Cleaning Old Wood Cabinets

Here s how to clean wooden kitchen cabinets with stubborn stains like syrup or chocolate.

Cleaning old wood cabinets. If your cabinets are really grimy let the cleaner sit for up to 10 minutes after spraying. Take a damp cotton ball add 1 drop of liquid dish soap then wipe it on a hidden location like the inside of a chair leg. Heat a damp micro cloth in a microwave for 35 seconds then use it to quickly wipe away the grease layer. Instead prepare your own gentle cleaner.

This step is optional. Before you clean your old wooden furniture with dishwashing soap you need to test it out to make sure it won t damage the wood or the finish. Rinse the paste off with clean water and dry with a clean towel. Here are his recommendations for cleaning woodwork properly.

Mist on cabinets let sit for a minute or two and then wipe clean with a soft cloth. For metal hardware on wood cabinets dip a toothbrush in a 50 50 solution of vinegar and warm water and scrub the hardware the surrounding wood and the crevices of ornate trim. Dip a toothbrush into the paste and lightly scrub the stained area. All purpose orange oil cleaner.

If possible remove the hardware from the cabinets and drawers before cleaning. Murphy oil soap gets deep into grime to break up dirt particles and it s safe to use on wood products like cabinets. Make a paste of vinegar and salt. To start wet a rag with a light amount of your chosen cleaner.

Scrub with soap and warm water. If the detergent strips or ruins the finish do not use it. Finally clean the area with a mild wood soap and water then dry completely. Rub the surface down with a soft cloth and your chosen cleaner.

Next gather another cloth or sponge. You may also want to use an old toothbrush to get into crevices. Don t assume that tired woodwork has to be stripped and refinished. Vinegar is the go to natural cleaner when faced with how to clean greasy cabinets.

Remember to wipe cabinet handles knobs and pulls. Mix a 50 50 solution of vinegar and warm water and put into a spray bottle. Don t scrub too hard or use steel wool as it will scratch the wood. Nothing major i just used sponge with a little dish soap and water.

Sometimes a good cleaning is all it takes to bring it back to life says wood finisher john thomas. Leave the abrasive cleaners and scrub brushes to your sink. Do use a gentle cleaning solution. Gently rub down the surface of the furniture.

Harsh scrubbing can damage kitchen cabinets finish or paint. Afterward wipe the cleaner off using a warm damp micro cloth.