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How To Help Make Your Custom Cabinetry Last

Oct 06, 2022
White And Brown Contemporary Kitchen

And breathe… your beautiful custom kitchen cabinets are complete. You’ve found a home for everything, you’re thrilled with how they look, the design works perfectly and the quality shines through. All that’s left is to enjoy your new space with family and friends. 


A new kitchen is a wonderful addition to your home, and with a little care, it will look fabulous for years to come. To help you make your custom cabinetry last, we’ve put together a few of our top tips.

1. Beware of water and steam

Kitchens are naturally steamy places and while your cabinetry is designed to tolerate this type of environment, it’s important to avoid any prolonged exposure to moisture. Here are some things to consider: 


  • Think about where you keep your kettle – if it’s directly below your cabinet you run the risk of excess moisture getting into the joints. 
  • Avoid draping damp cloths on your cabinets – use a towel rack or the oven handle
  • Add a lining to the inside of your cabinets – this will protect against any spills
  • Make sure your dishes are dry before storing them away
  • Use the fan while you’re cooking

2. Protect against sun damage

If you’re lucky enough to have a kitchen that’s bathed in natural light, be aware that the sun can fade the surface of your cabinets over time. Take a look at your kitchen and if there’s a spot that’s in prolonged sunlight, it might be worth investing in a window covering to close for part of the day.

3. Take care of your wood cabinets

One of the loveliest things about wood is that it ages so well – any knocks or scratches become part of the character. You can keep your wood in optimum condition with regular oiling. Inexpensive olive oil is a superb option as it’ll help protect against moisture, pep up the shine and make sure any minor damage blends away to become part of the furniture.

4. Take care of your painted cabinets

Painted cabinets need a little more care than wood. In terms of cleaning, a regular wipe with a damp cloth will keep any finger marks or grubby stains at bay. Nicks in the paint will need a little more care. You may be able to get touch-up paint from your manufacturer or head to your hardware store for a colour match crayon.

5. Choose cleaning products with care

Harsh cleaning products are a real no-no when it comes to bespoke cabinetry. A damp cloth and a bit of elbow grease can shift most marks. Add in some mild dish soap or soda crystal for more stubborn stains. Avoid anything like bleach, acetone, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners.

6. Don’t forget the knobs and handles

A mild soapy solution will work wonders on the knobs and handles in your kitchen. Be sure to keep the cloth damp, rather than soaking, and buff up with a dish towel or other dry cloth.

7. Keep an eye on the inside

It's worth cleaning out your cabinets a couple of times a year. Any stray crumbs or other goodies can be swept away, and any build-up of grime can be cleaned in the same way as the outside. It’s a good opportunity to check for any damp spots or damage too, so you can keep the inside of your cabinets as good as the outside.


For more guidance on looking after your custom cabinetry, contact us at East Coast Cabinets & Midform today on 02 6652 6238.

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