Why are the inside of my cabinets sweating?

Author: Dr. Khalid Schaefer II  |  Last update: Thursday, July 10, 2025

Moisture and condensation in kitchen cabinets a common issues caused by the inherent dampness of kitchens. To remove moisture, use absorbent materials like baking soda inside cabinets. Improve ventilation and air circulation. Dehumidifiers also help reduce dampness in the kitchen.

How do I stop condensation in my kitchen cabinets?

- keep moisture to a minimum, don't dry clothes indoors. - add as much ventilation in these areas as possible to get some air flow. - keeping the air temperature up will help avoid condensation so look at fitting a heater in the kitchen. However if that room is then allowed to cool, the condensation may be even worse.

Why are my cabinets sweating?

Often, cabinets are located in rooms—such as the bathroom and kitchen—where steam is common. For example, a hot water kettle, coffee pot, or dishwasher that causes steam to rise to cabinets above may eventually lead to moisture damage.

How to get rid of moisture in a cabinet?

Options like electric dehumidifiers, silica gel bags, or containers with absorbent beads can help maintain a dry environment. Use of absorbent materials: use absorbent materials inside the cabinet to combat moisture. Some of them are rice bags, put rice bags in the closet. Rice acts as a natural desiccant.

How do you waterproof the inside of a cabinet?

Here are some practical ways you can protect your cabinets.
  1. Waterproof Shelf Liner. One way to protect your cabinets is with a flexible waterproof shelf liner. ...
  2. Waterproof Stain Sealant. ...
  3. Peel and Stick Vinyl Tiles. ...
  4. Regularly Check For Leaks. ...
  5. Seal Everything.

What could be causing condensation on our new cabinets?

What is the best way to protect inside kitchen cabinets?

Lining your kitchen cabinets and drawers is the best way to keep them clean and protected from years of use and abuse. That means choosing the right material is essential. You want to look for waterproof options that will be quick to cut to size and easy to maintain, clean, and wipe down.

What is the best way to waterproof interior wood?

Liquid sealants are one of the most common ways to waterproof wood. These sealants are applied directly to the surface of the wood and form an impermeable barrier against water penetration. It is important to apply several coats of sealant to ensure a thorough application.

Why is the inside of my cupboard wet?

The causes of damp and mould in kitchen cupboards can include leaks, poor ventilation, water damage, and condensation. It is important to identify the source of the moisture and take steps to address it to prevent dampness and mould growth.

How to lower indoor humidity?

Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners, especially in hot, humid climates, to reduce moisture in the air, but be sure that the appliances themselves don't become sources of biological pollutants. Raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses. Use insulation or storm windows.

How to get rid of mold behind kitchen cabinets?

Choose a commercial cleaner specifically designed to kill and remove mold. Hydrogen peroxide and household pantry items like bleach and distilled white vinegar may also remove mold. Never mix these different cleaners together.

How do I stop my interior walls from sweating?

DIY ways to treat condensation on walls
  1. Keep your windows open as regularly as possible.
  2. Check your vents or air bricks to ensure that they are clear.
  3. Dry clothes outside if possible.
  4. Make use of extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom.

Why is it so cold inside my kitchen cabinets?

Understanding Cold Kitchen Cupboards

This issue typically occurs because these cupboards are often installed on exterior walls that haven't been properly insulated. Insufficient insulation allows the cold air from outside to seep in, keeping your cupboards cold irrespective of the warmth in the rest of your home.

What are the best kitchen cabinets for high humidity?

Marine-grade plywood is an excellent choice for areas with fluctuating humidity. Designed for maximum durability and water resistance, this reduces the chance of water seeping into the core. Marine-grade plywood cabinets can resist moisture for up to 50 years, making them perfect for high-humidity environments.

Why is there moisture in my kitchen cabinets?

Check Your Plumbing Often: Your kitchen sink drain is susceptible to leaks. When it leaks, moisture will affect your cabinets. Sometimes leaks can go undetected for weeks. We recommend that you check your sink's plumbing often to catch any leaks quickly and minimize exposure to moisture.

How do I stop sweating in my kitchen?

It may seem counterintuitive but wearing and extra layer underneath your chef whites helps a lot with sweat. Some chefs swear by compression style sports tops, others plain cotton t-shirts and several women we spoke to said silk tank tops were the best.

How do you insulate inside kitchen cabinets?

Take uppers off wall. Cut 4 in holes between studs. Blow in cellulose insulation. Hang cabinets back up.

How to remove moisture from a room without a dehumidifier?

Steps
  1. Open the windows to ventilate the inside of your home. ...
  2. Turn on the air conditioner to cool down the air in your home. ...
  3. Run standalone fans in individual rooms to move air around. ...
  4. Replace the filters on your air conditioning units on a regular basis.

Does DampRid work?

Does DampRid work? Yes. CHOICE household products expert Chris Barnes says, "We put a DampRid container in a sealed test chamber about the size of a closet with 80% humidity and a fan for air movement. Within three days, DampRid reduced humidity to 43% and collected almost half a cup of water."

Do fans help reduce humidity?

Ceiling fans can be extremely beneficial in reducing humidity in a home because they are able to keep air circulating across an entire room and from the top down. Even a fan spinning at a low speed can help drastically with air circulation and lowering humidity.

How do I stop moisture in my cupboards?

Use newspapers or absorbent paper to line the shelves as it will absorb the moisture and can be periodically changed. Introduce silica gel packets or wrap powdered charcoal in a muslin cloth. The charcoal powder removes musty odours from the wardrobe and should be replaced after two months.

How do you fix condensation inside?

Ways to Reduce Condensation in your Home
  1. Use Pan Lids When Cooking. ...
  2. Close Kitchen & Bathroom Doors. ...
  3. Dry Clothes Outdoors. ...
  4. Turn on Your Extractor Fan When Using Your Shower. ...
  5. Ensure That Washing Machine Is Correctly Vented. ...
  6. Move Furniture Away from External Walls. ...
  7. Install an Extractor Fan.

Is there a paint to stop condensation?

PermaPROTECT Anti Condensation Paint is a specially formulated coating that prevents condensation on a variety of surfaces. When you apply our paint, it raises the surface temperature of the internal walls. This increase in temperature changes the dew point - the temperature at which moisture forms on a surface.

What soaks up moisture from wood?

Baking soda contains sodium bicarbonate, which is an effective absorbent material. It works by trapping moisture, making it easier to remove. Simply create a thick paste with water and spread it over the affected area.

How do you stop moisture in wood?

Apply a high-quality wood preservative to all exposed surfaces, including the inside walls. Install proper ventilation to allow for air circulation and prevent condensation. Select a waterproof roof covering and make sure it is securely installed.

Can you use Thompson's water Seal on interior wood?

No Water Seal should not be used before plastering or in any interior applications.

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