Not every cabinet surface is created equal. Stained, painted and laminate all require different, and special, care. Clean cabinets are not only important for sanitary reasons, but for visual reasons! Keeping the finish the way it is intended to look is the best way to keep your kitchen looking fresh and new, while also protecting it long-term.
Painted cabinets
While we will never recommend painting your cabinets, sometimes we can’t pick the cabinets we have. Painted cabinets are a bit tricky when it comes to cleaning, because the finish is very fragile. Avoid using harsh cleaners, as they can strip the paint. Soap and water, or diluted vinegar, are great options for cleaning. Just make sure to not scrub too hard, and to dry off the surface completely once finished.
Laminate
Laminate cabinets are my favorite, in terms of clean up! Since they’re not a traditional wood, there is no porous material to be worried about. Any all purpose cleaner will do the trick (Mrs. Meyers is my favorite), or even just water and a microfiber cloth to avoid damaging the finish is all it really takes to keep them shiny and beautiful!
Stained wood
Stained wood cabinets are definitely a lot of work to keep them in good shape, but the finish and beauty is completely worth it. These cabinets need to be washed and oiled about twice a year. A good mixture for a cleaning solution is six-eighths distilled white vinegar, one-eighth rubbing alcohol, and one-eighth water with a few drops of dish soap. With this mixture, and a cloth, just start wiping down! Once done, wipe down with a clean, damp cloth. It is as simple as that for the cleaning process. Finish with any furniture oil, and you’re on your way to keeping your cabinets gorgeous for many years to come.
