How to Clean Geneva Metal Cabinets
Introduction
Geneva metal cabinets are a popular choice for many kitchens and bathrooms thanks to their clean, modern aesthetic. However, like any surface, Geneva metal cabinets require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them looking their best. With the proper techniques and cleaning solutions, you can easily remove dirt, grease, and grime from your Geneva metal cabinets.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss proven methods for cleaning Geneva metal cabinets so they stay beautiful and shiny. From daily cleaning to more intensive scrubbing, we will cover step-by-step instructions for cleaning the interior and exterior of your Geneva cabinets. With a few simple cleaning products and tools on hand, you can restore the like-new sheen of your Geneva metal cabinets.
Supplies Needed
Before diving into the cleaning process, you’ll want to gather the necessary supplies:
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft sponge or non-abrasive scrub sponge
- Dish soap or other mild detergent
- All-purpose cleaner or degreaser
- Glass cleaner
- Soft toothbrush (for hard to reach areas)
- Soft towels for drying
- Rubbing alcohol
- Stainless steel polish or cleaner
Avoid using any abrasive cleaners, pads, or sponges, as they can scratch and damage the finish on your Geneva cabinets. It’s also best to use clean microfiber cloths each time to avoid spreading grease and dirt around.
Daily Cleaning
For day-to-day cleaning maintenance, focus on quickly wiping down the exterior surfaces and handles of your Geneva cabinets to remove fingerprints, dust, and other minor buildup.
Supplies Needed
- Microfiber cloth
- All-purpose cleaner or glass cleaner
- Soft towels for drying
Instructions
- Spray a light coating of your chosen cleaner directly onto a microfiber cloth.
- Wipe down all exterior surfaces, including doors, drawers, and handles.
- Use a dry towel to buff dry and prevent streaking.
- For glass cabinet fronts, use a glass cleaner following the same method.
- Use a dry toothbrush to gently brush any dirt out of crevices or handles.
- Dry with a soft towel.
Daily quick cleanings like this will prevent dirt and grease from building up and make deeper cleanings much easier.
Deep Cleaning the Exterior
For a more thorough deep clean of your Geneva metal cabinets, you’ll want to use a degreasing cleaner to tackle grease buildup. Here are the steps:
Supplies Needed
- Warm water
- Degreasing cleaner or dish soap
- Sponges and microfiber cloths
- Soft towels
Instructions
- Fill a bucket with warm water and add your degreaser or a few squeezes of dish soap.
- Dip a sponge into the water and wring out excess.
- Wash cabinet doors and fronts using a gentle, circular motion. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
- Rinse sponge frequently as you work to prevent redepositing grease.
- Use a microfiber cloth and the cleaning solution to wipe down sides, bottoms, and top surfaces.
- For extra dirty areas, let the cleaner soak for 2-3 minutes before scrubbing.
- Rinse doors and fronts with clean water to remove residue.
- Dry thoroughly with clean towels. Use another microfiber cloth to shine and buff.
- Use rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth to easily clean any ink or permanent marker.
- Finish by using stainless steel polish and buffing in the direction of the grain to restore shine.
Thorough deep cleaning sessions every 1-2 months will keep the exteriors looking pristine.
Cleaning the Interior
While the exteriors tend get grubby with fingerprints and grease, the interiors of Geneva cabinets can accumulate dust, spills, and food residue. Here’s how to clean them:
Supplies Needed
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft sponge
- Toothbrush
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft towel
Instructions
- Remove everything from the cabinets so you can access all surfaces.
- Fill a bowl with warm water and add a squirt of dish soap.
- Dip a sponge into the sudsy water, wring out excess, and wipe down interior surfaces.
- Use a toothbrush to scrub out crevices, corners, hinges, and any stuck-on debris.
- For glass shelves, soak them in sudsy water in the sink to loosen buildup before scrubbing.
- Use a microfiber cloth and toothbrush to clean drawer rollers and tracks.
- Rinse surfaces thoroughly with a wet microfiber cloth to remove soap residue.
- Dry completely with a clean towel before replacing items.
- Use rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth to remove any sticky residue or buildup.
- Leave doors open to air dry fully before closing back up.
Deep cleaning the interiors every 3-6 months will keep your Geneva cabinets fresh and help stains from setting in.
Tips for Cleaning Geneva Metal Cabinets
- Always rub in the direction of the grain – wipe horizontally on drawer fronts.
- Dry cabinets thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots.
- For stubborn grease buildup, let degreasers soak for a few minutes before scrubbing.
- Use a toothbrush to clean hinges, crevices, handles and hardware.
- Avoid bleach or abrasive cleaners that can damage finishes.
- Don’t use steel wool pads as they will scratch. Opt for soft sponges instead.
- For metal cabinets, maintain shine by regularly polishing with stainless steel cleaner.
- Check caulking and silicone sealant around sinks/backsplashes and reapply if needed.
- Dust cabinet tops frequently to avoid grease and dirt buildup.
- Always empty and wipe out trash bins and trays to prevent odors.
- Clean spills promptly to prevent staining.
Taking the time to properly clean your Geneva metal cabinets using these techniques will keep them looking like new for years to come. Be sure to clean regularly and use only non-abrasive cleaners recommended for metal surfaces. With the right maintenance, your Geneva cabinets will stay beautiful and withstand everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to clean Geneva metal cabinet exteriors?
Use a degreasing cleaner mixed with warm water and applied with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Rub gently, then rinse and dry thoroughly. For stubborn buildup, let the cleaner soak before scrubbing.
How should I clean the interior of Geneva cabinets?
Remove everything from the cabinets, then use a soft sponge and dish soap mixed with warm water to clean all interior surfaces. Use a toothbrush for stuck-on debris and rinse thoroughly.
What should I avoid using on Geneva metal cabinets?
Avoid abrasive scrub pads, steel wool, and cleaners with bleach or harsh chemicals. Stick to mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaners labeled safe for metal.
How often should I clean Geneva metal cabinets?
Quick daily wipe downs help prevent buildup. Deep clean exteriors every 1-2 months and interiors every 3-6 months. Clean spills promptly.
What is the best way to clean Geneva cabinet glass fronts or shelves?
Use a glass cleaner or mix of dish soap and warm water. Avoid abrasive pads. Soak very dirty glass in soapy water before scrubbing clean.
How can I restore shine to Geneva cabinets?
Regular polishing using a stainless steel cleaner or polish in the direction of the grain will restore shine and luster. Avoid circular motions.
What’s the best way to clean stuck-on debris or grease?
Let a degreasing cleaner soak for 2-3 minutes before scrubbing with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Use a toothbrush for stuck-on food or debris.
How should I clean Geneva cabinet drawers and tracks?
Use a toothbrush and microfiber cloth to gently remove built up dirt and debris from rollers and tracks. Wipe with all-purpose cleaner and dry thoroughly.
Conclusion
Regular, gentle cleaning is key to keeping Geneva metal cabinets looking like new over the years. By using non-abrasive cleaners and solutions with soft sponges and microfiber cloths, you can safely remove dirt, grease, food residue, and more from your cabinets without damaging the finish. Be sure to clean all surfaces including the exteriors, interiors, glass fronts, hinges, and hardware. Set up a cleaning routine to tackle daily surface wipe downs, regular deep cleaning sessions, and prompt spill clean up. With the proper care, your beautiful Geneva cabinets will maintain their good looks and shine for longevity in your home.
