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Cabinet Care

Because kitchen cabinetry finishes vary widely, always follow manufacturer’s maintenance instructions. For added safety, test a new cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area to make sure it causes no damage. The following are some general tips and precautions we recommend you take:

1. Excess water, when left unattended, can cause white spots and haziness to the finish and even damage the wood itself. Always remove excess liquid promptly, especially in moisture-prone areas such as sink, range, dishwasher and baseboard areas.
2. Direct sunlight can cause exposed areas to lighten or darken over time. When possible, keep cabinets out of direct sunlight or draw curtains during the sunniest part of the day.
3. Smoke and grease can form a hard film over time, dulling the finish. Routine cleaning can prevent long-term damage.
4. Extremes in temperature and moisture can cause wood to expand and contract, eventually damaging the finish. Try to avoid exposing your cabinets to very hot and cold environments, such as near radiators or in garages.

For routine cleaning a soft cotton cloth dampened with warm water is usually sufficient to clean your cabinets. If more thorough cleaning is required, use one of the following cleaning solutions: a fresh solution of dishwashing liquid mixed with warm water or a mild all-purpose cleaner that does not contain ammonia or silicone. Using stronger, harsher chemicals may damage or discolor the finish on your cabinetry. Finish cleaning by wiping the surfaces with a clean, damp cloth and dry the surfaces using another soft, clean cloth.

When spills occur, clean them immediately. Prolonged exposure to spills, including food, water or other liquids, or to oil and grease splatters, can cause permanent discoloration or damage the surfaces of your cabinetry.

Pay attention to areas near the sink, range, dishwasher and keep those surfaces dry as they tend to accumulate excess moisture which can damage the cabinet surface.

Don't drape dish towels over cabinets doors because they will promote mold development on the cabinets and could cause permanent damage to the cabinet surface.

Avoid cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning products. Do not clean cabinets with sponges or dish clothes as they may contain food and oil residue or particles that could scratch the cabinets. Avoid solvent-based or petroleum-based products, products that contain ammonia, bleach, and silicone-based products.

Use a clean, soft cotton cloth or feather duster for regular dusting.