When your kitchen cabinets are newly installed, it’s like love at first sight: they’re brand-new, sparkling, and the star of the show. They quickly take center stage, boosting both the look and functionality of your kitchen, bathroom, or other space.
As time goes on, though, even the most well-made, stunning cabinets can show a bit of wear and tear.
You don’t want your investment to lose its shine too quickly. Careful use plays a part, but there’s more to keeping your cabinets looking pristine.
If maintaining your custom kitchen cabinets is a priority, there are a few key practices you’ll want to make part of your daily routine. Here are some simple tips to help you clean your custom kitchen cabinets effectively.
Initial Cleaning After Installation
It’s important to clean your new kitchen cabinets before you start loading them with all of your kitchen essentials. Start by gently wiping down the cabinets with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dust or debris left behind from the installation process.
Make sure to get all the nooks and crannies, but be gentle. Your cabinets are still settling in, and you don’t want to scratch or damage the finish.
After wiping, grab a clean, soft cloth and thoroughly dry all surfaces. Moisture is the enemy of wood, so see that no water is left behind.
To give your cabinets an extra layer of protection, apply a thin coat of high-quality furniture polish. Beyond adding shine, this acts as a barrier against everyday wear and tear.
Routine Cleaning Practices
Cleaning kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to be a huge chore. We’ve compiled some daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning practices to keep your cabinets in excellent shape.
1. Daily Cleaning Tips
First off, the basics. Wipe the surfaces of your cabinets every day with a soft cloth and a little bit of mild soap. This quick routine helps remove any grease, fingerprints, or food splatters that can build up over time. Steer clear of abrasive kitchen cabinet cleaners or sponges – they might seem right for the job, but they can scratch and dull the beautiful finish of your cabinets.
2. Weekly Maintenance
Once a week, take a few extra minutes to give your cabinets a more thorough cleaning. Focus on the cabinet doors, handles, and hinges – these are the spots that tend to get the most use and, as a result, the most grime.
If you notice any spills or stains, take care of them right away. The longer a spill sits, the harder it can be to clean. You definitely don’t want anything to stain your cabinets permanently!
3. Monthly Deep Cleaning
Schedule a date to deep clean your cabinets every month. Remove the items from inside your cabinets and give the interiors a good scrub. Remember to only use gentle, non-toxic cleaners.
While you’re at it, take this chance to reorganize and declutter. Clear out items you no longer use to free up space for new jars, bottles, and whatever else you need to store.
Essential Cabinet Maintenance Tips
You’ll need to take a few precautionary measures to maintain your custom kitchen cabinets the right way.
1. Keep Your Cabinets Away from Excess Sunlight
Excessive sunlight can fade and damage the finish on cabinets over time. If your kitchen receives a lot of natural sunlight, consider using shades, blinders, or window coverings to protect them. It’s a simple step, but it can go a long way in keeping your custom cabinets in the best shape possible.
2. Avoid Placing Rubber or Plastic on Them
Rubber and plastic items can sometimes react with the finish on your cabinets, leading to discoloration or damage. It’s best to avoid placing these materials directly on your cabinets. Instead, opt for cloth liners or other breathable materials that won’t harm the surface.
3. Clean Up Spills Immediately
Spills happen, especially in the kitchen, and there’s nothing you can do to stop them. The key is to clean them up right away. Letting spills sit can cause stains or damage that’s harder to fix later. A quick wipe with a soft cloth can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
4. Dust Regularly
Dusting cabinets regularly will keep them looking fresh and prevent buildup. Dust can dull the finish over time, so cleaning them every week is a good habit to get into.
5. Be Patient with Stubborn Stains
If you encounter a stubborn stain, don’t rush to scrub it away with harsh chemicals. Be patient and use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently work on the stain until it starts to lift. It may take a little time, but being gentle will help preserve the finish and keep your cabinets looking great.
H2: How to Deal with Scratches and Nicks
No matter how careful you are, scratches and nicks happen. The good news is that they don’t have to ruin the look of your cabinets. With a few simple steps, you can minimize the appearance of these blemishes.
Assess the Damage
Before fixing a scratch or nick, take time for a close look at the damage. Is it just a surface scratch, or has the wood been gouged? Understanding the depth of the damage will help you choose the right method to repair it.
Use a Touch-Up Kit
For minor scratches or nicks, use a touch-up kit. These kits are often available from the cabinet maker and come in a variety of colors to match your cabinets. Simply apply the touch-up marker or fill stick to the scratch, as per the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s often a quick and easy fix that can make those small imperfections nearly invisible.
Try a DIY Fix
If you don’t have a touch-up kit handy, there are some DIY methods you can try. For light scratches, you can use a matching crayon or a wax stick. Just rub the crayon or wax stick over the scratch and buff it with a soft cloth until the scratch blends in with the surrounding wood.
For deeper nicks, you might need to use wood filler. Apply the filler carefully, let it dry, and then gently sand it down before touching it up with matching paint or stain.
Prevent Future Damage
While you can’t always avoid scratches and nicks, you can take steps to minimize the risk. Use protective pads on the bottoms of pots, pans, and small appliances to prevent them from scratching the cabinet surfaces. Be mindful when moving items in and out of your cabinets, and try to avoid bumping them with heavy or sharp objects.
Know When to Call a Pro
If the damage is extensive or you’re not comfortable handling the repair yourself, it might be time to call in a professional like Holland’s Custom Cabinets. A skilled woodworker or cabinet repair specialist can often restore even heavily damaged cabinets and make them look as good as new.
Hardware Maintenance
Maintaining your kitchen cabinet hardware is just as important as taking care of the cabinets themselves. Here’s how to keep your hardware looking and working its best.
1. Check Hardware Regularly
Over time, screws can loosen from daily use, leading to wobbly handles or doors that don’t close properly. If you notice anything loose, grab a screwdriver and tighten it!
2. Clean with Care
When it comes to cleaning cabinet hardware, less is more. For a little extra cleaning power, a damp cloth with a mild soap solution can do the trick, but be sure to dry the hardware thoroughly afterward to prevent moisture damage.
The Bottom Line
By utilizing our best ways to clean cabinets, you can keep your custom cabinets looking their best. Take good care of them, and they’ll remain a standout feature in your home for many years to come.
We invite you to discover the difference custom cabinetry can make in your home. Holland’s Custom Cabinets creates tailor-made storage solutions with precision engineering and premium materials. Contact us today.
