Here are some simple tips for keeping your cabinets looking new for the life of your home. 1) Do not use harsh abrasives on cabinets made of finished hardwoods or laminated vinyl materials. 2) Wood cabinets should be cleaned once a month to protect against excess polish build-up. 3) Do not use paraffin-based spray waxes or wash cabinets with water because both will dull the luster of the finish. 4) Do not use detergents, strong soap, abrasives or self-polishing waxes or cloths. 5) Clean cabinets made of plastic-coated veneer or metal with a mild soap-and-water solution and dry them immediately with a soft, dry cloth. 6) Inspect your cabinets regularly for excessive wear and or deterioration of the finish. 7) Occasionally, check the cabinet hinges and tighten the screws to make sure your cabinet hardware is working properly. 8) When necessary, lubricate the hinges on your cabinet doors with an oil-based lubricant. 9) You can lubricate metal drawer guides with a light lubricating oil every two years. By following these simple maintenance steps, you can keep your cabinets looking like new for years to come.

Blog inspired by article featured on bright-homes.com and can be seen here:  http://www.bright-homes.com/living/pdfs/bright-homeowners-maintenance.pdf