Best cleaner for kitchen cabinets: Products & DIY options

Your kitchen cabinets are a focal point of your kitchen's design, but they are also magnets for grease, fingerprints, and food splatters. Over time, this buildup can leave them looking dull and sticky. Using the wrong cleaning products can permanently damage the finish, so it's essential to use the right solutions for the job.

Why kitchen cabinets need special cleaning solutions

Unlike countertops, which can often handle strong disinfectants, cabinet surfaces require a gentler touch. The finishes on wood, laminate, and painted cabinets can be stripped or stained by harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or too much moisture. Proper cleaning preserves their finish and keeps them looking great for years to come.

Best store-bought cleaners for cabinets

When choosing a commercial cleaner, look for products that are pH-neutral and specifically labeled for cabinet or wood cleaning.

• Wood-Specific Cleaners: Products like Murphy® Oil Soap or Method Wood for Good Cleaner are designed to clean wood without stripping its natural oils.

• All-Purpose Cleaners (Non-Abrasive): Mild, all-purpose cleaners can work well on most cabinet types, but always check the label to ensure they are safe for the finish. Avoid cleaners with strong acids or ammonia.

• Grease-Cutting Sprays: For tough grease, a specialty degreaser designed for kitchen surfaces can be effective. Make sure it's safe for your cabinet material and rinse thoroughly.

DIY cleaning solutions for grease and stains

You don't always need a store-bought cleaner. Many effective solutions can be made with common household ingredients.

• Warm Water and Dish Soap: For everyday cleaning, this is a perfect, gentle solution. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into a bucket of warm water. Dip a microfiber cloth into the solution, wring it out until it's just damp, and wipe the cabinet surfaces.

• Vinegar and Water: A solution of equal parts white vinegar and water is excellent for cutting through grease and grime on laminate or painted cabinets. Avoid using vinegar on wood cabinets, as the acid can dull the finish over time.

• Baking Soda Paste: For stubborn, stuck-on grime, a paste made of baking soda and water can be a gentle abrasive. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth before wiping clean.

Safe cleaners for wood vs Laminate cabinets

The material of your cabinets determines the safest cleaning method.

• For Wood Cabinets: Use wood-specific cleaners or a mild solution of warm water and dish soap. Always follow the grain of the wood when wiping. After cleaning, use a dry cloth to immediately buff the surface and remove all moisture, which can cause warping or damage.

• For Laminate or Thermofoil Cabinets: These are more durable and can handle a slightly stronger cleaner. The vinegar and water solution is a great choice for removing fingerprints and smudges. A soft cloth is all you need to clean them.

• For Painted Cabinets: Use a mild, non-abrasive solution like warm water and dish soap. Harsh cleaners can strip the paint and leave your cabinets looking dull.

Tips for maintaining cabinets clean longer

• Clean Spills Immediately: Don't let food spills or splatters sit on your cabinets. Wipe them up right away to prevent stains and sticky buildup.

• Clean Regularly: A quick wipe-down of cabinet doors and handles once a week will prevent the accumulation of grease and grime.

• Use a Dry Cloth: After any wet cleaning, go over the cabinets with a dry microfiber cloth to remove all moisture and polish the surface.

Maintaining clean cabinets can be a time-consuming task, but it's a small effort that makes a huge impact on the look and feel of your kitchen. If you need a professional touch to get your kitchen sparkling, contact Sparkling Elite Cleaners today for a free quote on our comprehensive cleaning services.