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Properly Caring for Painted Kitchen Cabinets

January 12, 2021

While certain elements of cabinet care and basic cleaning will be relatively similar across several cabinet varieties, there will be others that depend on the type of cabinet in place. One particular type of cabinet that may have a few different care items than some others, and also one that's very popular today, is the painted cabinet.

At Swirl Woodcraft, we're happy to offer a huge range of traditional, rustic and modern kitchen cabinets with several color and style options available, including painted cabinets, sand-blasted cabinets and several others. What are some of the top tips we offer to clients on care for painted cabinets? Here are some basic areas to keep in mind.

caring painted kitchen cabinets

Standard Cleaning

Just like any other kitchen items you use regularly, painted cabinets will need to be cleaned regularly. Painted or stained cabinets actually do a better job at concealing dirt and other messes than some other types, but you still need to perform basic cleaning regardless.

This involves using a soft, clean cloth that's dampened with some water and mild dishwashing soap. As long as you perform this sort of task regularly, at least once a month or so, you should never have to use too much force or elbow grease – but if cabinets are left without cleaning for months, you may find some tougher buildups or stains that take harder work to be rid of.

Spill Care

Painted cabinets are not waterproof, contrary to some myths that might be out there. This means that if drips or spills take place, they can affect the cabinets.

For this reason, prevention of this sort of thing is the name of the game. In addition, any spills should be immediately wiped up and dried to prevent any staining and damage to the cabinet. Also be sure to pay close attention to sources of water and liquid, as keeping these dry will play a role in protecting cabinets.

Scratches or Chips

Just like paint on any other area, such as a car, may chip, so might paint on cabinets. The most common cause of this or scratching issues is actually poor installation, so be sure to take great care in this area. In other cases, items like jewelry, silverware or even fingernails may cause these issues. In these cases, some basic touch-ups to paint and finish may be necessary for your cabinets.

Hairline Crack Prevention

Finally, wood components in cabinets may expand and contract if your interior goes through major humidity changes. To avoid this, ensure your home stays at a regular humidity range – our pros will be happy to inform you of the ideal range for any cabinet you purchase from us. And if resulting cracks, known as hairline cracks, do ever form, they luckily are not a form of structural damage.

For more on how to care for painted cabinets, or to learn about any of our kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities or other services, speak to the staff at Swirl Woodcraft today.

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