There is nothing like admiring your brand new cabinets after they are installed in your kitchen. However, stains or damage can put a damper on their appearance over time. This is why it is important to take care of your cabinets even years after you install them. Use the following tips to maintain your cabinets and keep them looking brand new.
The best way to maintain your cabinets is to clean them on a regular basis. Start by wiping the cabinets with a soft cloth and warm water. If you need more than just water, add a mild dish detergent to the solution. You can maintain the appearance of wooden cabinets by wiping in the direction of the grain. When you are finished, use another cloth or towel to dry the cabinets.
You can remove grime by wiping your cabinets with vinegar, warm water and a cloth. Unfortunately, there is always that stubborn stain that is still visible even after your regular cleaning. The best way to tackle this stain is to make a paste with water and baking soda. Scrub the stain with a sponge until it disappears, and then rinse the area with water. Dry your cabinets using another cloth or towel.
There is nothing like a fresh coat of paint to maintain the appearance of your cabinets. One idea is to use spray paint, which is going to require an air compressor lubricant. It gives you quick results without spending the money to hire a professional painter. How often you need to repaint your cabinetry depends on the traffic in your kitchen, but you want to touch up any nicks, chips or faded areas as you find them.
There are several things you can do to protect your cabinets from damage. You can avoid heat damage by removing the doors and drawers near your oven before using the self-cleaning feature. Protect your cabinets from light damage by blocking the sunlight with blinds or drapes. You can avoid moisture and water damage by cleaning spills and splashes immediately. You should also avoid using products that contain chemicals such as bleach, ammonia or paint thinner.
Your cabinets offer style and function in your kitchen, so you want to put in the work to maintain their gorgeous appearance. The work involved is worth owning cabinets that always look brand new.
Hannah Whittenly is a freelance writer and mother of two from Sacramento, CA. She enjoys kayaking and reading books by the lake.