Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets collect more grease, food spills,
and moisture than most other parts of the house. Grime
builds up fastest around handles of doors and drawers,
which are constantly opened by sticky hands. Greasy soil
comes off more easily if it isn't allowed to build up too
long.
Painted wood, metal, laminated plastic or wood-grain
vinyl surfaces can be cleaned with detergent and warm
water solution. Rinse with a cloth or sponge dampened in
clean water. Using a dry cloth or paper towel to wipe the
surface dry prevents streaking. Most all-purpose
household cleaners may also be used; read the label to be
sure it can be used on that surface, and follow
directions exactly. Test inside a door to be sure it will
not harm the finish.
Natural-finished wood cabinets may be cleaned with
a variety of commercial products, usually sprays, made
for this purpose. Read the label to be sure it can be
used on the finish, and follow directions exactly.
These have a solvent base, so read and follow carefully
cautions about ventilation, and make sure there is no
spark or flame or pilot light burning in the area that
could cause a fire. Dispose of cloths used in a tightly
sealed container, again not near a spark or flame. Test
inside a door to be sure the cleaner will not harm the
finish before starting on other surfaces; they can damage
some, or make a smooth floor slippery.