How to Clean Cabinet Hardware

Cleaning cabinet hardware can brighten the whole kitchen.

Nothing makes cabinets look old and worn like dirty cabinet hardware. Often overlooked when performing everyday cleaning tasks, this hardware can accumulate a lot of greasy buildup and plain old dirt after months or years of daily use. Cleaning it is quite simple and can be accomplished in less than an afternoon's worth of time. The result will be gleaming hardware that brightens the overall look of cabinetry with minimal physical effort.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver Sink or wash basin Multipurpose detergent cleaner Water Rubber gloves Old toothbrush Paper towels

Instructions

1. Remove cabinet hardware using a screwdriver. Sort into three groups: hinges, screws and pulls. Fill sink or wash basin with hot water and detergent. Submerge one group at a time (hinges, screws or pulls) into soapy solution. Allow to soak for 20 to 30 minutes.

2. Wear rubber gloves, as detergent solution may be harsh on hands. Using an old toothbrush, scrub each piece of hardware to remove sticky particles and grease.

3. 

   Empty soiled water and detergent and run fresh hot water into basin or sink. Soak hardware in clean water. Swish each piece to rinse thoroughly. Set each piece on dry paper towels.
   Repeat the process for the other two groups of hardware pieces.

4. Dry and polish each piece of cabinet hardware using a clean paper towel. Place pieces on another clean paper towel for about an hour to further air dry. This will prevent rusting. Arrange hardware into groups by each cabinet door before reattaching.

5. Affix hardware to cabinetry with a screwdriver. Stand back and notice the bright and gleaming effect afforded by the clean and polished hardware.
   Make a note on the calendar to repeat these steps every six months. The steps will take less effort in subsequent cleanings.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the label on cleaning products carefully to make sure they are safe for use on metal.

Resources

• Lowe's: Kitchen cabinet facelift