Simple Aftercare for a Lasting Finish
A professionally hand-painted kitchen is designed for everyday use. A few simple habits will help protect the finish and keep the cabinetry looking its best for many years.
Gentle Cleaning
Clean painted cabinetry using a soft, damp cloth with mild soapy water. For most everyday marks, this is all that should be required.
Avoid scrubbing the surface aggressively. Gentle cleaning protects the painted finish while removing normal kitchen dirt and fingerprints.
- Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water
- Avoid abrasive pads and aggressive cleaners
- Wipe away splashes rather than allowing them to sit
Regular Dusting
Light dusting with a clean, dry microfibre cloth or soft duster helps prevent dust and cooking residue building up on mouldings, cornices, shelves and other detailed areas.
Regular light care is preferable to allowing dirt to build up and then having to clean the surface more aggressively later.
Protecting Painted Surfaces
Painted kitchen furniture is durable, but sensible protection will help avoid unnecessary wear. Take particular care around areas exposed to heat, moisture or repeated contact.
Use mats, trivets and coasters where appropriate and avoid leaving hot or wet objects resting against painted cabinetry.
- Protect cabinetry from excessive heat
- Do not leave standing water around edges or handles
- Avoid dragging hard or sharp objects across painted surfaces
Looking After the Kitchen Over Time
With sensible everyday care, a professionally hand-painted kitchen can remain attractive and serviceable for many years.
Handles, frequently used doors and areas around appliances naturally receive more use than other parts of the kitchen. Keeping these areas clean and dry helps minimise unnecessary wear.
See Our Chalon Kitchen Seven Years Later →The First Seven Days
Freshly painted surfaces continue to harden after the kitchen has been completed. During the first week, treat the cabinetry gently and avoid unnecessary cleaning or heavy handling.
What to Do
- Wipe accidental splashes promptly and gently
- Use doors and drawers normally but with reasonable care
- Keep painted edges dry where possible
- Allow the finish time to continue hardening
What to Avoid
- Abrasive pads or scouring sponges
- Bleach, ammonia or solvent-based cleaners
- Prolonged steam or excessive heat
- Standing water around edges and handles
A Simple Routine Works Best
Hand-painted cabinetry does not require complicated maintenance. Gentle, regular care is generally better than strong cleaning products or occasional aggressive scrubbing.
- Use mild soapy water and a soft cloth
- Keep edges and handles dry after use
- Avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive pads
- Use mats and trivets around heat and moisture
Questions About Looking After Your Kitchen?
If you are unsure how to clean a mark, deal with accidental damage or look after a particular part of your painted kitchen, please get in touch. We are always happy to advise.
Contact Paul for Advice