Cabinet Maintenance

Cabinets are subject to a lot of wear and tear over time. It is important to maintain your cabinets to extend their longevity. The best way to keep them looking new is to perform basic maintenance on them regularly. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Keep them clean

Wipe down your cabinets with a mild soap and water solution regularly. This will help to remove any built-up dirt and grime. Using a soft, lint-free cotton cloth, dry the cabinets afterward to prevent water spots. Whether it’s wood cabinets, laminate, or thermofoil, cleaning should be part of your routine maintenance.

Remove stains promptly

Stains can easily be set into cabinets if they are not removed quickly. Use a mild stain remover and a soft cloth to remove any stains that occur. Be sure to rinse the area well after cleaning and dry it completely to prevent further damage.

Clean the doors and drawers

The doors and drawers of your cabinets are subject to the most wear and tear. If they start to look dirty, clean them with a soft cloth dampened with soapy water. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth afterward. Be sure to dry completely to prevent water spots.

Disinfect them regularly

Since cabinets are often located in the kitchen, they can become covered in bacteria. To disinfect them, wipe them down with a diluted vinegar solution. This will help to kill any harmful bacteria that may be present.

Touch up scratches and scuffs

As time goes on, your cabinets will inevitably start to show some signs of wear. Touching up scratches and scuffs with matching paint or stain can help to minimize the appearance of these imperfections.

Touch up any chips or cracks

If your cabinets have any chips or cracks, touch them up with paint or wood filler. This will help to prevent further damage from occurring. Your cabinets will thank you for it!

Perform regular inspections

Inspect your cabinets regularly for any loose hardware or other potential problems. Tightening loose screws and replacing worn-out parts can help to keep your cabinets in good working condition.

Protect from excessive moisture

Excessive moisture can damage cabinets and cause mold or mildew to grow. When cabinets are located in bathrooms or kitchens, consider installing a ventilation fan to help reduce moisture levels.

Don’t overload them.

Putting too much weight on shelves can cause them to sag or even break. Be sure to distribute the load evenly and don’t overload the shelves. Cabinets are designed to hold a certain amount of weight, so be sure not to exceed that.

With these simple maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your cabinets and keep them looking their best.

Things to Avoid

There are a few things you should avoid doing to your cabinets:

Don’t use harsh chemicals.

Harsh chemicals can damage the finish on your cabinets. Stick to mild soaps and cleaners to avoid damaging the wood. Harsh cleaners like bleach can also discolor the wood.

Don’t use abrasive cleaning pads.

Abrasive cleaning pads can also damage the finish on your cabinets. Don’t use steel wool, scouring pads, or sharp objects on the cabinets either, as these can scratch or damage the surface. Use a soft, lint-free cloth instead.

Don’t use furniture polish.

Furniture polish can leave a sticky residue on your cabinets. This can attract dust and dirt, which can damage the finish. If you must use furniture polish, be sure to use a non-abrasive variety.

Following these tips can help you keep your cabinets looking new for years to come. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your cabinets and keep them looking their best.