Kitchen cabinets and furniture They need special maintenance to keep them looking shiny and impeccable. without damaging the material they are made of, which is generally wood.
Let's keep in mind that they are the focal point of every kitchen, and can make a big difference if they are dirty or greasy.
You can see fingerprints, food splatters, and very stubborn stains that can build up and become very difficult to remove over time.
It is important to clean them frequently because the task will be easier for you, grease will not accumulate and your kitchen will look shiny and clean.
Below, we'll give you practical tips for cleaning grease from your kitchen cabinets, and some suggestions for keeping them in perfect condition.
Preparation before cleaning: a key step for success
Before you dive into cleaning your cabinets and kitchen furniture greasy, it is essential to take a few minutes to properly prepare the area.
This step can save you time and effort, while also protecting your belongings and surfaces. Don't underestimate the importance of this step; Good preparation is the basis for effective and trouble-free cleaning.
Clear the work area: The first thing to do is empty the cabinets you plan to clean. Remove all dishes, glasses, food, and any other objects inside. This will allow you to access all surfaces without obstacles, avoiding wetting or damaging the contents of your cabinets.
Also, if the grease is very stuck on, you may need to apply a little pressure, and It is best to do this without the risk of something falling or breaking. Once empty, take the opportunity to check for crumbs or dry debris and remove them with a dry cloth or a handheld vacuum.
Protect nearby surfaces: Even if you're careful, you may splash or drip cleaning solutions while scrubbing. To prevent grease and cleaning products from getting on your countertops, floors, or appliances, Cover them with old towels, newspaper, or protective plastic.
This simple action will prevent you from having to clean those surfaces twice and will protect materials that may be sensitive to certain products.
Ensures good ventilation: Some cleaning products, even homemade ones like vinegar, can have strong odors. It is essential to ensure good ventilation by opening the windows and kitchen doors before starting to clean.
This will help dissipate fumes and odors, making the task more pleasant and safer for your respiratory health. If your kitchen has an exhaust fan, turn it on to maximize circulation.
Have all your materials on hand: Once you start cleaning, you won't want to keep going back and forth looking for what you need. Gather all your cleaning supplies, cloths, sponges, brushes and gloves before starting.
Make sure you have plenty of clean, dry microfiber cloths on hand, as you'll likely need several to rinse and dry. Preparing your work area will allow you to work continuously and efficiently.
With proper space preparation, you'll be ready to tackle grease with confidence and make your cabinets and kitchen furniture look impeccable.
Steps to follow and products to clean greasy kitchen cabinets
Dish detergent and vinegar
This duo truly works wonders when working together. The dish soap is formulated to completely cut through grease, making it an excellent product for cleaning cabinets.
White vinegar has a strong smell, but it helps absorb any odors that may be present in the kitchen. or on household appliances. It's also an ideal acid solution for dissolving dirt, dust, and any surface you apply it to.
It's an ideal natural disinfectant, but avoid using it undiluted on wood or laminate cabinets as it can damage the wood.
Preparation of the mixture: Place a few drops of dish soap, water and vinegar in the same proportion, mix everything in a container.
Warm water is ideal because it softens the grease on the cabinets, and You can use a sponge or microfiber cloths, which are ideal for cleaning grease. Plus, you'll avoid chipping paint or damaging surfaces.
Microfiber cloths are soft and highly effective at removing all types of sticky grease and other residue. They're eco-friendly, so you can wash and reuse them instead of throwing them away.
Bicarbonate of soda
This product is ideal for tough stains. It's coarse and grainy, so it can help with thick, stuck-on grease. from longer ago.
You can prepare one part baking soda and one part water and stir until a paste forms. Apply it to the area you need to clean with a sponge, microfiber cloth, or brush. Make sure you get into the corners and edges. Once you've removed the dirt and grime, you can start removing the grease.
Rub the area and remove any residue with a warm, damp cloth. Because it is a non-abrasive product, it will not damage wooden cabinets. Remember to use the cloth in circular motions.
Citrus oils or multipurpose spray
There are many wood cleaners that contain citrus oils, or you can make your own with natural products, ideal for fighting grease, such as lemons and oranges.
There are many brands on the market that are natural and biodegradable, but they must state that they are specifically for removing grease stains.
If you use these products, you'll need to let the spray sit and rub a little harder, as the formula is less powerful and targeted.
Any of these products with citrus fruits, They are ideal because they have an exquisite aroma and the kitchen will look wonderful and smell fresh.
If you've tried cleaning them with any of these solutions, but still notice traces of grease, it's important to wash them again if necessary. Even if it's been a short time since you last did this, You may need to clean them again to completely remove the grease.
If you notice that you are only spreading grease, you can try a different type of solution than the one you used before.
How to clean greasy kitchen cabinets
Cleaning greasy kitchen cabinets is similar to cleaning greasy kitchen cabinets. Wipe the cabinets with a rag to remove the dirt. with an all-purpose cleaner and a microfiber cloth or sponge.
Once the surface is clean, mix equal parts lemon juice and water and use this mixture to clean the furniture. This will help eliminate fat buildup. If greasy areas remain, mix equal parts white vinegar and water and use this mixture to clean the furniture.
For hard-to-reach areas, use a paintbrush to apply the cleaning solution. Once the furniture is clean, Apply a light layer of vegetable oil to prevent future grease buildup.
Tips to prevent and maintain greasy kitchen cabinets and furniture
One factor to keep in mind is keeping humidity at bay. Make sure you always dry your cabinets to keep them grease-free. and in perfect condition after cleaning them.
When cleaning the kitchen and using oils, water, or soap, you have to wipe the area you are going to clean with a clean, dry cloth. Moisture left in cabinets, especially wooden ones, can cause discoloration or warping.
Following these tips can help keep your kitchen cabinets and furniture looking nice and clean:
- Turn on the extractor hood Because they collect smoke, steam and grease that is in the environment, you should do it before cooking, leaving it on for a few minutes before finishing.
- Regularly clean cabinets and furniture with a mild cleaner to remove food and grease stains.
- Avoid the use of abrasive chemicals to avoid damaging the surfaces of furniture and furnishings.
- Avoid using scouring pads that are too abrasive when cleaning cupboards and furniture.
- Apply a light coat of vegetable oil to cabinets and furniture to prevent future grease buildup.
- Use a microfiber cloth or sponge to clean cabinets and furniture., since they are soft and do not scratch surfaces.
- Wash the dishes frequently to prevent food and grease from splashing on cabinets and furniture.
- Store food in airtight containers to prevent grease and dirt from splashing onto cabinets and furniture.
Homemade or commercial cleaners
Every product has advantages and disadvantages, and the same applies to this one. Natural solutions Like vinegar, which is acidic and mild, it is a very effective product for degreasing and removing dirt that has accumulated over time, but it has a characteristic odor.
If you don't like it, you won't enjoy using this product. It's important to wear rubber gloves and protective eyewear, as well as ensure good ventilation when using it.
The olive oil It is another product that can dissolve grease and will be easy to clean, however it may leave some type of residue that brings dust. Dishwashing soap diluted in water is a gentle and economical solution and some non-aerosol liquid products can have a cleaning function since they contain solvents and eliminate grease.
Commercial cleaners They are designed to be applied to specific stains and dirt, so you should follow the manufacturer's instructions when using them. You can test a small area to ensure it doesn't damage the surface.
Finally, if you take the time to clean your kitchen cabinets and furniture regularly, you can help maintain their shine and beauty.
Using the right products and techniques can help you leave your cabinets and furniture clean and grease-free. So, the next time your cabinets and furniture start to look a little greasy, follow the tips above and your kitchen will be looking great in no time.