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How to Get Rid of Grease and Cooking Smells from Kitchen Cabinets




 

Over time, kitchen cabinets can accumulate grease and absorb cooking odors, leaving them sticky and unpleasant. Cleaning them thoroughly and removing lingering smells is essential to keep your kitchen fresh and hygienic. Here’s a step-by-step guide to restore your cabinets and eliminate odors.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

For Cleaning Grease:

  • Warm water
  • Dish soap (degreasing formula works best)
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Lemon juice (optional)
  • A microfiber cloth or sponge
  • A soft-bristled toothbrush for corners and crevices
  • A bucket or spray bottle

For Odor Removal:

  • Activated charcoal or baking soda (to absorb smells)
  • Essential oils (e.g., lemon, lavender, or tea tree)
  • Dryer sheets or coffee grounds (optional, for scent absorption)

Step 2: Clean the Grease

1. Start with Soapy Water

  1. Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap.
  2. Dip a microfiber cloth or sponge into the soapy water, wring it out, and wipe down the cabinets.
  3. Pay extra attention to areas near the stove where grease buildup is often the worst.

2. Use a Vinegar Solution for Tough Grease

  1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
  2. Spray the solution onto the greasy areas and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
  3. Wipe the cabinets with a damp cloth. For stubborn spots, use a soft toothbrush to scrub gently.

3. Tackle Stubborn Grease with Baking Soda

  1. Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp sponge or cloth.
  2. Scrub the greasy spots gently in circular motions.
  3. Wipe clean with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

4. Optional: Lemon Juice for Shine

  1. Mix lemon juice with warm water for a natural degreaser and fresh scent.
  2. Wipe the cabinets with this mixture, then buff dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

Step 3: Remove Odors from Inside the Cabinets

1. Empty the Cabinets

  • Remove all items from the cabinets to access every corner.

2. Clean the Interiors

  1. Wipe down the inside of the cabinets using the vinegar solution or soapy water.
  2. Dry with a clean cloth to prevent moisture buildup.

3. Absorb Odors

  • Place small bowls of baking soda, activated charcoal, or coffee grounds inside the cabinets to absorb smells.
  • Replace these every few days until the odor is gone.

4. Add a Fresh Scent

  • Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a cotton ball or dryer sheet and place it in the cabinet for a pleasant scent.

Step 4: Prevent Future Grease and Smell Buildup

  1. Wipe Regularly: Clean the cabinets weekly with a damp cloth to prevent grease accumulation.
  2. Use a Degreasing Spray: Apply a light degreasing cleaner to high-traffic areas near the stove.
  3. Ventilate While Cooking: Use the exhaust fan or open windows to reduce airborne grease and odors.
  4. Line Shelves: Use shelf liners to make cleaning spills and crumbs easier.
  5. Store Odor-Prone Items Properly: Keep items like onions, garlic, or spices in airtight containers.

Additional Tips

  • Avoid Abrasive Scrubbers: These can damage the cabinet finish.
  • Test Before Cleaning: If your cabinets have a special finish, test any solution on a small, hidden area first.
  • Use Gentle Products: Harsh chemicals can discolor or strip the finish of wooden cabinets.

By following these steps, your kitchen cabinets will be grease-free and fresh-smelling in no time! Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep them in excellent condition, ensuring your kitchen always looks and feels inviting. ✨