With the rise in popularity of painted cabinetry in the past decade, we’d be remiss if we did not coach our clients (and you) and how to keep your beautiful kitchen cabinets clean and long-lasting.
Properly caring for painted kitchen cabinets is essential to maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan. Here are some tips to help you keep your painted cabinets looking great.
1. CLEAN YOUR CABINETS OFTEN
We recommend wiping down your cabinets with a soft, damp cloth 1-2 times a month to remove surface dirt, spills, and dust. Keeping your cabinets dust free will prevent build-up that will then attract water, grease, or grime to stick to the cabinet surface. Use a mild soap or warm water with a damp cloth to clean the cabinet surfaces. Always avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the paint. A safe bet is always water and vinegar.
2. WIPE UP SPILLS IMMEDIATELY, AND KEEP MOISTURE OFF YOUR CABINETS
As a general reminder, wood and paint do not mix well with moisture, of any kind. Clean up spills and stains promptly to prevent them from setting in. Use a damp cloth and a mild cleaning solution for stubborn stains.
3. STORE FOOD PROPERLY
Keeping your cabinets clean, and organized is helpful in maintaining your beautiful cabinetry. Ensure open food is stored in closed containers to eliminate unwanted pests and also reduce the likelihood of food or crumbs making their way to the exterior of your cabinets.
4. HANDLE WITH CARE
To avoid wear and tear, do not slam your cabinets or drawers shut. Opt for soft close hinges to prevent this, if you do not have these, consider having them installed. This is a great way to protect your cabinets from harsh habits and damage.
5. AVOID HEAT
Avoid placing hot items directly on the cabinet surfaces, as heat can damage the paint. Use trivets or hot pads to protect the finish.
6. USE COOKING VENTILATION
Your cooking ventilation is in place to remove cooking fumes, grease, and debris from your kitchen. The hood extracts these particles from the air and pushes them outside. Make sure you are using your ventilation when you cook to avoid food particles from landing on other surfaces, cabinetry, furniture, and flooring to name a few.
Remember that the specific care instructions may vary depending on the type of paint used on your cabinets, so it's always a good idea to check with the manufacturer or with your kitchen designer for any specific recommendations.
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