How to Get Grease Off Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinet grease buildup is a combination of aerosolized cooking oil (from frying and sautéing), steam condensation, and dust that accumulates on cabinet surfaces over time. The result is a tacky, yellowish film that becomes progressively stickier as it oxidizes and polymerizes. Standard cleaners often smear it rather than dissolve it — you need a degreaser approach.
Method 1: Dish Soap (Light Buildup)
- Mix a few drops of dish soap in warm water
- Dampen a microfibre cloth and wring out thoroughly — do not soak wood or painted cabinets
- Wipe down cabinet surfaces, working in the direction of the wood grain on natural wood
- Rinse with a damp cloth and dry immediately — leaving moisture on wood cabinets causes swelling and finish damage
- Dish soap is an excellent degreaser and is safe on all cabinet finishes
Method 2: Baking Soda Paste (Moderate Buildup)
- Make a paste of baking soda and a small amount of dish soap
- Apply to the greasy surface with a damp cloth or soft brush
- Rub gently in circular motions — the mild abrasive combined with the degreasing action of soap cuts through oil buildup
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry
Method 3: Degreaser Spray (Heavy Buildup)
- Use a commercial kitchen degreaser (Simple Green, Krud Kutter, or similar) for heavy, sticky buildup
- Spray and allow 2–3 minutes of contact time before wiping
- Test on an inconspicuous area first on painted or lacquered cabinets — some degreasers can affect finishes
- Rinse thoroughly after to prevent residue that attracts dust
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