How to clean kitchen cabinets crafted from wood

Your kitchen is typically the heart of your home, and wooden cabinetry can play a vital role in its functionality and appearance. Keeping wood kitchen cabinets clean is essential to maintain their beauty, prolong their lifespan, and keep your kitchen sanitary. 

Over time, wood cabinets can accumulate dust, grease, and food particles, resulting in dull or damaged surfaces. Regular cabinet cleaning maintains the original shine and ensures a hygienic cooking environment. 

Let’s look at how you can clean your wood kitchen cabinets safely and effectively. 

Here’s how to clean wood cabinets in kitchens 

The best way to clean wood kitchen cabinets involves using gentle yet effective cleaning methods. You’ll want to choose non-abrasive products that won’t damage the wood or its protective finish. Here are the recommended steps and techniques to keep your cabinetry looking clean and pristine:

1. Gather necessary supplies.
2. Prepare or purchase a wood-safe cleaning solution. 
3. Remove cabinet contents and hardware (optional).
4. Clean cabinets and hardware.
5. Dry cabinets and hardware.
6. Apply protective polish (optional).

1. Gather necessary supplies

Here are the supplies you’ll need to clean your wood kitchen cabinets:

• Cleaning solution: Use a homemade 2:1 solution of hot or warm water and mild dish soap for most wood cabinet surfaces or a 2:1 solution of hot or warm water and baking soda for tough, stuck-on stains. You can also use all-purpose cleaners or specially formulated solutions like Murphy Wood Cleaner or Weiman Cabinet & Wood Clean & Shine Spray. 
• Spray bottle: Fill an empty spray bottle with your homemade cleaning solution. This makes it simple to spray your solution right where you need it. Store-bought solutions typically come in their own spray bottle or functional container. 
• Microfiber cloth: Choose a microfiber cloth for cleaning, as it is gentle on wood surfaces and effectively traps dust and dirt without causing scratches.
• Soft sponge: Use a soft sponge to apply your cleaning solution and gently scrub away grime and stains from the cabinet surfaces.
• Toothbrush: A toothbrush can help clean hard-to-reach areas and crevices, such as corners and around hardware.
• Lint-free cloth or towel: Keep a lint-free cloth or towel nearby to dry the cabinet surfaces after cleaning.
• Screwdriver or drill (optional): If you plan to remove the cabinet hardware before cleaning, keep a screwdriver or drill handy to facilitate easy removal and reinstallation.
• Step stool (optional): If you have cabinetry that is difficult to access, a step stool will provide you with the necessary height to comfortably clean all areas of your cabinets.
• Vacuum with a crevice or brush attachment (optional): If you plan to deep clean your cabinets, a vacuum with a crevice or brush attachment can help you suck up spills or debris inside your cabinets.
• Protective gloves (optional): If you have sensitive skin or prefer to protect your hands, consider wearing protective gloves while cleaning your cabinets.

After gathering your supplies, you’ll be ready to start preparing your cleaning solution and cleaning your cabinets. 

2. Prepare or purchase a wood-safe cleaning solution 

Using the correct cleaning products on your wood cabinets is essential for keeping them clean and protected. While you may have read that white vinegar solutions are safe for cleaning sealed, painted, or finished wooden surfaces, vinegar has a low pH level (meaning it is acidic) that can corrode the paint or finish on your wood cabinets. 

Sticking to a 2:1 ratio of hot or warm water and mild dish soap in your spray bottle is best to ensure your wood cabinets get clean and remain undamaged. Unsure how to clean sticky wood kitchen cabinets? Use a 2:1 ratio of hot or warm water and baking soda to create a cleaning paste. You can also look for specially formulated non-abrasive or pH-neutral cleaners designed for your specific type of wood finish. 

Tip: Using appropriate cleaning products will help maintain your cabinets and protect them from damage. When in doubt, consult the cabinet manufacturer for specific cleaning recommendations based on your cabinet type and finish.

3. Remove cabinet contents and hardware (optional)

Removing all cabinet contents (dishware, cups, cooking utensils, appliances, and foods) and hardware (handles, knobs, and drawer pulls) isn’t necessary for everyday cleaning. However, if you’re wondering how to deep clean wood kitchen cabinets, these steps ensure access to all cabinet surface areas, corners, crevices, and hardware. 

Use the proper screwdriver or drill and bit to remove the screws or fasteners (typically located on the interior side of cabinet doors or drawer fronts) and hardware. Be sure to place all hardware components in a plastic container or small bag so you don’t lose anything. 

Take this opportunity to inspect the hardware for signs of wear or damage and the cabinet doors and drawers for scratches, dents, or areas that may require touch-ups.

4. Clean cabinets and hardware 

Now it’s time to start cleaning your cabinets and hardware.

Test your cleaning solution

Before applying your cleaning solution to all your cabinet surfaces, test it in a hidden area. Choose a small, discreet spot, such as the inside of a cabinet door, and apply a small amount of your cleaning solution. Gently wipe the area with a soft cloth or sponge and observe any adverse reactions, such as discoloration or damage to the finish.

Clean cabinets from top to bottom

When you’re ready to start cleaning all wood cabinet surfaces, begin at the top of your cabinets and work your way down. This prevents dirty water from dripping onto areas you’ve already cleaned. Apply your cleaning solution with your spray bottle and work in circular wiping motions with a damp (not wet) cloth or sponge. 

Attack sticky residue or tough stains with baking soda

For stubborn stains or hard-to-reach areas, use a clean toothbrush and a baking soda solution to scrub away the grime. When cleaning, always follow the grain of the wood. This helps to avoid scratching the surface and maintains the finish on your cabinets. Remember to rinse your toothbrush, cloth, or sponge frequently to avoid spreading dirt and grime.

Soak and scrub cabinet hardware

Don’t forget to clean your cabinet handles and knobs during this process. If you have metal hardware that is particularly dirty or greasy, you may want to soak it in a 2:1 hot or warm water and white vinegar solution for a few minutes (vinegar cleaning solutions are typically safe on metals if you thoroughly rinse and dry post-cleaning). This will help loosen the dirt and make it easier to wipe or scrub.

5. Dry cabinets and hardware

Drying your wood cabinets and hardware thoroughly immediately after cleaning is essential. Excess moisture can seep into the wood and cause warping or discoloring. It can also cause damage to metal hardware, such as corrosion or water spots. Use a clean, dry lint-free cloth to remove moisture from all surfaces.

Pay special attention to corners and crevices where water might accumulate. Leaving these areas damp can lead to mold and mildew growth, cabinet damage, and health risks. If you removed your cabinet contents and hardware for deep cleaning, you can replace your belongings and reinstall your hardware once all surfaces are dry.

6. Apply protective polish (optional)

If you want to give your cabinets an extra shine and protect them from dust and grime, consider applying a furniture polish after cleaning. This step is optional but can enhance the look of your cabinets and add a protective layer.

Choosing the correct polish

When choosing a cabinet polish, it is important to select one that is suitable for your specific type of wood and finish. For example, Guardsman Anytime Clean & Polish for Wood Furniture works for sealed, finished woods, whereas Pledge Restoring Oil Furniture Polish works for both finished and unfinished woods.

Testing your polish on a hidden area

After you’ve identified a polish that’s compatible with your cabinet wood type and finish, test it on a small, hidden area per the manufacturer’s instructions. This will enable you to check for any adverse reactions or color changes. If there are no issues, proceed with applying the polish.

Applying polish

Most polish manufacturers will instruct you to spray a small amount of the furniture polish onto a clean, lint-free cloth and apply it in a circular motion to a small area of the cabinet. Then, you can work your way across the surface, following the grain of the wood to ensure a thin, even layer of polish.

After applying polish to desired areas, gently buff the surface with a separate clean, dry cloth. The buffing process helps evenly distribute the polish, remove any excess, and bring out a natural shine. Use firm yet gentle pressure and continue buffing until the cabinets have a smooth, polished appearance.

Allow the polish to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes a few minutes, but it may vary depending on the specific product.

Inspect and repeat (if necessary)

Once the polish has dried, inspect the cabinets for any streaks, smudges, or unevenness. If necessary, reapply the polish to achieve the desired results. Take your time to ensure an even and beautiful finish.

Tip: Remember, not all wood cabinets require polish, and some finishes may not be compatible with certain types of polishes. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and test on a small area first. Additionally, avoid using excessive amounts of polish, as it can lead to a buildup over time.

The importance of keeping wood kitchen cabinets clean

Clean cabinets not only enhance the overall aesthetics of your kitchen but also contribute to a healthier living space. Here are a few reasons why cleaning your wood kitchen cabinets is crucial:

• Preserving beauty: Homeowners prize wood cabinets for their natural warmth and unique grain patterns. Regular cleaning helps to preserve their beauty by removing dirt, stains, and residues that can diminish their appearance over time.
• Preventing damage: Built-up grime and grease can harm the protective finish of your wood cabinets, leading to discoloration, warping, and even structural damage. Cleaning them regularly prevents these issues, ensuring your cabinets stay in excellent condition.
• Ensuring safe food prep areas: You can expose your kitchen cabinets to contaminants, including bacteria and food spills. Regular cleaning helps eliminate these germs, creating a clean and safe environment for food preparation.
• Maintaining cabinet longevity: Proper maintenance and cleaning can significantly extend the lifespan of your wood cabinets. Removing dirt and stains promptly prevents them from penetrating the wood and causing irreversible damage.

Taking the time to regularly clean your wood kitchen cabinets is a worthwhile investment that will keep your kitchen looking beautiful and promote a clean, healthy environment.

Avoid common wood cabinet cleaning mistakes 

To keep your cabinetry in top shape, avoid these common cleaning mistakes: 

• Using excess water: Avoid using excessive water when cleaning your cabinets. Water can seep into the wood, causing it to warp, swell, or even lead to mold growth. Use a damp cloth or sponge instead of soaking the cabinets with water.
• Using harsh or abrasive cleaners: Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners with low pH levels on your wood cabinets. These cleaners can strip away the protective finish, scratch the surface, and dull the wood. Choose gentle, non-abrasive, and all-natural cleaners specifically designed for wood surfaces.
• Not testing cleaning solutions: Before using any cleaning solution, it’s crucial to test it in a hidden area. Different wood finishes may react differently to certain cleaners. Testing helps ensure the cleaner doesn’t cause any adverse effects or damage to your cabinets.
• Scrubbing too hard: Avoid using excessive force or aggressive scrubbing when cleaning your cabinets. Scrubbing too hard can remove the finish, scratch the wood, or leave visible marks. Instead, use gentle and circular motions when cleaning to avoid damaging the surface.
• Ignoring the grain of the wood: When wiping or scrubbing your cabinets, follow the direction of the wood grain. Cleaning against the grain can potentially damage the wood and affect its appearance. Always work with the grain for a safe and effective cleaning process.
• Leaving cleaning solution residue: After cleaning, thoroughly rinse your cabinets to remove any cleaning solution residue. The residue on the surface can dull the finish or attract dirt and grime. Use a clean damp cloth to wipe away any remaining cleaning solution, then dry the cabinets thoroughly.
• Using dirty or abrasive tools: Make sure that the tools you use for cleanings, such as cloths, sponges, or toothbrushes, are clean and free from debris. Using dirty tools can introduce additional dirt or particles onto the cabinets, potentially causing scratches or leaving streaks.
• Neglecting to dry cabinets properly: After cleaning, it’s essential to dry your cabinets thoroughly to prevent moisture damage. Leaving them wet can lead to warping, discoloration, or the growth of mold and mildew. Use a clean, dry cloth to thoroughly dry the cabinets after cleaning.

Avoiding these common cleaning mistakes will help you to effectively clean your cabinets without causing any damage or compromising their appearance. 

Stay up to date with The Cabinet Door Store

Regular cleaning and prompt attention to spills and stains are vital to maintaining beautiful wood cabinets. With proper care, your wood kitchen cabinets can remain a beautiful and functional part of your kitchen for many years. 

Whether you’re looking for cleaning tips, replacing a damaged cabinet door, or considering a complete kitchen remodel, The Cabinet Door Store is here to help. 

If you want to breathe new life into old wood kitchen cabinets, explore our range of high-quality cabinet doors and drawer fronts. We have several cabinet wood species and paint options to choose from.  

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