Kitchen Cabinet Maintenance
GENERAL INFORMATION
Generally, keep all cabinet surfaces dry always. Cabinet surfaces shall be dried immediately with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth. Avoid using a dish cloth or sponge. Avoid ammonia-based cleaner and soaps with dye. Harsh detergent residues may harm cabinet finishes. As with all wood products, quick temperature changes and excessive moisture can be harmful to the cabinet finish and overall cabinet stability.
BASIC CLEANING
To remove dust after installation and for initial cleaning, use a soft, lint-free cotton cloth to wipe down all exterior and interior surfaces. For regular basic cleaning, use a soft, lint-free cotton cloth dampened with a mild detergent or soap, and warm water. For best result, use a “blotting” action rather than a wiping motion when cleaning. Wipe up food spills and water spots immediately with a lint-free cotton cloth, so moisture is not absorbed into the cabinet surfaces.
CLEANING OF GLASS DOOR INSERTS
Use a household glass cleaner with a soft, clean cloth. Apply the glass cleaner directly to the cleaning cloth rather than on the glass or mirror. Avoid excess glass cleaner running into cabinet joints. Ammonia should never be used in full strength.
BASIC CARE AND THINGS TO AVOID
When in doubt of a cleaner’s suitability, do not use. Never use scouring pads, steel wool, wire brushes, or powdered cleaners. Never leave a cloth moistened with cleaner on any cabinet surface for any length of time. Check the areas around the sink and dishwasher to make sure that water and detergents do not dry on the cabinet surfaces. Avoid draping wet or damp dish towels over doors of the base cabinets. Do not attach towel racks to the interior of cabinet doors. Avoid placing small kitchen appliances where the heat or steam is directed onto cabinet surfaces. Do not leave printed materials (newspapers, magazines, etc.) on the cabinet surfaces, as the printing ink can bleed into the cabinet finish.
HOW DO YOU TAKE CARE OF WOOD CABINETS?
When you buy cabinets made out of wood, there are several things you have to keep in mind with how you take care of them. Although cabinets made from wood are durable, they still take a lot of damage and need special attention when it comes to preserving their beauty and functionality. Many different things can affect the way these cabinets are looked after, such as stains and moisture. There are some ways to help your cabinets remain to look good and in top condition, including taking a few simple precautions when it comes to cleaning and maintaining them.
One of the main reasons people end up having trouble with their cabinets is that they do not clean them regularly. If you want your cabinets to look good and last for a long time, then you need to get rid of any clutter or other items that could potentially scratch the surface. If you do not clean the cabinets’ surface on a regular basis, then dust and dirt particles can build up on the surface and make it look dirty.