How to Care for Custom
Cabinets to Last 30-50 Years
Custom cabinets are one of the biggest costs in a kitchen or bath renovation, but kept in good condition, they can last up to 50 years. Looking after them pays off in two ways. You get years of enjoyment out of them now, and well-maintained cabinets help your home hold its value later. Here’s how to care for your custom cabinets, so they keep paying off, both day to day and whenever you decide to sell.Â
How to Care for Custom Cabinets to Last 30-50 Years
Custom cabinets are one of the biggest costs in a kitchen or bath renovation, but kept in good condition, they can last up to 50 years. Looking after them pays off in two ways. You get years of enjoyment out of them now, and well-maintained cabinets help your home hold its value later, since buyers pay close attention to the kitchen. Here’s how to care for your custom cabinets, so they keep paying off, both day to day and whenever you decide to sell.Â
Daily Habits to Maintain Your Custom Cabinets
The repetitive daily use of your cabinets will gradually wear them over time. Here are some good habits to maintain your cabinets longer and prevent or delay wear and tear.Â
Always use the cabinet hardware
Over time, the oils from your hands can build up where you touch the cabinets most often, leaving a dull or discolored spot on the finish. Use the knobs and pulls to open and close your doors and drawers, rather than pushing on the cabinet faces themselves.Â
Close, don’t slam the cabinets
Custom cabinets come standard with soft-close hardware, which prevents slamming. Even so, it’s best to close them gently rather than forcefully shutting them, which keeps the hinges and slides running smoothly for years.Â
Wipe drips right away
Wipe up drips and spills right away, using the cleaners and method recommended below. It’s much easier to clean as you go than to try to remove stubborn messes once they have dried. This will also prevent staining.Â
Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture
Moisture exposure over time can damage the cabinet finish and cause the wood to swell or warp. Be mindful of steam from small appliances, never leave wet towels hanging on the doors, and give your dishwasher a few minutes to cool before opening. When you mop, wring it out well so water doesn’t pool against the base cabinets and toe kicks.Â
How to Clean Custom Cabinets
Regular cleaning is the best way to keep your custom cabinets looking new. It can also be the fastest way to damage the finish if you reach for the wrong product. Use a gentle cleaner and a method that suits the finish, and your cabinets will stay in great shape for years.Â
The Best Cleaners for Custom Cabinets
Start with a cleaning solution that is safe for your custom cabinets. We recommend mixing a 50/50 solution of distilled white vinegar and warm water or a drop of dish liquid with warm water.Â
Never use cleaning products containing silicones, waxes, polishes, abrasives, acids, strong alkaline, solvents, alcohol, ammonia, or bleach.Â
| Painted Finishes | Stained Finishes | TFL | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dish Soap & Water |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Vinegar & Water |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Bleach |
X |
X |
X |
|
Wood Polish |
X |
X |
X |
|
All-Purpose Spray |
X |
X |
X |
The Best Cleaners for Custom Cabinets
Start with a cleaning solution that is safe for your custom cabinets. We recommend mixing a 50/50 solution of distilled white vinegar and warm water or a drop of dish liquid with warm water.Â
* Never use cleaning products containing silicones, waxes, polishes, abrasives, acids, strong alkaline, solvents, alcohol, ammonia, or bleach.Â
| Painted Finishes | Stained Finishes | TFL | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dish Soap & Water |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Vinegar & Water |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Bleach |
X |
X |
X |
|
Wood Polish |
X |
X |
X |
|
All-Purpose Spray |
X |
X |
X |
How to Wipe Down Your Custom Cabinets
Using your approved cleaning solution and a white cotton rag or cloth, here’s how to properly clean custom cabinets.Â
Tip: Remember to wipe following the wood grain for wood cabinets and test on an inconspicuous corner first.Â
Our Two30Nine showroom has a comprehensive cleaning guide you can follow for more detailed cleaning information.Â
Step 1
Wring the cloth out so it is damp, not dripping.
Step 2
Wipe over the greasy surface, repeat if needed.
Step 3
Rinse the cloth with clean water only, wring out.
Step 4
Wipe away any remaining cleaning solution.
Step 5
Immediately dry the surfaces with a clean dry cloth.
How to Wipe Down Your Custom Cabinets
Using your approved cleaning solution and a white cotton rag or cloth, here’s how to properly clean custom cabinets.Â
Step 1
Wring the cloth out so it is damp, not dripping.
Step 2
Wipe over the greasy surface, repeat if needed.
Step 3
Rinse the cloth with clean water only, wring out.
Step 4
Wipe away any remaining cleaning solution.
Step 5
Immediately dry the surfaces with a clean dry cloth.
Tip: Remember to wipe following the wood grain for wood cabinets and test on an inconspicuous corner first.Â
Our Two30Nine showroom has a comprehensive cleaning guide you can follow for more detailed cleaning information.Â
How to Fix Scratches and Dents in Custom Cabinets
Small scratches, scuffs, and dents are part of living with cabinets. Minor damage can easily be repaired at home with the touch-up kit sent with your order. Here’s how to touch up your cabinets at home.Â
For deeper gouges, dents that go through the finish, or anything you’re unsure about, reach out to your designer.Â