Maintaining and Upgrading Your Summer Kitchen Cabinets for Endless Enjoyment

Updated on: October 4, 2023

Summer Cabinet Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

In the summer, it's important to clean your kitchen cabinets regularly due to increased humidity and outdoor grime, pollen, dust, and everything else the warmer months have to offer. Here's a quick overview on how to properly care for your cabinets from June through September—and beyond!

1. Remove Contents: Totally empty the cabinets to clean the interior thoroughly. This also helps you declutter and reorganize.
2. Dust and Debris: Dust the cabinet surfaces with a soft cloth or microfiber duster to remove any loose dirt and debris.
3. Grease Removal: Use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap to gently remove grease from your cabinets. Dip a clean cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub cabinet surfaces, especially near the stove where grease can accumulate.
4. Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning with the water and soap solution above, make sure to dry the surfaces thoroughly to prevent any water damage. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the cabinets.
5. Glass or Metal Surfaces: If you have glass, metal, or wood door inserts, use cleaner appropriate for each of the respective surfaces. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch glass or other delicate inserts.
6. Hardware: Don't forget to clean the cabinet hardware (handles, knobs, etc.) as well. Use the same cleaning solution or a gentle metal cleanser.

Remember, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface to ensure it doesn't cause any damage. Be sure to check out our Cabinet Care & Cleaning Guide for more information.

Upgrading Cabinets for Summer: Refreshing Your Kitchen Space

If you’re designing your kitchen with a summer vibe in mind, be sure to incorporate light, vibrant, and refreshing elements. Here are some ideas to help guide your refresh:

1. Palette: A great first (and inspirational!) step is to choose your color palette. A bright and cheerful palette reflects the easy, breezy tones of summer. Consider using colors like sky blue, lemon yellow, seafoam green, and soft coral. These colors can be incorporated through kitchen accessories like fruit bowls, dish towels, place mats, cushions, and more.
2. Cabinet Finishes: Opt for light colored (painted or stained) or white cabinetry to create an airy and open feel. Painted finishes Bright White, Haze, and Oyster and stained finishes Natural, Storm, and Toffee take our top picks for sweet summer style.
3. Hardware: Consider adding a pop of color with chromatic or coastal-inspired cabinet knobs and handles; these can easily be traded out if your style preferences change down the road.
4. Textures: A little bit of texture goes a long way! If your kitchen design includes an eat-in island or peninsula, wicker or bamboo furniture at the bar adds a touch of natural texture and contributes to the summer vibe. These materials pair especially well with white and light hued painted cabinetry.
5. Backsplash: Incorporate a backsplash that adds a splash of color or pattern. Tiles with mosaic patterns, ocean-inspired designs like scallops, or even floral motifs can all contribute to a summery feel.
6. Lighting: Maximize natural light by keeping kitchen window treatments minimal. Add pendant lights or chandeliers above the island or peninsula in rattan or netted designs to enhance the summer theme. Twinkling fairy lights serving as under cabinet lighting can also create a magical evening atmosphere.
7. Open Shelving: Consider incorporating open shelves to display colorful dishes, glassware, and summer-themed serving pieces. This not only adds a decorative element but also makes items easily accessible for summer gatherings.

The key to a kitchen styled for summer is to create a space that feels light, refreshing, and inviting. Incorporating the above ideas will help you achieve a kitchen that exudes the easy, carefree spirit of the season.

Preventative Maintenance for Summer Kitchen Cabinets

Summer can bring about changes in temperature and humidity that can potentially impact your kitchen cabinets. To prevent damage and keep your cabinets in good condition during the summer, consider the following tips:

1. Control Humidity Levels: Fluctuations in humidity can cause wood to expand and contract, leading to warping, cracking, or splitting. Use a dehumidifier to maintain humidity levels in your kitchen, especially if you live in an area with high humidity. (We’re looking at you, Florida!)
2. Ensure Ventilation:  Proper ventilation in your kitchen is essential to prevent excess humidity buildup. Make sure your kitchen has proper airflow through vents, windows, and exhaust fans. This will help regulate moisture and minimize the impact of humidity on your cabinets.
3. Avoid Direct Sunlight: While minimal window treatments allow maximum natural light (as discussed above), prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause wood to fade or compromise the tone of the paint. Use blinds or UV-resistant window films to block out harsh sunlight and protect your cabinets from discoloration.
4. Use Cabinet Hardware: Cabinet handles and knobs can help protect the finish of your cabinets from normal wear and tear. The hardware acts as a barrier between hands and the cabinet surface, preventing oils and dirt from accumulating directly on the wood.

By following these tips and being proactive in maintaining your kitchen cabinets, you can help prevent damage and ensure they remain in excellent condition throughout the summer.

Bring Your Kitchen Refresh to Life

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