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As part of our commitment to “Creating enthusiastic referrals through the process of remodeling”, we are addressing the delicate subject of caring for your cabinetry.

Many client’s often delegate the housekeeping chores to others, assuming that they know what to do.

Please use this document as a helpful guide for everyone responsible or involved in caring for your cabinetry to agree upon.

The Background

Since we use several manufacturers, and that this information is often lost or verbally discussed, I felt obligated to step in. This frustration came to a head during a recent inadvertent catastrophe.

My process was simple, I gathered information from my manufacturers, got them all to buy in, and compiled it. Please take this seriously; we want your investment to last.

During my research, I discovered that there are as many recommendations on how to clean and care for your cabinets, as there are cabinet companies. What you read here will safely cover your cabinetry care and feeding needs.

Trust me, I am sharing several lifetimes worth of fine woodworking wisdom here.

Rule number #1, there is no rule #2

“Moisture is the mortal enemy of any finish” the wood cells swell and bursts off the finish. Do not allow appliances to direct steam into your cabinetry.

Your cabinets were made when the wood was dry, by keeping your cabinets dry, and maintaining a stable temperature and humidity in your home, you will help prolong the life of all of your woodwork.

As a guiding principal, “Care for your cabinets the same way you would care for a piano or any other wood musical instrument”.

Basic cleaning procedure

Wipe with a dampened, lint-free cotton cloth and promptly wipe dry. For removal of oil, grease, and spills, use a damp lint-free cloth with a solution of mild soap and water, then dry immediately.

Avoid using a dishcloth or sponge to clean cabinet surfaces as it may contain remnant of harsh detergents that can harm the finish.

• Wipe up spills immediately using a dry cloth with a “blotting” motion.
• Pay special attention to areas where water is common, such as sinks and dishwashers.
• Do not allow water and detergents to dry on the cabinet surfaces.
• Horizontal surfaces of shaker doors, and raised panel doors are very common collection site for excess moisture.
• Never hang damp towels on cabinet doors to dry.

Other things to avoid & be aware of

Excessive heat

Avoid placing cabinet appliances where the heat is directed onto cabinet surfaces. The stability of the wood and finish can be harmed, and besides, it is dangerous.

Abrasive devices, cleaners, polishes, and solvents

Never use scouring pads, steel wool, powdered cleaners, or solvents as these methods of cleaning may penetrate the surface, allowing food or moisture to enter and cause deterioration of the finishes.

Do not use ammonia-based cleaners, soaps with dye, abrasive cleaners, or self-polishing waxes (especially those that contain silicone).

We do not recommend a spray polish or cabinet cleaning compound because we could not get everyone to agree on a product, some even contain toxic ingredients. Use them at your own risk.

Clean glass by spraying a glass cleaner on the cloth then wiping glass until dry.

Hinges and hardware

Most hinge and drawer slide we have installed in the past decade are easily adjustable or replaceable. Smooth operation is to be expected. Vintage hardware may be obsolete. Please contact us if your hardware is giving you trouble, and we will see what we can do to help.

Gouges, dings, & final thoughts

Wood products and their finish are only as good as the care they receive. Well maintained cabinetry will extend the life and beauty of your cabinetry for decades. We understand that things happen, dings and scratches occur too, contact us for support and recommendations. Perhaps a scheduled tune up is in order.

We have the ability to repair or replace almost anything. Please help us to ensure your cabinets stay beautiful.  Alert us early, if a problem arises. Please allows us to be part of the solution.

Excessive moisture and problems related to moisture are beyond our control, and are naturally not covered by our comprehensive warranty.

In the event this information does not address your specific concern, let us know, odds are that others would like to know too.

Your comments are welcome. To ask questions or get more information about remodeling, click here to email me directly, or call 208-947-7261

If you or someone you know is considering remodeling or just wants to speak to a trustworthy remodeling contractor please contact me, you’ll be glad you did.