Cabinet Care 101: Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Your Kitchen Cabinets
While kitchen cabinets are functional storage spaces that keep your cooking area organized, they are also a visual backbone of your kitchen’s aesthetic. However, as one of the most used pieces of furniture in the home, your custom cabinetry in Warrington faces non-stop daily use – from grease/ food splatters and spills to dirt/ dust accumulation. This is especially true for homes with small children and pets.
In today’s post, we’ll explore proper maintenance and cleaning tricks that will help you keep your functional, durable, and sophisticated kitchen cabinets looking their best throughout the year.
How do you clean and maintain kitchen cabinets?
Maintaining and cleaning your kitchen cabinets may not get your pulse racing but it’s an important part of the kitchen cleaning routine that will keep your cabinetry looking fresh and beautiful for years to come.
1. Regular dusting
Dust might seem harmless, but it will accumulate over time and dull the appearance of your cabinets. Regular dusting, at least once a week, is crucial. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber duster to gently remove dust. This is especially important for cabinet tops and hard-to-reach areas where dust tends to settle.
2. Tackle grease buildup promptly
Grease and oil splatters are a regular occurrence in the cooking area, especially near the stove. If left untreated, they will create a sticky residue on cabinet surfaces. To tackle grease, use a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Apply the solution with a soft cloth, gently working in a circular motion. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the cabinet’s finish. Pro Tip: Be sure to run your exhaust fan for 10 minutes before and after cooking to get the draft going and help eliminate grease particles from the air.
3. Clean up spills immediately
Spills are inevitable in a kitchen. The problem starts when they are not taken care of immediately to prevent staining, especially on cabinets made from porous materials like wood. Always blot spills gently with a damp cloth, followed by a dry cloth to remove excessive moisture and finishing with a mild soap and water cleaning.
4. Keep moisture to a minimum
Speaking of moisture, water and moisture are enemies of kitchen cabinetry, particularly if you have wood cabinetry. Excessive moisture can bloat or warp wood, causing mold growth, and damage finishes over time. When cleaning, always use a damp cloth, not a soaking wet one, followed by a dry cloth. Ensure that your kitchen is well-ventilated to prevent excessive moisture buildup.
5. Use gentle cleaning solutions
Typical commercial cleaners can be harsh on cabinet finishes. For a gentle yet effective cleaning solution, mix a cup of vinegar with a cup of warm water. This natural cleaner is effective in removing light stains and fingerprints without damaging the cabinet surfaces. For a pleasant scent, try adding a few drops of essential oil like lemon or lavender.
6. Polish for extra shine
To keep your cabinets looking new, consider using a gentle furniture polish or cabinet cream after cleaning. This not only adds shine but also provides a protective layer against dust and grime. Apply the polish with a soft cloth, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Attend to hinges & handles
Don’t overlook the hardware. Hinges and handles can accumulate grime and may also need occasional tightening. Clean them with a mild soap solution, and use a toothbrush to shine up hard-to-reach crevices. In the end, always make sure the hardware is dried thoroughly to prevent rusting.
8. Repair minor damages promptly
Address chips, scratches, or other minor damages as soon as they occur. To fill in minor scratches on wood cabinets, use the matching wood marker or crayon that is included in your Touch Up Kit. For painted cabinets, touch-up paint can be used. Keeping up with these minor repairs is an important part of maintenance that can significantly prolong the longevity of your cabinetry.
Who has the reputation for crafting exquisite custom cabinetry in Warrington, PA?
No matter which side of PA 611 you’re located on, Kitchens by Charles Weiler is your premium home remodeling team. From seasoned technicians and a range of materials available to the latest tools and partnerships with leading brands, we never compromise on quality and style.
Whether you need help choosing the design of your cabinets, deciding on a color palette for your custom cabinetry, or would like some help adding a personal touch to your cooking area, our attentive and instructive team will give you all the answers and support that you need. Reach out to us today!
