How to keep wood cabinets looking new?

Author: Daphney Kub  |  Last update: Thursday, April 3, 2025

Wipe the cabinets clean with a soft, damp cloth and dry immediately with another clean, soft cloth. Always wipe in the direction of the wood grain. Apply a thin coat of high-quality polish. Choose a polish that does not contain silicone or wax, and follow the manufacturer's directions for application.

How do you make my wood cabinets look new again?

How To Refinish Kitchen Cabinets
  1. Step 1 Prepare Ahead of Time. Before you begin, prep the space and gather your supplies. ...
  2. Step 2 Remove the Doors & Drawer Fronts. ...
  3. Step 3 Strip Off the Old Finish. ...
  4. Step 4 Repair Damaged Areas. ...
  5. Step 5 Apply a Sealer. ...
  6. Step 6 Stain Your Cabinets. ...
  7. Step 7 Apply a Final Protective Seal.

Is Murphy's oil soap good for wood cabinets?

Some of the benefits and uses of Murphy's Oil Soap are: It smells fresh; it cleans without leaving a soapy residue as long as you do not use too much; cuts through grease that you may encounter on cabinets and paneling; great in luke warm water for wood floors (not laminate). I love, love, love Murphy's Oil Soap.

Is it better to spray or roll paint on cabinets?

Spray painting is generally considered a better option for painting kitchen cabinets. It provides a smoother, more professional finish and allows for better coverage in hard-to-reach areas. Hand painting can be a viable alternative for smaller projects or when a more rustic or textured look is desired.

How often should wood cabinets be oiled?

Wood kitchen cabinets should be oiled approximately every 6 to 12 months to maintain their appearance and protect the wood from drying out. However, the frequency may vary depending on factors like wood type, kitchen conditions, and personal preferences.

How to quickly CLEAN CABINETS & REMOVE GREASE & GUNK!!! | Andrea Jean

Can you use Dawn dish soap on wood cabinets?

For those stubborn messes, apply a squirt of Dawn® Platinum directly to a sponge or dish cloth under warm running water, then gently scrub the greasy surface.

What oil is good for wood cabinets?

Linseed and tung are 2 of the most common drying oils used on wood cabinets, but you can also use lemon, orange or walnut oil. Vinegar-based solutions. Vinegar is a great cleaner for many surfaces, but wood isn't one of them.

What do professionals use to spray kitchen cabinets?

Since many rooms with cabinets usually get a lot of traffic and activity, you'll want to get this project done fast. Using a Magnum airless paint sprayer will provide the fastest way to achieve a perfect finish.

Are foam rollers good for painting cabinets?

DIY enthusiasts and professionals have grown fond of using high-density foam rollers. This makes them a great choice is their ability to provide a flawless, smooth surface, making them ideal for use on cabinets and furniture. The dense foam ensures even coverage, eliminating the problem of brush marks or uneven layers.

Should I apply primer with a brush or roller?

Applying primer first is the best way to ensure a perfect finish later. Just as it does with makeup and on cars, primer creates a smooth base that promotes better adhesion and truer color from your topcoat paint. Pro-tip: Apply primer using a brush first to “cut in" around edges, then use a roller to fill in.

Is Bona better than Murphy's oil?

Conclusion. So, the Murphy's Oil Soap vs Bona debate is over, and Bona wins. These are some of the best hardwood floor cleaners, but the flooring market is full of competitors. Their hardwood floor cleaner is said to be overall better by all the homeowners who have been using it for years.

What is the best cleaner for wood cabinets?

Mix a 50/50 solution of vinegar and warm water and pour it into a spray bottle. Mist on cabinets, let sit for a minute or two and then wipe clean with a soft cloth. Add a few drops of liquid dishwashing detergent to the vinegar and water solution to clean extremely grimy cabinets.

When should you not use Murphy's oil soap?

For Water Based Finishes

Cleaners such as Pledge and Murphy's Oil Soap are not recommended because they leave a dull residue on the finish. Water based surfaces may be cleaned with a damp cloth or General Finishes Orange Oil.

How can I make my old cabinets look new without painting?

Cabinet Refacing:
  1. Refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. ...
  2. Swapping out old knobs and pulls for modern hardware can make a surprising difference. ...
  3. Kitchen cabinet vinyl wrapping can be applied to cabinet surfaces for an instant update.

How do I keep my kitchen cabinets looking new?

1. Clean your kitchen cabinets regularly
  1. Dust your cabinets often.
  2. Use soft cloths such as microfibre cloths.
  3. Avoid abrasive sponges.
  4. Use cloths that haven't been used to wipe dishes or wash other surfaces, as they may contain detergents that can damage or leave marks on your cabinets.

What is the best product to restore cabinets?

2K Polyurethanes on Cabinets

2k polyurethanes or 2K polys are fantastic products for cabinet refinishing as it has been groundbreaking for the wood coatings industry in general. 2K polys require a mix of a catalyst or hardener, resulting in a pot life of a few hours.

Is it better to roll or brush paint cabinets?

Using a brush for cabinet painting ensures that you will get a smooth, even finish on your cabinets. A brush can also help get into all the nooks and crannies of your cabinets, which a roller might miss.

What type of roller gives the smoothest finish?

Walls, Wood, and Metal - Small 1/4″ roller covers or foam rollers will produce the smoothest finish. Light to Medium Textured Surfaces - Microfiber rollers are best.

What do professional painters use to paint cabinets?

We usually use professional-grade lacquer because it has a lovely, silky-smooth feel to it, and is what cabinet manufacturers use. We think it's the best paint for cabinets, hands-down (although there are some great pro-level water-based options as well).

Is it better to spray or paint cabinets?

For an extra smooth and professional-looking finish, many paint experts recommend spray painting kitchen cabinets. This method can be easier than working with a paintbrush and roller, but it takes some time and practice to really get the hang of it.

What is the best sheen for kitchen cabinets?

Satin: Satin finishes are a favorite because they provide a soft shine that adds a touch of elegance without being too flashy. They are durable enough to handle the wear and tear of a kitchen while still being easy to clean. Satin finishes help cabinets look fresh and modern while maintaining a classic appeal.

How much should I pay for kitchen cabinets sprayed?

On average, the total to spray paint all of your kitchen cabinets will be in the region of £800-£1,600. Some spray painters may require removing your cupboards and taking them away to their site. With this service, there may be additional costs.

Is Murphy's oil good for kitchen cabinets?

Murphy® Oil Soap gets deep into grime to break up dirt particles and it's safe to use on wood products like cabinets.

How do you bring wood cabinets back to life?

Stripping the old stain or lacquer and replacing it with a shiny new coat is a great way to bring life back into your wood grain kitchen cabinets. Adding that glossy look also helps them to reflect natural light and make your kitchen appear brighter.

Is olive oil good for wood cabinets?

Don't Use Olive Oil

As a cleaning agent, olive oil is not at all effective. It is a non-drying oil, meaning that it will leave behind a film that is likely to attract dust and dirt, making your cabinets even more difficult to clean down the road. Some purport that olive oil will replenish wood and give it a nice shine.

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