Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets

Written by Karen Bates (last updated March 6, 2023)

Of all the household chores that we must do, one of the least desirable and often neglected of them all is the task of cleaning the kitchen cabinets. These cabinets are especially prone to sticky spots left from food, greasy films caused by cooking, and other stubborn messes that make them difficult to clean. The fact that many kitchen cabinets are made of wood is also tricky: you must use extra care when cleaning them to avoid damaging the surface. Fortunately, there are some ways that you can get your cabinets clean without too much time or effort. Here are some options to choose from when deciding how to go about cleaning your cabinets:

  • Use dishwashing soap. Because your cabinets are likely to have a greasy film on them from cooking, scrubbing them with a washcloth soaked in a water and soap mixture can be very affective. The soap should not be harmful to the wood, and it is formulated to clean away grease and dirt.
  • Clean with vinegar. Vinegar is a natural way to get those cabinets clean. Depending on how dirty the cabinets are, you may want to dilute the vinegar with water or use it full-strength. Remember, though, that vinegar has a very strong odor and might be overpowering to your nose as you clean. If you can't stand the smell of vinegar in your house, this method is not one that you will want to try.
  • Try an all-purpose cleaner. All-purpose household cleaners are designed to tackle messes on most surfaces in your house. These cleaners should be safe to use on your cabinets and are likely to work very well. Just spray on the surface and wipe with a washcloth or paper towel until the dirt and grease are gone. Be certain to read the label before using the cleaner on the surface of your cabinets so you can be sure it won't cause harm to the finish.

By trying one of these cleaning methods, you should be done with the task in no time. Remember, though, that regardless of which way you choose to clean your cabinets, the use of steel wool for scrubbing will scratch and ruin the finish on your cabinets. Instead, use a soft sponge or washcloth to do the job. Make sure to wipe off the wet cabinets when you are done cleaning with a dry cloth or paper towel.

Author Bio

Karen Bates

An English student who enjoys writing and art, Karen has had her poetry published in her university's literary journal and has several novels in the works. ...

MORE FROM KAREN

Kitchen Cleaning

Having a clean kitchen is important to your health and the overall feel of the room. Be sure to clean different areas of ...

Discover More

Chimney Sweeping

Having a fireplace offers warmth during cold months, but don't forget that it needs to be maintained. A chimney sweeper ...

Discover More

Shower Care

If you hate cleaning the shower, you definitely aren't alone. There are, however, some techniques you can try that make ...

Discover More

Keep Your Hardwood Floors Like New Bona's hardwood floor cleaner is the #1 choice of professionals. The no-residue formula is specially designed to be safe for floors, families, and the environment. Check out Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill today!

More Cleaning Tips

Cleaning the Pantry

If you are lucky enough to have a pantry in your home, then you know just how useful they truly are. These little rooms ...

Discover More
Subscribe

FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in Cleaning Tips from Tips.Net. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."

View most recent newsletter.

Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 4 + 9?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)


Newest Tips
Subscribe

FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in Cleaning Tips from Tips.Net. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."

(Your e-mail address is not shared with anyone, ever.)

View the most recent newsletter.