How to Maintain Your Refreshed Kitchen Cabinets

You have just completed your kitchen renovation! Your kitchen has a fresh and modern look with your new custom cabinets, benchtop, splashback, sink, and the latest appliances. Now, it is equally important to keep them in pristine condition. Keep your kitchen in spic-and-span condition by following these care tips:

Cabinet Care

Your kitchen cabinets are built to last a lifetime with the proper care, including regular cleanings, polishing, and avoiding harsh household cleaners. Each piece of wood will have unique grain/ colour patterns that enhance its appeal. You need to hand-apply and hand-wipe appropriate stains to highlight natural features.

• After installation, wipe down the cabinetry with a soft, damp cloth and dry it with another clean fabric. Then, wipe it using a wood texture.
• Apply a thin layer of high-quality polish containing no silicone or wax and buff as per manufacturer directions. The polish softens minor scratches, wards off stains, and resists moisture.

Routine Care

Grease and food residues can decrease the life of your cabinetry and the charm of your kitchen. If you use your kitchen frequently, follow this maintenance routine:

• Maintain your cabinets using a soft cloth moistened with warm water at least once every two weeks.
• Wipe the cabinets with water or a mix of water and mild dish soap if need be.
• After that, dry them off completely with a soft cloth, using the fabric to follow the grain in the wood.
• To work with stained or build-up-prone finishes, soak a sponge in water and baking soda.
• Take the sponge, scrub the stain, rinse, and dry using a soft cloth.
• Handle persistent grime using a solution of vinegar and water.
• Some essential things to avoid include petroleum-based products, solvents, bleach, strong detergents, and soaps; nail polish remover; paint thinners; plastic brushes; steel wool; scouring pads; and ammonia, as they can damage cabinets and reduce their shine and strength.

Touch-ups for Nicks and Scratches

Well, you can purchase a touch-up kit that you use in the area to repair nicks

and scratches, which will protect the cabinetry surface after installation.

Prompt Clean-up for Spills

• Dispose of spills swiftly using a soft, damp cloth or sponge, then towel dry immediately.
• Do not wipe the spill. Patting the spill will prevent the spreading of the liquid or substance.

Moderate Moisture

Excessive moisture is a serious threat to the finish of cabinetry, particularly around sinks and dishwashers. Wipe water spills immediately, and do not hang wet items like dish towels over cabinet doors or position appliances where steam can point directly onto cabinet surfaces.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Wood reacts to temperature and humidity through expansion and contraction. High humidity levels can induce wood to protrude and warp, whereas low humidity can potentially dry out, hurting a cabinet’s finish. Therefore, keeping your home environment as consistent as possible year-round is imperative.

Protect Against Light Damage

Direct sunlight can damage natural wood cupboards. Laminated surfaces and painted wood cupboards may also fade from prolonged exposure. Appropriate window coverings can prevent this damage.

Avoid Highly Abrasive Cleaners

• Use only mild soap and water solutions to clean cabinets.
• Cleaners containing ammonia, bleach, citric acid (such as lemon and orange oil), and organic solvents will harm your cabinet finish.

Avoid Waxes

Use only fine furniture polishes or creams recommended by well-known furniture manufacturers. Never use self-polishing waxes, as it will damage the appearance of your cabinet.

Avoid Scratches and Abrasion

Use a wet, soft cloth to clean. Place the fabric under objects made of plastic or rubber so they won’t react with the wood. Don’t use scrubbing pads or abrasive cleaners; they can wear off the finish.

Handling Laminate Surfaces

• Don’t use harsh acids and abrasives because they can damage the laminate finish.
• Never cut directly on laminate benchtops. Always use a chopping board to prevent chipping and scratches.
• You can avoid minor scratches on laminate surfaces with a light mist of furniture polish.

The Bottom Line

These maintenance tips will help you keep your renovated kitchen cabinets pristine for many years. It is an investment in your kitchen that can continue to return joy and satisfaction. After all, your kitchen cabinets are not merely a workhorse but a statement of style and elegance.