How To Clean Old Kitchen Cabinets

How to Clean Old Kitchen Cabinets

Grimy, sticky stains and grease buildup on old kitchen cabinets can be unsightly and unhygienic. Fortunately, with the right cleaning techniques and a little elbow grease, you can restore your cabinets to their original shine.

Here's a comprehensive guide to cleaning old kitchen cabinets effectively and efficiently:

Determine the Cabinet Finish

Before you start cleaning, it's crucial to identify the finish of your cabinets. Different finishes require varying cleaning methods to avoid damage.

Painted Cabinets: Use a gentle degreasing cleaner or a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap.
Stained Cabinets: Opt for a diluted wood cleaner specifically designed for finished surfaces.
Laminate Cabinets: Utilize a cleaner designed for laminate surfaces.
Shellac Cabinets: Choose a solvent-based cleaner or a mixture of denatured alcohol and water.

Gather Essential Cleaning Supplies

To tackle the cleaning task, you'll need the following supplies:

Appropriate cleaner for your cabinet finish
Two buckets or bowls (one for the cleaner and one for rinsing)
Soft, clean microfiber cloths or sponges
Soft-bristled brush for cleaning crevices
Cotton swabs for detailing
Toothpicks for hard-to-reach areas

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Once your supplies are ready, follow these steps:

Remove Everything: Clear out the cabinets and remove all contents, including drawers and shelves.
Clean the Cabinets: Dip a clean cloth into the cleaner solution and gently wipe down the cabinet surfaces, using circular motions. Focus on removing grease, grime, and stains.
Rinse the Cabinets: Dip a cloth into clean water and wipe down the surfaces to remove any remaining cleaner residue.
Clean the Drawers and Shelves: Follow the same cleaning steps for the drawers and shelves.
Dry the Cabinets: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the cabinets and drawers to prevent water spots.

Additional Tips for Deep Cleaning

Use Cotton Swabs and Toothpicks: For intricate areas like corners and crevices, use cotton swabs or toothpicks dipped in the cleaner solution to remove stubborn dirt or grime.
Check for Mold: Inspect the cabinets for any signs of mold or mildew, especially in areas with moisture. Address these issues promptly to avoid further damage.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool on kitchen cabinets, as they can scratch and damage the finish.
Test Cleaners in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying any cleaner to the entire cabinet, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it does not cause discoloration or damage.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your kitchen cabinets clean and prevent future buildup, consider these maintenance tips:

Wipe down cabinet surfaces regularly with a damp microfiber cloth.
Use a degreasing cleaner to remove grease and fingerprints.
Clean up spills and messes immediately to prevent staining.
Consider applying a cabinet protectant to create a barrier against dirt and grime.