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How To Clean Kitchen Cabinets (Of All Types!)

by | Jan 24, 2025 | Kitchen Cleaning

Mopped the floor? Check. Wiped the sink? Check. Cleaned the kitchen cabinets? …Oops.

The cabinets in your kitchen can make or break the room’s appearance. Dull, dirty cupboards can make a kitchen feel icky – whether it’s grease on the glass or fingerprints on the finish.

(And when was the last time you checked up top?)

How to clean kitchen cabinets? It’ll depend on the material – but whether they’re made of wood, laminate, or metal, they’ll need routine cleaning.

This keeps your kitchen looking good and the whole space hygienic. Clean cabinets mean less risk of mould and pests, which are not welcome in our kitchens.

Here are some tried-and-tested methods by our cleaning pros to keep your kitchen cabinets nice and neat!

Before Cleaning | High-Gloss Cabinets | Laminate Cabinets | Matte Cabinets | Metal Cabinets | Painted Cabinets | Polyurethane Cabinets | Wood Cabinets | Deep Cleaning | Cleaning Tips

 

How Often to Clean Kitchen Cabinets

Maid2Match professional cleaner Hollie wiping kitchen cabinets

Clean your kitchen cabinets once a week – make it part of your usual kitchen cleaning routine!

Tackle any spills or messes immediately. Use paper towels or rags to mop up as much as you can, and remove any solid debris (like pieces of food) ASAP.

Spot-clean the cabinet surfaces throughout the week.

Deep clean kitchen cabinets every 3-4 months, inside and out.

Too many cabinets to think about? Put your kitchen in the hands of qualified home cleaning pros – they’ll clean your kitchen cabinets top to bottom.

 

Before Cleaning Your Kitchen Cabinets

Make sure you choose a cleaning solution that’s compatible with your cabinet material! This way, you don’t risk damaging the finish.

Test your chosen solution on an inconspicuous spot beforehand – just in case.

Start by wiping off any dust, crumbs, and other debris from the cabinet surfaces using a soft cloth or duster. This way, you’re not pushing dirt around while cleaning.

You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a nozzle attachment, especially for removing debris from inside surfaces!

When cleaning, don’t forget to wipe any handles, hinges, and edges. For hard-to-reach places (like corners), use a soft-bristled brush.

If you live in a hard water area, use filtered water to clean so you don’t leave mineral deposits on the surfaces.

And of course, protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves and working in a well-ventilated room while cleaning.

 

How to Clean High-Gloss Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen pantry with high gloss cabinets close to room entrance

High-gloss cabinets make any kitchen look posh and modern, but maintaining that shiny finish can be tricky!

The finish on high-gloss cabinets makes them susceptible to fingerprints, smudges, and scuff marks. That means they need a bit more effort and elbow grease – but they’ll look so good afterwards.

 

Routine cleaning

To clean high-gloss kitchen cabinets, you’ll need:

  • Dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Warm water
  • Soft cloths

Mix 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts warm water, plus a few drops of dish soap. (Go for an anti-grease formula!) Dip a soft microfibre cloth into the solution, then wring it out.

Use the cloth to wipe the cabinet surface clean. If your cabinets have a grain or pattern, work in the direction of the grain to prevent streaks.

Get into corners and crannies with a soft-bristled brush, like an old toothbrush or straw cleaner.

Follow ASAP with another damp cloth to wipe clean any residue, then a dry cloth to prevent water spots or smudges. You can buff in small, circular motions to polish the surface to a bright shine.

NOTE: Avoid commercial cleaners with harsh chemicals like ammonia or solvents, as these can damage the glossy finish. Vinegar should always be diluted to minimise any effects on the gloss.

 

Removing stains

Wash the area immediately with a non-abrasive sponge dipped in soapy water. You can also use diluted vinegar and soap to cut through grease stains.

If that doesn’t work, make a thin paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste with a damp sponge and gently scrub the stain clean.

Wipe off any residue with a damp cloth and immediately dry the surface.

 

How to Clean Laminate Cabinets

Interior of white modern kitchen with dining table and laminated cabinets

Laminate is a durable, non-porous, and affordable material that you can get in a variety of colours and patterns! That makes it a popular choice for kitchen cabinets and similar surfaces.

On the flip side, laminate can get streaky after cleaning – ruining the look of your kitchen. The key is wiping off excess moisture ASAP.

 

Routine cleaning

To clean laminate cabinets without streaks, our cleaning pros say to stick to the basics: dish soap and warm water!

Add a tablespoon of mild dish soap to 3-4 cups of lukewarm water. Dip a clean cloth into the mixture, then wring it out – you want it damp, not wet.

Start with the cabinet doors, wiping with the grain or pattern of the laminate. This minimises streaks from the cleaning solution.

Follow with a cloth dampened with fresh water to rinse off the residue, then immediately buff the surface dry with a clean cloth.

NOTE: You can also use an all-purpose cleaner compatible with laminate surfaces! Follow the product instructions when cleaning.

 

Removing stains

To remove light stains on laminate cabinets, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle! Laminate is pretty forgiving, and vinegar can help break down stains on the material.

Spritz the stained area, then wait a few seconds before wiping the surface clean.

For more stubborn stains, make a paste with 1 part water and 2 parts baking soda. Apply the mixture to the stained area with a non-abrasive sponge.

Let the paste sit for up to 10 minutes to absorb any grease or other substances. Wipe off any residue with a damp cloth, then follow with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture.

 

How to Clean Matte Kitchen Cabinets

Modern luxury dark gray kitchen with matte cabinets and a dining table

Matte finishes on cabinets can add a sleek, luxurious aesthetic to a kitchen!

They can come in different finishes (like laminate or paint), but matte cabinets all have that iconic, smooth finish without any shine. However, they need proper care to maintain that appearance!

 

Routine cleaning

Food splatters, grease, and even oils from your body can smudge a matte finish. To clean matte kitchen cabinets, you’ll need:

  • Castile soap
  • Hot water
  • Microfibre cloths

Mix a few drops of castile soap in a bowl of hot water, then dip a microfibre cloth in the solution. Wring it out so it’s mostly damp.

Wipe the matte cabinet surfaces with the damp cloth, working in one direction. Going back and forth increases the chances of leaving streaks or smudges.

Clean one surface at a time, from the cabinet door to the corners. Follow with a clean cloth dampened in fresh water to remove any residue, then thoroughly dry the cabinets.

 

Removing stains

Depending on the material, you can remove stains from matte cabinets using:

  • Baking soda paste
  • Citrus-based all-purpose cleaner
  • Compatible kitchen degreaser

For commercial cleaning products, ensure the ingredients are compatible with your kitchen cabinets – for example, avoid oil-based cleaners on laminate!

Otherwise, a baking soda paste is a safe, mildly abrasive stain remover for most surfaces.

Rinse off your chosen cleaning solution with a dampened cloth, then immediately dry the matte surfaces to prevent spotting.

 

How to Clean Metal Kitchen Cabinets

metal kitchen cabinets

Metal is a hard-wearing material that’s easy to clean, so stainless steel or aluminium are popular for kitchen cabinets.

Your main concern when cleaning metal cabinets is ensuring the material doesn’t dull or scuff, especially high-contact spots like handles.

Avoid abrasive cleaners, which can scratch the metal finish.

 

Routine cleaning

When cleaning metal kitchen cabinets and other surfaces, you can opt for a dedicated cleaner! For stainless steel cabinets, for example, try Koala Eco’s Stainless Cleaner.

Follow the instructions for using the product, and remember to wipe with the grain of the metal. Go in one direction and use gentle pressure to avoid scuffs or streaks.

If you’d rather not use a separate product, the easiest way to clean metal kitchen cabinets is dish soap and water!

Mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid with warm water. Dip a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth into the solution, then wring it out so it’s just damp.

Wipe the metal surfaces clean, then follow with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture. It’s essential you dry metal cabinets ASAP, so the water can’t leave spots or cause rust.

TIP: You can restore shine and protect the surface of metal cabinets afterwards with some polish! Use a high-quality polish or a thin layer of olive oil, then buff the surface dry afterwards.

 

Removing stains

A baking soda paste is only mildly abrasive, so it’s great for removing stains on metal cabinet surfaces.

Apply the paste with a damp sponge and gently scrub the cabinet clean. Rinse off any residue with a damp cloth, then dry the cabinets afterwards.

For tougher stains, use rubbing alcohol! Spray it onto the stained area and wait a few seconds before wiping the stain clean.

For really tough stains, you can try using diluted sugar soap.

 

How to Clean Painted Cabinets

Modern kitchen with blue painted cabinets, white island, and wood accents

Painted cabinets are a great way to get a specific aesthetic in your kitchen!

However, paint needs proper care and maintenance to avoid damaging the finish. Abrasive cleaners – even micro-abrasives like magic erasers – can scratch and dull the paint over time.

 

Routine cleaning

To clean painted kitchen cabinets, go the gentle route – a good anti-grease dish soap and warm water.

Fill a bucket with water, add a squirt of soap, then mix well. Dip a microfibre cloth or non-abrasive sponge into the cleaning solution and wring it out.

Work on one section at a time, wiping the cabinet surfaces in careful, circular motions. Rinse the cloth and dip it back in the soapy water as necessary.

Follow with a microfibre cloth dampened in clean water to rinse, then dry the cabinet surface immediately.

 

Removing stains

If warm, soapy water doesn’t work to remove stains from painted cabinets, try a very thin baking soda paste.

Test it on an inconspicuous spot first, then apply the paste with a damp sponge. Gently scrub the stained area until the stain has lifted.

Avoid harsher cleaners, which can strip or damage the paint. For painted wood cabinets, avoid wood cleaners unless they’re formulated for painted surfaces.

(In the worst-case scenario, you can always repaint!)

 

How to Clean Polyurethane Kitchen Cabinets

white modern kitchen with stove, oven, microwave, and polyurethane cabinets

Kitchen cabinets with a polyurethane coating can be pretty forgiving and tolerate most cleaning methods.

The finish is non-porous, so you can use acidic cleaners like vinegar – so long as the polyurethane isn’t damaged. Otherwise, the cleaning solution could seep through the coating and discolour the material underneath.

TIP: Not sure if your cabinets have a polyurethane finish versus lacquer or shellac? Rub a little acetone on an inconspicuous spot – polyurethane will repel the acetone, while lacquer will dissolve and shellac will turn sticky.

 

Routine cleaning

Before cleaning, check the finish on your polyurethane cabinets! If there are scratches or other damage, you may need to re-seal the cabinets first.

To clean polyurethane kitchen cabinets, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Clean one section at a time, wiping the surfaces clean with a damp cloth.

Dry the surfaces thoroughly afterwards to prevent streaking or spotting.

 

Removing stains

To remove stains from polyurethane kitchen cabinets, try scrubbing the affected area with a microfibre sponge and some soapy water.

If that doesn’t work, use a small amount of mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol with a microfibre cleaning cloth. Just a little bit – you don’t want to rub off the finish!

For stains that have discoloured the polyurethane coating, sand off the discolouration with fine steel wool or sandpaper. Wipe off the dust and apply a new coat of polyurethane.

NOTE: Be careful when cleaning with mineral spirits, as they are highly flammable.

 

How to Clean Wood Cabinets

Luxury kitchen with quartz waterfall island, hardwood floors, dark wood cabinets, and stainless steel appliances

Wood kitchen cabinets are cosy classics, but require proper care and maintenance to keep them in good condition.

A key part of cleaning wood cabinets is minimising moisture! Even sealed wood can be vulnerable to excess moisture, which can cause warping or mould.

 

Routine cleaning

Before cleaning, make sure you know whether the wood is sealed or not. Unsealed wooden cabinets should be cleaned with as little water as possible.

Your best bet to clean wood kitchen cabinets is an oil-based wood cleaner, like Murphy’s Oil Soap. Follow the product’s instructions and use minimal water when rinsing.

Follow the wood grain when wiping, and dry the wood cabinets immediately afterwards.

 

Removing stains

Since you want to minimise the use of water, one good way of removing stains from wood cabinets is by using oil!

It may seem contradictory, but food or mineral oil can break down stains on wood cabinets, especially grease stains.

Apply a thin layer of mineral oil (or if you don’t have that, a food-safe oil) onto the stained area. Wait a few minutes, then wash off the residue with a cloth dampened in soapy water.

Rinse the wood cabinet with another dampened cloth, then thoroughly dry the surface.

 

Deep Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets

woman in yellow gloves cleaning the door in kitchen cabinet

Routine cleaning minimises the build-up of dirt, grease, and other grime on your kitchen cabinets.

Still, you’ll need to deep clean cabinets every 3-4 months. This lets you check for things like mould, expired food, or pests (ick).

 

How to clean inside kitchen cabinets

Start by taking out everything from inside the cabinet. Use this opportunity to check the expiry dates on sealed food, and toss out anything expired, spoiled, or mouldy.

For mounted or floating cabinets, layer some old newspapers or towels on the surfaces underneath.

Work on one cabinet at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed by cleaning and clutter! This also lets you be more efficient and thorough.

Use a soft microfibre cloth or duster to brush out any dust and other debris. Alternatively, use a handheld vacuum or one with a nozzle attachment, and get into all the corners!

Pick your chosen cleaning solution based on the type of kitchen cabinet you have. Wipe all the surfaces clean, including the undersides of shelves.

Thoroughly dry the interior surfaces before returning all the items to the cabinet. And if you haven’t used that can of food in 3 years, you’re probably not gonna use it next week – so do not put it back!

 

How to clean metal handles on kitchen cabinets

Woman wiping kitchen cabinet handles with a rag

You can easily clean metal handles and knobs on kitchen cabinet doors using either:

  • Water and vinegar
  • Water and dish soap

When using diluted vinegar, don’t let the cleaning solution sit on the metal handles too long or it could etch the surface.

Wipe the handles clean with a dampened cloth, then immediately buff them dry.

 

How to clean the glass on kitchen cabinets

For a glass-fronted kitchen cabinet, you need to consider the material around the glass!

Avoid oil-based cleaners, which can leave a residue on the glass and the surfaces around it.

You can use a dedicated glass cleaner or a homemade cleaner of vinegar and water. Apply the solution to the glass with a microfibre cloth instead of spraying it on so it doesn’t get on other surfaces.

 

More Kitchen Cabinet Cleaning Tips

Maid2Match professional house cleaner Hollie wipes kitchen cabinets

Besides knowing how to clean kitchen cabinets, here are cleaning solutions to common problems that pop up!

 

How to clean oily kitchen cabinets

The cabinets above the stove see a lot of build-up from oils, grease, and other splatters while cooking!

To clean greasy kitchen cabinets, your best options are:

  • A multi-purpose cleaner with citrus oil
  • Dawn Powerwash
  • Kitchen degreasers

Follow the product instructions for applying the product to your greasy cabinets. Then use a damp cloth dipped in fresh water to wipe off any product residue.

Rinse the cloth as you go to prevent smearing the residue around. When you’re done, use a clean cloth to dry the kitchen cabinet surfaces.

Degreasers or Dawn Powerwash is best for very tough grease stains, so long as the material allows it.

 

How to clean white kitchen cabinets that have yellowed

First off, you’ll need to identify why your kitchen cabinet is turning yellow. Common causes of white cabinets yellowing include:

  • Heat exposure
  • Light exposure
  • Grease build-up
  • Moisture discolouration
  • Staining from food messes

Some materials, such as paint or varnish, simply dull and turn yellow with age and prolonged use.

For compatible materials, you can try cleaning the cabinets with a mixture of equal parts vinegar (or lemon juice!) and water. Apply it to the yellowed surface and wait a few minutes before wiping the cabinet dry.

Alternatively, make a paste out of baking soda, water, and dish detergent. Apply with a non-abrasive sponge and scrub the cabinet surface clean.

If all else fails, you may need to have your cabinets re-finished to clean up their appearance.

 

How to clean black kitchen cabinets

black kitchen cabinets

Black cabinets can be tricky to clean since it’s harder to spot any messes or stains on dark surfaces. The key is to stick to a regular cleaning schedule to prevent dirt and grease build-up.

Wipe down all surfaces – from the cabinet doors to the undersides – at least once a day. Meanwhile, tackle any food messes immediately.

 

How to clean greasy dust on top of kitchen cabinets

A lot of us neglect the tops of our kitchen cabinets (out of sight, out of mind)! However, dust and even grease accumulate there over time, so the space also needs cleaning.

If you notice a build-up of greasy dust on your kitchen cabinets, try and scrape off as much as you can with a cooktop scraper. Look for one made of silicone or plastic so it doesn’t scratch the finish.

Apply a compatible degreaser or some Dawn Powerwash to get the rest of the grease off. Dry the surface thoroughly afterwards.

 

How to Keep Kitchen Cabinets Clean Longer

Wipe and spot-clean your kitchen cabinets regularly – throughout the day, if possible! This helps minimise dirt and grease build-up on the surfaces.

Avoid leaving cabinet doors and drawers open to prevent crumbs, grease, and other debris from getting inside.

Use a rangehood to keep the air around your stovetop clear of airborne grease particles and other dirt. You can also use splatter guards or cover your pan when cooking to lessen the mess.

Minimise your cabinets’ exposure to water and other liquids as much as possible. Moisture can lead to mould or rust, and even warp materials like wood.

Use disposable liners (or parchment paper) to keep things clean, especially on the tops of kitchen cabinets! Old newspapers will work as well, but can leave ink stains if you live somewhere humid or damp.

About Author

Sophie Franklin

Sophie is the subject matter expert within Maid2Match. Most importantly though she is our biggest fan girl and generous in sharing what she knows.

Share

About Author

Sophie Franklin

Sophie is the subject matter expert within Maid2Match. Most importantly though she is our biggest fan girl and generous in sharing what she knows.

Share