How to Clean Wood Cabinets

Many bathroom cabinets are made from durable hardwoods with closed grains, like birch, maple or poplar. But every type of wood is vulnerable to potential heat and water damage from the temperature and moisture changes brought about by daily showers and baths. If neglected, the condensation and moisture create ideal conditions for mold growth.

Additionally, wood can easily become damaged if you're too rough with your cleaning methods. Skip scouring tools, such as steel wool or wire-bristled brushes, that can leave scratches behind. Avoid abrasive cleaners, acids, and powdered cleansers that can have the same damaging effects.

Popular natural cleaning solutions often include white vinegar or baking soda. At best, vinegar can help in removing soap scum and mineral deposits, which are most likely not a problem on cabinets. Cleaning with a mixture of baking soda and water usually leaves a stubborn white film behind, requiring you to do multiple wipe downs.

Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner removes grease and grime from cabinet surfaces, while the biodegradable* formula makes it safer for use in the kitchen. The powerful degreaser also wipes away fingerprints and removes stains, leaving behind a streak-free surface.

Although Simple Green is safe enough to use on almost any washable surface, it is not intended for use on unfinished or untreated wood.

Using the directions below, spot-clean any time you notice fingerprints, spatters and other marks, and deep clean at least once a month.

Directions for Cleaning Wood Cabinets:

If you're unsure about how Simple Green will affect a surface, be sure to spot test on an inconspicuous area before cleaning.

1. Mix your Simple Green solution. Mix 1 oz. Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner with 4 cups warm water in a spray bottle or mix a stronger solution for very greasy cabinets.
2. Apply Simple Green. Spray the solution onto a clean, non-abrasive, damp cloth or microfiber pad and wash until clean. Start wiping at the bottom and work your way up, and remember to wash the edges, sides, and handles.
3. Wipe with a damp cloth. When finished, wipe down the cabinet with another water-dampened soft cloth or microfiber pad.
4. Dry. Dry cabinet surfaces with a microfiber pad, clean cloth or paper towels. Be sure to dry thoroughly, as water left sitting on your cabinets can discolor and damage them.

Tip: Keep heat-producing and steam-producing appliances, like coffee makers, pressure cookers, and toasters, away from your cabinets. Excess heat and moisture emitted by these can damage wood cabinet surfaces.

 

* Biodegradable formula: This formula decomposes into elements found in nature within six months after disposal into a typical sanitary sewer or septic system.