Dos and Don'ts of Cleaning Different Types of Kitchen Cabinets

While cleaning kitchen cabinets may seem simple, there are many factors to consider. For example, different cabinet finishes require different cleaning methods. When it comes to regular maintenance and deep cleaning, knowing the material of the cabinets is crucial to prevent costly or irreversible damage. Popular choices include paint, wood, or laminate finishes. These materials are also often used for the frames of glass-front cabinets. The best cleaner for cabinet doors is available in every kitchen. For most surfaces, a mixture of warm water and dishwashing liquid is sufficient. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into your cleaning solution and gently wipe down the exterior of your cabinets.

However, it's advisable to first test any new cleaning method or product on a small area of the cabinet to ensure that the surfaces react as expected. Clean wooden cabinets with soft cloths, sponges, or a brush, and avoid using any abrasive cleaning tools. Coarse and stiff brushes can scratch and damage the surface. Some surfaces may be more durable, but in most cases, it's better to use a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh, abrasive products like bleach or other strong cleaners, as they can cause stains or discoloration. Don't use vinegar on wooden finishes, as its acidic properties can damage the wood. If your cabinets have laminate finishes, they attract grease and food residue quickly and require more frequent cleaning than other types of cabinets.

Laminate finishes are also susceptible to water damage, so make sure to dry them thoroughly after cleaning, as prolonged exposure to water may cause the laminate to crack or warp. Glass kitchen cabinets can be cleaned with a commercial glass cleaner or a cleaning solution, but always ensure that the cleaner is safe for use on the cabinet frame and won't cause damage. Apply the solution using a microfiber cloth, and for extra shine, use a sponge to remove the cleaning solution from the glass. Abrasive cleaners or overly strong cleaning products can scratch the glass.

Kitchen cabinets are a hidden source of dust accumulation in the home, especially if the cabinets don’t reach the ceiling. Cover the top surface of cabinets with removable paper, such as newspaper or wax paper. These papers absorb dust and grease and can easily be removed, discarded, and replaced periodically. To clean wall-mounted cabinets, use a long-handled duster to reach difficult areas. If oil stains appear on the cabinets, you'll need something stronger than dish soap to clean them. For stubborn grease stains, you can make a cleaning paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stains and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the grease. Then clean the areas with warm soapy water, gently wiping with a cloth or soft sponge. However, this mild solution may not be enough to remove dried cooking oil residues.

For older stains, use a grease remover spray. Spray the solution directly on the greasy spot, let the product sit or soak as instructed, and wipe it off with a microfiber cloth. The inside of kitchen cabinets also needs cleaning. Deep cleaning of kitchen cabinets is recommended at least once a year, but ideally, they should be cleaned two to four times a year. To deep clean kitchen cabinets, you must empty them completely. This not only makes cleaning easier but also gives you a chance to reorganize your items when putting them back later. Remember, handles and hinges also need cleaning. Handles collect oil, dirt, and bacteria due to frequent touching. Since most hinges and handles can be removed, it's best to take them off completely to ensure they are cleaned properly. Your final step should be drying any moisture or dampness from the cleaning process, as leftover water can cause stains and damage the cabinets.