Pantry kitchen storage cabinets are used for storing food, cleaning supplies, and various kitchen tools. Over time, they can accumulate grease, dust, and other stains. These buildups not only affect the appearance of the cabinets but may also shorten their lifespan.
In this guide, we will walk you through how to thoroughly clean your pantry kitchen storage cabinets, from preparation to every cleaning step, ensuring your cabinets look brand new.
Steps to cleaning pantry kitchen storage cabinets
Preparation Before Cleaning
Gather the Necessary Cleaning Tools
Tools:
- Mild dish soap: Suitable for cleaning most cabinet surfaces.
- Microfiber cloth or soft sponges: Effective for cleaning surfaces without causing scratches.
- Multipurpose cleaner (or natural alternatives like vinegar): Helps remove stubborn stains.
- Small brush or old toothbrush: Ideal for cleaning cracks and corners.
- A bucket of warm water: Used to dilute cleaning solutions and rinse.
- Baking soda: Tackles stubborn grease and dirt.
- Rubber gloves: Protects your hands from the cleaning agents.
Empty the Cabinets
Before cleaning, remove all items from the cabinets, including food, cookware, and cleaning supplies. This is also a great opportunity to declutter your kitchen by discarding expired food and unnecessary items. After emptying the cabinets, don’t forget to clean the items before returning them.
Cleaning the Cabinet Exteriors
Wipe the Cabinet Doors and Surfaces
Wooden Cabinets: Wooden cabinets need special care to avoid excess moisture. Mix mild dish soap with water and wipe down the surface. Immediately dry with a cloth to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood.
Laminate Cabinets: Laminate surfaces are more durable and can handle more moisture. You can use a multipurpose cleaner or a mild soap solution to clean them, then dry them thoroughly.
Metal Cabinets: Metal cabinets are waterproof and easy to clean. Simply wipe with a damp cloth, then dry with a clean cloth to avoid water marks.
Remove Grease
Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray onto greasy areas and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping clean.
Store-bought Degreaser: For long-term grease buildup, use a specialized kitchen degreaser.
Clean Handles and Knobs
Metal Handles: Use a small brush to clean the crevices and then wipe the surface with a damp cloth. If needed, polish with a stainless steel cleaner.
Wooden or Plastic Handles: Wipe with a damp cloth and, if necessary, use a wood cleaner.
Cleaning the Cabinet Interiors
Wipe Shelves and Inside Surfaces
Wooden Shelves: Use a damp microfiber cloth and mild soapy water to wipe the shelves. Be careful not to oversaturate the wood to avoid damage.
Laminate or Metal Shelves: Use a multipurpose cleaner and a soft sponge to clean these surfaces.
Remove Crumbs and Debris
Vacuum: Use a handheld vacuum to clean the corners and edges of the cabinets, ensuring there are no leftover crumbs or food particles.
Tackle Sticky Residue: Mix baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply it to sticky spots and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before gently scrubbing with a cloth or brush.
Cleaning Special Areas and Hard-to-Reach Places
Clean Corners and Edges
Corners and cabinet door edges tend to accumulate dust and grime. Use an old toothbrush or small brush to effectively clean these hard-to-reach areas.
Clean Underneath Shelves
If your cabinet shelves are removable, take them out and clean the top and bottom surfaces. Wipe underneath with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt.
Clean the Inside of Cabinet Doors
The inner sides of cabinet doors, especially around the hinges, tend to collect dust and grease. Use a damp cloth to thoroughly wipe these areas, ensuring they are completely clean.
Dealing with Stubborn Stains and Grime
Mold and Mildew
To remove mold or mildew, mix 1 part bleach with 10 parts water and wipe down the affected area. Ensure good ventilation and wear gloves while using bleach. As an alternative, you can use a vinegar and water solution.
Water Stains
For water stains on wooden cabinets, try wiping the marks gently with a mixture of vinegar and olive oil (1:1 ratio), using a soft cloth in circular motions.
Grease and Oil Stains
For stubborn grease stains, sprinkle baking soda and gently scrub with a sponge. If the stains are very tough, consider using a commercial degreaser.
Return and Organize Items
Ensure Cabinets are Fully Dry
After cleaning, make sure all surfaces are completely dry before returning items to the cabinets. This helps avoid moisture buildup and mold growth.
Reorganize Cabinet Items
Take this opportunity to reorganize the contents of your cabinets. Consider using baskets, storage bins, or drawer dividers to keep items neat and tidy. To prevent future stains and spills, you may want to place waterproof mats at the bottom of your cabinets.
Keep Fresh
To maintain a fresh smell inside your cabinets, place some dried herbs or activated charcoal bags, or even a small box of baking soda to absorb odors.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Regular Cleaning Schedule
To keep your cabinets clean and extend their lifespan, perform a deep clean every 3 to 6 months. Additionally, regularly wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth to prevent dust and grease buildup.
Prevent Grease Buildup
Store cooking oils, sauces, and other liquids in leak-proof containers to prevent spills. If possible, use drawer organizers for frequently used items to prevent spills and keep your cabinets clean.
Cleaning Tips for Different Types of Cabinets
Wooden Cabinets
* Routine Cleaning: Wipe with warm water and mild dish soap, using a soft cloth or sponge.
* Degreasing: Use vinegar solution (1:1) or wood cleaner.
* Stain Removal: Lightly rub with a vinegar and olive oil mixture.
* Note: Avoid excessive moisture, and regularly care for the wood.
Laminate Cabinets
* Routine Cleaning: Wipe with warm water and a neutral cleaner.
* Degreasing: Use vinegar solution or degreaser.
* Stubborn Stains: Wipe with a baking soda solution.
* Note: Avoid harsh cleaners.
Steel Cabinets
* Routine Cleaning: Wipe with warm water and dish soap using a soft cloth.
* Degreasing: Use a stainless steel cleaner.
* Remove Fingerprints/Water Stains: Wipe with alcohol solution or a polishing cloth.
* Note: Clean regularly and avoid using steel wool.
Glass Cabinet Doors
* Routine Cleaning: Use glass cleaner or vinegar solution.
* Degreasing: Use mild dish soap or degreaser.
* Fingerprints: Wipe with alcohol or window cleaner.
* Note: Avoid using steel wool.
High-Gloss Painted Cabinets
* Routine Cleaning: Wipe with a mild soap and water solution using a soft cloth.
* Degreasing: Use vinegar solution or grease remover.
* Scratches: Use furniture polish to restore gloss.
* Note: Avoid strong acids or alkalis.
Regularly cleaning pantry kitchen storage cabinets not only keeps your kitchen neat and healthy but also extends the lifespan of your cabinets. By performing small daily cleaning tasks and scheduled deep cleans, you can ensure your cabinets remain in top condition, enhancing both the aesthetics and hygiene of your kitchen.
