How To Clean Kitchen Cabinets Prior Painting

By Sarah | February 6, 2020

A Comprehensive Guide to Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets Before Painting

Transforming your kitchen's look by painting the cabinets can be an exciting project. However, achieving a flawless finish requires proper preparation, including meticulous cleaning. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean your kitchen cabinets before painting:

1. Remove Doors and Hardware

Unscrew all cabinet doors and hardware, including hinges, knobs, and pulls. This will make cleaning and painting easier.

2. Wipe Down with Soap and Water

Use a damp cloth or sponge dipped in a mild dish soap solution to wipe down all surfaces of the cabinets, both inside and out. Rinse thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth.

3. Degrease with TSP Cleaner

If your cabinets are particularly greasy, use a trisodium phosphate (TSP) cleaner diluted according to manufacturer's instructions. Apply with a sponge or cloth and wipe thoroughly, rinsing with clean water.

4. Sand Cabinet Surfaces

Use a fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the cabinet surfaces, removing any existing finish or paint. Focus on corners and edges where grime and grease may accumulate.

5. Tack Cloth for Dust Removal

Wipe down all sanded surfaces with a tack cloth to remove any dust created during sanding.

6. Denatured Alcohol for Final Cleaning

Apply denatured alcohol to a clean cloth and wipe all surfaces to remove any remaining dirt, grease, or residue that could interfere with the paint's adhesion.

7. Dry the Cabinets Thoroughly

Allow the cabinets to dry completely before painting. This may take several hours or overnight. Use a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.

Tips for Efficient Cleaning

  • Wear gloves and safety glasses when using cleaning solutions.
  • Open windows or use a fan for proper ventilation.
  • Test any cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area first.
  • Label all hardware and store it safely to avoid losing pieces.
  • Use clean cloths or sponges for each step to prevent cross-contamination.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your kitchen cabinets and ensure a smooth, professional-looking finish when painting.


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