Maintenance

Cleaning your cabinets can be a quick, easy task or it can take hours depending on how long it’s been since the last time you cleaned them. The problem is that grease, food particles, smoke and anything else circulating through the air in your kitchen, will stick to your cabinets making them grimy. Since the main culprit is grease, you’ll want to clean your cabinets regularly with products that cut grease but don’t create any additional buildup to make them feel gummy. It’s for this reason that mild dishwashing liquids make excellent cabinet cleaning products. A mild laundry detergent, especially one touted for cutting grease and oil, also works well for this task.

As with all wood products, avoid excessive moisture. FARMERS cabinetry is designed for use inside the home and is not intended for outdoor applications. Once your cabinets have been installed, wipe down all exteriors with a damp cloth to remove dust. Complete a small area at a time and wipe dry. FARMERS recommend a water-based emulsion-type cleaner. These are formulated without wax, petroleum solvents or silicones. The extended use of wax polishes can result in a wax film build up, while the use of silicone polishes can harm the cabinet’s finish.

Avoid spray-type polishes containing petroleum solvents, as they are flammable and toxic if swallowed. Use a damp cloth when cleaning normal household spills. After wiping thoroughly, dry the surface with a lint-free cotton cloth. For stubborn stains, it may be necessary to use a mild detergent with warm water. Always dry the surface immediately. Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads or powdered cleansers. Do not allow oven cleaner to touch any part of the cabinet. NOTE: Do not use a dish cloth to wipe your cabinet exterior, since it may contain remnants of grease or detergents.

It is important to wipe up spills and water marks as they occur. Give special attention to areas around the sink and dishwasher. Avoid draping damp or wet dish towels over the door of the sink base cabinet. Over time, this moisture can cause permanent water damage to the door.

Self-cleaning appliances generate intense heat during a cleaning cycle. Since the integrity of the appliance seal or gasket may be compromised during installation or with age, FARMERS recommends the removal of doors and/or drawers from cabinets adjacent to or directly above an appliance during a cleaning cycle. This will help prevent possible damage to the finish or surface of these cabinets.