How to Clean Old Metal Cabinets

Old metal cabinets can develop layers of dirt, grease, and grime over time that can be difficult to remove. However, with the right cleaning methods and products, you can make them look as good as new. Here are tips for how to thoroughly clean old metal cabinets inside and out.

Why It’s Important to Clean Old Metal Cabinets

Cleaning old metal cabinets is important for several reasons:

• Helps restore their original shine and luster. Over time, metal surfaces can become dull, hazy, or oxidized. Proper cleaning removes these deposits and brings back the gleam.
• Removes grime, grease, and dirt buildup. Kitchen cabinets in particular accumulate greasy residues. A deep clean helps eliminate these.
• Makes cabinets more hygienic. Grease and dirt contain bacteria and allergens. A good cleaning helps sanitize cabinet surfaces.
• Prevents further damage. Built-up grime can actually eat into metal finishes over time. Keeping cabinets clean prevents further deterioration.
• Improves indoor air quality. Grease and dirt release volatile organic compounds that pollute indoor air. Cleaning eliminates these VOCs.
• Allows for effective new paint or finish. Trying to paint over dirty or greasy cabinets will result in poor paint adhesion. Always clean before painting.

Supplies Needed for Cleaning Metal Cabinets

Gather the following supplies before tackling metal cabinet cleaning:

• Protective gloves, glasses, and mask
• Clean cloths and scrub pads
• Mild dish soap or degreasing cleanser
• Clean water and buckets
• All-purpose cleaner or degreaser
• Rubbing alcohol
• Rags and microfiber cloths
• Soft brass or stainless steel brush
• Toothbrush for crevices
• Steel wool or sandpaper (for rusted areas)
• TSP substitute cleaner
• Mineral spirits or paint thinner
• High-quality metal polish and sealant/wax
• Paintbrush, roller, or sprayer (if refinishing)

Preparing Cabinets for Cleaning

Follow these steps to start the cleaning process:

Remove Cabinet Doors

Detach all cabinet doors, drawers, shelves, and hardware if possible. This allows for easier access during cleaning. Place door/drawer hardware in a container to keep organized.

Clear Countertops

Clear countertops and surfaces around and under cabinets. This protects them from splatters or spills during the cleaning process.

Wash Removable Parts

Clean any removable shelves, racks or drawers separately using soapy water and cloths. A toothbrush can help clean grime out of sliding tracks.

Vacuum First

Use a crevice tool attachment to vacuum up any loose dirt, debris, dust, or hair inside cabinets first. This prevents spreading dirt during the main cleaning.

Protection is Key

Put on rubber gloves, safety glasses, and a mask to protect yourself during stronger chemical cleaning. Open windows for proper ventilation too.

Remove Grease Buildup

Use a degreaser like diluted TSP substitute or mix of ammonia and water to cut through any heavy grease buildup before scrubbing.

How to Thoroughly Clean Metal Cabinet Exteriors

Follow this step-by-step process to remove dirt, grease, oxidation, and grime from external metal cabinet surfaces:

1. Wipe Exteriors

Wipe down all exterior metal surfaces with a clean, damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and loose debris.

2. Wash With Soapy Water

Mix dish soap with warm water in a bucket. Dip a scrub pad or cleaning cloth into the sudsy mixture and scrub exteriors. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

3. Degrease With Cleanser

For stubborn grease spots or residue, apply a degreasing cleanser like Formula 409® or Greased Lightning®. Scrub with a stiff nylon brush, then rinse.

4. Remove Oxidation

If cabinets show oxidation or rust spots, wet sand using very fine 400-600 grit sandpaper to remove. Rinse and let dry fully.

5. Clean With Rubbing Alcohol

Wipe down all surfaces using a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol which will help cut residues.

6. Rinse and Dry

Rinse cabinets using a clean damp cloth to remove any leftover cleaning solution residue. Fully dry with a dry soft cloth.

7. Polish and Seal

Apply a high-quality metal polish using a microfiber cloth. Rub gently until you achieve desired shine. Seal with wax or sealant.

Cleaning Metal Cabinet Interiors

Follow these steps to thoroughly clean the insides of old metal cabinets:

Remove Shelving and Hardware

Detach all removable parts like shelves, racks, or hardware. Soak them separately in hot soapy water if heavily soiled.

Vacuum and Sweep

Vacuum all interior surfaces using a crevice tool. Sweep out any loose debris with a broom.

Wash With All-Purpose Cleaner

Mix an all-purpose cleaner like Lysol® or Mr. Clean® with warm water. Scrub interiors using a stiff nylon brush or scrub pad.

Spot Treat Stubborn Stains

For stubborn grease stains, use a degreaser like Greased Lightning® or diluted TSP substitute. Let it soak before scrubbing with a toothbrush.

Disinfect With Bleach

Mix 1/2 cup bleach into 1 gallon of water. Wipe down interiors to kill bacteria and sanitize. Rinse thoroughly after 5 minutes.

Remove Rust Spots

If any rusting, use fine steel wool and rub gently to remove spots. Wipe with rubbing alcohol after to remove any debris.

Fully Dry and Replace Parts

Allow cabinet interiors to fully air dry before replacing any shelving, hardware, or doors. Check tracks for debris before replacing drawers.

Restoring Rusted Metal Cabinets

For cabinets with extensive rusting or corrosion damage, follow these restoration steps:

Assess Damage

Look at the type and extent of rust and metal deterioration. Surface rust may require just scrubbing, while deep pitting needs more intense work.

Remove Loose Rust

Use a brass brush or fine steel wool to scrub the surface and remove any loose, flaky rust. Vacuum up all loose particles after.

Treat Rust Stains

Apply a rust remover like Whink Rust Stain Remover or Iron-Out® with a scrub brush. Let it soak for 10-20 minutes before rinsing.

Sand and Smooth

If pitting is present, use 80-120 grit sandpaper to smooth the surface, then follow with 220-400 grit paper. Always sand in direction of metal grain.

Clean and Degrease

Wipe sanded areas with rubbing alcohol then mineral spirits to fully degrease before painting or refinishing.

Prime and Refinish

Apply a rust-inhibiting primer like Rust-Oleum® to freshly sanded areas, then topcoat with a quality metal paint. Allow proper dry time between coats.

Refinishing Cabinets with New Paint or Finish

For a brand new look, refinish cabinets with fresh paint, stain, or sealant:

Clean and Degrease

Thoroughly clean and degrease cabinets using TSP substitute before applying any finish. This allows for proper adhesion.

Lightly Sand

Use 220-400 grit sandpaper to lightly sand cabinets. This scuffs the surface for better adherence of new paint or stain. Wipe away all sanding dust after.

Apply Primer

For painting, use a high-bonding primer designed for metal like Rust-Oleum®. Follow all label instructions for dry time. Sand lightly between coats.

Apply Finish Coats

Use quality oil-based paints, stains, enamels, or lacquers designed for metal surfaces. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for dry time between coats.

Seal and Protect

After paint cures fully, apply a clear metal wax or sealant to protect the finish and enhance shine. Rebuff periodically.

Reinstall Doors and Hardware

Once fully cured, attach doors, latches, and other hardware back onto cabinets. Adjust alignment or hinges as needed.

Tips for Ongoing Metal Cabinet Care

Regular cleaning and care keeps metal cabinets looking like new:

• Use microfiber cloths to gently dust cabinets weekly.
• Immediately wipe spills to avoid stains and buildup. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
• Wash with mild dish soap and water monthly. Rinse and dry thoroughly after.
• Re-apply protective sealants or waxes every 6-12 months.
• For stainless steel, rub with mineral oil weekly to maintain the finish.
• Fix any chips in paint finishes as soon as they appear to avoid rusting.
• Use commercial stainless steel cleaners and polishes designed for kitchen surfaces.
• Replace worn shelves, hinges, and drawer glides that could be harboring grime.
• Ensure cabinet surfaces can dry properly after cleaning. Standing water leads to rust.
• Consider glass inserts for cabinet doors to allow visibility inside and prevent grease buildup.

With some elbow grease and the right cleaning techniques, even badly soiled old metal cabinets can be restored to a like-new condition again. Just be sure to use the proper safety gear, work in a ventilated area, and take your time to clean thoroughly inside and out. With proper ongoing care, your refreshed metal cabinets will stay looking bright and fresh for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Metal Cabinets

What is the best way to clean grease from old metal cabinets?

For heavy grease buildup, use a degreaser like diluted TSP substitute or a mix of warm water and ammonia. Apply with a scrub brush or pad and let it soak for 5-10 minutes before rinsing clean. Repeat as needed for stubborn grease.

How can I make yellowed metal cabinets white again?

To restore the white finish on yellowed metal, use a mild abrasive cleanser containing oxalic or phosphoric acid. Bar Keepers Friend or Whink Rust Stain Remover work well. Scrub stained areas with a nylon brush, then rinse thoroughly.

What removes tarnish from antique metal cabinets?

To clean tarnish off antique brass, copper, or chrome, use a metal polish containing ammonia like Brasso. Rub gently using a soft cloth until the finish shines through. Avoid coarse abrasives that could scratch the antique finishes.

What is the best cleaner for stainless steel kitchen cabinets?

For stainless steel kitchen cabinets, use a specialty stainless steel cleaner like Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish or Zep Stainless Steel Cleaner. These are formulated to remove fingerprints and grease without damage. Avoid bleach or abrasives.

How do you clean old wooden cabinets that are greasy?

Use a degreasing cleanser like Simple Green or diluted TSP substitute to cut through grease on wood cabinets. Scrub using a stiff nylon brush, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. Let wood fully dry before sealing or re-staining for protection.

How can I make my metal cabinets rust-proof?

Prevent rust on metal cabinets by keeping them clean and dry. Apply a thin coat of mineral oil, paraffin wax or a silicone-based lubricant to act as a moisture barrier. Buff regularly with a soft cloth. Touch up any nicks or scratches in the finish right away.

What is the easiest way to get scratches out of metal cabinets?

For shallow surface scratches, use an automotive scratch remover compound, rubbing gently with a microfiber cloth in the direction of the grain. Limit pressure to avoid further scratching. Sealing with a clear coat after provides added protection.

How do I get grease off of old porcelain cabinets?

Clean greasy porcelain cabinets using hot, soapy water and a non-abrasive scrub sponge. For tough grease, let degreasers like Formula 409® or diluted ammonia soak for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed.

What’s the best way to clean outside of metal kitchen cabinets?

Use a general all-purpose cleaner mixed with warm water to wash the exteriors of metal kitchen cabinets. Scrub with a cleaning cloth or soft brush. For stuck-on grime, degrease first with a citrus cleaner before washing. Be sure to rinse and dry completely.

How can I sanitize old wooden cabinets without damaging them?

Mix 1/2 cup of bleach into 1 gallon of warm water to make a sanitizing solution. Use a sponge or lightly dampened cloth to wipe down cabinet exteriors and interiors. Limit moisture to avoid warping wood. Rinse with a clean damp cloth after 5 minutes.

Conclusion

Cleaning old, dirty metal cabinets can seem like a daunting task. However, taking your time with the proper cleaning solutions and techniques can restore them to a like-new shine again. Always test cleaners in inconspicuous spots first and take safety precautions against harsh chemical fumes. Keeping cabinets clean going forward will maintain their renewed beauty for years to come. With some targeted scrubbing, you can upgrade the look of your outdated metal cabinets with a fresh finish too.