White kitchen cabinets are like the shining stars of our kitchens, right?

They bring in that clean, bright vibe, reflect natural light, and offer many design possibilities.

No wonder they’re a top choice for many homeowners.

But here’s the thing – these white cabinets can start to look a bit yellow over time. And that’s when the worry sets in. “How do I bring back that shine? How to clean white kitchen cabinet that have yellowed ?

Well, don’t fret! We’ve got your back.

To clean white kitchen cabinets that have turned yellow, start by clearing out the cabinets. Then, create a gentle cleaning mixture using either dish soap or baking soda dissolved in warm water. Carefully apply this solution using a soft cloth or sponge to remove discoloration. For tough stains, you can try the baking soda option or a dedicated cabinet cleaner.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through step-by-step solutions for cleaning and maintaining your white kitchen cabinets, helping you return to their pristine white appearance.

We’ll also delve into the underlying causes of yellowing and share tips on preventing it in the future.

Let’s revitalize your kitchen space together!

Reasons for white kitchen cabinets turn yellow

Are you curious about why white kitchen cabinets turn yellow?

Below, let’s explore why they shift from pure white to a yellowish hue.

Cooking Oils and Grease

When you whip up delicious meals, tiny oil and grease particles can float in the air.

Guess where some of them end up? Yup, on your cabinets.

They not only cause discoloration but also create a sticky layer that’s a magnet for dust and dirt, making the yellowing even worse.

Cleaning Products

Be careful with your cleaning arsenal.

Some cleaning products pack chemicals that don’t play nice with your cabinet finish, leading to—you guessed it—yellowing.

Always opt for cleaning agents that won’t mess with your specific cabinet material.

Age and Quality

Don’t forget the quality of your cabinet materials and finishes makes a difference.

Cheaper finishes could give in faster, making them likelier to yellow as they age.

Sunlight and Heat

When sunlight pours into your kitchen, it can team up with the heat from your cooking gadgets to trigger a chemical reaction with your cabinet finish.

That tag-team effort is what makes your cabinets turn yellow over time.

How do you clean white cabinets that have turned yellow?

Now that you know why white kitchen cabinets turn yellow, let’s look at the ins and outs of easy methods to clean your yellowed kitchen cabinets.

Below are simple yet effective step-by-step methods to give your yellowed kitchen cabinets new life.

Method 1: Mild Dish Soap Solution

Step 1: Start by clearing out your cabinets; take everything out so you can reach those yellowed spots.

Step 2: Now, let’s mix up a mild cleaning solution. Add a dash of dishwashing soap to the container. The exact amount can vary, but typically, a few drops per cup of water should suffice. You don’t need much; a little goes a long way.

Step 3: Before diving in, do a quick test on a hidden spot to ensure it won’t harm the finish.

Step 4:

• Prepare your soft cloth or sponge.
• Dip it in that soapy water.
• Gently scrub those yellowed areas.

Don’t go overboard with the scrubbing, though.

Step 5: Rinse your cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe down the cabinets, ensuring no soapy residue is left.

Step 6: Finally, ensure those cabinets are completely dry before you put your stuff back in. That’s it! Your cabinets should be looking fresh and clean again.

Method 2: Baking Soda Paste

Step 1: Empty your cabinets, ensuring they’re ready for cleaning.

Step 2: Mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste.

Step 3: You can apply the baking soda paste to the yellowed areas and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently scrub the paste onto the yellowed parts with circular motions.

Step 5: After scrubbing, rinse your cabinets with clean water to ensure no leftover paste remains.

Step 6: Allow the cabinets to air dry completely before restocking them with your kitchen items.

Method 3: Vinegar Solution

Step 1: Start by clearing out your cabinets, ensuring they’re entirely empty.

Step 2: Mix equal parts of distilled white vinegar and warm water in a container for your cleaning solution.

Step 3: Dip a cloth or sponge into your vinegar solution, ensuring it’s not too wet.

Step 4: Gently wipe down the yellowed areas with your damp cloth or sponge. Vinegar is effective at tackling grease and stains.

Step 5: After cleaning, rinse your cabinets with clean water to remove any vinegar remnants.

Step 6: Ensure the cabinets are completely dry before restocking them with your kitchen items.

Method 4: Specialized Cabinet Cleaner

Step 1: Take a moment to carefully read the instructions on the specialized cabinet cleaner you’ve selected. Each product has its unique instructions.

Step 2: Clear out your cabinets, creating a clean slate for your cleaning endeavor.

Step 3: Following the product’s instructions, apply the specialized cabinet cleaner to the yellowed spots on your cabinets.

Step 4: Some cleaners require a specific amount of time to work effectively.

 Be sure to adhere to the recommended waiting period.

Step 5: If the cleaner suggests it, gently scrub the yellowed areas using a soft cloth or sponge.

Step 6: It’s crucial not to neglect the final step of rinsing the cabinets with clean water. 

Give them a good wipe with a clean cloth.

 Failure to do so could leave behind a residual cleaner, which could cause damage to your cabinets over time.

Step 7: Ensure that the cabinets are completely dry before you start loading them up again with your kitchen items.

How do you protect white painted cabinets from stains?

You might be thinking of taking care of your white kitchen cabinets and making them look elegant and fresh.
Well, maintaining their white appearance requires little care and maintenance.

So, let’s discuss the tips that help you to maintain and protect your white kitchen cabinets.

Spill Prevention: We all spill stuff in the kitchen, right? Try to clean up spills quickly, especially things like tomato sauce or coffee, which can stain white cabinets.

Shelf and Drawer Liners: Consider using shelf liners or drawer liners to protect the insides from scratches and spills. They’re practical and can add a touch of style, too.

Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, make sure your cabinets are completely dry. Moisture can harm the paint.

Stay Organized: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized. The less clutter you have, the fewer chances for things to spill or leak onto your cabinets.

Use Coasters and Mats: Placing coasters under glasses and mats under dish racks can help catch drips and prevent water rings from forming on cabinet surfaces.

Choose Cabinet Hardware Wisely: Opt for cabinet hardware like knobs and handles that are easy to clean and won’t trap dirt or grime.

How To Keep White Kitchen Cabinets Clean?

Maintaining the cleanliness of your white kitchen cabinets is easy with a well-structured cleaning schedule. Below, I’ll break down a simple routine to keep them looking their best. 

Daily Cleaning

 Wipe Down Surfaces

Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth to wipe down cabinet surfaces, including the doors, handles, and frames, to remove dust, splatters, or fingerprints.

 Spot Cleaning

Quickly address any spills or splatters as they occur to prevent stains. You can use a mild soap solution method or an all-purpose kitchen cleaner to clean up spills promptly.

Weekly Cleaning

Remove Grease Buildup

Grease can accumulate on kitchen cabinets, especially near the stove. Use a mild solution mix to wipe down the cabinet surfaces, concentrating on areas with grease buildup. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

 Dust and Cobweb Removal

Use a duster or microfiber cloth to remove dust from the cabinet surfaces. Also, check for any cobwebs in the corners or along the top of the cabinets.

 Monthly Cleaning

 Deep Clean:

Once a month, give your white kitchen cabinets a more thorough cleaning. Remove all items from the cabinets to access the interior surfaces.

 Interior Cleaning

1. Use a mild soap solution mix to clean the interior of the cabinets.
2. Wipe down shelves, drawers, and any cabinet organizers.
3. Dry them thoroughly to prevent moisture damage.

 Check for Damages

While cleaning, inspect the cabinets for any damage, such as chipped paint or loose hinges. Make a note of any repairs needed.

 Seasonal Cleaning:

 Empty and Declutter

 Periodically, take the time to empty your cabinets and declutter. Dispose of items you no longer need or use. This will make cleaning easier and help you maintain an organized kitchen.

 Polish Hardware:

If your cabinet handles or knobs are tarnished, remove them and polish them as needed to keep them looking new.

Tips for cleaning white kitchen cabinets

Now lets have a look on some of the tips for cleaning white kitchen cabinets.

• Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the cabinet finish.

• Be cautious with colored or acidic food items (like tomato sauce) that may stain white cabinets. Wipe spills promptly.

• Use cabinet liners or shelf paper to protect cabinet interiors from spills and stains.

• Use a soft brush or a toothbrush to clean those hard-to-reach areas if your cabinets have decorative moulding or grooves.

• Consider applying a cabinet wax or furniture polish designed for kitchen use to protect and add shine to your white cabinets, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Wrap Up : How to clean white kitchen cabinet that have yellowed

To sum it up, don’t stress if your white kitchen cabinets start to look a little yellow.

Homeowners have the power to breathe new life into them.

Follow these simple cleaning tips, and consider some touch-ups or refinishing options if all else fails.

With a little care and maintenance, your kitchen will keep dazzling with those bright white cabinets.

Happy cleaning!

FAQ: How to clean white kitchen cabinet that have yellowed