Your kitchen cabinets are more than just storage—they're one of the most visible and frequently used parts of your home. From early morning coffee routines to late-night cleanups, cabinets experience daily wear that can dull their appearance and shorten their lifespan if not properly maintained. The good news? With a few simple habits and cleaning strategies, you can keep your cabinets looking as beautiful as the day they were installed. In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to take care of kitchen cabinets, from routine cleaning to long-term preservation, regardless of the material or finish.

Clean regularly with gentle solutions

The number one rule for cabinet care is regular cleaning—dust, grease, and splatters build up quickly in kitchens.

• Use a soft cloth or microfiber towel with warm water and a mild dish soap solution to wipe down surfaces.

• Avoid abrasive sponges, scouring pads, or harsh cleaners that can scratch the surface or strip finishes.

• Don’t oversaturate the cloth—moisture can seep into seams, especially with wood or MDF cabinets.

Remove grease buildup

Cooking grease is one of the most common issues in kitchens, especially for cabinets near the stove.

• Mix equal parts vinegar and water to create a natural degreaser.

• Apply gently with a soft cloth and wipe dry.

• For stubborn buildup, use a baking soda paste (baking soda and water) and lightly scrub with a soft brush, then rinse and dry.

Pay attention to cabinet hardware

Knobs, pulls, and hinges collect grime over time.

• Use a toothbrush dipped in warm, soapy water to clean around hardware and inside corners.

• Tighten loose screws or handles as needed to prevent wear on the cabinet doors.

• For brass or stainless steel handles, use material-specific polishes to maintain shine without damaging finishes.

Avoid excess moisture

Water is one of the biggest threats to kitchen cabinets, especially wood.

• Always dry spills and splashes immediately.

• Don’t hang wet dishcloths over cabinet doors.

• Ensure proper ventilation in the kitchen to prevent humidity buildup.

Protect cabinet surfaces

Preventative care goes a long way:

• Use shelf liners to protect the interior from spills or stains.

• Place mats under oils, spices, or cleaning products inside cabinets to catch drips.

• Avoid slamming doors and drawers—soft-close hardware helps reduce impact and prolong cabinet life.

Know your cabinet material and finish

Different cabinet materials require specific care:

• Painted cabinets: Clean with a damp cloth and avoid alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners that can strip paint. Touch up chips promptly to prevent peeling.

• Stained wood cabinets: Use a wood-safe cleaner and polish periodically to maintain luster.

• Laminate cabinets: Wipe with non-abrasive cleaners and avoid excess water, especially at seams.

• High-gloss or acrylic cabinets: Use a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the reflective finish.

Deep clean seasonally

In addition to weekly wipe-downs, give your cabinets a thorough deep clean every few months:

• Empty contents, vacuum out crumbs or dust, and clean all surfaces inside and out.

• Check for signs of wear, water damage, or pests.

• Reorganize contents to avoid overloading doors and shelves.

Use natural light wisely

While natural light enhances your kitchen, prolonged sun exposure can cause fading or yellowing.

• Use window treatments to reduce direct sunlight on cabinets.

• Consider UV-protective films for kitchen windows if cabinets are near bright exposures.

Proper care and maintenance of your kitchen cabinets not only preserve their beauty but also protect your investment. A clean, well-maintained kitchen looks better, functions more smoothly, and lasts longer. By cleaning regularly, avoiding moisture damage, and tailoring care to your cabinet’s materials, you can enjoy a fresh, welcoming kitchen environment for years to come.

At Home Craft Studio, we don’t just provide high-quality kitchen surfaces and cabinets—we offer expert guidance to help you protect them. Whether you’re designing a new space or refreshing an existing one, our cabinetry is built for both beauty and durability. Let us help you create a kitchen that stays stunning from the inside out.