How to Clean White Metal Cabinets

White metal cabinets can add a clean, crisp look to any kitchen. However, they do require some regular care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. Over time, white metal cabinets can start to look dull, streaky, or dirty without proper cleaning. Follow this guide to learn the most effective techniques for keeping your white metal cabinets sparkling clean.

Supplies Needed for Cleaning White Metal Cabinets

Before you start scrubbing, make sure you have the right cleaning supplies on hand. Here are some must-have items:

• Microfiber cloths or soft rags
• Mild dish soap or other gentle cleanser
• Warm water
• Small toothbrush or other scrubbing brush
• Soft cloth
• Metal polish (optional)
• Protective gloves (optional)

Avoid using abrasive cleansers, brushes or pads as they can scratch and damage the finish on metal cabinets. Harsh chemicals can also strip off any protective finish. Stick to mild cleaners and soft cloths whenever possible.

Remove Surface Dust and Debris

Start by using a microfiber cloth to wipe away any loose dust, dirt or debris on the cabinets. Give them a quick once-over to remove any crumbs, splatters or fingerprints. This gets rid of the easy stuff before tackling any stuck-on grime.

Check crevices, carved details and hardware as dust loves to collect in these spots. Use a small vacuum crevice tool to suck up any lingering dust bunnies hiding in corners or edges.

Wash Cabinets With Mild Soap and Water

Now it’s time to wash the cabinets down. Fill a bucket or sink with warm water and add a small squirt of dish soap. Dampen a clean microfiber cloth in the soap mixture, wringing it out so it’s not dripping wet.

Gently wipe down all cabinet surfaces using smooth, even strokes. Work from top to bottom on each door and drawer front. Take care when cleaning around handles or knobs.

As you clean, dip the cloth in the soapy water to keep it moist. Rinse it often so you are not just pushing grease around.

Tip: If any cabinet surfaces have a protective finish, use only a mild dish soap diluted in water. Avoid harsh cleansers that can eat through the finish.

Spot Clean Stubborn Grime and Spills

If you come across any sticky spots or built-up grease, it may take some extra scrubbing to remove. Try a soft toothbrush or nail brush to help dislodge dirt from grooves.

For oil splatters or soap scum, spray a small amount of degreaser onto the area. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a brush. Wipe clean with your damp cloth.

Vinegar diluted with water also works well for cutting through grease. Spray or wipe it onto dirty spots, let sit briefly, then scrub and rinse.

Repeat spot cleaning as needed for any leftover grime or spills. Take your time to safely remove stuck-on gunk without damaging the finish.

Rinse and Dry Thoroughly

Once all surfaces have been washed and spot cleaned, give the cabinets one final rinse. Dampen your cloth in clean water and wipe down each area to remove any leftover soap residue.

Dry immediately with a soft, dry cloth. Buff in the direction of the metal grain to prevent water spots and streaks. A microfiber cloth absorbs moisture well without leaving lint behind.

Make sure to thoroughly dry any crevices, edges and carved details so moisture does not linger. Allow the cabinets to fully air dry before replacing food items or other kitchen essentials.

Remove Mineral Deposits and Water Stains

Does your faucet leave behind mineral-laden water droplets? These can dry and leave unsightly hard water spots on surrounding surfaces.

To remove them from metal cabinet exteriors, make a paste of baking soda and water. Rub the paste onto the spots using a damp cloth or sponge. Let it sit for 5 minutes before rinsing clean. The baking soda is gently abrasive to lift off deposits without scratching.

For light water spots, dip the edge of a quarter in vinegar and use it to rub the area. The acetic acid in vinegar dissolves mineral deposits. Just take care not to use too much pressure, as the coin edges can put fine scratches in the finish.

Consider Using Polish for Extra Shine

While not mandatory, you can use a metal polish to add an extra layer of protection and enhanced shine. Choose a gentle, oil-based formula made specifically for polished metal. Stay away from polishes that contain harsh abrasives.

Shake or stir the polish to mix it up before using. Apply a small amount to a soft, dry cloth. Rub the polish onto cabinet surfaces using light, circular motions. Focus on one small area at a time.

Once the area looks shiny and polished, wipe away any excess with a clean cloth. Buff to an even finish. Repeat the polishing process over all exterior cabinet areas you wish to treat.

Clean Cabinet Interiors

While cabinet exterior cleaning is most important, don’t forget to give the insides some care as well. Dampen a cloth or sponge in mild soap and water to wipe out drawers, shelves and cabinet interiors.

Remove all items first so you can access all sides. Pay attention to the corners and edges. Look for any sticky spills or food crumbs stuck inside.

Rinse with a damp cloth and thoroughly dry. For stuck-on debris, use a small amount of multi-purpose cleaner sprayed onto a sponge or brush. Avoid over-wetting as excess moisture inside cabinets can cause damage over time.

Tackle Grease Buildup on Cabinet Doors

Does your kitchen range vent leave a fine layer of greasy film on nearby surfaces? This often leads to sticky buildup on cabinet door fronts and handles.

To cut through the grease, mix a solution of 1 part blue Dawn dish soap with 3 parts warm water. Dip a sponge into the mixture and wipe down soiled areas. The surfactants in Dawn bind to grease molecules and allow them to be rinsed away.

For thicker buildup, allow the soapy mixture to soak for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly afterwards. Repeat this cleaning process as needed to keep cabinet doors grease-free.

Prevent Streaks and Residue

After all that cleaning work, you want your white metal cabinets looking spotless. Here are some tips to prevent streaks, film and residue:

• Use microfiber cloths that won’t leave behind lint.
• Rinse cloths frequently when cleaning. Dirty rags just move grime around.
• Work in small sections and fully dry each before moving on.
• Follow soapy water with a clear water rinse.
• Buff metal finishes with the grain to prevent visible swirl marks.
• Remove all cleaning product residues to avoid dull, hazy film buildup over time.

Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine

To keep your white metal cabinets looking their best, make cabinet cleaning a regular habit.

• Wipe down doors and faces at least once a week to prevent heavy buildup.
• Do a thorough soap and water wash monthly. Follow up with polish if desired.
• Check cabinet interiors every couple of months. Clean as needed.
• Immediately wipe up spills, splatters and greasy fingerprints as they happen.

By regularly removing dust, grease and dirt, you’ll avoid the need for heavy-duty scrubbing down the road. Consistent care makes cleaning faster and easier overall.

When to Call for Backup

While regular DIY cleaning can keep metal cabinets looking great for years, at some point you may need to call in reinforcements. Signs it’s time for professional help:

• Grimy grease buildup that requires heavy-duty cleaner to remove
• Rust spots or oxidation occurring on cabinet surfaces
• Flaking, cracked or peeling finish
• Corroded or loose hinges, handles or hardware
• Mineral etching or hard water marks that polish can’t remove

A professional kitchen cleaning service has commercial-grade degreasers and tools to rejuvenate worn finishes, remove rust and restore shine. They can also reapply protective sealants to metal cabinet exteriors if needed.

Restore Badly Stained or Discolored Cabinets

For white metal cabinets that are heavily stained, tarnished or just looking worse for wear, several options exist for restoring their appearance:

Cleaning Compound

A polishing compound designed for metal can help scrub away built-up grime, oxidation and dullness. Apply with a buffer pad using firm, circular motions. Avoid overly abrasive compounds that could scratch the finish.

Metal Refinishing Spray

DIY spray finishes are available to renew kitchen cabinet exteriors. Clean thoroughly and lightly scuff the surface before spraying. Apply thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between. Available in various sheens from matte to high-gloss.

Professional Refinishing

For a factory-fresh look, hire a professional refinishing service to redo cabinets on-site. This involves thoroughly cleaning, then spraying a durable paint finish in your desired color and sheen. Experts can match your existing cabinet color or update the look.

Avoid Bleach and Other Harsh Chemicals

It can be tempting to pull out harsh cleansers like bleach when tackling really dirty white cabinets. However, bleach should be avoided on metal kitchen cabinets.

The chlorine in bleach can react with metal over time, causing corrosion and pitting. Any protective finishes can also be damaged.

Stick to gentle dish soap, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or other mild cleaners safe for use on metal finishes. Avoid abrasive scouring powders as well. Test new products first in an inconspicuous spot before using on the entire cabinet surface.

Make Grease-Fighting Easier

One of the biggest cleaning headaches with kitchen cabinets is the greasy film deposited by cooking vapors. Luckily, you can take some proactive steps to minimize grease on white metal cabinet surfaces:

• Use range hood vents and keep exhaust fans running when cooking.
• Clean vents and filters regularly so they work efficiently.
• Install backsplashes on countertops and walls to prevent splatters and drips.
• Keep cabinet doors and drawers closed when using cooking appliances.
• Immediately wipe up any oil splatters after cooking.
• Position absorbent degreasing pads near the range.

With some simple preventive habits, you can cut down on laborious grease-removal cleaning later on.

Alternative Cleaning Solutions

While dish soap and water work perfectly fine for cleaning most metal cabinets, some alternative cleaning solutions can also be effective:

Hydrogen peroxide: The bubbling action helps lift dirt. For stuck-on gunk, allow it to sit before wiping.

Borax paste: Acts as a gentle abrasive polish. Mix with water to form a paste, apply and scrub.

Apple cider vinegar: Cuts through grease, leaves surfaces shiny. Mix a diluted vinegar solution in water for wiping cabinets down.

Rubbing alcohol: Disinfects surfaces and dries fast without streaks. Useful for wiping down cabinet shelves and drawers.

Ammonia-based cleaner: Removes built-up grime from neglected cabinets. Use sparingly with ventilation due to strong fumes. Rinse thoroughly.

Keep Wood Accents Looking Their Best

Many white metal kitchen cabinets incorporate wood accents like doors, trim or shelves. These wood surfaces require slightly different care than the metal portions.

Use a wood cleaner and polish made specifically for kitchen cabinets. Avoid excessive water that can damage wood over time.

Wipe spills immediately to prevent stains. Do not use vinegar solutions on wood. For grease buildup, wipe down wood areas with a degreasing kitchen cleaner formulated for wood finishes.

FAQs About Cleaning White Metal Cabinets

How can I make my cleaning solution for white cabinets?

In a bucket or sink, mix a few drops of mild dish soap into warm water. For extra grease-cutting power, use 1/4 cup ammonia per gallon of warm water.

How often should white cabinets be cleaned?

Aim to wipe cabinet surfaces with a microfiber cloth at least once a week. Wash thoroughly with dish soap and water every 1-2 months.

What is the best cleaner for painted white cabinets?

A diluted dish soap and water solution works very well for keeping painted cabinets clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers.

Will vinegar or baking soda damage my cabinets?

Neither vinegar nor baking soda will harm most cabinet finishes when used properly. Avoid excessive scrubbing pressure and immediately dry surfaces after cleaning.

What is the best way to clean stubborn grease off cabinets?

Degreasing cleaners or a mix of dish soap and warm water can cut through grease. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Repeat if needed.

How can I clean the inside of kitchen cabinets?

Remove all items first. Using a small amount of dish soap and water, wipe down shelves, surfaces and interior corners. Dry immediately with a soft cloth.

What should I use to clean white cabinets without leaving streaks?

Use microfiber cloths that won’t leave lint behind. Work in small sections, rinsing cloths frequently. Fully dry each section before moving on to prevent streaks.

How can I make my cabinets shine like new?

Regular cleaning plus the use of a metal polish will help keep cabinets looking freshly polished. Apply polish in smooth, circular motions. Buff to an even shine.

Conclusion

Cleaning white metal kitchen cabinets doesn’t need to be a daunting chore. By using the proper cleaning techniques and supplies, you can keep your cabinets looking like new with regular care. Focus on preventing grease buildup, wiping spills quickly, and doing a thorough wash monthly.

With some diligent attention, your white metal cabinets will maintain their attractive, fresh-looking finish for years of service in your kitchen. Just be sure to avoid abrasive cleaners or excessive moisture that could lead to scratches or corrosion over time. The right mild cleaning solutions and soft cloths make cabinet care safe, fast and effective.