Matt kitchen cupboards are a modern and stylish choice for kitchens today, but they need special care to maintain their sleek, flawless look. Unlike glossy finishes, matt surfaces are more prone to showing fingerprints, smudges, and grease, which means you need to clean them right away.
If you’re wondering how to keep your matt cupboards looking as good as new without damaging the finish, we’ve got you covered. Here, we’ve put together a guide on how to clean matt kitchen cupboards and we’ve included the best products to use for lasting results.
What is a matt finish?
A matt finish is a surface with little to no shine or reflection. Unlike gloss finishes, which bounce light, matt finishes absorb the light, creating a more subtle and understated look.
The soft, muted design of a matt finish gives a room warmth and character.
Whilst matt cabinets can hide minor imperfections like scratches, they’re often more susceptible to showing fingerprints, grease marks, and smudges.
If your kitchen is a high-traffic area in your home, you’ll likely have to wipe down your cupboards regularly.
Cleaning products to avoid
Damaging your kitchen cupboards is the last thing you want to do, so here’s a list of some of the things you should avoid using, as they can damage the surface:
- Harsh chemicals
- Abrasive cloths
- Rough cleaning tools
- Important note: If you leave the cupboards too long with grease and oil on them, the grease and oil can be absorbed by the surface, leading to staining or discolouration. Clean them regularly to keep them looking their best.
Best cleaning products for matt kitchen cupboards
The right cleaning products for your matt kitchen will not damage the surface, and they work quickly to help wipe away unsightly marks.
Here are some ideas for the best cleaning products to use:
1. Mild soap detergent
One of the simplest and most effective cleaning solutions is a mixture of mild dish soap and water. It’s gentle on the surface of kitchen cupboards but will easily cut through grease.
2. Vinegar and Water Solution
White vinegar is a great, natural cleaning solution. Mix with water to help remove grease marks easily.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spritz the cupboards and wipe with a soft cloth. Rinse with clean water afterwards to remove the vinegar and prevent streaks.
3. Matt Surface-Specific Cleaners
You can buy commercial cleaners specifically formulated for matt surfaces, which result in a streak-free finish.
If you want to purchase these, look for cleaners with antistatic properties. These help repel dust, meaning you don’t have to clean as often.
4. Furniture Polish for Matt Surfaces
Another option for keeping your cupboards looking pristine is a matt furniture polish. You’ll have to clean them first to remove grease and oil that might be lurking, but finishing off with a furniture polish helps to preserve the natural, flat finish.
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to apply the polish and work in circular motions.
5. Baking Soda for Tough Stains
If you have a tough stain or heavy grease build-up, baking soda works great for this. Mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the area in a circular motion.
Don’t press too hard, as excessive scrubbing might damage the surface. Once you’ve got rid of the stain, wipe it clean with a damp cloth and dry it afterwards.
How to clean matt kitchen cupboards: Step-by-step guide
- Gather supplies: You’ll need your chosen cleaner, a microfibre cloth, and a lint-free, dry cloth.
- Remove dust: Use a dry microfibre cloth or soft duster to remove surface dust.
- Prepare cleaning solution: Choose the cleaning solution you’ll be using and mix it, if needed, in a bowl or a spray bottle.
- Wipe down cupboards: Dampen a microfiber cloth with the soapy water. Gently wipe down the cupboards, focusing on areas with fingerprints or grease. Avoid using too much water to prevent streaks.
- Dry the surface: Immediately dry the cupboards with a lint-free cloth to prevent water spots or streaks.
Spot clean stubborn marks: For tougher stains, spot clean with a baking soda mix. Gently scrub with a soft cloth, then rinse and dry. - Regular maintenance: Wipe cupboards regularly to prevent the build-up of dirt and fingerprints.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Matt Cupboards Looking Fresh
- Wipe regularly: Clean matt cupboards weekly to prevent build-up.
- Use gentle cleaners: Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the matt finish and create discolouration.
- Dry immediately: After cleaning, dry the surface for a smooth look.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbing: Never use rough sponges or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface.
- Address spills promptly: Clean up spills, grease, or smudges as soon as they occur to prevent stains from setting into the matt surface.
- Polish occasionally: Use a matt surface polish designed for kitchen cabinets to add a protective layer that repels dust and fingerprints, keeping the cupboards looking new for longer.
With the right care and attention, you can keep your matt kitchen cupboards looking their best.
Follow our simple and effective guide on how to clean matt kitchen cupboards for a fresh and sleek appearance.
