Taking care of your kitchen cabinets is key to keeping them looking good. However, improper cleaning can damage them and strip the finish, which is something you definitely want to avoid.
Here’s how to clean them the right way and keep your kitchen clean and stylish.
Use Microfibre Cloths
To maintain the cabinets clean and protect their finish, you need the right tools. That’s why microfiber cloths are a fantastic choice.
That’s because their tiny fibres grab dust and dirt as if they have a magnetic pull, leaving surfaces spotless without a hint of a scratch. Compared to regular cloths that just move dirt around, microfibers get the job done, making your cabinets shine like they’ve just been installed.
One of the best things about microfiber cloths is how they save you money (you don’t need to replace them or throw them after you’re done, like paper towels, for example) and protect the environment at the same time.
You can wash and reuse them over and over, reducing waste and saving a pretty penny in the process. Sure, microfiber cloths might have a slightly higher price tag upfront compared to disposable ones, but they’re worth it long-term.
They can handle everything from gentle dusting to tough scrubbing, eliminating the need for multiple cleaning products. Using them is what’s going to ensure your cabinets look fantastic no matter what.
Avoid Vinegar and Water Solution
Many online sources will claim that equal parts vinegar and water solutions are safe and the way to go about cleaning your cabinets. However, that’s not true. Vinegar has acidic properties, which can dull the look of wood over time and etch natural stone.
So, that’s one (although natural) cleaner you want to avoid. It’s much safer to go for pH-neutral options, like simple warm water mixed with mild dish soap. This is the safest bet for wood, laminate, and painted kitchen cabinets.
If there’s grease on them, instead of using vinegar (which is really powerful at cutting through it), you can use warm water with some Murphy Oil Soap, and another bucket of clean H2O, in which to use a second clean rag to wipe away the surfaces after you’re done.
Baking Soda for Tough Stains
Dealing with tough stains on your kitchen cabinets can be a pain, but baking soda’s got your back in this case. That’s because it’s a great, gentle cleaner that makes spots disappear without messing up your cabinets.
All you need is a simple paste made from baking soda and water. Mix till it looks like toothpaste. Just spread it over the stain, leave it for a bit, and let it do its thing. The paste itself is amazing on stubborn stains, plus, it doesn’t have nasty chemicals that can harm your cabinets.
Once it’s done its magic, gently scrub with a soft sponge or microfibre cloth. This way, you get rid of the stain without scratching the cabinet surface.
Baking soda is not only an effective cleaner, but also cheap and good for the environment, which is perfect if you want to cut down on chemicals and still have a clean kitchen.
Clean Any Spills and Stains Immediately
In a busy kitchen, accidents are bound to happen. However, cleaning them up quickly can really help to keep your cabinets looking great. Besides, tackling spills right away also stops any damage from occurring, so it’s doubly important.
Another reason to clean them up immediately is for the spills not to soak into the wood and leave nasty marks. Keep a microfiber cloth handy to soak up any accidents fast, then wipe with a damp cloth to clear off any leftovers.
It’s best to steer clear of tough chemicals for cleaning spills since they can mess up the cabinet’s surface and ruin its finish.
Regular Maintenance to Prevent Buildup
Giving your kitchen cabinets some TLC from time to time is not only needed, but it’s what’s going to make cleaning them a breeze.
Just add them to your regular home maintenance plan, and they’ll stay shiny with minimal effort. Try giving them a wipe with a damp cloth every couple of weeks or once a month. Doing this keeps them looking great and saves you from having to do a big, tiring clean later.
If it all seems a bit much at times, or you want to give your home a major makeover, you can also contact professional cleaning services.
The experts have the knowledge and tools to tackle your entire home, as well as the kitchen cabinets, and clean stubborn grime and stains without stripping the finish. So, if you lead a busy life, but you also want your kitchen spotless, that’s definitely an option worth exploring.
Conclusion
So, now you know how to clean kitchen cabinets without stripping their finish. Use these tips, and the whole ordeal will be quite easy.
Now, all that’s left is to do it. Get your cleaning gear, and pretty soon your cabinets will once more look great. Enjoy the results of your labour and the time and money that these tips save you in the long run.
Happy cleaning!