Dinner is sizzling, and it smells amazing. Unfortunately, it sizzles a little too high and spatters the cabinets above the stove. Sticky toddler fingers wander all through the kitchen while you tidy up, leaving sticky fingerprints on handles and cabinets (and your pants). Someone doesn't realize there is milk in a glass when they turn it over into the dishwasher, and it splashes the surrounding cabinets.
You can't avoid messes in the kitchen, and you certainly can't avoid getting grime, grease, and grub on your kitchen cabinets. So how do you clean your Santa Maria kitchen cabinets without damaging the wood or paint? Read on to find out.
How to Clean Wood Cabinets
No matter which method you choose, be sure to first test in a small, out-of-the-way spot on a kitchen cabinet. Leave it for a few hours to make sure it doesn't leave any stain or residue. If the wood is undamaged after a few hours, you're safe to proceed.
Remember to work with the grain of wood when you're cleaning your cabinets. Avoid abrasive cleaning pads or you may end up scratching the surface.
- To protect your wooden cabinets while removing sticky grime, the best choice is to use an oil soap wood cleaner. You can find this at your hardware store.
- You can also try dish detergent and warm water. Mix 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of detergent. Be careful not to saturate your cabinets as you clean. Just use enough of your solution to do the job. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off the solution, and then follow up with a clean, dry cloth.
- How about vinegar? It's the miracle DIY cleaning ingredient for the house. Will it work to clean wood cabinets? Yes, and it's a safe solution. Mix vinegar with water, and remember not to soak your cabinets as you gently scrub. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the solution away, and finish by rubbing the cabinet with a clean, dry cloth.
- What if you have really stubborn stains that just won't skedaddle? Try some baking soda. Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply it to the stain with a wet cloth, and wipe it clean.
How to Clean Painted Cabinets
Your method for cleaning painted cabinets depends heavily on the type of paint that was used. If an oil-based paint was used on your cabinets, you should be safe to use any of the above methods without worry. (Although, just as advised above, you'll want to test an inconspicuous spot first.)
If a water-based latex paint was used, however, you'll need to be careful. It's easy to scratch the surface, so the safest method is to use warm water and a nonabrasive all-purpose cleaner. Proceed gently.
To tackle grease, wipe your cabinets with ammonia and water. Rinse afterwards with clear water.
You can stay on top of your kitchen cabinet maintenance by wiping your cabinets clean once a day. Occasionally disinfect all of your surfaces with a diluted antibacterial cleaner that doesn't contain bleach.
Thinking of repainting, refacing, or replacing your cabinets in Santa Maria? New Life Bath and Kitchen can help you find the best solution for your kitchen and the way you live. Give us a call at 805-937-9836, or contact us online for a free estimate.