Informational Page

How to Clean Cabinets

 

Whether you have just bought, going to buy, or want to take better care of you existing cabinets then it is important to take proper care of them.  First, we need to take the time to understand wood and the expected behavior of wood in relation to the moisture in the environment.  Wood will contract when the environment has low humidity and expand when there is more humidity. So, with that in mind it is important to have balance with temperature and humidity. Wood cabinetry performs best during and after installation with a humidity range of 30 to 50 percent and a temperature range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

The biggest question most have, and some have done wrong is the cleaning and care of their wood cabinets. After installation of cabinets, the first thing most owners want to do is wipe down their cabinets. It is a shame when done incorrectly and the finish is damaged. To remove the dust, use a soft lint-free cloth. You may slightly dampen your cloth with water and or spray a gentle cleanser on the cloth (dampen not soak). Spills happen to cabinets especially around the sink and dishwasher area, clean immediately. Use a clean cloth with mild soap if necessary and wipe dry with clean, soft cloth.

To keep your cabinets beautiful, avoid using a spray-type polishes containing petroleum solvents. You can use polishes that are formulated without wax, petroleum solvents or silicone. The extended use of wax polishes can result in wax film build-up. The use of silicone polishes will cause damage to the finish. You can wash and polish your cabinets one or twice a year. Do not use your dish cloth to wipe your cabinets for the cloth may contain remnants of grease or a harsh detergent.

Here is some don’ts to be aware of:

1. Don’t allow water to stay on the cabinet surface. When left unattended can cause spots and haziness and even damage the wood.

2. Don’t keep in direct light. Exposure over time can lighten or darken the finish. Be especially careful with cherry and maple cabinets.

3. Don’t allow smoke or grease stay on cabinets. Smoke and grease can form a hard film over time and dull the finish.

4. Don’t spray glass directly. If you have glass doors do not spray the glass directly and do not use a product with ammonia. Spray the cloth directly. If you spray the glass it may get on the wood finish and cause discoloration.

5. Don’t use bleach or products that contain bleach.

6. Don’t use harsh detergents, strong soaps, abrasive cleaning products, scouring pads or other harsh abrasives.

7. Don’t mount or place heat producing appliances beneath cabinets because of excess heat and moisture. If you notice moisture buildup, wipe immediately.  (Microwaves and ovens meant to be installed in cabinets are safe)

8. Don’t use brass or silver polish on your pulls and knobs. The polish contains a harsh chemical.