Wood kitchen cabinets make a beautiful addition to any culinary space. But in order to keep them looking lovely for years to come, they must be cared for properly. To ensure you clean your wood cabinets safely and effectively, review the do’s and don’ts below.

Do: 

Wipe down your kitchen cabinets regularly.

Wiping down your cabinets once a week will prevent dirt, dust, and grime from building up on the wood, which means they’ll be easier to clean. It also means that you won’t have to use harsh cleaners to get rid of set-in stains. Simply wipe the cabinet doors with a dampened cloth, then dry with paper towels.

Use a mild cleanser

Avoid cleaning products that contain ammonia, mineral spirits, paint thinner, or other harsh ingredients that can damage the wood’s varnish. You can make your own gentle cleaner by mixing one part dishwashing soap with two parts hot water, or two parts distilled white vinegar with two parts hot water. 

Don’t: 

Use abrasive pads or sponges.

In addition to scratching the wood, abrasive cleaning tools like soap sponges, steel wool, and scouring pads often contain chemicals that can ruin the finish of your kitchen cabinets. Always use a microfiber cloth or soft rag to clean your cabinets with a mild cleanser.

Get your kitchen cabinets too wet.

It’s important not to drench your cabinets with water, as too much moisture can damage their paint and/or finish. Pour your cleanser into a spray bottle and spray your cloth until it’s damp but not soaked. If you need to apply more, you may, but make sure the cloth never gets wet enough to drip.

After cleaning the cabinet’s doors, handles, and knobs, wipe it all dry with a clean, soft cloth.

For more information on how to care for wood cabinets, get in touch with Alpine Woodworking in Minneapolis, MN. For more than 25 years, this expert woodworking team has been creating beautiful custom cabinets, home bars, and home office furnishings. Visit their website for a full list of services and call (763) 784-0333 to discuss your cabinet needs.