You want your home looking its best when you welcome friends and family. Considering that the kitchen and the bathroom are two most often used spaces of the home, caring and maintaining your cabinetry will help keep your home company ready. Below are tips for everyday cleaning and long term care for your cabinetry.
Everyday Cleaning
- Wipe up spills, splatters and water spots as they occur. Avoid draping damp clothes or dishtowels over cabinet doors – excessive moisture can cause permanent damage.
- Residues such as smoke, cooking vapors, or cooking oils can be cleaned with a damp cloth and a small amount of mild soapy water.
- Avoid placing small kitchen appliances or pots and pans where heat or steam is directed onto cabinet surfaces.
Basic Cleaning Tips
- Use a clean soft cloth such as an old T-shirt, cheesecloth, flannel, chamois or microfiber cloth.
- It is recommended to follow the grain of the wood when cleaning and polishing.
- Dry the surfaces immediately with a soft cloth. Avoid using a dishcloth or sponge as they may contain remnants of food, grease or detergents.
- Do not use products with bleach, ammonia or abrasive additives or with high alcohol content.
- Never use scouring pads, steel wool or any abrasive materials.
- Do not allow oven cleaners to come in contact with wood finishes.
- Do not use furniture polish or wax and/or oil based products to “polish” your cabinets, over time they will build up on the factory finish.
Cleaning Cabinet Interiors
Wipe the insides of cabinets and drawers with a damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap diluted in water. Rinse with a second damp cloth and use a third clean cloth to dry. Use a small brush to clean along the edges and cracks. Let the surface dry completely before placing any items back into the cabinets or drawers.