Blue Mountain Woodworking
Care and Maintenance
At Blue Mountain Woodworking, we take pride in building custom cabinetry designed to last. Our finishes are crafted for durability and long term performance, especially when paired with proper care.
Like any natural material, wood and its finishes perform best when they’re maintained consistently. With just a small amount of routine care, you can preserve both the appearance and longevity of your cabinets for years to come.
Use the following guidelines as a general reference for maintaining stained and painted finishes and keeping your cabinetry looking its best.
Basic Cleaning
Routine care is simple and goes a long way in maintaining your cabinets. For regular cleaning, use a soft, lint free cloth lightly dampened with water, then dry immediately with a clean cloth.
To remove grease, oil, or everyday spills, use a mild soap mixed with warm water. After cleaning, be sure to dry the surface right away to protect the finish.
Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners, as well as any products containing ammonia, dyes, silicone, or heavy chemicals that can damage the surface over time. It’s also best to avoid using dishcloths or sponges that may carry residue from stronger cleaning agents.
For added care, a high quality cabinet cleaner or polish can be used as needed. Traditional wax applications may also help maintain the finish, while revitalizing oils are not recommended.
Spills
Spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible to protect the cabinet finish. Avoid letting water, cleaning solutions, or countertop products sit or dry on the surface.
Use a soft, lint-free cloth and gently blot the area rather than wiping back and forth. This helps prevent spreading moisture and protects the finish.
Pay close attention to areas near sinks, dishwashers, ovens, and cooktops, as these spots are more prone to moisture and should be checked regularly.
Humidity, Dry Air, Moisture and Heat
Changes in humidity naturally affect real wood. Higher humidity levels can cause wood to expand, while dry air can cause it to contract. This movement is normal and expected in wood cabinetry, not a defect.
To help protect your cabinets, avoid exposing them to direct moisture or heat. Steam from appliances like coffee makers, tea kettles, or rice cookers should not be directed toward cabinet surfaces. It’s also best to avoid placing damp towels over doors or drawers.
If moisture does come in contact with your cabinets, dry the area as soon as possible. Heat producing appliances should be positioned so that heat is directed away from cabinet surfaces to help maintain the integrity of the finish.
Summary
Leaving water, cleaning solutions, or excess moisture on cabinet surfaces for extended periods can damage the finish. To maintain the integrity of your cabinetry, surfaces should always be dried promptly after exposure.
Damage caused by prolonged moisture or improper care is not covered under our lifetime limited warranty.
Submitted by: Blue Mountain Woodworking, Inc