Cleaning and Maintenance

Basic Cabinet Cleaning

Upon installation:

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Wipe the cabinets clean with a soft, damp cloth and dry immediately with another clean, soft cloth. Always wipe in the direction of the grain for stained products.

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Grime and grease buildup can damage cabinets and destroy the look and feel of a new kitchen. To remove buildup, wipe down the cabinets using a soft cloth dampened with warm water and do so at least once every two weeks or more depending on the amount of activity that takes place. If water alone does not clean the cabinets completely, mix a little mild dish soap with the water. Wipe down stained cabinets in the direction of the grain if applicable. Use a soft cloth to remove any residual moisture that may be left on the cabinets.

If routine cleaning does not remove stains or built-up grime, a mix of vinegar and water is an option for removing sticky films from the cabinet surfaces.

The following products and ingredients will damage your cabinets so avoid using them or any product that contains them:

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• Petroleum based products

• Solvents and paint thinners

• Bleach and ammonia

• Strong detergents and soap

• Nail polish remover

• Plastic brushes, scouring pads and steel wool

• Melamine sponges (Magic Eraser)

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Repairing Nicks and Scratches:

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We can provide a touch-up jar of lacquers to you so you can maintain the beauty of your cabinets. If you have minor damage, please let us know so we can provide the touch-up products you require. After your cabinet installation we do invite you to a complimentary round of touch-ups, up to one year from the installation date. It is your responsibility to schedule this with us. Anything over one year will be charged for, if a service technician is required at your home.

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Wipe Spills Promptly:

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Many substances become difficult to remove and may stain or cause other damage with prolonged contact. If a spill occurs, wipe it promptly with a damp cloth or sponge and dry the surface immediately. Use a blotting action rather than a wiping action to remove the substance.

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Avoid Excessive Moisture:

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Water is the worst enemy for any finish. Cabinets near the sink, dishwasher and baseboards are the most susceptible for damage. Dry off any areas immediately where water has spilled. Avoid draping dish towels or other wet items over doors or placing coffee makers where steam vents directly onto the cabinetry surface. Avoid pooling of water when mopping your floors and wipe up any spills that occur.

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Avoid Exposure to harsh cleaners:

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Harsh cleaners can damage the finish of your cabinets. Avoid cleaners containing ammonia, bleach, citric acid (including orange and lemon oil) and organic solvents.

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Avoid temperature and humidity extremes:

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Extremes in temperature and humidity can cause wood to warp and swell, expand and contract, and dry out - possibly damaging not only the finish, but the wood underneath. It is important to control the temperature and humidity in your home all year long. You should allow minor warping to go through one heating cycle (1 year) before considering a replacement.

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Avoid light damage:

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Direct exposure to UV, or sunlight can have a damaging effect on your cabinets, especially stained surfaces. Painted cabinets are susceptible to fading from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Use window coverings to help reduce or eliminate damage caused by exposure to UV light.

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Avoid exposure to waxes:

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Most common self-polishing waxes can actually damage your finish ie: Pledge. Take care to use only high-quality cream furniture polishes available from high-end furniture or paint stores.

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Guard against scratching and abrasion:

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Clean with a soft, damp cloth when necessary. Avoid using scouring pads and abrasive cleaners as they will dull fine finishes. Do not drag anything along the surface of the cabinetry.

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