Cabinet Care Guidelines

Help your newly painted kitchen cabinets look gorgeous for years to come with proper care and maintenance. Thank you for allowing Brand New Again Refinishing to complete this project for you! 

Moisture

Warm water and a mild soap is the preferred solution for cleaning your painted kitchen cabinets. However, too much moisture can be the enemy of wood and can damage the paint. For best results, apply the water and soap solution using a soft cloth or sponge, rinse the cabinet with clear water using a second clean cloth, then dry it quickly with a dry, soft cloth. Avoid hanging wet dishcloths or towels over cabinets or cabinet doors since prolonged exposure to water will damage the finish and leave stains.

Cleaning Products

Avoid using any products that contain ammonia or abrasive powdered cleaners. Instead, use natural products that won’t scratch the finish or leave sticky residues. As mentioned previously, mild, grease-cutting hand washing dish soap makes an ideal cabinet cleaner. Mix 2 tablespoons of dish soap into 2 cups warm water, then apply the mixture to the cabinets using a clean, soft cloth or sponge.

Cleaning Cloths

To clean cabinets, the best choice is soft, lint-free cloths. Some great types to use include soft kinds of cotton such as cheesecloth, chamois, or old t-shirts. Older fabrics that have been washed frequently are softer and better for cabinets.

Daily Care

To keep cabinets looking their best, follow good practices for their basic care. Immediately clean up any spills, splatters, or water spots with a soft cloth. The sooner these spots are cleared off, the less chance they will stain or discolor the cabinetry. Grease and food particles also get harder to remove over time, and removing dried-on residue may require tough scrubbing and harsher cleaners that can damage the cabinet finish. Avoid using a dishcloth or the abrasive side of a dish sponge on cabinets. These items may carry residue from greasy food or harsh cleaning chemicals, which may damage cabinet surfaces.

Touch-Ups

Suppose your paint gets chipped or scratched, sand the surface lightly with 220 grit sandpaper to feather the edges and create a smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to. Use a small chip paintbrush to apply over the damaged area. Sand lightly in between coats and wait 4 hours before recoating. 2-3 coats may be required.