Spring in Central Iowa means sunshine, fresh air, and a renewed urge to clean and refresh our homes. While you’re tackling closets, windows, and baseboards, don’t forget about one of the most valuable features in your home—your custom cabinetry. Whether it’s your kitchen, mudroom, bathroom, or home office, your wood cabinets deserve some seasonal TLC to keep them looking their best year after year.
At Serenity Custom Woodworking, we build beautiful, functional custom cabinets designed to stand the test of time—but a little routine care goes a long way in preserving their finish and function. Here’s your spring cabinet care checklist to keep your cabinetry in top shape.
Start with a Gentle Clean
Dust, cooking residue, and everyday fingerprints can build up over time, especially on kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Spring is the perfect time for a deeper clean.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth (microfiber is ideal)
- Mix a gentle solution of warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap
- Wipe cabinet surfaces, following the grain of the wood
- Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or ammonia—they can damage the finish
- Dry surfaces immediately with a clean, dry towel to prevent moisture damage
For sticky areas, like around kitchen handles or mudroom cubbies, dampen a cloth with the same mild soap solution and gently rub. Avoid using abrasive scrub pads or anything rough that can scratch the wood.
Check and Clean Hardware
Handles, knobs, and drawer pulls can collect grime over time. Use a soft cloth and the same mild cleaning solution to wipe them down. If they’re especially grimy, remove them and soak in warm, soapy water.
While you’re cleaning the hardware, check for loose screws or wobbling. Tighten them as needed to prevent long-term wear or breakage.
If you’ve got soft-close hinges or drawer slides, spring is a good time to inspect them for smooth function. If something feels sticky or squeaky, a light spray of silicone-based lubricant (never oil-based) can help.
Inspect for Moisture and Temperature Damage
Iowa’s climate can be tough on wood, especially with the humidity fluctuations between seasons. Spring is a smart time to inspect your cabinetry for any signs of moisture-related wear or warping.
Look for:
- Swollen edges or corners
- Discoloration or water stains near sinks or dishwashers
- Warped cabinet doors or drawers that don’t close properly
If you notice anything concerning, address it quickly. Serenity cabinets are built to last, but like any wood product, they need protection from long-term exposure to moisture.
Tip: If your kitchen or bathroom is prone to excess humidity, consider using a dehumidifier in the warmer months or checking your ventilation systems.
Give Glass-Front Cabinets a Shine
If your cabinetry includes glass doors, clean them with a glass-safe cleaner or a vinegar-water solution and a lint-free cloth. Spray the cleaner onto the cloth—not directly on the glass—to avoid overspray on the wood.
While you’re at it, take the opportunity to reorganize and declutter the shelves behind those glass doors for a fresh, clean spring look.
Touch Up and Polish
For small dings or scratches, use a wood touch-up marker that closely matches your cabinet finish. These are great for concealing minor imperfections and restoring uniform color.
If your cabinets have a natural wood finish (not painted), you can apply a high-quality wood polish or conditioner specifically designed for your cabinet material. Avoid anything with wax buildup or silicone—it can damage the surface or attract dust.
For painted cabinetry, avoid polish altogether—just stick with a mild soap and water solution and soft cloth.
Refresh the Inside, Too
Spring cleaning isn’t just about surfaces—take a few extra minutes to empty cabinets and drawers, vacuum out crumbs and dust, and wipe down the interiors.
This is also a great time to:
- Check expiration dates on pantry items
- Declutter storage spaces in your mudroom or bathroom
- Add fresh shelf liners if you use them
Organized and clean interiors will make your custom cabinetry feel brand new again.
Protect Moving Forward
The best way to keep your cabinetry looking like new is to protect it from future damage. Here are a few preventative tips:
- Always dry cabinets immediately if they get wet
- Use cabinet bumpers or soft-close features to prevent slamming
- Avoid placing heat-generating appliances directly against cabinet sides
- Use cutting boards and trivets to prevent countertop-related spills from damaging nearby cabinets
Conclusion: Preserve the Beauty of Your Custom Cabinets
Your custom cabinets are a long-term investment—and with just a little seasonal care, they’ll continue to add beauty, value, and functionality to your home for decades. Spring is the perfect time to show them a little love.
If you ever notice signs of wear, need repairs, or are thinking about upgrading other areas of your home with custom cabinetry, Serenity Custom Woodworking is here to help. We proudly serve Des Moines and Central Iowa with handcrafted, high-quality cabinetry built for real life.
Ready to freshen up your space—or start something new? Contact us today for expert advice or to schedule a custom design consultation.
