One of the many things that people struggle with while cleaning their kitchen is that they aren’t aware of how to get rid of the grime and grease off their kitchen cabinets. Mostly because they are made out of wood and they don’t want to risk using any other cleanser or the usual vinegar and baking soda mixture when it comes to their cabinets.

Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets

1. The first step is to take out all the spice jars, tableware, and food from the cabinets.
2. Use a dry cloth/towel to get rid of the food crumbs and any other dirt that may have buildup over time. You can also use a vacuum cleaner if you want to.
3. Head to the store and grab a grease removing cleanser and apply it on the surface of the cabinets. However, make sure to avoid dampening, dulling and deforming it. Wait for about 10 minutes before cleaning it.
4. After 10 minutes, take a sponge or a couple of towels to clean the area. Pour a little bit of the cleanser on to the sponge in order to soften it. Do not dip the sponge in water if you prefer an oil-based
5. Scrub the whole cabinet with gentle strokes to remove the grease. Once scrubbed, take a clean towel and wipe the residues. If the grease and grime still persists, repeat the process.
6. Once you are done cleaning the inside, head for the frames, door, handles and the face of the cabinet. Spray the cleanser on these areas and wait for 10 minutes before scrubbing it off with a sponge. Use a clean and dry towel to wipe off the surface.

·        Metal Cabinets

Metal cabinets are the easiest to clean since you can use any kind of cleanser that you prefer. Rubbing alcohol can be used for cleaning them instead of using the regular soap water mixture. If you have a corroded cabinet, use a stainless steel sponge while cleaning it. If not, you can use an abrasive sponge or a microfiber cloth to clean it. You can also use a kitchen or car wax to give it a good varnish.

·        Crystal Cabinets

Made from recycled goods, this eco-friendly cabinet is made up of wood with a laminated polish. While cleaning crystal cabinets, use a soft sponge instead of using stainless steel pads. These cabinets are prone to damage by water and can be scrapped just like the metal ones. Hence it is important that you take your time to find the perfect cleaner.

·        Plywood

Though popular, this particular kind of wood is cheaper than hardwood but more long-lasting if compared to particle boards. It also diminishes faster than the others.

It is recommended to use low pH cleaners while cleaning plywood since it can fade away the board sooner. Do not go for the basic vinegar method even though it is good for disinfecting the cabinets due to its acidic texture.

·        Particle Board

These cabinets are usually seen in apartments and are hard to repair once damaged. However, it is easy to clean and it is suggested to use very little water and cleanser while wiping off the surfaces. It is recommended to use oil-based cleansers like the Murphy’s Oil soap.

·        Hardwood

It is better to use cleaners with a neutral or low pH to avert dampening the wood and varnish. If the surfaces are already in a bad condition, refrain yourself from using water-based cleansers. While scrubbing, do not move the sponge in circular motions. Go with the pattern of the wood grains.

Baking soda, dish cleanser and Murphy’s soap can be used for cleaning hardwood since it has a pH below 9. However, after you have finished cleaning it, make sure to tone it to get rid of all the residues and avert stains.

Bottom Line

It is always a good idea to clean your cabinets at least once every month. This way, at the end of the year, you won’t be left with all that stain and greasy dust on your cabinets. However, if you are not physically fit to do the hard work, seek the help of a professional.