The Basics of Cabinetry and Countertop Care
The beginning stages of the remodeling process are all about questions. From making plans to coordinating schedules to picking out finishes – lots of questions are answered, and decisions get made. However, there’s a question at the end of any remodel that’s just as important to address: how do we care for this new kitchen?
Our clients invest a significant amount of their resources in remodeling. The last thing anyone wants is to damage their beautiful fresh cabinets or countertops. While we make it a priority to share this information with clients during the remodeling process, we figure it never hurts to provide a little refresher course.
Read on below for our essential tips for keeping your cabinets and countertops looking like new!
All About Caring for Your Cabinets
Did You Know?
All wood naturally darkens with age. It’s just a part of the maturation process and nothing to worry over.
Moisture Matters
Wood is a naturally porous material, meaning it takes in and releases moisture. Again, this relationship to humidity is the reality of how wood behaves, so don’t be shocked if your wood goes through some minor seasonal adjustments.
Dusting
Similar to your other wood furniture, your cabinets need a good dusting now and then. When dusting, use a polish-moistened or damp cloth – dry dusting can scratch your wood’s surface. Dust with the grain of the wood to avoid potential scratches.
Cleaning
Wipe up spills as they occur to avoid damage. Clean your cabinets with a soft, lint-free cloth using a mild detergent or soap and warm water. Dry your surfaces as soon as possible.
What to Avoid
Save the sponge for dish-duty! It collects grease and detergent that isn’t your wood’s friend. Also steer clear of bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners and scouring pads, steel wool, powdered and oven cleaners. Lastly, don’t drape wet towels directly over your cabinets, as the moisture can cause warping.
All About Caring for Your Countertops
Keep it Cool
Natural stone countertops are prone to damage by sudden or excessive heat – use those hot pads and trivets!
Cleaning
All you need to clean your natural countertops is a soft cloth, warm water, and mild soap.
Chemical Free Zone
Keep your granite and quartz countertops clear of bleach, abrasive chemicals, scrubs, sealers, and other heavy-duty cleaners; they can damage the surface.
Avoid
Besides harsh chemicals, it’s a good idea to protect your countertops from excessive heat from electric griddles, frying pans, and slow cookers. Better safe than sorry!
Thanks to our friends at Showplace Cabinets and Cambria Quartz for helping us with these tips!
So, we’ve been thinking of getting custom cabinets for a while. We’d love something that feels chic and sophisticated all at once. And as you suggested, we’ll be sure to clean up our cabinets with non-abrasive cleaners.
Thank you for pointing out that cabinets need a good dusting once in a while. I am wanting to have some new cabinets installed in my kitchen next month during a renovation project. It seems like it would be a good idea to dust cabinets at least once a week to keep them from getting too gross.
DWELL44 is a relaxed and inviting place to see high-quality premium products in action. The showroom is designed for you to view products and features that can be used throughout both the design and build process. From fixtures and furniture to windows, siding, countertops, and appliances, you’ll be able to see everything in one place. Visit our showroom today!
Phew! Thank goodness you reminded us that it’s totally normal for timber-based cabinets to get darker over time since it’s part of their aging process. Right now, I’m trying to help my brother finds the best cabinet material for his kitchen. Maybe we should just refer to a professional sooner or later to make sure we make the perfect installation.
I’m getting my house remodeled this year, starting with the kitchen this upcoming March, so I was thinking of replacing our old cabinets as well while I’m at it. I appreciate your advice when you told us to avoid sponges when cleaning cabinets since they collect grease and detergent that can be harmful to our wood since the moisture will cause warping. I’ll be sure to remember this once I find custom cabinet services to hire soon.
It feels quite nice to learn that we just need soap and warm water to keep our countertops clean. My wife asked me the other day if she could upgrade the one in our kitchen before Christmas. Personally, I think it would be better if she reaches out to a contractor before making any kind of remodeling.