Buying guide for BEST CABINET CLEANERS
Whether you're conducting a seasonal deep clean or tackling a sudden mess, your kitchen and bathroom cabinets need a good cleaning product. Over time, cabinets gather dust, grease and other stains that can make them look dingy and feel sticky. The right cabinet cleaner can restore their shine and ensure your house looks its best.
Cabinet cleaners come in various formulas and offer varying degrees of cleaning power, from light dusting to heavy-duty grease removal. Some cleaners also offer protective properties, adding a layer of shine that can make cabinets look like new. When choosing a cabinet cleaner, consider the material of your cabinets, the level of grime you need to remove and whether you prefer a natural or chemical-based solution.
We've picked the Bona Cabinet Cleaner as our top choice due to its versatile cleaning power and gentle formula. However, the Rejuvenate Cabinet & Furniture Cleaner is also a great value option, providing excellent results for a smaller price tag.
TOP PICKS
Bona Cabinet Cleaner
A well-regarded name in the cleaning industry, Bona offers a cabinet cleaner that's gentle yet effective. Its formula is designed to remove dust, dirt and grime without leaving a residue. It's safe for wood, veneer and laminate surfaces, making it a versatile choice for most kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
This cleaner comes in a spray bottle for easy application. Simply spray onto the cabinet surface and wipe with a soft cloth. The result is a clean, streak-free surface. One of the highlights of Bona Cabinet Cleaner is that it doesn't contain any harsh chemicals, making it a safe choice for households with pets and children.
Rejuvenate Cabinet & Furniture Cleaner
Rejuvenate Cabinet & Furniture Cleaner is a fantastic value option, delivering powerful cleaning at a reasonable price. This pH-balanced formula can effectively remove dirt, oil and residue while restoring the wood's natural color and shine.
In addition to cleaning, it also offers protective properties, leaving a streak-free protective layer that helps prevent future stains. It's easy to use — spray it on the surface, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it off with a microfiber cloth. It's safe for all finished wood, laminate surfaces and Formica.
Magic Deep Wood Cleaner and Polish
For those with wood cabinets, Magic Deep Wood Cleaner and Polish is a standout choice. This cleaner not only removes grime but also offers impressive protective qualities. It leaves a lustrous shine that helps to hide minor scratches and brings out the natural beauty of wood.
It contains a blend of natural oils that condition the wood while cleaning, preventing it from drying out and cracking. This cleaner also leaves a transparent, water-resistant protective coating that shields cabinets from watermarks, stains and daily wear and tear.
TriNova Wood Cleaner, Conditioner, Wax & Polish
If you're looking for a comprehensive solution, the TriNova Wood Cleaner, Conditioner, Wax & Polish might be the product for you. This 3-in-1 product cleans, conditions and adds a protective wax layer to your cabinets.
TriNova's product is suitable for a range of wood surfaces, including cabinets, furniture and antiques. It effectively removes residue, grease and grime, while its conditioning properties help to enrich the wood's natural color and grain. The added wax layer provides a smooth, polished finish and added protection against future staining.
Parker & Bailey Kitchen Cabinet Cream
Parker & Bailey Kitchen Cabinet Cream is an excellent choice for those needing to tackle stubborn grease and cooking stains. This cream formula penetrates the grime, making it easy to wipe away.
While it's tough on dirt, it's gentle on your cabinets. It doesn't contain any harsh solvents, and it's safe for use on all types of wood surfaces. Besides cleaning, this cream also conditions your cabinets, giving them a beautiful, natural shine. Its lemony scent is also a welcome bonus, leaving your kitchen smelling fresh after cleaning.
A high-quality cabinet cleaner can make your cabinets look like new and extend their lifespan. It's a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to maintain a clean and attractive home. Choose the right product based on your cabinets’ material and the level of cleaning they require.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY A CABINET CLEANER
Types of cabinet cleaners
Cabinet cleaners come in a variety of types, each designed to address different needs and preferences. Some are ready-to-use sprays, while others are concentrated solutions that need to be diluted. Some cleaners are made specifically for wood cabinets, while others are designed to clean laminate or painted surfaces. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right product for your needs.
- Spray cleaners: These are the most convenient type of cabinet cleaners. You simply spray the cleaner directly on the cabinet surface and then wipe it off. They're typically designed to handle everyday dirt and grime, making them a good choice for regular cabinet maintenance.
- Concentrated cleaners: These are powerful cleaning solutions that need to be diluted before use. Because they're so potent, they're effective at cutting through heavy grease and grime. They also tend to be more economical than spray cleaners, as a single bottle can make several gallons of cleaning solution.
- Wood cabinet cleaners: These cleaners are specially formulated to clean wood without damaging it. They often contain natural oils that condition the wood, helping to keep it looking its best. Some wood cleaners also have polishing properties that add a shine to the wood surface.
- All-purpose cabinet cleaners: These cleaners are designed to clean a variety of cabinet materials, including wood, laminate and painted surfaces. They're a versatile choice if your kitchen or bathroom has cabinets made of different materials.
Deciding which cabinet cleaner to use
What type of cabinets do you have? The material of your cabinets should be the main factor influencing your choice of cleaner. For instance, wood cabinets can be damaged by harsh chemicals, so it's best to use a cleaner specifically designed for wood. On the other hand, laminate and painted cabinets can withstand stronger cleaners.
How dirty are your cabinets? For everyday cleaning, a gentle spray cleaner will typically suffice. However, if your cabinets are heavily soiled with grease or grime, you may need a concentrated cleaner that's designed to cut through tough dirt.
Do you favor natural or chemical-based cleaners? Some people prefer to use natural cleaning products to reduce their exposure to harsh chemicals. If this is important to you, look for a cabinet cleaner that's made with plant-based ingredients.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A CABINET CLEANER
Ingredients
Always check the list of ingredients before buying a cabinet cleaner. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, especially if you have wood cabinets. If you prefer natural cleaners, look for ones that use plant-based ingredients like vinegar or essential oils.
Cleaning power
The cleaning power of a cabinet cleaner is determined by how effectively it removes dirt, grime and grease. You can get an idea of a product's cleaning power by reading reviews from other customers. However, keep in mind that what works well for one person may not work as well for another due to differences in cabinet materials and the level of dirtiness.
Ease of use
Cabinet cleaners should be easy to use. Spray cleaners are generally the easiest – you just spray and wipe. Concentrated cleaners require a bit more work because they need to be diluted before use.
If you're using a concentrated cleaner, make sure it comes with clear instructions for dilution. It's also helpful if the bottle has a measuring cap or another way to measure out the cleaner.
Safety
Always consider the safety of a cabinet cleaner before buying. Avoid products that contain harmful chemicals that could be hazardous to your health. Also, consider the safety of your cabinets. Some cleaners can damage certain materials, so it's important to use a product that's safe for the type of cabinets you have.
Odor
Many cabinet cleaners have a noxious smell due to the cleaning agents they contain. If you're sensitive to strong odors, look for a cleaner that's fragrance-free or has a mild, pleasant scent.
Conditioning properties
If you have wood cabinets, consider a cleaner that also conditions the wood. This can help to maintain the beauty of your cabinets and prolong their lifespan.
