Cabinet Maintenance: How to Care for Kitchen Cabinets

By Fred & Daniela

Posted April 28, 2023

Congratulations on your new kitchen cabinets! You have invested in beautiful, functional, and durable cabinetry that will last for many years to come. However, as with any investment, it is essential to take proper care of it. In this article, we will discuss the do’s and don’ts of caring for your new kitchen cabinets to ensure their longevity and protect your investment.

What to Avoid

First and foremost, it is crucial to know what products to avoid when cleaning your cabinets. Harsh chemicals, bleach, detergents, or abrasive cleaners are big no-nos, as they can damage the finish of your cabinets. Products containing ammonia should also be avoided, as they can be corrosive and can eat away at the finish of your cabinets.

Silicone-based, wax, or polishing products can leave a greasy film on your cabinets, which can be difficult to remove. Avoid scouring pads, steel wool, or the rough side of sponges, as they can scratch the surface of your cabinetry. Dishcloths or sponges that you use for cleaning your dishes or other household items can carry dirt particles, grease, or remnants of other cleaning solutions, which can be harmful to your cabinets.

Other things to avoid include placing electric kettles or steamers directly underneath wall cabinets, draping damp towels or cloths over cabinet doors, and exposing your cabinets to direct sunlight. Additionally, you should never leave food splatters, grease, or water spills on your cabinets for too long, as they can cause permanent damage.

How to Care for Your Kitchen Cabinets

Now that you know what products and practices to avoid let’s discuss how to care for your new kitchen cabinets properly. The following are general guidelines for cleaning and maintaining your cabinets, depending on their finish type.

Wood Cabinets with a Stain Finish

To maintain the beauty of your wood cabinets with a stain finish, regular cleaning is essential. For day-to-day cleaning, a soft cloth dampened with warm water should suffice. However, if your cabinets need a deeper clean, it is best to use a mild dish detergent solution with warm water. Please ensure that you do not use too much water and dry the cabinets immediately after cleaning to avoid any potential damage to the wood. Proper care and maintenance of your wood cabinets can help them retain their shine and extend their lifespan.

Cabinetry with Painted Finish

Regular cleaning is important to maintain the appearance of your painted cabinets. To keep them looking their best, a soft cloth dampened with warm water should be enough for everyday cleaning. For tougher stains, a mild dish detergent solution with warm water can be used. Just remember to be careful not to use too much water, and dry the cabinets immediately after cleaning.

However, if you have high gloss cabinets, they require special care to avoid scratches. Always use a very soft cloth, ensuring that there are no particles on or in it, and avoid using any abrasive or harsh cleaners that can damage the finish. Keeping your high gloss cabinets in pristine condition will require some extra effort, but the end result is well worth it!

Cabinetry with Thermofoil Finish

To keep your thermofoil cabinets looking their best, regular cleaning is essential. A soft cloth and a mild spray cleaner can be used to remove any grease buildup. However, be sure to avoid using any products containing ammonia, as they can damage the finish of the cabinets.

When cooking, it is important to be especially careful to shield your cabinets from steam and heat, which can cause warping or discoloration. Using your hood fan can help reduce the amount of steam and heat that comes in contact with your cabinets, which can extend their lifespan and keep them looking great for years to come. Remember, proper care and maintenance of your thermofoil cabinets can help you avoid costly repairs and replacements in the future.

Cabinetry with Laminate Finish

Maintaining the cleanliness of your laminate cabinets is crucial for their longevity. To keep them looking spotless, a soft cloth and mild glass spray cleaner can be used to remove any grease buildup. It’s important to avoid using any soap-based cleaners, as they can cause unsightly streaking on the laminate finish.

When cooking, take extra precautions to shield your cabinets from steam and heat, which can damage the laminate finish. Using your hood fan can reduce the amount of steam and heat that comes in contact with your cabinets, which can help extend their lifespan and preserve their pristine appearance.

Glass Doors

Glass doors on cabinets can add a touch of elegance to any room, but they require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. To clean the glass, you can use an ammonia-free cleaner. However, it’s important to spray the cloth first and then wipe the glass to avoid any off-spray that could potentially damage the cabinets.

Regularly wiping down the glass with a clean, dry, cotton cloth can help maintain its shine and prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. This will not only keep your glass cabinets looking beautiful but will also improve the overall cleanliness of your living space. Remember, with the right care and attention, your glass cabinets can be a stunning and functional addition to your home.

Summary

In conclusion, taking proper care of your new kitchen cabinets is essential to ensure their longevity and protect your investment. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and products containing ammonia, as they can damage the finish of your cabinets.

Fred & Daniela

Prior to Final Draft Cabinetry’s existence, Fred owned CTI Industries, a cabinet installation company. Prior to that, he had developed a trade school program specific to cabinet installations that was recognized by the North American governing body of kitchen and bath design. Fred then decided he wanted to put his energy into CTI Industries where he led his crew of 21 installers to install over 1200 kitchens throughout the lower mainland, for over a dozen different cabinet manufacturers. Daniela’s artistic and creative abilities started at a young age. She pursued her dream of becoming a ballet dancer and had a professional career in dance that lasted 20 years. Upon retiring from dance, she turned her creative flair towards interior decorating and became a Certified Interior Decorator. Daniela brought her creative background and skill set to Final Draft Cabinetry in 2013 where she discovered her passion for the cabinet industry.