Grime-encrusted cabinets make a depressing appearance in your kitchen or bathroom, even if the rest of the space is clean. Grease splatters, toothpaste drips, daily usage and also the humidity in these types of rooms induce cabinets to entice this unsavory coat quickly. A deep cleaning eliminates the issue, and frequently wiping down the doors and doors with a damp rag keeps your cabinets fresh and bright in between.
Prepping for Cleaning
Clean the cabinets on a bright, sunny day with all the blinds open, or with all the lights on. Streaks, dirt and grime hide in plain sight on cabinets when the room is lit poorly. Clear off the counters as needed, and move food, appliances, toothbrushes and other items from the way. Cleaning products might contain harsh chemicals you don’t want dripping to a bowl of fruit or onto your makeup brushes. Wear gloves to protect your hands, along with open windows for ventilation if possible.
Basic Simulator
Dilute mild dishwashing detergent in a bucket of warm water, just enough so that a few suds form. Wipe down the cabinets from top to bottom, getting along the borders of doors and drawers, and underneath handles or pulls. Rewet the cloth as needed, but be careful not to oversaturate it. Too much moisture settlement cabinets and can tarnish finishes. Wipe away detergent residue with a damp cloth. Dry the cabinets using a clean, soft cloth to remove excessive moisture. Use this exact same method and solution to remove grime from the range hood as well as bathroom and kitchen countertops and backsplashes. Store-bought cleansers made for specific surfaces work as well, such as an oil soap for wood or all-purpose cleaner for laminate.
Stain-Busting Concoctions
For stubborn stains, spritz pure white distilled vinegar lightly over the area. This effectively cuts through grease and grime without harming most finishes; as a bonus, in addition, it kills bacteria. A paste made with baking soda and water efficiently removes stains. Clean excessively greasy closets with 1/4 cup of borax dissolved in 8 cups of water. Spray this above the cabinets, wipe it away with a damp cloth.
Tips and Tricks
Only use products intended for the end on your cabinets and counters, and analyze each cleaning method on the inner corner of a few of the doors before proceeding. In case you have access to the maker care information for your cabinets, follow these directions for cleaning. Oil-based paints, a favored for cabinets, can yellow over time, making the illusion of grime. If these procedures do not effectively remove discoloration, the only alternative is repainting.