Home Garden

How to Care for High Quality Wood Cabinets

High-quality wood cabinets are expensive but last a lifetime when they are properly cared for through gentle cleaning and monthly polishing. Wood cabinets are prone to damage when exposed to excessive moisture, as continuous exposure to moisture dulls the wood's surface over time. Warping is also a possibility when cabinets are poorly maintained, as the surface of wood expands and shortens the lifespan of the wood. Some commercial wood cleaners may damage the wood's surface, and require spot testing prior to using it all over the cabinets to prevent accidental damage.

Things You'll Need

  • 3 lint-free cleaning cloths
  • Mild dishwashing detergent
  • Bowl
  • Mild wood polisher
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wet a clean, lint-free cloth with warm water and wipe down accidental spills from the wood cabinet as soon as they occur.

    • 2

      Dust off the cabinets daily with a dry, lint-free cloth to maintain the cabinet's clean, polished surface.

    • 3

      Mix 1 teaspoon of mild dishwashing liquid into a bowl and add 1 cup of warm water. Dip a clean cloth into the cleaning solution and squeeze out excess water. Wash the cabinets on a monthly basis to keep the surface clean, and wipe the cabinets dry with a dry cloth.

    • 4

      Pour one to two drops of wood cleaner directly onto a dry cloth and wipe the cloth against the cabinets in the direction of the wood's grain.