While you spend most of your time cleaning your kitchen’s big three, sink, counters and floors, your cabinets need to be cleaned regularly, particularly the doors. Here, tiny drops of steam, cooking grease, and food splatters can settle and attract dust. This can lead to dull, streaky or dingy surfaces.
Although it can be tedious, cleaning your kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to be difficult. It also doesn’t require any toxic or obnoxious chemicals. No matter if your cabinets have been painted or are made of finished wood, you can clean them with just a few household items and some elbow grease. Don’t overdo it. Here are some tips to get the job done in the right manner.
Use a mild cleaning agent
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes on your kitchen sink. It can cause damage to the paint and finish of your cabinets. Make your own gentle cleaner instead by mixing one part mild dishwashing detergent with two parts hot water, or using the same proportion of distilled vinegar to hot water. The heated water softens grease and grunge, so it’s easier to clean. You’re good to go!
9 Tips for Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets
Do not soak your cabinets
The cleaning solution should be sprayed onto a soft microfiber cloth or rag until it is damp, but not drenched. You can damage the cabinets’ paint and finish if you add too much moisture. You will now need to wipe every cabinet door from top-to-bottom. Yes, you will have to pay special attention to trim and moldings where dirt and grime can accumulate. Make sure to clean the handles, knobs, and inside of the cabinet doors. Use more cleaner to clean your cloth, but don’t let it get too wet. If necessary, pour any excess cleaning solution into the sink.
Use an old toothbrush to treat tight spots
Some cabinets have intricate trim or deep grooves that a toothbrush can’t reach. To clean these areas, you can use an old toothbrush to dip into the cleaning solution and scrub them gently. You should also remember to clean the cabinet knobs and handles, as well as the edges of cabinet doors. These areas can be difficult to reach with a rag.
DO NOT allow water to get into the hinges
Your cleaning solution can be used on finished or painted wood as well as laminate. However, it is not recommended for cabinet hinges. It’s not a good idea to spend too much time cleaning your kitchen cabinets and end up with rusted hardware. Use a microfiber cloth to remove dirt and grime from metal. Spray a small amount of cleaner onto a microfiber cloth to clean a grungy or greasy spot. Then, wipe the metal dry with a dry microfiber cloth.
Do wash the cleaner off with a final rinse
After you have cleaned the cabinets, wipe them clean with a soft cloth dampened with warm water. This will remove any remaining cleaning solution or grime. To avoid any drips, work from the top to eliminate any residues.
After cleaning, dry the cabinets
Allowing cabinets to dry out after cleaning can cause bubbles or damage to the paint or finish. Use a soft cloth instead to dry any damp surfaces. This will encourage shine.
Do not forget the glass
Spray your glass insets cabinets with vinegar on a cloth and wipe it clean. Although it is relatively easy to get rid of food splatters and grease from glass, you may need to do so twice in order to eliminate the problem completely. After cleaning the glass panels, don’t use any abrasives.
Use baking soda to tackle difficult spots
You’ll need an additional step if you find that stains, grease, or grunge remain on your kitchen cabinets after cleaning them. Mix one part baking soda and two parts water in a small bowl. Apply the paste to the affected areas with a dry, clean cloth. Allow the paste to sit for a while before wiping it off with a damp cloth. Continue to rub the paste until it is completely removed. Use a water-dampened cloth to wipe the area, then dry it with your microfiber cloth.
Continually deep clean your home
You should clean your kitchen cabinets’ surfaces at least twice a year. You can empty your cabinets completely and then clean the inside and outside of the drawers and cabinets. Consider whether the items are worth keeping before returning them to their cabinets. Donate or toss anything that you don’t use or need. Get rid of broken dishes, cracked mugs and plastic storage containers without lids.
