There are tons of high-contact areas in the kitchen and bathroom that should be cleaned on a regular basis. Daily wipe-downs of countertops are common, but it’s easy to forget that the cabinet knobs and pulls are touched a lot as well. Grime, food residue, and bacteria can easily collect on cabinet hardware. Regular cleaning can help keep it looking new and protect against germs. Here, the professionals at Jaeger Lumber share some tips for the best way to clean cabinet hardware and keep it looking new.
Wipe Cabinets Down Every Few Days
Wiping down your cabinets and hardware using a soft rag and mild cleaner every few days can help remove grime, oil, and food residue that can be hard to remove. A mix of vinegar and water in a spray bottle is non-abrasive and will do the trick nicely. Just lightly spray knobs and pulls and wipe.
Do a Deep Cleaning Once a Month
Removing knobs, pulls, and other cabinet hardware and soaking them in a cleaning solution once a month is the best way to keep them looking bright and new. Using a screwdriver, remove any knobs and pulls, and place screws in separate bowls or zip-top bags so you know where they go when you put them back. Soak your cabinet hardware in a bucket of warm water, vinegar, and a little mild dish soap for 30 to 60 minutes. Then remove, wipe, and rinse with warm water. Use a soft toothbrush to remove any stubborn grime. This works great for dirty hinges, too.
To refresh dull brass knobs and pulls, a paste made of baking soda and lemon juice will help restore their luster without damaging the finish. There are also special polishes you can buy to restore the shine of silver, pewter, copper, and other metals.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasives
Before cleaning your cabinet hardware, always make sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Using harsh chemicals and abrasive cloths or brushes on any surface in the kitchen is usually a bad idea since both can damage the finish on countertops, cabinets, and hardware. Using a damp rag with mild soap and water typically works well for most surfaces. Make sure to dry with a soft rag afterward to avoid leaving any excess moisture on cabinets and hardware.
Consider New Hardware
Buying new cabinet hardware is an affordable way to freshen up your kitchen or bathroom. Whether you choose pewter, brass, copper, flat black, or polished chrome, cabinet hardware is available in an endless range of styles. If you want to go extra fancy, glass, crystal, or ceramic hardware can give your cabinets a refined or even whimsical look. It’s super easy to install new hardware as well.
Well-Maintained Hardware Makes Cabinets Pop
Staying on top of dust, grime, and grease with your hardware can go a long way when it comes to enhancing the appearance of your cabinets. Wiping them down frequently is well worth the effort, and clean, bright knobs and pulls add a beautiful finishing touch to any room without much effort required.
Explore Cabinets and Hardware with Jaeger Lumber
At Jaeger Lumber, we offer top-quality cabinetry and cabinet hardware to help you beautify and organize any room in your home. Our experienced professionals have provided materials and expert customer service to builders, contractors, and homeowners throughout New Jersey since 1937. Our dedicated team is ready to serve you at any of our eight convenient locations. To learn more about the products and installation services we offer, stop by or contact us today.
