Kitchen cupboard doors can be one of the greasiest and germ-prone areas in a kitchen, but a simple mix of washing-up liquid and warm water can clean them in less than five minutes, according to Tanya Cressey from kitchen manufacturer Cut My.
Most people neglect cupboard doors when cleaning, aside from occasionally dusting the top, but cooking releases oil into the air and steam can carry these particles around a kitchen, where they land on high surfaces. Over time, cupboard doors can become greasy even if they look fine, with a sticky layer that dust and debris cling to. If cupboards are not wiped down regularly, the finish can become stained by moisture and dirt buildup, and handles can become unhygienic to touch.
Why washing-up liquid works
Cressey advised: “Mix mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket or basin. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals as they may strip the paint or cause discolouration.”
Using the wrong product on cupboard doors can make them look dull and cause their smooth surfaces to become scratched or marked, which can make a kitchen look untidy. Washing-up liquid is one of the best ways to clean cupboards because it is designed to break down oil and fat residue on dishes and will also remove grease, dissolving oily and grimy residue while remaining a gentle product.
How to deep clean cupboards
To clean cupboards, squirt a little washing-up liquid into a bucket or basin filled with warm water, then dip a soft cloth or sponge into the water. Gently wipe the cupboard surfaces to remove grease or dust, paying attention to the top of the doors and the handles.
When wiping stains, work at them gently and do not use a scourer or any other abrasive product, as this risks scratching the cupboard surface. Once the surfaces seem clean, rinse with warm water and dry them properly. Do not leave cupboard surfaces to air dry, as excess moisture can get into the edges and joints and wear down the fixtures.
With this method, cupboards should be gleaming and completely dust-free after just five minutes of cleaning. If time allows, it is also worth organising the inside of cupboards at this time of year, as many pests start to come into homes once it gets cold outside and can be attracted to food crumbs.
