If you're looking for methods to clean your wood cabinets, it's very likely because they're already under layers of grease and gunk. That's never a pretty sight when you're cooking.
As grim as it looks, it might not be too late for that wooden finish to shine again. Here's how to clean your wood cabinets with some effort and supplies you might already have in your home.Â
How to clean wood cabinets
Before getting started, you should know a couple of things about cabinet care. No matter how effective they are in other scenarios, not all cleaning tools will help you with wooden surfaces.Â
These are things you should never do:
- Using steel wool: Although it's a great cleaning tool, steel wool is too abrasive for wooden surfaces and will peel off the finish.
- Scrubbing too hard: Even if you have a very soft-bristled brush, don't scrub too hard, or you'll damage the surface of your cabinets.
- Applying bleach: This is a big don't. Wood will never get along with harsh chemicals such as chlorine bleach, even if it's watered down.
Also, there has always been a debate on using white vinegar on wood cabinets. The majority of cabinets won't get damaged if you add water to vinegar.
Still, you can never be too cautious, so make sure vinegar works by spot-testing the solution somewhere no one will notice. If vinegar and your cabinet didn't agree, don't get discouraged, water with soap still is an excellent alternative.
Now, it's time to save those cabinets!
Step #1: Prepare a DIY cleaning solution
Making a cleaning agent is fast and easy if vinegar is safe for your cabinets. Mix equal parts warm water and white vinegar inside a spray bottle–it'll even work on other surfaces!
Remember: Don't use this solution until you spot-test first.
Step #2: Wipe your cabinets
Spray your solution on the wooden areas as you go and, with a lint-free cloth or very soft sponge, wipe in the direction of the grain. Don't go in circular motions; you could get a splinter stuck in the rag and rip a chunk of wood off. With another clean cloth, wipe the surfaces dry.
Step #3: Add a finishing touch with olive oil
Luster your wooden surfaces with a bit of olive oil. Work in small sections and with patience, so the shine looks as even as possible. Now you'll have clean and beautiful wood cabinets.
What to do if your cabinets are sticky
Grease layers and buildup will give you a hard time, so make your life easier by dissolving that stubborn residue with baking soda. To use this powerful agent, add enough water and turn it into a paste. Grab a brush (an old toothbrush will do) and scrub the gunk off.
How often should you clean your cabinets?
You can clean the surfaces weekly. However, whenever you're cooking, you should take care of any spill or splatter right away when the stains are fresh, so residues won't have time to settle in.
Are you looking for cleaning professionals? Call us!
Cleaning a whole house can be tiring, and sometimes it feels like the day doesn't have enough hours for chores. Let us take over! At eMaids of Volusia County, we offer cleaning services right for you to focus on other things. Book your service here.
