Upon Installation
Wipe the cabinets clean with a soft, damp cloth and dry immediately with another clean, soft cloth. Always wipe in the direction of the wood grain. Apply a thin coat of high quality polish. Choose a polish that does not contain silicone or wax, and follow the manufacturer's directions for application. A high-quality polish will aid in protection from minor scratching, staining and excessive moisture.
Basic Cleaning
Routine cleaning with the appropriate materials will help prevent long-term damage to your finish. Wipe with a dampened cloth and promptly wipe dry. Use a clean cloth dampened with a solution of mild dish washing liquid and water to remove oil, grease, food residue or daily spills. Do not use your dishcloth to clean the cabinets as it may contain remnants of detergents and grease that can have a harmful effect on the finish. Avoid using cleaners that contain the following: bleach, ammonia, citrus products, mineral oil, organic solvents; harsh detergents, strong soaps, abrasive cleansers; or self-polishing waxes (particularly products that contain silicone). It is not recommended to use paste wax because of the "build up" and "yellowing" effects over time. It is recommended to use a high-quality cream furniture polish.
Wipe Spills Promptly
Many substances become difficult to remove and may stain or cause other damage upon prolonged contact. If a spill occurs, wipe it promptly with a damp cloth or sponge and dry the surface immediately. Use a blotting action rather than a wiping action to remove the substance.
Avoid Excessive Moisture
This is one of the worst enemies of any finish. Cabinetry near the sink and dishwasher, and baseboards are most susceptible. Dry off any areas immediately where water has spilled. Avoid draping dish towels or other wet items over doors or placing coffee makers where steam vents directly onto cabinet surfaces.
Avoid Temperature And Humidity Extremes
Extremes in temperature and humidity can cause wood to expand and contract, swell or warp, and dry out—possibly damaging the finish of your cabinetry. It is important to control the temperature and humidity in your home all year long. You should allow minor warping to go through one heating cycle before considering replacement.
Avoid Exposure To Harsh Cleaners
Harsh cleaners can damage the finish of your cabinetry. Avoid cleaners containing ammonia, bleach, citric acid (including orange and lemon oil) and organic solvents.
Avoid Exposure To Waxes
Most common self-polishing waxes can damage your finish. Take care to use only high-quality cream furniture polishes available from high-end furniture or paint stores.
Guard Against Scratching And Abrasion
Clean with a soft, damp cloth when necessary. Avoid using scouring pads and abrasive cleansers as they may dull fine finishes.
Guard Against Plastic And Rubber
Use felt or clothe under plastic or rubber objects as their ingredients may react with wood counter tops.
Avoid Aggressive Acids
Avoid products containing aggressive acids or abrasives as they may cause damage to laminate finishes (Lime-A-Way, Soft Scrub, Tilex, etc.).
Avoid Chips And Scratches
Avoid abrasive cleansers and cleaning tools. Some "stiff" paper towels may leave tiny scratches that dull the surface. Always use a soft cloth when cleaning laminate surfaces. Never use a laminate counter top as a cutting surface. Use a chopping block when cutting to avoid chipping and scratching. Fine scratches may be covered with a light spray furniture polish.