Your kitchen remodel is finally complete and you are proud of such a wise investment. Most homeownerwill typically redo their kitchen once or twice in a lifetime and therefore will need to take utmost care in the upkeep of your cabinetry in order for them to stay in tip top shape. Your cabinets will last you a lifetime once you treat them well.
Wood Cabinet Surfaces
As with all wood products, avoid excessive moisture. Once your cabinets have been installed, wipe down all exteriors with a damp cloth to remove dust. Complete a small area at a time and wipe dry. Refrain from using wax or silicone polishes. Wax polishes can result in a wax film buildup, while the use of silicone polishes can harm the cabinet’s finish.
Cleaning Agents
Avoid spray-type polishes containing petroleum solvents, as they are flammable and toxic if swallowed. Use a damp cloth when cleaning normal household spills. After wiping thoroughly, dry the surface with a lint-free cotton cloth. For stubborn stains, it may be necessary to use a mild detergent with warm water. Always dry the surface immediately.
Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads or powdered cleansers. Do not allow oven cleaner to touch any part of the cabinet. Do not use a dish cloth to wipe your cabinet exterior, since it may contain remnants of grease or detergents.
Everyday Care
It is important to wipe up spills and water marks as they occur. Give special attention to areas around the sink and dishwasher. Avoid draping damp or wet dish towels over the door of the sink base cabinet. Over time, this moisture can cause permanent water damage to the door. A convenient, out-of-the-way sliding towel rack can be installed to prevent this.
Care and Cleaning of Hardware
Periodically, use mild soap and warm water to clean door/drawer knobs or pulls. Thoroughly dry all hardware joints and surfaces and the surrounding area with a clean, soft cloth. Buff hardware with a clean, dry cloth. Lubrication of hinges is not necessary; however, hinges can be cleaned or dusted using cotton-tipped swabs.
CAUTION: Many brass and silver polishes contain harsh chemicals that can damage the hardware’s surface. These polishes and cleaners are NOT recommended.
Melamine and Thermofoil Surfaces
Melamine and thermofoil panels can be cleaned with most nonabrasive household cleaners. However, agents containing acetone, acetate or ethyl alcohol should not be used. Harsh solvents and/or abrasives such as turpentine may break down bonds on edge banding and should also be avoided. Ammonia cleaners should be diluted. Certain waxes may lead to discoloration and are not recommended.
If a damp cloth does not sufficiently clean an area, a non-detergent, nonabrasive household cleaner (such as Murphy’s Oil Soap) is recommended.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Apply solvents to a clean cloth and never directly to the cabinet surface. Never leave a cloth moistened with solvents on a cabinet surface for any length of time.
Care and Cleaning of Glass Door Inserts
If your kitchen contains cabinetry accented with glass doors, a few precautions are necessary. Apply glass cleaner to a towel, not directly to the glass. Avoid cleaner contact with lead, white-, gold- or copper-clad mullions.
Caring for your cabinets has a direct relation to how long they will hold up and last. Protect your investment by keeping your cabinetry in mint condition.