How to Clean Greasy Metal Painted Kitchen Cabinets

Cleaning greasy kitchen cabinets can seem like an overwhelming task, especially when dealing with metal painted cabinets. Grease and grime can build up over time, leaving your cabinets looking dull, dirty and Fingerprint smudged. However, with the right techniques and cleaning solutions, you can have them looking like new again. This comprehensive guide will provide tips and step-by-step instructions for effectively cleaning metal painted kitchen cabinets and removing stubborn grease stains and residue.

Supplies Needed

Before tackling greasy metal kitchen cabinets, make sure you have the proper supplies on hand. This will make the cleaning process faster and easier. Here are some recommended items to gather:

• Microfiber cloths or soft rags
• Mild dish soap or degreasing cleaner
• Warm water
• White vinegar or ammonia-based cleaner
• Rubbing alcohol
• Baking soda
• Sponge or soft-bristled scrub brush
• Optional: steam cleaner, powdered TSP substitute, painter’s tape

Preparing for Cleaning

Proper preparation is key to achieving the best cleaning results on metal kitchen cabinets. Follow these tips before getting started:

• Clear countertops and remove items from cabinets to allow full access.
• Vacuum cabinets to remove loose dust and debris.
• Mix your cleaning solutions according to product labels. Diluted dish soap or degreaser generally works well.
• Test cleaners in a small inconspicuous spot first to ensure it will not damage the finish.
• For a deeper clean, lightly scuff surfaces with fine sandpaper to help products penetrate.
• Tape off any nearby walls or surfaces to protect from splatters.
• Work in sections for manageable and thorough cleaning.

Safety Tips

When working with cleaning products:

• Make sure there is proper ventilation by opening windows.
• Wear gloves and eye protection.
• Never mix chemicals like bleach and ammonia – this creates toxic fumes.
• Keep cleaners away from children and pets.
• Follow all manufacturer safety directions.

How to Clean Greasy Metal Painted Kitchen Cabinets

With the right process, even seriously soiled metal cabinets can be restored to a fresh, shine-free look. Here are step-by-step instructions for conquering grease on painted metal kitchen cabinets:

1. Remove Surface Grime

Start by wiping down all cabinet surfaces using a mild detergent solution to remove dust, fingerprints, and surface debris before tackling grease.

• Mix dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Approximately 1-2 tablespoons of soap per 16 ounces of water is sufficient.
• Alternatively, dilute an ammonia-based cleaner like Windex. Approximately 1/4-1/3 cup ammonia per gallon of warm water works well.
• Mist the cleaning solution over the entire cabinet surface and doors. Avoid spraying directly on handles or hardware if possible.
• Wipe down with a soft microfiber cloth, lightly scrubbing any visibly soiled areas.

This first step helps remove dirt so grease has less to cling to. Thoroughly rinse cabinets with a clean damp cloth to remove all soap residue when finished.

2. Spot Treat Splatters and Spills

Inspect cabinets closely for any obvious splatters, drips, or spill stains. These may require extra attention to lift out the grease.

• For light greasy spots, spray straight rubbing alcohol onto the area. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to penetrate, then wipe clean with a cloth.
• For heavier grease deposits, make a concentrated paste of 1 part baking soda and 1 part water. Apply the paste to stains and let sit 15-30 minutes before scrubbing with a damp cloth.
• A melamine foam eraser sponge can help scrub off baked-on grease.
• Repeat treatments as needed until spots are gone, rinsing between applications.

Spot treating forces grease to the surface so it can be wiped away more easily. Take your time with stubborn splatters.

3. Clean with Degreasing Solution

Now it’s time to tackle any remaining grease and Residue all over the cabinets using a degreasing cleaner.

• Mix an all-purpose degreasing cleaner like Simple Green according to label instructions in a spray bottle.
• Alternatively, mix 1/2 cup ammonia OR 1 cup distilled white vinegar + 2 tbsp dish soap per 1 gallon of warm water.
• Mist degreasing solution liberally over cabinets and allow to penetrate for 2-3 minutes.
• Wipe thoroughly with microfiber cloths, cleaning with the grain of the cabinets. Scrub any oily areas.
• Rinse with a clean damp cloth to remove all cleaner residue.

For extremely greasy cabinets, a powdered TSP substitute can help further cut through grease. Make sure to rinse very thoroughly.

4. Steam Clean

For a deep clean on stubborn grease, use a steam cleaner if available. The heat and pressure help dissolve and lift out grime.

• Allow cabinets to fully dry after degreasing before steaming.
• Follow your steamer instructions and work in sections for best results.
• Scrub areas as you steam using a cloth or scrub brush.
• Wipe with clean dry cloths to soak up released grease.

Steam cleaning provides a thorough hygienic clean but requires more time. Make sure to wipe surfaces dry so moisture does not damage the finish.

5. Remove Grease Residue

After the main scrubbing, there may still be some remaining oily residue or film on cabinets. A final wipe down with vinegar helps remove this:

• In a spray bottle, mix 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water.
• Mist cabinets and wipe thoroughly with clean microfiber cloths, rinsing often.

Vinegar cuts through greasy film and provides a streak-free shine.

Finish with Cabinet Polish or Sealant

Once cabinets are fully cleaned, follow up with a polish or sealant for added protection:

• Use a silicone, beeswax or lanolin based polish to seal and create a protective layer.
• Choose a no-wax sealant for a long-lasting grease resistant barrier.
• Apply sparingly with a soft cloth according to product directions.
• Buff gently to remove any excess and prevent buildup.

Polishing helps refresh cabinet sheen and makes future cleaning easier. For best results, avoid oil-based products which can attract dirt over time.

Grease-Fighting Tips and Tricks

Follow these additional tips to tackle grease on kitchen cabinets:

• Clean cabinets regularly to prevent heavy buildup – monthly or bimonthly is ideal.
• Deal with spills and splatters immediately before grease has time to bond.
• Use paper towels or rags to soak up any wet spills – avoid letting grease dry on.
• Replace cloth rags frequently to prevent spreading grease around.
• If grease soaks into wood grain, scrub with a baking soda paste using a toothbrush to get into crevices.
• For glossy cabinets, rub gently with lemon oil followed by dry polishing to remove grease and enhance shine.
• Avoid using too much pressure or excess moisture which can damage the finish.
• Improve ventilation and add range hood filters to decrease kitchen grease.
• Use matte finish protection options if cabinets easily show smudges.

When to Call for Professional Help

While DIY cleaning can tackle most grease situations, contacting a professional may be advisable in certain circumstances:

• If grease has extensively soaked into the wood or warped surfaces.
• If you are unable to identify the cabinet finish or materials.
• If there is cracking, bubbling or peeling of the painted finish.
• If heavy duty chemicals are needed beyond soap, vinegar, etc.
• If you lack the time for thorough cleaning and prefer to outsource.
• If cabinets have never been cleaned and buildup is severe.
• For an eco-friendly deep clean without strong chemicals.
• If an expert polish, sealant or anti-grease coating is desired.

Many cabinet cleaning companies offer degreasing services. Compare reviews and prices to find the best option for your needs.

Grease-Free Kitchen Cabinet Maintenence

Regular upkeep is the best way to prevent a recurrence of grimy buildup on kitchen cabinets. Try these maintenance tips:

• Wipe down cabinet exteriors weekly using a microfiber cloth and mild soap solution. Get into corners and crevices.
• Clean interiors monthly by removing items, then wiping down shelves. Vacuum out crumbs.
• Immediately clean spills and wipe excess grease splatters on cabinet surfaces and doors. Don’t allow messes to linger.
• Use range hoods and vents properly when cooking and replace filters regularly. Keep kitchen air circulated.
• Consider adding knob-style handles which are easier to wipe clean than grooved handles that can trap grease.
• Apply a protective beeswax polish or grease resistant sealant every 1-3 months depending on use.
• Avoid letting water or liquids dry on metal cabinets. Wipe up splashes promptly to prevent mineral deposits and spotting.
• Check for signs of damage like corrosion, chipping or mildew and address these immediately.
• Every 2-3 years do a deeper clean using degreasers or steam to keep cabinets fresh.

With frequent light cleaning and proper kitchen ventilation, metal painted cabinets can stay sparkling clean for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to remove grease from kitchen cabinets?

For quick grease removal, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to oil splatters and baked-on grease then let sit for 15-30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing clean. The mild abrasiveness of baking soda combined with the degreasing effects make it highly effective for fast grease removal.

How do you restore shine to greasy cabinets?

Vinegar is excellent for removing greasy film and restoring a streak-free shine. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Mist cabinets and wipe thoroughly with clean microfiber cloths, rinsing often. Finish by applying a thin coat of beeswax polish or lanolin-based product with a soft cloth which will further restore shine and protect the finish.

Can I use TSP to clean greasy cabinets?

Yes, powdered TSP (trisodium phosphate) substitutes are very effective at cutting through kitchen grease. Dilute according to package directions and test on a small area first. Rinse cabinets extremely well after use. However, TSP is very caustic so vinegar and dish soap are gentler options. Seek professional help if cabinets are severely soiled.

Should you use oil or water-based cleaners on kitchen cabinets?

For cleaning, water-based cleaners are best for removing grease on cabinets. Oil-based cleaners can leave a residue that attracts dirt over time. For polishing, choose light silicone, beeswax or lanolin polishes that wipe to a shine free look without heavy buildup. Avoid lemon oil or other heavy oil-based treatments.

Can I use rubbing alcohol to remove grease?

Yes, straight rubbing alcohol is excellent for breaking down light greasy spots and residue on cabinets. Pour a small amount directly onto affected areas, allow 1-2 minutes to penetrate, then wipe clean with a cloth. Be very cautious about overspray or drips onto other surfaces as rubbing alcohol can damage some finishes.

How do you maintain a grease-free kitchen?

Prevent grease buildup by using range hoods when cooking, replacing filters often, and keeping kitchens well-ventilated. Immediately clean spills, splatters and drips before grease dries on cabinets. Clean cabinet exteriors at least weekly and interiors monthly. Apply protective coatings like grease-resistant sealants every few months. Clean any signs of damage immediately to prevent worsening.

Conclusion

Greasy, grimy kitchen cabinets don’t have to be a lifelong problem. With this complete guide to cleaning metal painted cabinets, you now have all the tips and techniques needed to conquer grease. The key is using the right degreasing cleaners and procedures for your cabinet finish. Pair your thorough cleaning with ongoing preventative maintenance, and your kitchen cabinets will always have a spotless, shine-free appearance.