Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets - Easy Steps To Remove Grease & Dirt

The tastier the food, the messier the kitchen cabinets! They go through a lot every time we want to cook or even experiment with our cooking! Starting from the little oil splatters, sticky fingerprints to accidental spills, and regular dust. 

When not cleaned properly, these things collectively become a dangerous residue for the cabinets that eventually dulls their shine and becomes home to germs and bacteria! Sad enough? Which is why it is important to clean them properly.

The good news? Consider this blog to be your guide to cleaning your kitchen cabinets and say goodbye to germs and unaesthetic looks of your kitchen. 

Start with a Simple Cleaning Routine

Before getting into deep cleaning, it is important to start slow, or better, if we try to maintain cleanliness always. For example, cleaning the countertops every night with disinfectant or cleaning spray will prevent stubborn oil stains and save you a lot of time. 

Clean the corners and edges regularly, although it might seem like a “task”, this small habit will help you deep clean your cabinets later! 

How to Remove Grease from Kitchen Cabinets

Grease is one of the toughest things to clean! It is stubborn and has attachment issues (LOL). So here are some effective ways that will help in removing grease:

• Put a few drops of dish soap in warm water.

• Put a microfibre cloth in the solution and gently scrub the greasy spots.

• If the stains are really bad, add a little baking soda to the mix to make it a mild abrasive.

• Wipe off any residue with a clean, damp cloth, and then dry it completely.

• Using equal parts vinegar and water is another useful trick. Vinegar is a natural way to break down grease, but you should always test it on a small area first, especially if the finish is delicate.

• Don't soak cabinets or use too much water, as this can damage the material over time.

Deep Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets (Step-by-Step)

1. Empty the cabinets by removing all the items from them so that it becomes easy to clean every corner properly. 

2. Use a cloth or directly dust and vacuum the cabinets. 

3. Next, bring in your soaps and washing clothes along with hand gloves. Wash them with mild soap and dry them with a clean cloth. 

4. Be mindful of grumpy corners on the interiors and exteriors, such as the edges and places near the stove: always so sticky with oil!

5. To deal with stubborn stains, use baking soda and start scrubbing gently, and the stain will come out.

6. Once everything is done, pour some water and rinse them carefully and dry it with a clean cloth to prevent moisture damage. 

7. At last, before restocking, organise the cabinet jars. Label them, change them, wash them, whatever makes it more convenient for you!

Cleaning Different Types of Cabinets

Just like different materials of clothes, different cabinet types need different maintenance. Let us understand them: 

Wooden Cabinets

Wood is a natural element, and natural elements like wood need gentle care. It is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals or excess water. One unmissable thing? Never forget to dry it otherwise it will lead to serious moisture buildup and get all stinky! 

Additionally, for extra shine, you can occasionally use a wood polish to maintain their natural look.

Laminate Cabinets

Laminate cabinets are easier to maintain and more resistant to stains. A simple mixture of warm water and dish soap works perfectly. For grease, use a vinegar solution or a mild cleaner. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, as they can scratch the surface and dull the finish.

Glass Cabinets

Glass cabinets require a different approach to keep them streak-free and shiny. Use a glass cleaner or a vinegar-water solution. Spray lightly and wipe with a microfiber cloth to avoid streaks. Don’t forget to clean both the inside and outside for a crystal-clear finish.

Simple Tips to Keep Cabinets Clean Longer

Maintaining clean cabinets doesn’t have to be time-consuming. A few small habits can make a big difference:

• Wipe spills immediately to prevent stains from setting.

• Use chimney or exhaust fans while cooking to reduce grease buildup.

• Clean handles regularly, as they collect the most dirt and oil.

• Avoid touching cabinets with greasy hands while cooking.

• Do a quick weekly wipe-down to keep surfaces fresh.

• Line cabinet shelves to make cleaning interiors easier.

Keeping your kitchen cabinets clean is not a big deal as long as there is a little consistency in cleaning after cooking. It removes most of the stains and dirt instantly without letting it sit, and that is the key! 

Happy cleaning. 

FAQs

How often should I clean my kitchen cabinets?

It depends on how often you cook, how you cook, and the usual dust build-up. It could be every day or every other day. However, it is advisable to deep clean monthly. 

What is the best way to remove sticky grease from cabinets?

Make a mixture with warm water and mild dish soap, and then gently scrub the sticky area with the solution. Immediately dry to stop moisture buildup. 

What should I clean first when deep cleaning cabinets?

Start by emptying the cabinets and removing loose crumbs or dust. Clean the upper shelves and cabinet surfaces first, then move to doors, handles, and finally the interior storage areas.

How do I keep kitchen cabinets from getting greasy?

Wipe your cabinets every night to prevent grease from accumulating. Additionally, using an exhaust fan while cooking also helps to keep the cabinets oil-free longer.