How to Maintain Your Custom Cabinets for Longevity
When you invest in custom cabinets, you're making an investment in long-term value. With proper care and maintenance, your cabinets can last for decades. At Mick-Knacks Custom Cabinetry, we believe that a little attention and care go a long way in keeping your cabinets looking their best.
In this blog post, we share expert tips on how to maintain your custom cabinets. Check out these simple maintenance practices to help keep your cabinets looking as good as the day they were installed!
1. Regular Cleaning is Key
One of the most effective ways to extend the lifespan of your cabinets is through regular cleaning. Buildup from dust and dirt can cause wear on your finishes, leading to discoloration or damage.
How to Clean: Use a soft, microfiber cloth to wipe down cabinet surfaces regularly. For wooden cabinets, you can use a gentle cleaner or a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Shy away from harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools that could scratch or dull the finish.
2. Keep Cabinets Dry and Well-Ventilated
Moisture is one of the biggest causes for concern when it comes to custom cabinetry, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Wood and other materials can warp or expand when exposed to excessive moisture. To maintain your cabinets, it's important to keep them dry and well-ventilated.
How to Protect Against Moisture: Wipe up spills immediately, and ensure your kitchen or bathroom has proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Consider using dehumidifiers in areas with high humidity.
What to Watch For: If you notice any swelling or warping in the wood, it's essential to address the source of moisture immediately to prevent further damage.
3. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Over time, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the finish on your cabinets to fade, especially if they're made from wood or a dark-painted finish. The UV rays from the sun break down the integrity of the finish, leading to discoloration.
How to Protect: Try to avoid placing items directly in front of your cabinets where they will be exposed to intense sunlight. You can also use window treatments or UV-blocking films on windows to reduce the amount of direct sunlight that enters the room.
What to Do If Discoloration Occurs: If you notice fading, some finishes can be restored with the help of a professional refinishing service, or you can consider a fresh coat of paint or varnish to renew the look.
4. Maintain the Hardware
The hardware on your cabinets – including handles, knobs, hinges, and slides – can experience wear and tear over time. Keeping these components in good working order ensures that your cabinets continue to operate smoothly.
How to Maintain Hardware: Check hardware regularly for any loose screws or hinges and tighten them as needed. Clean handles and knobs with a gentle cloth.
5. Touch Up Scratches and Dents Quickly
Even with the highest quality craftsmanship, occasional scratches or dents can occur. It's important to address them quickly to prevent further damage.
How to Fix Scratches and Dents: For minor surface scratches, you can use a wood touch-up marker or filler pencil that matches the color of your cabinets. For more significant damage, it’s a good idea to consult a professional to handle repairs and restore the cabinet to its original condition.
6. Use Protective Pads and Mats
To prevent scratches and scuffs on the cabinet surfaces, use protective pads, placemats, or coasters under dishes, appliances, and other objects that come into contact with your cabinets.
Where to Use: Place protective pads on countertops, under kitchen appliances, or on shelves where items are regularly stored or moved. This can help preserve the cabinet finish.
7. Consider Professional Maintenance or Refinishing
If your custom cabinets are beginning to show signs of wear, consider scheduling a professional maintenance service. Whether it’s refinishing, re-staining, or simply updating hardware, Mick-Knacks Custom Cabinetry can help restore your cabinets to their original beauty.
Why Professional Care Helps: Professional refinishing not only restores the look of your cabinets but also extends their lifespan by sealing and protecting the wood. This is a great option if you’re not comfortable performing the repairs yourself.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your custom cabinets is a simple but important task to keep them looking great and functioning well for years to come. By following these tips and being proactive about care and cleaning, you’ll ensure your cabinets remain an investment in both beauty and value.
Mick-Knacks is here to help you with all of your cabinet and furniture needs. Our team in Marshall, WI, is committed to delivering top-notch craftsmanship and customer service. We look forward to meeting you soon!