5 Ways to Degrease Kitchen Cabinets and Finally Get Them Clean, According to Pro Cleaners

Greasy kitchen cabinets can make your entire kitchen feel dirty, no matter how clean the rest of the space is. Over time, cooking oils and food splatters build up, leaving a sticky, grimy residue that’s tough to remove. But don’t worry—professional cleaners have shared their top tips for degreasing kitchen cabinets and restoring them to their former glory. In this guide, I’ll walk you through five effective methods to tackle grease and get your cabinets sparkling clean. Let’s dive in!

---

1. Use Dish Soap and Warm Water

Why It Works:

Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, making it a simple yet effective solution for cleaning cabinets.

How to Do It:

1. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bucket or spray bottle.
2. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and wring it out well.
3. Wipe down the cabinets, starting from the top and working your way down.
4. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
5. Dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

---

2. Try Vinegar and Baking Soda

Why It Works:

Vinegar is a natural degreaser, and baking soda adds gentle abrasion to help lift stubborn grime.

How to Do It:

1. Create a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water.
2. Apply the paste to greasy areas using a soft cloth or sponge.
3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to break down the grease.
4. Wipe away the paste with a damp cloth.
5. Spray a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water onto the cabinets and wipe clean.
6. Dry with a microfiber cloth.

---

3. Use a Degreaser Cleaner

Why It Works:

Commercial degreasers are specifically formulated to tackle tough grease and grime.

How to Do It:

1. Choose a degreaser that’s safe for your cabinet material (check the label).
2. Spray the degreaser onto the cabinets, focusing on greasy areas.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the grease.
4. Wipe clean with a soft cloth or sponge.
5. Rinse with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.

---

4. Opt for Rubbing Alcohol

Why It Works:

Rubbing alcohol is a powerful solvent that can dissolve grease without damaging most cabinet finishes.

How to Do It:

1. Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution onto the cabinets and let it sit for a minute.
3. Wipe clean with a soft cloth or sponge.
4. Dry with a microfiber cloth.

---

5. Use a Steam Cleaner

Why It Works:

Steam cleaning uses high-temperature steam to break down grease and sanitize surfaces without chemicals.

How to Do It:

1. Fill the steam cleaner with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Hold the steam nozzle a few inches away from the cabinet surface.
3. Move the nozzle in slow, even strokes to loosen the grease.
4. Wipe away the grease with a clean cloth.
5. Dry the cabinets thoroughly.

---

Tips for Success

• Test First: Always test your chosen cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t damage the finish.
• Work Top to Bottom: Start with the upper cabinets and work your way down to avoid dripping cleaner onto already-cleaned surfaces.
• Use Soft Cloths: Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch or damage cabinet finishes.
• Clean Regularly: Wipe down cabinets weekly to prevent grease buildup.

---

When to Call a Professional

While these methods are effective for most grease problems, there are times when professional help might be needed:

• If the grease buildup is severe and covers large areas.
• If your cabinets have delicate finishes or materials that require specialized care.
• If you’re unsure about the best cleaning method for your cabinet type.

---

By following these five methods, you can degrease your kitchen cabinets and restore their shine. With a little effort and the right techniques, your kitchen will look and feel cleaner than ever.

---