Using Dish Soap to Clean Kitchen Cabinets: Top 10 Questions Answered

 

Question 1: Can I Use Dish Soap to Clean My Kitchen Cabinets?

Cleaning kitchen cabinets can be a daunting task, but using dish soap can make it easier and more effective. Many people wonder if dish soap is a suitable cleaning agent for kitchen cabinets, and the answer is yes! Dish soap is a gentle yet effective cleaner that can help remove dirt, grease, and grime from your cabinets. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use dish soap to clean your kitchen cabinets.

Why Use Dish Soap?

Dish soap is an excellent choice for cleaning kitchen cabinets for several reasons:

1. Gentle on Surfaces: Dish soap is gentle enough to prevent damage to most cabinet finishes, including wood, laminate, and painted surfaces.
2. Effective Grease Cutter: It’s designed to cut through grease, making it ideal for removing kitchen grime that often accumulates on cabinets.
3. Readily Available: You probably already have dish soap in your kitchen, making it a convenient choice.
4. Affordable: Dish soap is cost-effective and can save you money on specialized cleaning products.

Steps to Clean Your Kitchen Cabinets with Dish Soap

Follow these steps for an effective cabinet cleaning process:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush.
2. Remove Cabinet Contents: Empty the cabinets to have a clear workspace.
3. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
4. Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the solution to the entire cabinet, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.
5. Wipe Down Cabinet Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the cabinet surfaces. Pay extra attention to areas with built-up grime or grease.
6. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: For stubborn stains or crevices, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub gently.
7. Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, rinse the cabinets with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soapy residue.
8. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
9. Replace Cabinet Contents: Once the cabinets are completely dry, put back the contents.
10. Maintenance: To keep your cabinets looking clean, wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution.

Additional Tips

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific cabinet material and finish.
• Avoid abrasive sponges or scouring pads, as they can scratch the cabinet surfaces.
• Be gentle when scrubbing to prevent damage to the finish.
• If your cabinets have intricate detailing, use a soft toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• For wooden cabinets, follow up with a furniture polish or wood conditioner to restore shine and protect the wood.

Cleaning your kitchen cabinets with dish soap is a simple and effective way to maintain their appearance and cleanliness. Remember to be gentle in your approach, and your cabinets will shine like new. In the following sections, we’ll address more common questions about using dish soap for cabinet cleaning.

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Question 2: Can I Use Dish Soap on Painted Cabinets?

Painted kitchen cabinets can be an attractive addition to your kitchen, but they require special care when it comes to cleaning. Using dish soap on painted cabinets is generally safe, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

Why Dish Soap Works for Painted Cabinets

Dish soap is a versatile and effective cleaning agent for various surfaces, including painted cabinets. Here’s why it works well:

1. Gentle Cleaning: Dish soap is mild and won’t damage most paint finishes.
2. Effective Grease Removal: It can cut through grease and grime, which are common on kitchen cabinets.
3. Readily Available: Dish soap is a household staple, making it convenient for cleaning.

Steps to Clean Painted Cabinets with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to clean painted cabinets with dish soap:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the solution to the entire cabinet, test it in a small, hidden spot to ensure it doesn’t harm the paint.
4. Wipe Down Cabinet Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the painted cabinet surfaces.
5. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: For stubborn stains or crevices, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub gently.
6. Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue.
7. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
8. Maintenance: To maintain the cleanliness of your painted cabinets, wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution.

Additional Tips

• Avoid abrasive scrubbers or scouring pads, as they can damage the paint.
• Be gentle when scrubbing to prevent peeling or chipping of the paint.
• If the paint is damaged or chipped, consider touching up the affected areas with matching paint.

Cleaning painted cabinets with dish soap is a safe and effective way to remove dirt and grime while preserving the beauty of your kitchen. The key is to use a gentle touch and avoid harsh abrasives that can harm the paint.

Question 3: Can I Use Dish Soap on Wood Cabinets?

Wooden kitchen cabinets are a popular choice due to their timeless appeal, but they require special care to maintain their beauty and durability. Using dish soap on wood cabinets can be a suitable cleaning method, but it’s essential to do it correctly to prevent damage.

Why Dish Soap Can Be Used on Wood Cabinets

Dish soap is a gentle yet effective cleaner for wood cabinets for the following reasons:

1. Mild Cleaning: Dish soap is generally safe for wood surfaces and won’t strip away the finish or natural oils.
2. Effective Grease Removal: It can effectively cut through kitchen grease and grime without harming the wood.
3. Readily Available: Dish soap is a readily available household item, making it convenient for cleaning tasks.

Steps to Clean Wood Cabinets with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to clean your wood cabinets with dish soap:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the solution to the entire cabinet, test it in a small, hidden spot to ensure it doesn’t damage the wood or finish.
4. Wipe Down Cabinet Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the wood cabinet surfaces. Follow the wood grain when wiping.
5. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: For stubborn stains or crevices, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub gently, always following the wood grain.
6. Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue.
7. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
8. Maintenance: To keep your wood cabinets looking their best, wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution. Additionally, consider applying a wood polish or conditioner periodically.

Additional Tips

• Avoid using excessive water on wood cabinets, as it can lead to warping or swelling.
• Never use abrasive scrubbers or scouring pads, as they can scratch and damage the wood.
• For stubborn stains, make a paste using dish soap and baking soda, apply it to the stain, and gently rub with a soft cloth.
• Be cautious when using vinegar-based solutions on wood cabinets, as vinegar can strip away the finish over time.

Cleaning wood cabinets with dish soap is a safe and effective way to maintain their appearance. Proper care will help preserve the natural beauty of the wood while keeping your kitchen looking clean and inviting.

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Question 4: Can I Use Dish Soap to Clean Greasy Cabinets?

Grease buildup is a common issue in kitchen cabinets, especially those located near the stove or oven. Fortunately, dish soap is an excellent choice for cleaning greasy cabinets due to its grease-cutting properties.

Why Dish Soap Is Effective for Greasy Cabinets

Dish soap is well-suited for cleaning greasy cabinets because:

1. Effective Grease Cutter: It’s designed to cut through grease on dishes, making it ideal for tackling kitchen grease buildup.
2. Gentle Cleaning: Dish soap is gentle enough to use on most cabinet surfaces without causing damage.
3. Readily Available: Most households have dish soap on hand, making it a convenient option.

Steps to Clean Greasy Cabinets with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to clean greasy cabinets using dish soap:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Remove Cabinet Contents: Empty the cabinets to have a clear workspace.
4. Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the solution to the entire cabinet, test it in a small, hidden spot to ensure it won’t harm the cabinet finish.
5. Wipe Down Cabinet Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the greasy cabinet surfaces. Pay extra attention to the areas with the most grease buildup.
6. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: For stubborn grease spots or crevices, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub gently.
7. Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue.
8. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
9. Replace Cabinet Contents: Once the cabinets are completely dry, put back the contents.
10. Maintenance: To prevent future grease buildup, wipe down your cabinets regularly with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution.

Additional Tips

• If the grease buildup is particularly stubborn, you can add a small amount of baking soda to the soapy solution for added scrubbing power.
• Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or scouring pads, as they can scratch the cabinet surfaces.
• Be patient when cleaning greasy cabinets, as it may take a bit of extra effort to remove all the grease.

Cleaning greasy cabinets with dish soap is an effective way to restore their cleanliness and shine. Regular maintenance will help keep your cabinets looking great and prevent the buildup of stubborn grease.

Question 5: Can I Use Dish Soap to Remove Stubborn Stains from Cabinets?

Stubborn stains on kitchen cabinets can be a headache, but dish soap can often come to the rescue. Here’s how you can effectively use dish soap to remove those pesky stains.

Why Dish Soap Is Effective for Stain Removal

Dish soap is a versatile cleaner that can effectively break down and remove various types of stains, including those on kitchen cabinets. Here’s why it works:

1. Effective Grease Cutter: Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, which is a common component of stains on cabinets.
2. Gentle Cleaning: It’s generally safe for most cabinet surfaces, so it won’t damage the finish.
3. Readily Available: You likely already have dish soap in your kitchen, making it a convenient choice.

Steps to Remove Stubborn Stains from Cabinets with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to remove stubborn stains from cabinets using dish soap:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the solution to the stained area, test it in a small, hidden spot to ensure it won’t harm the cabinet finish.
4. Wipe Down Stained Cabinet Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the stained cabinet surfaces. For stubborn stains, let the soapy solution sit on the stain for a few minutes.
5. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: If the stain persists, use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the area.
6. Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue.
7. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
8. Maintenance: To prevent future stains, practice regular cabinet maintenance by wiping them down with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution.

Additional Tips

• Be patient when attempting to remove stubborn stains. Some stains may require multiple cleaning attempts.
• Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or scouring pads, as they can scratch the cabinet surfaces.
• For tough stains like ink or crayon marks, you can try using a mixture of dish soap and baking soda to make a paste. Apply the paste to the stain, gently scrub, and then rinse with clean water.

Dish soap is a valuable tool for tackling stubborn stains on your kitchen cabinets. With the right technique and a little patience, you can restore the beauty of your cabinets and keep them looking their best.

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Question 6: Can I Use Dish Soap to Clean Cabinet Hardware?

Cabinet hardware, such as knobs and handles, can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Cleaning them with dish soap is a simple and effective method.

Why Dish Soap Is Suitable for Cabinet Hardware

Dish soap is a versatile and gentle cleaner that can effectively remove dirt and grime from cabinet hardware. Here’s why it’s a good choice:

1. Mild Cleaning: Dish soap is gentle enough not to harm most types of cabinet hardware, including metal, plastic, and glass.
2. Effective Grease Cutter: It can cut through grease, which is common on frequently touched hardware.
3. Readily Available: Dish soap is a common household item, making it convenient for cleaning tasks.

Steps to Clean Cabinet Hardware with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to clean cabinet hardware with dish soap:

1. Remove Hardware: Carefully remove the cabinet hardware from the cabinets using a screwdriver or appropriate tool. If the hardware is difficult to remove, you can clean it in place, but take care not to damage the surrounding surfaces.
2. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, a soft cloth or sponge, and an old toothbrush.
3. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
4. Soak Hardware: Place the hardware in the soapy solution and let it soak for about 10-15 minutes to loosen dirt and grime.
5. Scrub Gently: Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the hardware, paying attention to any areas with built-up grime. For crevices or intricate designs, use an old toothbrush.
6. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the hardware with clean water to remove any soap residue.
7. Dry Completely: Ensure the hardware is completely dry before reattaching it to the cabinets to prevent rust or water spots.
8. Reattach Hardware: Carefully reattach the clean hardware to the cabinets.

Additional Tips

• Label or organize the hardware as you remove it to make reinstallation easier.
• If the hardware has intricate details, use the toothbrush to clean those hard-to-reach areas.
• For tarnished metal hardware, consider using a metal polish or cleaner after cleaning with dish soap to restore its shine.

Cleaning your cabinet hardware with dish soap is a straightforward process that can help refresh the appearance of your kitchen without the need for harsh chemicals.

Question 7: Is It Safe to Use Dish Soap on Laminate Cabinets?

Laminate cabinets are a popular choice in kitchens due to their durability and affordability. Using dish soap on laminate cabinets is generally safe, but it’s important to follow the correct cleaning process to avoid damaging the laminate surface.

Why Dish Soap Can Be Used on Laminate Cabinets

Dish soap is a suitable cleaner for laminate cabinets for the following reasons:

1. Mild Cleaning: Dish soap is gentle and won’t typically harm the laminate finish.
2. Effective Grease Removal: It can effectively remove grease and grime, which are common in kitchen areas.
3. Readily Available: Dish soap is a readily available household item, making it convenient for cleaning.

Steps to Clean Laminate Cabinets with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to clean laminate cabinets with dish soap:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the solution to the entire cabinet, test it in a small, inconspicuous spot to ensure it won’t harm the laminate.
4. Wipe Down Cabinet Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the laminate cabinet surfaces. Avoid using excessive water, as it can cause the laminate to swell.
5. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: For stubborn stains or crevices, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub gently.
6. Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue.
7. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
8. Maintenance: To maintain the cleanliness of your laminate cabinets, wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution.

Additional Tips

• Avoid abrasive scrubbers or scouring pads, as they can scratch the laminate surface.
• Be cautious when using abrasive powders or chemicals, as they may damage the laminate finish.
• If the laminate has a high-gloss finish, use a non-abrasive, mild liquid cleaner specifically designed for high-gloss surfaces for the best results.

Cleaning laminate cabinets with dish soap is a safe and effective way to keep them looking clean and well-maintained. Proper care will help prolong the life and appearance of your laminate kitchen cabinets.

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Question 8: Can I Use Dish Soap on Glass-Fronted Cabinets?

Glass-fronted cabinets add a touch of elegance to a kitchen but can be prone to fingerprints and smudges. Cleaning them with dish soap is a straightforward and effective way to maintain their clarity.

Why Dish Soap Is Suitable for Glass-Fronted Cabinets

Dish soap is a suitable cleaner for glass-fronted cabinets for the following reasons:

1. Streak-Free Cleaning: Dish soap can effectively remove fingerprints, smudges, and other marks from glass surfaces, leaving them streak-free.
2. Gentle on Glass: It won’t harm the glass or its clarity.
3. Readily Available: Dish soap is a readily available household item, making it convenient for cleaning.

Steps to Clean Glass-Fronted Cabinets with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to clean glass-fronted cabinets with dish soap:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a squeegee or lint-free paper towels.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Wipe Down the Glass: Dip a soft cloth into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the glass surfaces of the cabinet doors. Pay extra attention to areas with fingerprints or smudges.
4. Squeegee or Wipe Dry: Use a squeegee or lint-free paper towels to quickly and effectively dry the glass. This helps prevent water spots or streaks.
5. Check for Streaks: Inspect the glass for any remaining streaks or smudges. If needed, repeat the cleaning process.
6. Maintenance: To maintain the cleanliness of glass-fronted cabinets, wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution.

Additional Tips

• Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals on the glass, as they can scratch or damage it.
• For tough-to-remove stains or buildup, you can add a small amount of white vinegar to the soapy solution.
• If the glass has decorative etchings or patterns, use a soft brush or cloth to reach into the grooves and corners.

Cleaning glass-fronted cabinets with dish soap is an effective way to keep them looking clear and beautiful. Regular maintenance will ensure that your glass cabinets continue to showcase your kitchen’s elegance.

Question 9: Can I Use Dish Soap to Clean Cabinets Near the Stove?

Cabinets located near the stove are prone to collecting grease and grime from cooking. Using dish soap to clean cabinets in this area is not only safe but highly effective.

Why Dish Soap Is Ideal for Cabinets Near the Stove

Dish soap is an excellent choice for cleaning cabinets near the stove because:

1. Effective Grease Cutter: It’s designed to cut through grease, making it perfect for removing kitchen grime.
2. Gentle on Surfaces: Dish soap is generally gentle on most cabinet finishes and won’t harm them.
3. Readily Available: Dish soap is a common household item, making it convenient for cleaning.

Steps to Clean Cabinets Near the Stove with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to clean cabinets near the stove using dish soap:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Remove Cabinet Contents: Empty the cabinets to have a clear workspace.
4. Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the solution to the entire cabinet, test it in a small, hidden spot to ensure it doesn’t harm the cabinet finish.
5. Wipe Down Cabinet Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the cabinet surfaces. Pay extra attention to areas with built-up grease.
6. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: For stubborn grease spots or crevices, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub gently.
7. Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue.
8. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
9. Replace Cabinet Contents: Once the cabinets are completely dry, put back the contents.
10. Maintenance: To prevent future grease buildup, wipe down your cabinets near the stove regularly with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution.

Additional Tips

• Regularly clean cabinets near the stove to prevent grease buildup from becoming too stubborn.
• Avoid abrasive scrubbers or scouring pads, as they can scratch the cabinet surfaces.
• If your cabinets have intricate detailing, use a soft toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• For wooden cabinets, consider applying a wood polish or conditioner after cleaning to restore shine and protect the wood.

Cleaning cabinets near the stove with dish soap is an effective way to remove grease and grime, keeping your kitchen looking clean and well-maintained.

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Question 10: Can I Use Dish Soap on High-Gloss Cabinets?

High-gloss cabinets can add a modern and luxurious touch to your kitchen, but they require special care to maintain their shine. Using dish soap on high-gloss cabinets is generally safe, as long as you follow the correct cleaning procedure.

Why Dish Soap Can Be Used on High-Gloss Cabinets

Dish soap is suitable for cleaning high-gloss cabinets due to the following reasons:

1. Mild Cleaning: Dish soap is generally gentle and won’t typically harm the high-gloss finish.
2. Effective Grease Removal: It can effectively remove grease and grime, which are common in kitchen areas.
3. Readily Available: Dish soap is a readily available household item, making it convenient for cleaning.

Steps to Clean High-Gloss Cabinets with Dish Soap

Follow these steps to clean high-gloss cabinets with dish soap:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need dish soap, warm water, a bucket, soft microfiber or cotton cloths, and a sponge or soft-bristle brush.
2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Wipe Down Cabinet Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe down the high-gloss cabinet surfaces. Be cautious not to use excessive water, as it can cause streaks.
4. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: For stubborn stains or crevices, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub gently.
5. Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue.
6. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the high-gloss cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
7. Maintenance: To maintain the high-gloss finish of your cabinets, wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution.

Additional Tips

• Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or scouring pads, as they can scratch the high-gloss surface.
• Be cautious when using abrasive powders or chemicals, as they may damage the finish.
• Use a separate dry cloth for buffing the high-gloss surface to a shiny finish after cleaning.

Cleaning high-gloss cabinets with dish soap is a safe and effective way to maintain their shine and cleanliness. Regular care will ensure that your kitchen cabinets continue to enhance the aesthetics of your space.

Read: How to Clean Grease Off Kitchen Cabinets

Read: Tips for Removing Stains from Kitchen Cabinets