6 Steps to Clean Kitchen Cabinets and Preserve Their Finish

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, where meals are prepared, and memories are made. Because of the constant use, kitchen cabinets can quickly accumulate grease, dust, fingerprints, and spills, causing them to lose their shine.

If you want to maintain the beauty and longevity of your kitchen cabinets, regular cleaning and proper care are essential. But cleaning them isn’t just about wiping them down; it’s also about preserving their finish. This is especially important for wooden or painted cabinets, which can get damaged if cleaned improperly.

In this post, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to clean your kitchen cabinets and preserve their finish. Whether your cabinets are made of wood, laminate, or painted, we have tips for every type of surface. Follow these six simple steps to make your cabinets look as good as new.

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before you start cleaning your kitchen cabinets, it’s essential to gather the right supplies. Using the wrong products can cause damage, so it’s important to have the proper tools and cleaners for the job. Here’s what you will need:

• A mild dish soap or gentle all-purpose cleaner: Harsh chemicals can strip the finish from your cabinets. Stick to something gentle.
• Microfiber cloths: These are great for wiping down surfaces without leaving lint or scratches behind.
• Warm water: It’s crucial for removing sticky substances and dirt.
• Baking soda: This is an excellent natural cleaner that can help remove tough grease stains.
• Wood polish (for wood cabinets): It helps keep your cabinets looking shiny and protects the finish.
• A soft-bristled brush: Use this to clean any nooks and crannies where dirt can accumulate.
• Bucket: A container to mix water and cleaning solutions in.

Once you have everything ready, you’re set to begin.

Step 2: Clear Out the Cabinets

Before you clean the outside of your kitchen cabinets, it’s best to start by clearing the inside. Not only does this make it easier to access every surface, but it also gives you the opportunity to tidy up your kitchen storage. Here’s how you can do it efficiently:

Empty all shelves and drawers: Take out dishes, utensils, food items, and anything else stored inside the cabinets. This also allows you to spot any crumbs, food spills, or stains that need cleaning.

Organize as you go: Take this time to declutter or reorganize the items inside the cabinets. Throw away any expired food, broken items, or things you no longer use.

Wipe down the interior: Once the shelves and drawers are empty, give the inside a quick wipe with a damp cloth. Use mild soap and warm water for tough spots.

Use shelf liners: Once the cabinets are clean, consider using shelf liners to keep the inside protected and prevent future messes.

After you’ve emptied and wiped down the interiors, you’re ready to start on the exterior of the cabinets.

Step 3: Dust and Dry Wipe

The first step to cleaning the exterior of your kitchen cabinets is to dust them off. Even if they don’t look dirty, cabinets can accumulate dust and grease over time. Use a microfiber cloth or a soft cloth to gently remove dust and debris from all surfaces, especially the tops of the cabinets, where dust can accumulate unnoticed. Be sure to wipe down the sides and edges of the doors as well.

Top surfaces: Don’t forget the top of your cabinets. Even though they are often overlooked, they can be home to significant dust build-up.

Handles and knobs: These areas often collect fingerprints, so take some time to wipe down cabinet handles and knobs with a microfiber cloth or soft towel.

Crevices and corners: If your cabinets have grooves, crevices, or corners, dust can collect there. Use a soft brush or a microfiber duster to clean these hard-to-reach areas.

This step helps eliminate surface-level dirt and grime, making the rest of the cleaning process smoother.

Step 4: Clean the Cabinets with Soap and Water

Now that you’ve dusted off your kitchen cabinets, it’s time to give them a good wash. For most cabinets, warm water with mild dish soap or an all-purpose cleaner will do the trick. Here’s how to do it without damaging your cabinets:

Prepare the cleaning solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Stir it to create a soapy solution. If your cabinets are particularly greasy, you can use an all-purpose cleaner that’s safe for wood or laminate surfaces.

Wipe down the surfaces: Dip a microfiber cloth or soft towel into the soapy water, then wring it out so it’s damp, not soaking wet. Gently wipe the cabinet surfaces, starting at the top and working your way down. Don’t oversaturate the cloth, as too much water can damage the finish.

Use a soft brush for tough spots: For any tough stains or grease spots, use a soft-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush) to gently scrub the area. Make sure to be gentle to avoid scratching the surface.

Rinse: Once you’ve cleaned a section of your cabinets, wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Follow up by drying the surface with a dry towel to prevent any water from soaking into the wood.

This step will help remove grease, fingerprints, and any food stains on the surface of the cabinets. Be sure to not use too much water and avoid harsh chemicals, as these can damage the cabinet finish.

Step 5: Tackle Tough Grease and Stains

In kitchens, grease buildup is a common problem. While regular cleaning will remove most dirt and grime, sometimes grease can be stubborn and sticky. If your cabinets are especially greasy, you’ll need to take a different approach. Here’s how to deal with stubborn grease:

Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with a little water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy spots and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Use a soft cloth to gently scrub the area. Baking soda is an excellent natural abrasive that will lift the grease without damaging the surface.

Vinegar solution: If baking soda alone doesn’t work, you can also use a mixture of vinegar and water. This can help cut through grease, especially on laminate or metal cabinets. Mix one part vinegar with two parts water and apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.

Commercial degreaser: For really tough grease, you can use a commercial kitchen degreaser. Just be sure that the degreaser is safe for the type of material your cabinets are made of, and test it in an inconspicuous area first.

After the grease has been cleaned, give the cabinets another wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

Step 6: Preserve and Protect the Finish

After thoroughly cleaning your cabinets, it’s essential to preserve their finish so they stay looking new. The finish protects the wood or surface underneath and keeps it looking shiny and smooth. Here’s how you can keep your cabinets looking great for years to come:

Apply wood polish: If you have wooden cabinets, a wood polish is essential. It not only adds shine but also nourishes the wood. Use a gentle, non-toxic wood polish to buff the surface. Apply a small amount to a microfiber cloth and rub it into the cabinet doors in a circular motion. Make sure to wipe off any excess polish.

Seal laminate or painted cabinets: If your cabinets are laminate or painted, you can use a light coating of furniture wax or sealant to add an extra layer of protection. This helps resist fingerprints and grease buildup.

Avoid harsh chemicals: Once your cabinets are clean and polished, make sure to keep harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners away from them. These can strip the finish and leave the cabinets vulnerable to damage.

By regularly maintaining the finish of your cabinets, you’ll help them stay beautiful and durable for years to come.

---

I hope this guide on how to clean your kitchen cabinets and preserve their finish has provided you with valuable information. Keeping your cabinets clean and well-maintained is a great way to improve the overall look of your kitchen while protecting your investment. With the right tools and a little care, your cabinets can continue to shine for years to come.

Are These Questions in Your Mind?

Is it safe to use vinegar on wood cabinets?

Vinegar can damage the finish of wood cabinets if used too frequently or in strong concentrations. It’s best to use a diluted vinegar solution and test it in an inconspicuous area first.

Can I use a sponge to clean my cabinets?

You can use a soft sponge, but avoid abrasive sponges that can scratch the surface. Opt for a microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge for best results.

Do I need to remove cabinet doors to clean them?

Removing the doors isn’t necessary unless you’re planning to deep clean them or tackle the hinges and hardware. For regular cleaning, you can clean the doors while they’re still attached.

Is it necessary to polish kitchen cabinets?

Polishing your cabinets is not strictly necessary but is a good way to maintain their shine and protect the finish. It also helps to prevent dust and grease from sticking to the surface.

Can I use all-purpose cleaner on painted cabinets?

Yes, you can use an all-purpose cleaner on painted cabinets, but it’s important to choose a gentle cleaner to avoid stripping the paint or finish.

Do I need to clean the inside of my cabinets regularly?

Yes, it’s a good idea to clean the inside of your cabinets periodically to avoid dust and food buildup. It also allows you to check for any spills or expired items.

Is it okay to use commercial degreasers on laminate cabinets?

Yes, most commercial degreasers are safe for laminate cabinets. However, always check the product label to make sure it’s safe for use on your cabinet type.

Can I use a pressure washer to clean kitchen cabinets?

It’s not recommended to use a pressure washer on kitchen cabinets, as the high pressure could damage the surface and finish. Stick to gentle cleaning methods.

Do I need to reseal wooden cabinets?

If your wooden cabinets start to look dry or scratched, it may be a good idea to reseal them. This will protect the wood and restore the finish.

Is it necessary to clean the handles and knobs?

Yes, cabinet handles and knobs should be cleaned regularly, as they can accumulate grease and fingerprints. Wipe them down with a microfiber cloth for a spotless finish.