Complete Guide for Cleaning and Restoring Oak Kitchen Cabinets

Your kitchen cabinets are a focal point of your kitchen and can make or break the look of the entire room. Unfortunately, over time, grease, grime, and food particles can build up on your cabinets, making them look dull and dirty. Oak cabinets, in particular, require special care as they can easily become damaged by harsh chemicals. Instead of hiring a professional cleaner or replacing your cabinets, you can give them a deep clean yourself using a combination of natural, eco-friendly and chemical-based products.

Free Wooden Cabinets on House Kitchen Stock Photo

Step 1: Remove all items from your cabinets

Before you start cleaning, remove all items from your cabinets, including dishes, cookware, and small appliances. This will make it easier to access all the surfaces and corners of your cabinets.

Step 2: Clean the exterior

Mix a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the exterior of your cabinets and wipe them down with a clean, damp cloth. Be sure to pay special attention to any areas with built-up grime or grease. For tough stains, you can use a small amount of mild detergent or wood cleaner specifically designed for oak cabinets. Always test the cleaner in a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that it doesn’t cause any damage.

Step 3: Interior cleaning

Cabinet drawers and doors should be taken out and laid level on a clean surface. Scrub away any filth or grime using a toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush. The internal surfaces can be cleaned with a mild detergent or the same mixture of white vinegar and water. Make sure to completely rinse with clean water before wiping down with a fresh cloth.

Free Person Holding Black and Silver Coffee Press Stock Photo

Step 4: Re-oil or re-stain the cabinets

After cleaning, you may notice that your oak cabinets have lost some of their original color or finish. To restore the natural beauty of your oak cabinets, you can re-oil or re-stain them. If you choose to re-oil, use a natural oil such as tung oil or linseed oil. Apply the oil to a clean, dry cloth and rub it into the wood, following the grain. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil and let it dry overnight before applying a second coat. If you choose to re-stain, use a stain that is specifically designed for oak wood and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to test the stain on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that you are happy with the color.

Step 5: Maintain your cabinets

Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your oak cabinets looking their best. Every week, wipe out the inside and outside of your cabinets with a gentle, moist cloth. Use coasters or placemats to shield the wood from liquids and stay away from abrasive or harsh chemicals. Every six months, you might want to give the wood a coat of natural oil or wax to help protect it and keep it looking its best.

Did You Know?

  • Oak wood contains natural tannins that help protect it from pests and decay.
    • Cleaning Tip: These tannins can sometimes react with certain cleaners, so it’s best to stick to mild, wood-safe cleaning solutions to preserve the wood’s natural defenses.
  • Oak is one of the most durable hardwoods, known for its strength and resilience.
    • Cleaning Tip: Despite its durability, oak can still be susceptible to scratches and dents. Use a soft cloth and avoid abrasive sponges when cleaning to keep the surface smooth and unblemished.
  • Each piece of oak has a unique grain pattern, making every cabinet one-of-a-kind.
    • Cleaning Tip: Follow the grain when wiping down your cabinets to ensure thorough cleaning and to enhance the natural beauty of the wood.
  • Discoloration or fading on oak cabinets doesn’t mean the wood is irreparably damaged.
    • Cleaning Tip: Often, discoloration can be addressed by re-staining or re-oiling the wood. Identifying the cause, such as sunlight exposure, is crucial to prevent future issues.

BONUS CLEANING TIPS – How to Remove Common Stains on Oak Kitchen Cabinets:

Ink Marks:

Create a cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a soap made from non-synthetic, plant-based ingredients. Soak a cloth in the mixture and gently dab the stained area. Be cautious not to rub vigorously to prevent the ink from smearing. Rinse the spot thoroughly and use a dry cloth to pat it dry, repeating the process as required.

Another option is to apply rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and carefully blot the ink stain. However, keep in mind that alcohol may interact with wood & wood finishes so take care not to exert too much pressure while cleaning.

Watermarks:

Watermarks can leave unsightly spots on oak cabinets. To remove them, mix white vinegar and olive oil in equal proportions. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and gently rub the watermark in a circular motion until it fades away. Follow up with a dry cloth to buff the area and restore your cabinet’s luster.

Wine or Juice Stains:
Combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Use a cloth soaked in the solution to gently dab the stain. Let it sit for a minute or two before wiping the area with a damp cloth to effectively remove the stain.

By following these steps, you will be able to give your oak kitchen cabinets a deep clean and restore their natural beauty. Remember to use a combination of natural, eco-friendly and chemical-based products, and always test them in a small area first. Regular maintenance will also help keep your cabinets looking their best for years to come.

The Ultimate Home Spring Cleaning Checklist

Do you ever wonder how some people manage to maintain an absolutely flawless house, yet you never see them cleaning? This is because they do not attack the house in one sitting. Most of the time, they have a home cleaning checklist. 

A cleaning checklist gives you a system that enables you to continually keep your house in tip-top shape without feeling like you are running around like a headless chicken.

Four Reasons to Maintain a Home Cleaning Checklist

  1. When you have a house cleaning checklist, you can prioritize what needs to be cleaned, and when you need to clean it. This makes it easier to handle different tasks. By breaking down your cleaning chores, you accomplish more than trying to tackle everything at once. 
  2. Sometimes, the people living with you may not ‘see’ what needs to be cleaned. Having a cleaning to-do list also helps you to delegate duties as everyone will know what is expected of them. 
  3. Consistent cleaning will prevent clutter and make your house safer. Routine house sanitization and disinfection prevents the spread of germs. Dust is less likely to build up, reducing the chances of allergic reactions and respiratory diseases.
  4. A home cleaning schedule can save you from the embarrassment of a messy house, especially when you have unexpected visitors. It is not a nice feeling to apologize for the ‘state of the house’ when company just drops in. 

Basic Cleaning Equipment

Before you begin spring cleaning your home, you will need some products and equipment to help you get the job done right. No, you don’t require a hotel housekeeping trolley, but there are some necessary cleaning supplies you would need to stock up on if you don’t already have them. These include:

  • Microfiber cloths or disposable rags
  • Scrub brush, scrub sponges and abrasive scrub pads
  • Mop and bucket
  • Extendable duster
  • Toilet brush 
  • Grout brush or an old toothbrush
  • Lightweight vacuum 
  • Rubber gloves
  • Indoor broom (if you have a balcony or patio, have a separate broom for that area)
  • Dustpan 
  • Squeegee 
  • Plunger
  • Stovetop scraper – only for flat-glass ceramic cooktops

Cleaning Products You Can Purchase for Your Home:

  • All-purpose cleaner – these are generally mild solutions used to remove grease and dirt. They can be used on a variety of surfaces such as stovetops, countertops, and sinks. It is good to note that all-purpose cleaners are not disinfectants. 
  • Disinfectant – This is essential for the kitchen and bathrooms. These should be left on the surfaces for at least 5 minutes before wiping them off to kill germs.
  • Tile and grout cleaners – Scrub free solutions are the better option for shower tiles and bathtubs as they will not eat through the enamel. 
  • Wood cleaner – This should match the type of wood you have in your house to maintain its appearance. 
  • Glass cleaner – A no-streak or streak-free glass cleaner will give you the best results.

If you are not a big believer in commercial cleaning products, there are several things around the house that can be substituted for cleaning supplies

The Best Way to Maintain a Clean House

It may sound like a daunting task, but a daily home cleaning routine will ensure that you are not living in a never-ending mess. This little known secret to keeping a clean home goes a long way. When you get into a daily cleaning routine, you will find that it takes just about 15 minutes a day to get your house in order. 

Before we get into the daily cleaning checklist, there are a few tidy habits you could start on:

  • Make your bed as soon as you get out of it.
  • When you take off your clothes, either hang them if they are still clean or drop them in a laundry hamper.
  • Try your best not to leave dirty dishes in the sink before you go to bed.
  • Use wet wipes to clean bathroom counters and sinks after use.
  • Keep kitchen counters free from appliances to make wiping down easy.
  • Teach kids to put away their toys before they go to bed.
  • Squeegee the glass walls after a shower to prevent stains.

Daily cleaning checklist

Your daily cleaning schedule should tackle the areas in your home with the most traffic. This includes the living room, kitchen, and bathrooms. 

Kitchen:

  • After your last meal, load dirty dishes into the dishwasher.
  • Use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down kitchen counters, dining table, and food preparation surfaces.
  • Sweep and mop dirty floors.
  • Clean the coffee maker.

Rooms: 

  • Straighten up the living room – fold blankets, tidy up remotes, magazines, or paperwork.
  • Wipe down tables in the living room, playroom, or home office.
  • Make beds and collect dirty laundry.

Bathrooms: 

  • Wipe down the exterior toilet, sink, and bathroom surfaces.
  • Squeegee shower walls.
  • Fold or hang towels.

Weekly cleaning checklist:

Having a weekly home cleaning checklist can help you knock down one household task every day. This way, you do not get overwhelmed by a load of laundry or a messy kitchen. 

Mop up Mondays

After all the weekend activities, you would like to start the week with a clean home. Dedicate Mondays to moping and vacuuming:

  • the entrance hallway 
  • family room
  • stairs
  • corridors 
  • bedrooms 
  • bathrooms 
  • kitchen

Be sure to go under the dining table to collect any crumbs that may have fallen there. Keep this weekly mop up to areas that can be easily accessed. 

Scrub down Tuesdays

A day of pulling out those gloves and dealing with the bathrooms

  • Scrub and sanitize the toilets, bathtubs, showers, sinks, and counters. 
  • Plastic shower curtains and bathmats can be sprayed with disinfectant. 
  • Change towels and do an inventory of toiletries. You do not want to run out of toilet paper. 

Wipe away Wednesdays

  • Using an all-purpose cleaner and microfiber cloth, wipe away any dirt or smudge from the kitchen sink, stovetops, faucets, counters, and backsplash. 
  • Wipe down the exterior surfaces of the microwave, oven, coffee maker, toaster, fridge, blender, mixer, and other kitchen appliances.
  • Dust and wipe furniture; lamps and lampshades, picture frames, windowsills, doorknobs, light fixtures, ceiling fans, and vents. 
  • Wipe the TV, entertainment system, and remote controls. 
  • Dust off cobwebs and clean mirrors. 

Throw out Thursdays

Organize your home by getting rid of unwanted, outdated, or expired items. You can start with the fridge and move on to the medicine cabinet. Throw away junk mail, newspapers, old make-up, and lotions. Chuck out clothes with holes that you know you will not mend or craft projects from 10 years ago. 

If you have not used something in your house for the past two years, then there is the likelihood that you will not use it this year. Ridding your house of old, unused items every week will not only create space for other important things, but decluttering also gives you peace of mind. 

Fold it up Fridays

As the week comes to an end, the laundry basket should have filled up pretty well. Friday is a good laundry day. 

  • Soak your whites separately as well as clothes with tough stains. 
  • Strip the sheets, pillowcases, tablecloths, kitchen, hand, and bath towels and throw them in the washing machine. 
  • Fold, iron, and put away clean laundry.

Pet-friendly Saturdays

If you have furry friends in your household, you can make use of Saturday mornings to show their living spaces some love. Empty the kitty litter box and scrub it with soap and water. Do not use any chemical cleaners such as bleach or ammonia because certain chemicals can be harmful to cats. Felines are also very picky and sensitive to smells. Any chemical odor may make a fussy cat have a bathroom break on your freshly cleaned carpet.

Saturday’s are also a great day to change the bedding for dogs and caged animals. If you have fish, doing a partial water change for the aquarium will keep them swimming happily.  

By following this weekly home cleaning checklist, your weekend should be free to enjoy with friends and family in a squeaky-clean home.

Three Months Spring-Cleaning Checklist

Every three months, we recommend that you set some time aside for a thorough, top to bottom, house spring cleaning. Understanding that not everyone can spring-clean like maid service, we suggest that you dedicate a specific section of the house for this particular task. You can work through the kitchen at one time, the living room, and bedrooms the next time and attack the bathroom last, then rotate. This way, you will not get tied down cleaning up for hours, and you can concentrate your effort on one cleaning duty.

Kitchen checklist

Refrigerator

Clear out your kitchen area because you will need space. 

  • Take out everything from the fridge first. This includes the shelves and drawers and wash them in dishwashing liquid and warm water. Rinse and wipe dry. 
  • Using a microfiber cloth dipped in warm water and baking soda, wipe inside the walls and floor of the refrigerator, as well as the top and outside. You can use a stainless-steel cleaner if that is what your fridge door is made of. 

Food inventory

  • Take an inventory of items that need to be eaten soon, thrown out, or restocked before putting things back in the fridge. Do this with food in the freezer as well as the pantry.

Oven

  • Using an oven cleaner and a cloth, wipe away any grease, grime, residue, or crusts from the door and inside the oven. 
  • Clean the rangehood to remove any grease as this can be a fire hazard. 
  • Clean the oven racks in dishwashing soap and hot water. 

It is good to note that oven cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can irritate. You should protect your hands with a pair of gloves and safety glasses for your eyes.

Microwave

  • Clean the inside of the microwave by mixing a quarter cup of vinegar with one cup of water and boiling it in the microwave for 3 minutes. When the walls are all steamed up, wipe them with a clean cloth. 

Dishwasher

  • If you start to smell something foul coming from the dishwasher, put one cup of vinegar and another bowl with baking soda on the top rack, and run a normal cycle.

Living room and bedroom checklist

Check out the recent Redfin article we were featured in: 

The Complete Living Room Cleaning Checklist

The living room is one of the most important rooms in the house. It’s where you relax, entertain guests, and spend time with your family. However, because people use it so much, it can be one of the most challenging rooms to keep clean. This is especially true if space is limited, like in a small apartment in San Francisco, CA, or a condo in Seattle, WA. From dusting to vacuuming to deep cleaning, there’s a lot to do to keep your living room looking its best. 

  • Vacuum all carpeting, upholstery, and area rugs. Don’t forget to get behind large pieces of furniture and under couch cushions.
  • Take down and wash curtains, drapes, duvets, comforters, pillows, and cushion cover
  • Dust and wipe down window blinds, windowsills, air vents, doors, walls, and molding
  • Use a glass cleaner on the windows and glass cabinets
  • Dust the smoke alarm and check the batteries
  • Change your air conditioning and vacuum filters

Sparkling bathroom cleaning checklist

If not well looked after, your bathroom can become a good host for nasty fungi. Mildew and mold thrive in dark and damp environments. Discourage unwanted bathroom guests with these bathroom cleaning hacks. 

  • Clean and disinfect the trash can with a cleaner that can kill bacteria and neutralize odors. Rinse it and let it air dry in the sun to prevent mold.
  • Disinfect the toothbrush holder – most of them are dishwasher friendly. 
  • Check the label on your shower curtain or liner and see if it can be run in the washing machine. For plastic shower curtains, you can soak them in water and vinegar and hang them out to dry. If the time has taken its toll, replace your shower curtain. 
  • Wipe or vacuum the inside of drawers and cupboards. Put new lining in drawers.

Shine your porcelain throne both inside and out

Using a disinfecting spray, spritz the entire toilet, inside, outside, at the back of the base, under the seat, and the wall behind. Let the cleaner do its magic for at least 5 minutes. Wipe the exterior of the toilet from top to bottom with a paper towel. Use a stiff-bristled toilet brush to scrub under the rim and inside the toilet. Flush to rinse.

Annual house cleaning checklist

Good news – there are some areas of the house that can remain overlooked for a year. Having said this, you still need to have a go at them as they are essential for the overall upkeep of your home. 

  • Clean and organize the garage and basement.
  • Clear out gutters.
  • Clear out chimney and fireplace.
  • Special projects – Declutter, donate or sell any clothes, shoes, toys, sporting equipment, gadgets, or things you have stored in the house that you have not used in the past year.

When to call the experts

Starting a home cleaning routine when your house is already ‘too far gone’ can seem hopeless. Spekless House Cleaning is here to help. In just 60 seconds, you can book a quality cleaning appointment through our online and digital communication platform. 

You can choose whether you would like a standard cleaning to get you started on your way to maintaining a home cleaning checklist, or you prefer a deep cleaning where we get under every nook and cranny. We can help you create a house cleaning schedule and checklist that will work around your needs. 

We’ve got your back, so you don’t break yours while trying to keep a clean home.

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