The Quiet Magic of Clean Cabinets: 5 Gentle Ways to Bring Your Kitchen Back to Life
3. The Ammonia Rescue (For Tough Grease Stains)
When cooking splatters leave stubborn shadows.
→ Mix: 1 tablespoon clear ammonia + 1 quart warm water. (Always open windows—ammonia needs fresh air!)
→ Apply: Dip a soft cloth into the solution, wring well, and gently rub stained areas. Never soak the wood.
→ Rinse immediately with a cloth dampened in plain water. Dry thoroughly.
⚠️ Safety first: Wear gloves. Never mix ammonia with bleach or vinegar. Test first on a hidden spot.
✅ Why it works: Ammonia breaks down baked-on grease without abrasives. Best for: Laminate or high-gloss finishes.
4. The Baking Soda Polish
For water rings, light stains, and restoring dull surfaces.
→ Mix: 1 tablespoon baking soda + just enough water to form a soft paste.
→ Apply: Using a damp, non-scratch sponge, gently rub the paste onto stains in small circles. Less pressure = better results.
→ Wipe clean with a damp cloth, then dry.
⚠️ Gentle reminder: Always test on a hidden corner first—baking soda can scratch delicate finishes.
✅ Why it works: It’s a mild abrasive that buffs without biting. Ideal for: Most sealed woods and painted cabinets.
5. The Oil Soap Renewal
For wood cabinets that have lost their soulful glow.
→ Choose: A pure castile-based oil soap (like Murphy’s Oil Soap).
→ Apply: Dilute ¼ cup soap in 1 gallon warm water. Wipe with a damp (not wet) cloth, following the wood grain.
→ Buff dry with a soft cotton towel. For extra shine, rub a drop of food-grade mineral oil on a cloth and lightly polish.
✅ Why it works: It cleans while feeding the wood—no waxy residue, just deep nourishment. Perfect for: Unpainted wood cabinets.
