If your latest home improvement project included beautiful wooden cabinets, you want to keep them looking pristine for as long as possible. But both bathroom and kitchen cabinets can get caught up in some major messes. Here are some cleaning tips to leave your wood cabinets looking as good as new.

How to Clean Your Cabinets

1. Damp Microfiber Cloth

For most dust, dirt, and spills, a simple wet cloth is enough to wipe up a mess, especially if you clean it promptly. Choose a microfiber cloth that won’t scratch polished surfaces, and use just enough water for effective cleaning — don’t let excessive moisture soak into the finish.

2. Mild Soap or Baking Soda

If water simply isn’t enough or there are built up stains on the wood, use a mild cleaner like dish soap for some extra cleansing power. Alternatively, make a paste from baking soda and a small amount of water, and use it to gently scrub stuck on gunk. Avoid rubbing too hard to keep from scratching the surface of your cabinets.

3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Whatever you do, do not use solvents, bleach, ammonia, or petroleum-based products on your cabinetry. This includes paint thinner and nail polish remover. All of these will eat through the finish on your wood and leave marks worse than what you started with. The same goes for abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool: they will scrape away the finish and leave your wood exposed to staining and aging.

For more help with your cabinets or to replace your old and damaged cupboards, get in touch with Brincks Construction & Cabinet in Lawler, IA. For almost 40 years, they’ve served La Crosse, WI, Rochester, MN, and Cedar Rapids, IA, with beautiful, custom wood cabinetry and repairs using the highest quality materials. To discuss your project, call (866) 847-3202 or send a message online.