How Do You Clean Grease Off Wood Cabinets

It's not unusual for the kitchen to be the greasiest space in your home. While you can reduce the amount of grease in your kitchen with proper ventilation, it can still accumulate on surfaces, such as your wood cabinets. Grease can penetrate the wood and make it appear dull and dingy if not cleaned properly.

Cleaning grease off of wood cabinets can be tricky, but it doesn't have to be. There are a few simple steps you can follow to get your cabinets looking clean and new again.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean grease off wood cabinets.

1. Identify the type of wood finish

Many cleaning methods may harm the final look of your cabinets if you don't know the type of wood finish they have. It is crucial to identify the type of wood finish your cabinets have before cleaning them. Once you know the finish type, you can choose the most suitable cleaning method that won't damage your cabinets.

Here are the three most common types of wood finishes:

Oil-based finishes: Oil-based finishes are durable and protect the wood well, but they can be more difficult to clean than other finishes. When cleaning wood cabinets with an oil-based finish, it is important to use a mild cleaner that will not damage the finish.
Water-based finishes: Water-based finishes are less durable than oil-based finishes, but they are easier to clean. When cleaning wood cabinets with a water-based finish, you can use a mild cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar.
Lacquer finishes: Lacquer finishes are very durable and resistant to scratching, but they can be damaged by harsh cleaners. When cleaning wood cabinets with a lacquer finish, it is important to use a mild cleaner that will not damage the finish.

2. Gather your supplies

Before starting to clean your cabinets, gather the following supplies:

A mild cleaner
A soft cloth
A bucket of warm water
A sponge or a brush
A vacuum cleaner
Mineral spirits (optional)

3. Clean the cabinets

Once you have gathered your supplies, you can start cleaning your cabinets. Follow the following steps:

Start by wiping down the cabinets with a soft cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Apply a small amount of mild cleaner to a clean cloth and wipe it onto the cabinets. Be sure to work in the direction of the wood grain.
Rinse the cabinets with a clean cloth dampened with warm water.
Dry the cabinets with a clean cloth.
If there is still grease on the cabinets, you can try using mineral spirits. Apply a small amount of mineral spirits to a clean cloth and wipe it onto the cabinets. Be sure to work in the direction of the wood grain.
Rinse the cabinets with a clean cloth dampened with warm water.
Dry the cabinets with a clean cloth.

4. Vacuum the cabinets

Once the cabinets are clean, vacuum them to remove any remaining dust or debris.

5. Protect the cabinets

Once the cabinets are clean and dry, you can protect them by applying a coat of wax or polish. This will help to keep the cabinets looking their best and to prevent grease from building up in the future.

Tips

Test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the cabinet before applying it to the entire surface.
Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials, as these can damage the finish of the cabinets.
If the grease is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a commercial degreaser. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Clean your cabinets regularly to prevent grease from building up.

Conclusion

Cleaning grease off of wood cabinets is not a difficult task, but it is important to do it correctly to avoid damaging the finish of the cabinets. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can get your cabinets looking clean and new again.