How to Clean Kitchen Cabinets

When you're whipping up a stir-fry or sautéing chicken in your pan, tiny grease particles inevitably drift through the air and settle onto your kitchen cabinet surfaces. While tackling cabinet cleaning isn't anyone's idea of a good time, regular wipe-downs mean you can avoid frequent deep cleans, and when you do need to thoroughly clean, it'll be much easier.

The cleaning method we suggest works well for all cabinet types—wood, painted, laminated, and metal. We've also included specific guidance for cabinets featuring glass doors.

Supplies for Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets

Cleaning kitchen cabinets may not be the most enjoyable task, but it's essential for maintaining a hygienic and visually appealing cooking space. Regular wiping of cupboards helps prevent the buildup of grease, grime, and dust particles that inevitably accumulate over time. By following our recommended method, you can safely clean wood, painted, laminated, and metal cabinets, as well as those with glass doors.

To get started, gather the following supplies:

Gentle dish soap: A mild degreaser that effectively removes oils and fats from cabinet surfaces.
Spray bottle: Allows for even application of cleaning solutions while minimizing drips and excess moisture.
Soft sponge: Non-abrasive sponges can gently remove gunk from hard-to-reach cabinet crevices without causing damage.
Microfiber cloths: These non-scratching cloths are perfect for removing dirt and grime from wood and painted surfaces.
Soft-bristled brushes: Gentle bristles help clean cabinet hardware without causing scratches.
Under-sink mat: Placing a mat beneath your sink can protect wood surfaces from potential water damage caused by minor plumbing leaks.

In addition to these essentials, you may also want to consider using the following items for specific cleaning needs:

Magic Eraser: This versatile tool is great for getting into the nooks and crannies of glass cabinet doors.
Wood polish: Products like Howard Orange Oil Wood Polish can help restore shine to wood surfaces.
Glass cleaner: Solutions such as Sprayway Glass Cleaner, Better Life Glass Cleaner, or a mixture of water and vinegar can effectively remove grease buildup on glass cabinet doors.

Estimated Time for Cabinet Cleaning

To maintain your kitchen cabinets and prevent the accumulation of grease, it is recommended to perform a quick wipe-down on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. This routine cleaning should take no more than 10 minutes of your time. However, if your kitchen has inadequate ventilation, grease may build up more rapidly on your cupboards, necessitating more frequent cleaning.

In addition to regular maintenance, it is advisable to conduct a thorough deep-cleaning of your cabinets once or twice annually. The duration of this task may vary depending on the condition of your cupboards and the size of your kitchen, but it could take up to an hour to complete.

Effortless Cabinet Upkeep and Tackling Messes

1. To keep your cabinets looking their best, regardless of the material, use a dry microfiber cloth for regular dusting. Neglecting to remove dust can lead to a sticky, greasy buildup that becomes more challenging to clean over time.

2. When food spills or splatters occur, act quickly to wipe them away. A damp microfiber cloth is usually sufficient for this task. For tougher messes, create a gentle cleaning solution by adding a small amount of liquid dish soap to warm water, and apply it to the affected area using a soft, nonabrasive sponge. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure, as this may harm the cabinet's surface, especially if it has a painted finish.

Thorough Cabinet Cleaning Guide

This method works well on various cabinet materials, including wood, painted surfaces, laminate, and metal.

1. Create a gentle cleaning solution by mixing a small amount of liquid dish soap into a bowl of warm water. Using too much soap will make it more challenging to rinse off later, so be conservative.

2. Clean the cabinet surfaces using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth dampened with the soapy water. Squeeze out excess water to prevent dripping. For stubborn grime, you may need to repeat the process. Alternatively, you can put the solution in a spray bottle and apply it to the cleaning cloth.

3. Dry all surfaces thoroughly with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent water damage.

4. Clean the cabinet hardware, such as handles and hinges, using the same soapy water and a soft toothbrush or sponge. Test a small, hidden area first to ensure you don't scratch the finish. Dry the hardware completely with a microfiber cloth.

5. Tackle the cabinet interiors by removing contents one shelf at a time to avoid cluttering your kitchen. Clean the inside surfaces using the same soap and water method described above.

Restoring Luster to Wood Cabinets

To revive the natural brilliance of your wooden cabinets, experts suggest using Howard Orange Oil Wood Polish. Once you've thoroughly cleaned your cabinets with a gentle soap-and-water mixture, wait until they are completely dry before proceeding with the oil application. Mist the oil onto a soft microfiber or cotton cloth and gently spread it uniformly across the wooden surface for an even finish.

Maintaining Sparkling Glass-Fronted Cabinets

To protect delicate surfaces, opt for an ammonia-free glass cleaner. Sprayway Glass Cleaner is a top choice, as it minimizes streaking and smudging. For those sensitive to strong odors, Better Life Glass Cleaner is an excellent alternative that performed equally well in our testing. Alternatively, create your own eco-friendly solution by combining vinegar and water.

For precise application, spray the cleaner onto a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or a microfiber cloth. When cleaning glass panes set within wooden or painted cabinet doors, particularly those with intricate grid patterns, this method helps prevent the cleaner from coming into contact with the surrounding surfaces. The Magic Eraser's shape and texture provide enhanced control and make it simpler to reach the corners of individual glass panes.

Maintaining Your Cabinets for Long-Lasting Beauty

1. Ensure the doors are properly aligned. Misaligned doors can scrape against the cabinet base, causing unsightly damage. If your cabinet doors are equipped with Euro-style hinges and have begun to droop, adjusting them is a simple process. Follow the instructions in this video to raise or lower the doors as needed.

2. Utilize plastic liners in under-sink cabinets. These liners safeguard your cabinets from potential water damage caused by minor plumbing issues and protect the surface from harsh cleaning products stored beneath the sink. Choose a waterproof liner that can be easily trimmed to size and removed for periodic cleaning. Steer clear of old-fashioned adhesive contact paper, which can attract unwanted pests like cockroaches.

3. Avoid forcing soft-close cabinet drawers or doors shut. According to experts, this can be detrimental to the hardware. Allow them to close naturally on their own.

4. Select classic cabinet or drawer pulls and knobs. While integrated or cutout handles offer a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, they expose the cabinet surfaces to direct contact with greasy or damp hands, which can deteriorate the finish over time. To maintain a separation between your hands and the cabinet surfaces, try opting for traditional cabinet or drawer pulls.

5. Refrain from using abrasive cleaning products or sponges intended for other surfaces like tile. Cleaners containing bleach or ammonia can harm certain surfaces, so it's best to steer clear of them. Additionally, avoid applying excessive pressure when cleaning your cabinets, as this can damage the surface.