The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Matte Kitchen Cupboards

December 31, 2024

Matte kitchens cupboards are loved for their sleek and understated look, which makes them incredibly popular among UK consumers. There’s no doubt that a matt finish in a kitchen offers an aesthetic that is both refined and modern. Unlike gloss finishes, which tend to reflect light and showcase every speck of dust, matte finishes work a bit differently. They don’t have that shine, giving a smooth, streamlined appearance. Instead, they absorb light, creating a muted look that’s effortlessly chic. But as stylish as it is, a matte kitchen can come with a few cleaning challenges.

For those of us spending anywhere from £10,000 to £30,000 on our kitchen renovations, we want to make sure that every detail, including the kitchen doors and cabinets, look their best. If you’re considering a matt finish, let’s dive into what you should expect when it comes to their cleaning and maintenance. 

Why Keeping Matte Cabinets Clean Can Be Tricky

As matte kitchens have grown increasingly popular, many people are drawn to them for their textured look. However, one of the most common questions is how best to keep them looking smooth and seamless without ruining the surface. Matte cabinets are unique in that they don’t show fingerprints or smudges as clearly as glossy cabinets. However, they do show dirt and grime more visibly. This difference between gloss and matt can actually work as both an advantage and a disadvantage.

For instance, while you may not have to wipe away fingerprints constantly, matte surfaces often fall victim to everyday wear and tear. Regular cleaning is essential to avoid the build-up of dirt and to prevent any stubborn stains from setting in. 

In a busy family kitchen, this can quickly become an issue, especially with smudges, cooking grease, and oil spills. Thankfully, there are simple procedures to follow that keep your matt kitchen cupboards looking their best without too much hassle.

How to Clean a Matte Kitchen Easily

One of the best ways to clean a matte kitchen is by using soapy waters. Now, this may sound basic, but it’s highly effective for regular maintenance. 

The best way to maintain your matte cupboard doors is by sticking to a simple cleaning routine. No need for expensive cleaning products! All you need are items you likely already have at home. Here’s where a bit of hot water and washing-up liquid comes to the rescue.

Step-by-step Process
  1. Fill a bowl with hot water and add a drop or two of washing-up liquid.
  2. Soak a clean microfibre cloth in the soapy water, wring it out slightly, and use it to gently wipe down all the matt surfaces.
  3. Be sure to focus on areas like hinges and handles, as these spots can accumulate more dirt and grime over time.
  4. Use a second clean microfibre cloth soaked in warm water (without soap) to rinse the surface, followed by a final wipe with a dry cloth to eliminate any remaining moisture.

Following these simple steps every week or so can prevent any heavy build-up and keep your kitchen cupboards in pristine condition.

Using Vinegar for Grease and Stubborn Dirt

Sometimes, regular soapy waters just aren’t enough, especially if you’re dealing with grease and oil that seem to stick to the surface. This is where vinegar comes in as an excellent alternative. Thanks to its natural acidic properties, vinegar can effectively break down grime without damaging the matt finish on your cabinets.

Simply follow the same steps as you would with soapy water, but replace the washing-up liquid with a small amount of vinegar. The acidic nature of vinegar makes it perfect for removing grease from cabinets while being safe enough for regular cleaning. However, because it’s a natural acid, you don’t have to worry about it affecting the surface of your matt kitchen cupboards.

Using vinegar every few weeks can be a fantastic way to ensure that any stubborn dirt is taken care of without causing any damage to the finish.

  1. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
  2. Spray the solution directly onto the stubborn dirt.
  3. Wipe with a microfibre cloth, working in circular motions.
  4. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Tackling Stubborn Stains with a Miracle Cure

There will be times when even vinegar and soapy water won’t fully tackle those pesky stubborn stains. In these cases, you might need a bit of a miracle cure in the form of a bicarbonate of soda and vinegar paste.

To Create This Paste
  1. Mix a small quantity of vinegar and bicarbonate of soda until it forms a smooth consistency.
  2. Apply the paste to a clean cloth and gently dab it onto the dirt-affected area.
  3. Let it sit for a moment, allowing the paste to penetrate the surface grime.
  4. After a few minutes, use another clean cloth to gently rub the paste in circular motions, helping lift the stain from the matte surface.
  5. Finally, rinse with clean water and finish with a dry cloth to avoid any residue.

This simple procedure can work wonders on those really tough spots. It’s like having a mini scrub-up for your kitchen cupboards when regular cleaning just won’t cut it.

Handling Greasy Fingerprints on Matte Cupboards

Greasy fingerprints are almost impossible to avoid, especially with small hands or frequent cooking in the kitchen. For fingerprints, oil marks, or greasy smudges on your matte cupboards, vinegar remains your best friend. Because it’s acidic yet gentle, it’s able to cut through grease without leaving any traces on the surface.

Just substitute the washing-up liquid in your regular cleaning routine with vinegar and follow the steps. You’ll notice that those fingerprints disappear, and your cabinets will maintain their fresh, sleek look. This method keeps oil marks at bay, so your kitchen doors always look as good as new.

Common Challenges with Matte Cupboards

While matte cupboards are easier to maintain than glossy alternatives, they still come with their own set of challenges:

  1. Dirt visibility: Unlike gloss, dirt is more noticeable on matte surfaces.
  2. Regular maintenance: Frequent wiping is essential to prevent grime build-up.
  3. Surface texture: Some matte finishes have a slight texture, which can trap dust and grease.

The key to avoiding these problems is to establish a cleaning routine and act quickly when spills or stains appear.

SKB: Your Go-To Experts for Matte Kitchens

If you’re thinking about updating your kitchen cupboards with a matte finish, we at SKB Group, located in the Northwest UK, are here to help. We specialise in creating bespoke cupboards that fit perfectly into your space, utilising every inch while accommodating existing features like pipework and sockets. Our expert team ensures your matt cupboard doors are not only stylish but also easy to maintain.

Whether you’re renovating on a budget or investing in a high-end kitchen, we offer the ideal blend of functionality and aesthetics. Plus, we provide personalised advice on keeping your cupboards clean and flawless for years to come.

Choosing a matte finish for your kitchen is just one part of the journey. If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, it’s crucial to understand the installation process to ensure everything fits seamlessly. Check out our blog on Kitchen Installation Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Start for expert tips to make your installation smooth and stress-free.