Everyday use can take a toll on your wood cabinets—no matter what room they happen to be in. The good news is that all it takes is a little TLC to maintain their beauty and integrity over time. Here are some quick dos and don’ts to keep them looking like new:

contemporary-kitchen

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DO tackle spills quickly. Spills and stains will happen, and when they do, it is important to wipe them away as quickly as possible to avoid lasting damage.

DO use the right cloth. To preserve the beauty of your wood cabinets, gently wipe away spills with a soft, damp (not wet) cloth followed by a dry, lint-free cloth.

DO treat tough stains with TLC. Sometimes stains can be stubborn. Don’t panic! Gently rub the area with a soft, damp cloth and a solution of mild detergent (liquid soap) and warm water. Afterward, dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.

DO keep surfaces clean and dry. A splatter of sauce in the kitchen or a wet towel left hanging in the bathroom can easily damage your wood surfaces. Be careful to keep them as clean and dry as possible.

transitional-bathroom

Photo by Logan Killen Interiors – Browse bathroom ideas

DO treat stains, nicks and scratches quickly. If the surface of your wood cabinet has been compromised, lightly scuff the area with fine sandpaper before applying a thin coat of touch-up lacquer to restore the protective top coating. If any of the color has been removed, a touch-up stain should be applied before the top coating.

DON’T use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. These can dull or scratch the finish of your wood cabinets.

farmhouse-kitchen

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DON’T use paste waxes, household polishes or solvent-based cleaners. These products will leave a residue, which can build up over time and alter the original luster and sheen of the wood finish.

DON’T use harsh chemicalsNever allow cabinet surfaces to be in prolonged contact with strong acids or alkalis, as these can do lasting damage to the wood.

victorian-laundry-room

Photo by Andrew Howard Interior Design – Browse laundry room ideas

DON’T let water sit. Wood cabinets are found most often in kitchens and bathrooms—places where there’s no shortage of water. The longer it soaks in, the more damage it can do, so remember to wipe up spills and splashes immediately. Wood design elements add natural beauty and appeal to your home. Like any high-quality surface, your wood cabinets deserve to be treated with extra care to keep them looking beautiful for years to come.

Now that you know all about caring for your wood cabinets call or stop by today and let our team of design professionals help you create your perfect living space. Whether you need help choosing the right type of wood or you’re ready to install, Primera is your one-stop shop for stunning wood cabinets.