Tips for Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets

You may not like to hear it, but your kitchen cabinets are probably a lot dirtier than you realize. By their very nature, cabinets collect more dirt, germs, food and grease than most parts of your home. Every time you or your family goes to open a kitchen cabinet and grab a snack, you are exposed to the dirt and grime inside. The solution? Clean! The following are a few tips for getting your nasty kitchen cabinets looking new again.



1. Get the right cleaning supplies.Not all cabinets are created equal, and the same goes for cleaning supplies. While metal, vinyl or laminate cabinets can be easily cleaned with soap and water, wood cabinets need special treatment. Invest in a high-quality wood cleaning product and follow the directions. Never use abrasive cleaners, as they can easily scratch and ruin a cabinet finish.

2. Always test first.Some cleaning supplies can damage the finish of kitchen cabinets. Make sure to test an inconspicuous area, like the inside of the door, first.

3. Be careful.Surprisingly enough, there are many ways to hurt yourself while cleaning kitchen cabinets. One way is to fall. Because cabinets are usually higher up, most people need to stand on a chair or step stool to clean hard-to-reach places. A tumble can cause serious injury, even from such a small distance.
Another way to injure yourself during cabinet cleaning is to improperly use cleaning solutions. When getting rid of heavy buildup of grime, grease or mold, it may be necessary to use a powerful solvent such as paint thinner. These solutions are often toxic to breathe and highly flammable. Make sure to open windows and doors, wear a mask, and turn off any pilot lights. Removing doors and cleaning them outside is another solution to reduce risk.

Feel free to call the professionals at Stone+Wood Outlet with any questions regarding cabinet maintenance, repair, or installation.