Cupboard doors are often neglected in everyday kitchen cleaning, with attention typically limited to the occasional dusting of their tops. However, they can harbour some of the highest levels of grease and bacteria of any surface in the kitchen. What many people fail to appreciate is that cooking releases a significant amount of oil into the air, and steam carries these particles throughout the kitchen, where they settle on any elevated surfaces.
Over time, kitchen cupboard doors can accumulate considerable grease, even when they appear perfectly clean, forming a sticky film that attracts dust and debris. Without regular wiping down, the finish can become stained by moisture and dirt, while the handles themselves can turn into a breeding ground for bacteria. Fortunately, Tanya Cressey from kitchen manufacturer Cut My has revealed a remarkably simple solution for cleaning cupboard doors properly — all you need is some washing-up liquid.
Tanya said: “Mix mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket or basin. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals as they may strip the paint or cause discolouration.”
Although the cleaning process may seem simple, choosing the right products for kitchen cupboards is essential, as some cleaning agents can gradually damage or deteriorate their finish. Using an unsuitable product on cupboard doors can leave them looking lacklustre, and may cause their smooth surfaces to become scratched or marked, ultimately making the entire kitchen appear rather unkempt.
Washing up liquid ranks among the most effective methods for cleaning cupboards, as it is specifically formulated to break down oils and fatty residue on dishes and will tackle grease with equal efficiency. Using washing up liquid will cut through any oily and grimy build-up clinging to cupboard surfaces, while remaining a gentle product that you most likely already have to hand in your kitchen.
How to deep clean kitchen cupboards
Simply squeeze a small amount of washing up liquid into a bucket or basin filled with warm water, then dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution.
Carefully wipe down the cupboard surfaces to eliminate any grease or dust, paying particular attention to the tops of the doors and the handles.
Take care when tackling any stubborn stains and work at them gently. Avoid using a scourer or any abrasive cleaning product, as this risks scratching the cupboard surface.
Once the cupboard surfaces appear clean, rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry them properly. Avoid leaving cupboard surfaces to air dry, as excess moisture can seep into the edges and joints, potentially damaging the fixtures over time.
Your cupboards should now be spotless and entirely dust-free after just five minutes of effort.
If you have time, it is also worthwhile organising the interiors of your cupboards at this time of year, as numerous pests begin venturing indoors as temperatures drop and can be drawn in by food crumbs.
See more of the stories you love from Daily Express and find us easily in Google by making us a Preferred Source. Free and easy-to-do, just click here to activate or add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
