How to Thoroughly Clean Dull and Grimy Kitchen Cabinets: Restore Their Original Shine Naturally | November 24, 2025

Kitchen cabinets are one of the most used — and most overlooked — surfaces in the home. Over time, grease, dust, and cooking residues build up, leaving them sticky, dull, and discolored. Whether your cabinets are made of wood, laminate, or painted surfaces, a proper deep clean can restore their natural beauty and shine.

Here’s a step-by-step guide, backed by cleaning experts, on how to thoroughly clean dull and grimy kitchen cabinets without damaging the finish.

🧽 1. Prepare Your Cleaning Supplies
You don’t need expensive chemicals — most effective cleaning products are already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

What you’ll need:

2 cups of warm water
1 cup of white vinegar (natural degreaser)
1 tablespoon of baking soda
A few drops of dish soap (cuts grease effectively)
Microfiber cloths or soft sponges
An old toothbrush (for corners and edges)
A dry towel
Olive oil or mineral oil (optional, for shine)
Why this works:
According to the American Cleaning Institute, vinegar and baking soda form a natural degreasing and deodorizing solution that safely removes grime without damaging wood or paint.

🧴 2. Start by Removing Surface Dust and Debris
Before using any liquid cleaner, remove dust and crumbs:

Wipe each cabinet surface with a dry microfiber cloth.
Pay special attention to handles, corners, and trims, where dirt tends to collect.
This prevents dust from turning into sticky residue when you apply cleaning solutions later.

💦 3. Make a Natural Degreasing Solution
Mix in a spray bottle:

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