Blog Single

Cabinetz’s Ultimate Guide to Cabinet Cleaning and Care

Cabinets are a central feature in any kitchen or bathroom, providing essential storage and contributing to the room’s overall aesthetic. Proper cabinet care is crucial to maintain functionality, appearance, and longevity. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent the buildup of grease, grime, and moisture that can lead to damage, discoloration, and even mold growth. 

By investing time and effort into caring for your cabinets, you can ensure they remain beautiful and functional for years. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining your cabinets, from daily upkeep to deep cleaning, handling different materials, and establishing a long-term care plan.

Key Takeaways for Cabinet Cleaning

1. Proper cabinet care is crucial, as cabinets are central features in both kitchens and bathrooms. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help preserve their functionality, appearance, and longevity.

2. It’s important to understand the specific cabinet materials and finishes, as cleaning techniques and products will vary accordingly.

3. The process for cleaning cabinets after a spill should be swift, working from the edges towards the center. Mild detergent should be used to remove any remaining residue.

4. Regular dusting with a soft-bristled brush or vacuum attachment, along with wiping down surfaces with mild detergent and a soft cloth, can keep cabinets looking their best.

5. Safe cleaners for cabinets should be mild, non-abrasive, and suitable for the specific material and finish of the cabinets. Harsh chemicals should be avoided.

6. For effective cabinet cleaning, you should use soft, lint-free cloths, microfiber towels, and non-abrasive sponges while avoiding abrasive materials that may scratch or dull cabinet surfaces.

7. Deep cleaning, which includes tackling grease and grime with a baking soda paste or other relevant techniques, should be undertaken at least once or twice a year.

8. It’s essential to protect cabinets from humidity and direct sunlight, which could cause warping, fading, and other damages over time. Adequate ventilation and use of exhaust fans can help with this.

9. For spring cleaning, make deep cleaning a priority, and it’s essential to declutter and organize your cabinets.

10. Professional cleaning may be necessary for severe cabinet damage, such as deep scratches or water damage.

11. A long-term maintenance plan and regular inspections can help detect potential problems early, ensuring that the cabinets remain in optimal condition.

Why Proper Cabinet Care Matters?

Cabinets are a central feature in any kitchen or bathroom, providing essential storage and contributing to the room’s overall aesthetic. Home improvement expert Bob Vila says proper cabinet care is crucial to maintaining functionality, appearance, and longevity. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent the buildup of grease, grime, and moisture, leading to damage, discoloration, and even mold growth. Investing time and effort into cabinet care ensures that your cabinets remain beautiful and functional for years.

Overview of Cabinet Materials and Finishes

Before diving into cleaning and maintenance techniques, it’s essential to understand the various materials and finishes used in cabinet construction. Common cabinet materials include solid wood, plywood, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), and particleboard, each with unique characteristics and care requirements. Cabinets can also feature a variety of finishes, such as paint, stain, varnish, laminate, and glass. As the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) noted, knowing your cabinets’ specific material and finish will help you choose the most appropriate cleaning methods and products.

Daily Maintenance Tips

Immediate Spill Response Techniques

Don’t let spills ruin your cabinets! Take swift action to prevent stains and damage. Act fast and protect your investment! As soon as a spill occurs, grab a clean, soft cloth or paper towel and blot the liquid, working from the edges of the spill towards the center to avoid spreading it further. Avoid using abrasive materials or excessive pressure, which can scratch or dull the cabinet surface. Once you’ve absorbed as much of the spill as possible, follow up with a damp cloth and mild detergent solution to remove any remaining residue.

Best Practices for Everyday Cleaning

To keep your cabinets looking their best, incorporate cabinet cleaning into your regular kitchen and bathroom routine. Start by removing loose debris, crumbs, or dust with a soft brush or vacuum attachment. Then, using a soft cloth dampened with warm water and a mild detergent, gently wipe down the exterior surfaces of your cabinets, paying extra attention to handles, knobs, and areas around appliances. Be sure to wring out the cloth well to avoid excessive moisture, which can damage wood and laminate surfaces. Dry the cabinets with a clean, lint-free cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Supplies

Safe Cleaners for Your Cabinetz

When selecting cleaning products for your cabinets, always opt for mild, non-abrasive solutions designed for your cabinets’ material and finish. Avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, which can strip finishes and cause discoloration. For wood cabinets, look for products that contain natural ingredients like olive oil or beeswax, which can help nourish and protect the wood. When in doubt, test any new cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause damage or discoloration.

Tools You Should and Shouldn’t Use

In addition to choosing the right cleaning products, using the proper tools is essential when cleaning your cabinets. Soft, lint-free cloths, microfiber towels, and non-abrasive sponges are excellent for gentle, effective cleaning. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool, scouring pads, or stiff-bristled brushes, as these can scratch and dull cabinet surfaces. When dusting or removing loose debris, use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum attachment with a soft brush head to prevent scratches.

Deep Cleaning Strategies

How to Tackle Grease and Grime?

Over time, cooking grease, food splatters, and sticky residue can accumulate on kitchen cabinets, particularly near the stove or oven. To tackle stubborn grease and grime:

Start by creating a paste using baking soda and water.

Apply the paste to the affected areas using a soft cloth or sponge, and gently scrub in a circular motion.

Let the paste sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a damp cloth.

For extra-tough stains, you may need to repeat the process or let the paste sit longer before wiping it away.

Techniques for a Thorough Clean

In addition to targeting specific stains and problem areas, it’s essential to give your cabinets a thorough, deep clean at least once or twice a year. Start by emptying your cabinets and drawers, and vacuum or remove any loose debris. Then, using a mild detergent solution and a soft cloth, wipe down all interior and exterior surfaces, including shelves, drawers, and hardware. Pay extra attention to corners, crevices, and hard-to-reach areas where dirt and grime accumulate. Once you’ve cleaned all surfaces, dry them thoroughly with a clean, lint-free cloth before replacing your cabinet contents.

Handling Different Cabinet Materials

Care Tips for Wood Cabinets

Wood cabinets require special care to maintain natural beauty and protect them from moisture damage. In addition to regular cleaning with mild detergent and water, periodically treat your wood cabinets with a wood conditioner or polish designed explicitly for their finish. Applying this product will nourish the wood, prevent it from drying out and cracking, and restore its natural shine. Avoid using excess water or letting moisture sit on wood surfaces, as this can cause warping, swelling, or damage to the finish.

Maintaining Laminate and Glass Cabinets

Laminate and glass cabinet surfaces are generally easier to clean and maintain than wood but still require proper care to keep them looking their best. For laminate cabinets, use a mild detergent solution and a soft cloth to wipe down surfaces, taking care not to let moisture seep into seams or edges, which can cause the laminate to peel or bubble. Glass cabinet doors can be cleaned using a glass-specific cleaner and a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Avoid using abrasive materials or excessive pressure, which can scratch or cloud the glass surface.

Preventative Measures for Cabinet Care

Protecting Cabinets from Humidity and Sunlight

Humidity and direct sunlight can harm cabinet materials, causing warping, fading, and damage over time. To protect your cabinets:

Ensure that your kitchen and bathroom have proper ventilation to minimize humidity buildup.

Use exhaust fans when cooking or showering, and consider installing a dehumidifier in particularly humid areas.

Install sheer curtains or blinds for cabinets exposed to direct sunlight to filter the light and prevent fading and discoloration.

Tips to Avoid Common Damage

In addition to humidity and sunlight, cabinets can suffer damage from everyday wear and tear. To minimize the risk of scratches, dings, and dents, avoid slamming cabinet doors and drawers, and use soft-close hinges and glides when possible. Place felt pads or bumpers on the inside of doors and drawers to cushion the impact of closing. When storing heavy items like pots, pans, or appliances, distribute the weight evenly and avoid overloading shelves or drawers, which can cause sagging or structural damage over time.

Seasonal Cleaning and Maintenance

Spring Cleaning Your Cabinets

Spring is the perfect time to give your cabinets a deep clean and refresh. In addition to your regular cleaning routine, take the opportunity to declutter and organize your cabinet contents. Remove all items from your cabinets and drawers, sort through them, discard expired products, donate unused items, and group like items together. As you replace items, consider using organizers, shelf liners, and labels to keep everything tidy and easily accessible. Remember to clean and sanitize the interior surfaces of your cabinets before replacing your belongings.

Preparing Cabinets for Winter

Protecting your cabinets from the dry, harsh winter conditions is essential as the weather cools and humidity levels drop. Start by ensuring that your home’s heating system is humidified correctly to prevent excessive dryness, which can cause wood cabinets to shrink, crack, or warp. If you have wood cabinets, consider applying a wood conditioner or oil to help nourish and protect the wood from drying out. Be sure also to address any drafts or leaks around your cabinets, which can allow cold, dry air to seep in and cause damage.

Cabinetz’s Ultimate Guide to Cabinet Cleaning and Care FAQs

Cabinetz’s ultimate guide to cabinet cleaning and care, answering  questions about the best ways to clean kitchen cabinets

What are the specific cleaning products and tools for each cabinet material and finish?

Here are the specific cleaning products and tools recommended for each type of cabinet material and finish based on the information provided in the guide:

Wood Cabinets:

– Mild detergent solution and a soft cloth for regular cleaning

– Wood conditioner or polish designed for the specific finish to nourish and protect

– Avoid excess water or moisture sitting on wood surfaces

– Soft-bristled brush or vacuum attachment for dusting

– Baking soda paste for tough grease and grime

– Murphy’s Oil Soap to clean and condition

Laminate Cabinets: 

– Mild detergent solution and soft cloth, avoiding moisture in seams/edges

– Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the surface

Glass Cabinet Doors:

– Glass-specific cleaner and a lint-free cloth or paper towel 

– Avoid abrasive materials or excessive pressure to prevent scratching

Painted Cabinets:

– Hot water with a drop of Dawn dish soap and microfiber cloth

– Zep wall cleaning wipes or spray that are safe on paint

In general, for all cabinet types:

– Soft, lint-free cloths, microfiber towels, and non-abrasive sponges for cleaning

– Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia

– Avoid abrasive tools like steel wool, scouring pads, stiff brushes

– Test any new product on a small hidden area first

– Use the mildest effective method, like dish soap and warm water in many cases

Some additional product recommendations include:

– Bar Keepers Friend for kitchen surfaces

– Magic Erasers/melamine foam

– Krud Kutter or Zep degreasers for heavy grease

– Dawn Power Wash spray for grease, let sit, then wipe

The key is to use gentle methods and safe products for each cabinet material, avoid harsh abrasives or chemicals, and always test first in an inconspicuous spot. Regularly cleaning and prompt attention to spills and grease splatters make maintenance easier.

How do professionals clean kitchen cabinets?

Professionals typically use specialized wood cabinet cleaners and degreasers to thoroughly clean kitchen cabinets. They will remove any loose dirt and debris, spray on the cleaner, let it sit for a few minutes to break down grease, and wipe it clean with a soft cloth. For tough buildup, they may use a soft scrub brush. Pros will work carefully to avoid saturating the wood and will buff the cabinets dry after cleaning.

Is Murphy’s oil soap good for wood cabinets? 

Yes, Murphy’s oil soap is an excellent cleaner for wood cabinets. It is specifically designed to clean and condition wood surfaces without leaving any residue. Dilute it with water according to the instructions, and use a soft cloth to clean the cabinets gently. Murphy’s oil soap will remove light grease and grime while moisturizing the wood.

What is the best thing to clean cabinets with?

The best cleaners for cabinets are:

– Specialized wood cabinet cleaners and degreasers 

– Dish soap and warm water for lighter cleaning

– Murphy’s oil soap to clean and condition wood

– Vinegar and water solution for degreasing

– Baking soda paste for tougher grime

Always use a soft cloth or sponge and avoid harsh scrubbers that could damage the finish.

What is the best cleaner for wood cabinets?

Murphy’s oil soap is one of the best cleaners for wood cabinets. It effectively removes dirt and grease while conditioning the wood. Other good options are mild dish soap and water, vinegar solutions, and specialized wood cabinet cleaners. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers.

How do professionals clean wood cabinets?

Professionals use wood-safe degreasers and cleaners to remove buildup from cabinets. They spray the cleaner on, let it sit briefly, and then wipe it away with a soft, damp cloth. Any remaining moisture is buffed dry. Pros may use soft scrub brushes for textured surfaces or tough grime but will be careful not to damage the wood finish.

Can you use Dawn dish soap to clean wood cabinets?

Yes, Dawn dish soap mixed with warm water is a safe and effective way to clean wood cabinets, especially for removing light grease. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution, wring it out well, then wipe down the cabinets. Rinse with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Avoid saturating the wood.

Is vinegar good for cleaning kitchen cabinets?

A mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water makes an effective natural degreaser for kitchen cabinets. Spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean with a soft cloth. The vinegar will help break down grease and grime. Be sure to rinse with clean water afterward and dry the cabinets completely.

What is the best cleaner for greasy wood cabinets?

Specialized wood degreasers are the most effective way to cut through heavy grease on cabinets. Dish soap, vinegar solutions, and Murphy’s oil soap can handle light to moderate grease. For tough buildup, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the greasy areas, let it sit, then gently scrub and rinse clean.

How do you clean sticky wood cabinets?

Sticky residue on cabinets often comes from cooking grease. To remove it:

1. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle 

2. Mist the sticky spots and let sit for 5 minutes

3. Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth 

4. For stubborn areas, scrub gently with a soft brush and baking soda paste

5. Rinse thoroughly and dry the cabinets completely ;

Regular cleaning with Murphy’s oil soap will help prevent sticky buildup.

The essential tips are to use mild, wood-safe cleaners, avoid harsh scrubbing, and always dry cabinets well after cleaning. With the proper techniques, you can keep your kitchen cabinets looking beautiful for years.

Advanced Cabinet Care Techniques

When to Call a Professional

While regular cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in preserving the beauty and functionality of your cabinets, there may be times when professional help is necessary. If your cabinets have suffered severe damage, such as deep scratches, chips, or water damage, it’s best to consult a professional cabinet repair service. They can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the most appropriate course of action, whether spot repairs, refinishing, or replacement. Additionally, working with a professional designer and installer can ensure the best possible results if considering a significant cabinet renovation or upgrade.

Long-term Maintenance Plans

Establishing a long-term maintenance plan is crucial to ensure that your cabinets remain in optimal condition and function smoothly for many years. This plan should include routine cleaning, conditioning, occasional deep cleaning, and early inspections to detect potential problems. Consider creating a cabinet maintenance calendar or checklist to help you stay on track and ensure no tasks are overlooked. By investing time and effort into proper cabinet care, you can extend the life of your cabinets, maintain their beauty and functionality, and ultimately save money on costly repairs or replacements.