When Should You Clean Your Kitchen Cabinets?

Most people only clean their cabinets when something spills. Or leaks. Or when they reach for cinnamon and come back with a handful of sticky question marks. But your cabinets deserve better than that.

So, when’s the right time?

Quick weekly wipe-downs keep things under control.

Seasonal deep-cleans (spring, fall, before holidays, or whenever you feel brave) handle the buildup.

Weekly touch-ups prevent the dreaded “sticky cabinet syndrome,” while deeper seasonal cleans let you confront all the stubborn stuff—grease, dried sauces, or that mystery splatter that’s been haunting the corner since last November.

Essential Cleaning Supplies for Kitchen Cabinets

Having the right tools makes cabinet cleaning more effective and prevents damage from harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

Gentle Cleansers: Dish soap diluted in warm water works for most cabinets. For wood cabinets, consider specialized wood cleaners. White vinegar mixed with water (1:1 ratio) makes an excellent natural cleaner for laminate and metal.

Microfiber Cloths: These soft cloths clean effectively without scratching surfaces. Keep several on hand - some for applying cleaner and others for drying.

Soft Brushes: An old toothbrush or small soft-bristled brush helps clean detailed areas and corners that cloths can't reach.

Oil Soap: For wooden cabinets, Murphy's Oil Soap or similar products clean while conditioning the wood.

Baking Soda: This mild abrasive helps with stubborn spots when mixed into a paste with water.

Cabinet Hardware Cleaner: Depending on your handles and knobs (brass, stainless steel, etc.), you might need specific metal cleaners or polishes.

Your Two-Part Cleaning Plan: Realistic, Not Ridiculous

1. Weekly Maintenance

Grab a damp microfiber cloth and your favorite mild cleaner. Wipe down handles, edges, and anywhere you spotted a splash last time. Optional: hum your favorite cleaning montage soundtrack.

2. Seasonal Deep-Clean

Clear out one section at a time (yes, even the back of the spice cabinet). Use the appropriate cleaner for the cabinet material. Wipe down both interior and exterior surfaces. Finish with a dry cloth so there’s no lingering moisture. Think of it as a check-in with your cabinets. How are they doing? How many decades-old condiments are hiding behind the olive oil? Only one way to find out.

How to Clean Cabinets with Common Stains

Fingerprint Smudges Use a damp microfiber cloth with a drop of dish soap. Wipe in the direction of the wood grain (or small circles on painted surfaces). Dry immediately to avoid water marks.

Grease Buildup Mix equal parts vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Spray, let it sit for 2–3 minutes, then wipe with a soft sponge. For extra stubborn spots, use a dab of baking soda paste (baking soda + water).

Food Splatters Wet a sponge with warm, soapy water and gently scrub. If something’s really stuck, use a rubber spatula to gently lift it—no scraping!

Water Stains Rub with a baking soda and water paste using a soft cloth. Dry thoroughly—especially on wood, which doesn’t love lingering moisture.

Scuff Marks Use a melamine sponge (like a Magic Eraser), but test it on a hidden spot first. Gently buff out the scuff, then wipe with a clean, dry cloth.

How to Clean Different Cabinet Types

Painted Cabinets Mix warm water with a little dish soap. Wipe with a soft cloth (no rough scrubbing—this isn’t grout). Rinse with clean water and dry to avoid streaks or bubbling. If your painted cabinets have decorative grooves, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean inside without scratching the paint.

Wood Cabinets Mix mild soap with warm water. Wipe with a damp (not dripping) cloth, following the wood grain. Dry immediately with a microfiber cloth. Optional: Apply a furniture polish made for wood if you're feeling extra. Avoid vinegar or anything too acidic—it can strip the finish or dry out the wood. Wood prefers gentle compliments and gentle cleaners.

Laminate Cabinets Use a multipurpose cleaner or a water-vinegar solution. Wipe with a soft sponge or cloth. For sticky buildup, a little dish soap goes a long way. Avoid abrasive pads—they can leave behind scratches that no amount of polish can fix.

Glass-Front Cabinets Use a standard glass cleaner or vinegar + water in a spray bottle. Wipe with a lint-free microfiber cloth. Don’t forget to clean the inside surface (your coffee mugs will thank you). Pro tip: Buff with a dry cloth after cleaning to avoid streaks and fingerprints.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Maintenance

Q: Can I use bleach to get rid of tough stains? Technically? Yes. Should you? Probably not. Bleach is harsh and can damage finishes or discolor painted/wood surfaces. Stick to milder solutions unless you’re disinfecting something specific.

Q: What’s the best natural cleaner for cabinets? Vinegar and water is the go-to. It cuts grease, neutralizes odors, and leaves no sticky residue. Just don’t overdo it on wood.

Q: How often should I do a deep clean? Every 3–4 months works well for most people. If your kitchen sees heavy use (hello, home chefs and takeout box recyclers), maybe bump that to every 2 months.

Q: My cabinet smells funky inside. What now? Clear it out. Clean with soap and water. Then pop in a small bowl of baking soda or a sachet of coffee grounds to absorb odor. Leave overnight.

Q: I found weird gunk stuck in cabinet corners. What do I use? A soft-bristled toothbrush dipped in soapy water works wonders. It’s oddly satisfying—just don’t get carried away and start brushing your silverware drawer.

Final Thoughts: Keep Calm and Clean On

Cleaning kitchen cabinets isn’t glamorous, but it is satisfying. There’s nothing quite like the glow of grime-free wood or the sparkle of a freshly wiped glass panel.

So whether your kitchen is the hub of family meals or the site of a thousand reheated leftovers, your cabinets deserve a little care. You don’t have to go full Marie Kondo—just give them a wipe now and then, handle grease like a pro, and embrace the power of microfiber.

And remember: the best way to keep cabinets clean is to stay one step ahead of the next mess.

Go get that sponge, champ. You’ve got this.