How To Clean Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets are often overlooked during routine cleaning. Over time, grease, grime, and dirt can accumulate, creating an unsightly appearance, potentially harboring germs and attracting pests.

This guide will walk you through the process of thoroughly cleaning your kitchen cabinets, ensuring they remain in pristine condition and continue to be a functional and attractive part of your home.

Essential Cleaning Supplies for Kitchen Cabinets

The appropriate tools and cleaning solutions will make the task more efficient and help protect your cabinets from damage. Choosing the right cleaning solution will also help avoid damaging your cabinets and keep them looking pristine. 

Natural Cleaning Solutions

For those who prefer eco-friendly options, natural cleaning solutions can be highly effective. A mixture of warm water and mild dish soap is often sufficient for most cleaning tasks.

For more demanding jobs, a paste made from baking soda and water can work wonders. White vinegar is another versatile natural cleaner, especially when combined with water for a sanitizing spray.

Commercial Cleaning Products

While natural solutions are often adequate, some situations may call for commercial products.

When choosing a commercial cleaner, choose those specifically designed for your cabinet material. Avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach, that can strip finishes or damage wood. Always test any new product on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire cabinet surface.

Preparing Your Kitchen for Cabinet Cleaning

Good prep work will make cleaning your space more manageable and simplify the entire process. We recommend taking the following steps before cleaning your cabinets: 

1. Clear off countertops to create space for cabinet contents.
2. Remove all items from inside the cabinets.
3. Inspect and discard any expired or unnecessary items.
4. Vacuum or wipe away loose crumbs and dust from shelves and drawers.
5. Remove any old shelf liners if necessary.

Step-by-Step Guide To Cleaning Kitchen Cabinet Exteriors

Cleaning the exterior of your kitchen cabinets is often the most visible part of the process. It’s important to approach this task methodically to ensure no area is overlooked.

Cleaning Wood Cabinets

Wood cabinets require special care to maintain their finish and prevent damage. Here’s how to clean them effectively:

1. Mix a gentle cleaning solution of warm water and mild dish soap.
2. Dip a soft microfiber cloth into the solution, wring it out well, and wipe down the cabinet surfaces.
3. Pay extra attention to areas around handles and edges where grime can accumulate.
4. For stubborn spots, use a soft-bristled toothbrush dipped in the cleaning solution.
5. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
6. Dry immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent water damage.

For those looking to refresh their cabinets beyond cleaning, painting kitchen cabinets without sanding can be an excellent way to update their look.

Tackling Laminate and Metal Cabinets

Laminate and metal cabinets are generally more durable and can withstand slightly stronger cleaning methods:

1. Use the same mild soap solution as for wood cabinets.
2. For tougher stains, you can apply a mixture of baking soda and water with a soft cloth.
3. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the surface.
4. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth.

Addressing Glass Cabinet Doors

Glass cabinet doors require a different approach to ensure a streak-free finish:

1. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution onto a microfiber cloth, not directly on the glass.
3. Wipe the glass in a circular motion, paying attention to corners and edges.
4. Buff with a dry microfiber cloth for a sparkling finish.

Techniques for Removing Stubborn Grease and Grime From Cabinets

Sometimes, regular cleaning isn’t enough to tackle built-up grease and grime. Here are some practical methods for dealing with tough, sticky residues.

Baking Soda Paste Method

Baking soda’s mild abrasive properties make it excellent for removing grease—it neutralizes acids and breaks down grease, making it an effective cleaning option:

1. Mix baking soda with water to form a paste.
2. Apply the paste to greasy areas using a soft cloth or sponge.
3. Let it sit for several minutes to break down the grease.
4. Gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
5. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.

Vinegar and Dawn Dish Soap Solution

For particularly stubborn grease:

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Add a few drops of Dawn dish soap.
3. Spray the solution on greasy areas and let sit for a few minutes.
4. Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth.

Proper Care for Kitchen Cabinet Hardware and Hinges

Cabinet hardware and hinges often accumulate grime and need special attention during cleaning. Proper care of these components keeps them working smoothly and enhances the overall appearance of your cabinets.

Cleaning Metal Handles and Knobs

To clean and shine your hardware:

1. Remove handles and knobs if possible.
2. Soak in warm, soapy water for a few minutes.
3. Scrub gently with a soft brush.
4. Rinse and dry thoroughly before reattaching.

For non-removable hardware, clean in place using a cloth dampened with soapy water, taking care not to saturate the surrounding wood.

Maintaining Cabinet Hinges

Properly maintained hinges ensure smooth operation:

1. Clean hinges with a cloth wrapped around your finger, dipped in soapy water.
2. For stubborn grime, use a 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar on an old toothbrush.
3. Dry thoroughly to prevent rust.

How To Clean Hard-To-Reach Areas of Kitchen Cabinets

Some areas of your kitchen cabinets can be challenging to clean but shouldn’t be overlooked. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Americans spend an average of 37 minutes per day on housework like cleaning, and our experts recommend spending some of that time on the less-obvious parts of your cabinets.

Tackling the Tops of Cabinets

The tops of cabinets often collect dust and grease. Here’s how to clean them:

1. Use a sturdy step stool or ladder for safe access.
2. Remove loose dust with a long-handled duster or vacuum attachment.
3. For greasy buildup, spray with a vinegar solution and let sit for a few minutes.
4. Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth.
5. Consider placing wax paper on top after cleaning to make future cleaning easier.

Cleaning Cabinet Trim and Crevices

Intricate trim and tight crevices require patience. Take these steps:

1. Use a soft toothbrush or cloth-wrapped finger to clean detailed trim.
2. For tight spaces, wrap a cloth around a butter knife or similar tool.
3. Use a cotton swab dipped in cleaning solution for very small crevices.

Tips for Maintaining Clean Kitchen Cabinets

Regular maintenance not only preserves how your cabinets look, but also how they function. To keep your cabinets looking their best between deep cleans, follow these professional tips:

1. Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
2. Use cabinet liners to protect interior surfaces.
3. Clean handles and frequently touched areas weekly with a disinfectant wipe.
4. Dust cabinet tops monthly to prevent buildup.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets

When cleaning your kitchen cabinets, be aware of these common pitfalls.

1. Using too much water, which can damage wood.
2. Neglecting to test cleaning products in an inconspicuous area first.
3. Forgetting to dry cabinets thoroughly after cleaning.
4. Using abrasive scrubbers on delicate surfaces.

How Often Should You Clean Your Kitchen Cabinets?

The frequency of cabinet cleaning depends on your household’s cooking habits and cabinet usage. As a general rule:

• Wipe down exterior surfaces weekly to prevent buildup.
• Clean handles and knobs bi-weekly to reduce germ transfer.
• Perform a deep clean of interior and exterior surfaces every three to six months.

Consider incorporating cabinet cleaning into your routine for deep cleaning your house.

Our Conclusion

Cleaning kitchen cabinets is a manageable part of home care with the right approach and regular maintenance. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure your cabinets remain clean, hygienic, and beautiful for years.