Your home’s cabinets are more than just storage units; they are an essential part of your home’s style and functionality. And you may have ones that are stained wood, painted wood, or laminate, but you still need regular care and attention will help maintain their beauty and longevity.

Living in Saginaw, Michigan presents its own unique challenges due to fluctuating weather conditions, which can affect your cabinets over time. So how do you need to care for your Saginaw cabinets and protect them from Michigan’s varying climate?

Here’s what you need to do so you can enjoy your Michigan kitchen for a long time.

Routine Care for Stained Wood Cabinets

Stained wood cabinets bring warmth and elegance to your home, but they require consistent upkeep to maintain their luster. Here’s how you can care for them:

Dust weekly.

Use a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust that can settle on cabinet surfaces. Dusting frequently prevents buildup and keeps your cabinets looking fresh.

Clean any spill immediately.

In Michigan, where you might be enjoying warm soups or hot drinks during cold winters, spills happen. Wipe them up immediately with a soft cloth to avoid staining or discoloring the wood. Prolonged exposure to moisture or liquids can damage the finish.

Avoid using dishcloths and harsh chemical cleaners for cleaning cabinets.

Dishcloths often contain grease or detergent remnants that can damage your cabinet finish. Similarly, never use abrasive cleaners, sponges, or ammonia-based products, as they can scratch or dull the wood. Stick to a soft cloth for everyday cleaning.

Caring for Painted Wood and Laminate Cabinets

Painted wood and laminate cabinets are beautiful and versatile but require a slightly different approach compared to stained wood. Follow these steps for proper care:

Dust on a regular basis.

Just like stained wood, painted and laminate cabinets should be dusted weekly using a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. This helps to keep them clean without damaging the paint or laminate coating.

Wipe food and beverage spills Immediately.

Whether it’s food or drink, cleaning spills right away prevents moisture from damaging the cabinet surface. Prolonged exposure to liquids can discolor the paint or laminate, so stay proactive.

And similar to caring for wood cabinets, you should never use dishcloths, which may hold soap or grease, or any harsh cleaning products. Use a dry, clean cloth for cleaning to maintain the finish of your painted or laminate Saginaw cabinets.

Control Humidity and Steam

Excessive steam from your cooktop or oven can affect the finish of your cabinets. In Michigan, where humidity can fluctuate, it’s crucial to use your range hood or exhaust fan when cooking to prevent moisture buildup.

Michigan’s climate can pose unique challenges for cabinets, particularly because wood is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Wood expands and contracts depending on the weather, which can cause issues over time.

Keep your home at moderate temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 80°F, with humidity levels between 30% and 60%. Low humidity can cause wood to dry out and shrink, leading to cracks or gaps in joints. Conversely, high humidity can cause wood to swell, leading to stuck doors or drawers.

You can use a humidifier or dehumidifier in your home. Michigan winters can make indoor air dry, while summers can bring high humidity. To prevent your Saginaw cabinets from shrinking or expanding, consider using a humidifier during the dry winter months and a dehumidifier during the more humid summer season.

Protect Cabinets from Water and Moisture

Water and wood are not a good mix, and moisture can cause significant damage to your cabinets if not properly managed. Be especially mindful around areas like the sink, dishwasher, and countertop seams. Wipe up any water or spills immediately to prevent warping or staining.

Avoid draping towels over cabinets.

Many people drape damp dish towels over cabinet doors, but this habit can lead to water damage over time. Always hang wet towels elsewhere.

Use coasters and mats.

For countertops and cabinet surfaces, use coasters, pads, or cloths to protect against water rings and spills.

Ventilate your bathrooms.

Bathrooms are prone to steam buildup, which can warp or damage your cabinets. Use your exhaust fan or open a window during and after showers to help control moisture levels.

Prevent Sun Damage

Michigan’s long summer days bring more sunlight, and prolonged exposure to UV rays can fade or discolor your cabinets. You can limit sun exposure when you place your cabinets or furniture in areas where there is no direct sunlight.

If this is not possible, use curtains, blinds, or UV-blocking window treatments to protect your cabinets from harmful rays. For additional protection, consider using UV-protective furniture polish on your wood cabinets to prevent fading.

Protection from Heat and Appliances

Heat from appliances like ovens, dishwashers, coffee makers, and toasters can damage your cabinets if precautions aren’t taken.

Keep heat-producing appliances away from your wood cabinets.

Avoid placing heat-producing appliances, like toasters and coffee makers, directly beneath cabinets. The heat and moisture can damage the finish and warp the wood over time.

Be careful when using dishwashers.

Don’t open the dishwasher during its cycle, as the heat and moisture can rise and damage nearby cabinets. Always wait until the cycle is complete and the steam has dissipated before opening the door.

Protect Your Cabinets in Michigan with Proper Maintenance

Caring for your cabinets requires attention to detail, especially if you live in Michigan, where seasonal changes in temperature and humidity can affect their condition. When you live in Saginaw, you need to take steps to protect your cabinets from the elements so they remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

If you want cabinets in Saginaw that will last for years, visit Mcintyre Cabinets for cabinets that will serve you well.