf back - upside down if you can to prevent warping. Then place a small jar of baking soda in each cabinet to get keep them smelling fresh.

Cleaning Cabinet Hardware

Are your hinges getting squeaky? Apply a small amount of vegetable oil to each hinge, keeping away from products that contain petroleum (this ingredient attracts dust). Wipe down each cabinet pull as well with a mild dish detergent and warm water. Do not use abrasive cleaners on shiny hardware unless you don't mind the scratches and dulled surfaces.

What Not to Do

I've been asked if it is OK to use furniture wax on cabinets. You probably will want to avoid using it to "shine them up." Not only will it damage the finish of your cabinets, but it will also attract dust and grease - just what you were trying to get rid of. Furniture polishes are fine, though, since they contain detergents to clean the dirt and mineral oil to protect from dirt and oil. Also, do not wipe your cabinets with a dishcloth, which could contain grease.

References
How to Care for and Clean Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen Cabinet Care and Cleaning Tips

Published by Tonya Hillukka - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

Tonya writes about a variety of topics that interest her. Having earned a degree in Interior Design, she is knowledgeable in various aspects of the home improvement industry, including decorating and green l...  View profile

16 Comments

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  • Laura Everly3/19/2011

    Well written article..good job Laura Everly

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  • Marie Lowe1/30/2011

    May have to try some of these tips.

  • Jennifer Wagner1/26/2011

    I need to get to work removing the build-up on my cabinets. I just need to get motivated to do it!

  • Marie Saxton1/25/2011

    Wish I could just spruce up my cabinets, I'm going to need to completely paint them over because they just look so outdated...helpful tips!

  • Michael Segers1/25/2011

    I'm tired just from reading what to do. Thanks.

  • Jack Wellman1/24/2011

    The "What Not to Do" was very good Tonya, Many blessings and thanks friend.

  • Maria Roth1/23/2011

    I'm not going to tell you how often I clean my cabinets. It's too embarrassing.

  • Heather White1/23/2011

    I love to clean the cabinets! You have some great tips here :)

  • Tiffany Booth1/22/2011

    Great article =0)

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