What Cleans Grease Off of Kitchen Cabinets

How to Remove Years of Grease From Kitchen Cabinets Without Damaging Them

If you have ever cooked in a busy kitchen, you know how easily grease collects on cabinets. Over time, the combination of cooking oil, steam, and airborne particles creates a sticky layer that clings to surfaces and attracts dust. After a while, many homeowners start asking the same question: What cleans grease off of kitchen cabinets?

Whether your cabinets have a light film from regular use or heavy buildup from years of frying, you can remove the grease safely without harming the finish. The key is using the right cleaning methods for your cabinet material and understanding which products can help and which ones can cause damage.

In this guide, we will break down why grease builds up so quickly, what cleaning solutions work best, how to clean different types of cabinets, and how to prevent the grease from coming back.

Why Grease Builds Up on Kitchen Cabinets

Grease buildup in kitchens is inevitable. Even if you do not cook with a lot of oil, normal cooking activities release tiny particles into the air.

Here is why grease sticks to your cabinets:

Heat and Steam Carry Oil Particles

When you cook, hot air rises. This air contains grease droplets from frying, sautéing, and even boiling foods. As the steam cools, grease settles onto the nearest surfaces, like cabinets.

Grease Acts Like Glue

Fresh grease is sticky. It traps dust, crumbs, and dirt, turning into a thick film that becomes harder to remove the longer it sits.

Cabinet Surfaces Are Not Always Sealed Well

Wood, paint, laminate, and thermofoil all react differently. Some absorb oil, while others let it sit on top.

High Traffic Areas Build Up Faster

Cabinets near the stove, microwave, and dishwasher get greasy much faster than those in other parts of the kitchen.

The longer the grease sits, the harder it becomes to remove. That is why knowing the right cleaning method is important.

What Cleans Grease Off of Kitchen Cabinets? The Most Effective Options

Grease removal does not have to be complicated. The best cleaners are often already in your home. Let us look at the most effective and safest options.

1. Warm Water and Dish Soap

This is the gentlest and safest method for all cabinet types.

Why it works:

• Dish soap breaks grease bonds
• Warm water softens sticky residue
• Safe for wood, paint, laminate, and most finishes

How to use:

• Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap in a bowl or bucket
• Dip a cloth, wring it out so it is damp, not soaking
• Wipe the cabinet in small sections

2. Vinegar and Water

A natural degreaser that works well for many cabinets.

Why it works:

• Vinegar breaks down oily residue
• Removes odors and sticky surfaces

Best for:

• Laminate
• Painted cabinets
• Metal surfaces

Avoid on natural stone or unfinished wood.

3. Baking Soda Paste

Great for removing stubborn, thick grease.

Why it works:

• Baking soda is a mild abrasive
• Loosens grease without scratching most surfaces

How to use:

• Mix baking soda with a little water to form a thick paste
• Apply gently to greasy areas
• Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe

4. Mild Commercial Degreaser

For heavy, years-long buildup.

Choose degreasers labeled safe for cabinets.

Tips:

• Test on a small spot first
• Avoid anything too harsh or industrial
• Follow directions closely

5. Oil-Based Cleaner

Yes, oil can dissolve oil.

Why it works:

• Oil helps break apart thick, dry grease
• Works well on deep, sticky buildup

How to use:

• Apply a small amount of mineral oil or coconut oil to a cloth
• Rub lightly over the grease
• Follow with dish soap and water to remove oily residue

6. Magic Eraser (Used Carefully)

Effective but must be used lightly.

Best for:

• Yellowed areas
• Sticky residue
• Small patches of stubborn grime

Avoid using it on shiny wood, glossy paint, or delicate finishes because it can remove the surface coating.

How to Clean Grease Off Kitchen Cabinets Step by Step

Here is a more detailed, easy-to-follow routine you can use on most cabinets. Take your time and work one section at a time so you do not miss any spots.

Step 1: Get Your Supplies Ready

Before you start, gather:

• a bucket or a large bowl
• warm water
• mild dish soap
• two soft cloths or microfiber rags
• a non-scratch sponge
• an old toothbrush or small soft brush (for corners and grooves)
• a dry towel

Having everything nearby helps you work faster and keeps you from leaving cleaner on the cabinets too long.

Step 2: Remove Surface Dust and Loose Dirt

Use a dry cloth to wipe cabinet fronts, sides, and edges.

• Start at the top and work down.
• Wipe around handles, along edges, and under the cabinet lip.
• This step removes crumbs and dust so they do not smear into the grease later.

You do not need to scrub here. A quick wipe is enough.

Step 3: Mix a Gentle Cleaning Solution

In your bucket or bowl:

• Fill with warm (not boiling) water.
• Add a small amount of dish soap, about a teaspoon or so.

You want soapy water, not thick foam. Too much soap can leave a film on the cabinets.

Step 4: Test a Small Hidden Area First

Before cleaning everything:

• Dip your cloth in the soapy water and wring it out well.
• Wipe a small spot on the side or inside edge of a cabinet door.
• Dry it and check if the finish looks the same.

If there is no change in color or shine, you can safely continue.

Step 5: Clean One Cabinet Door at a Time

Work in sections so the cleaner does not sit too long.

For each door:

1. Dip your cloth into the soapy water and wring it out until it is damp.
2. Wipe the door from top to bottom using light pressure.
3. Pay attention to areas near handles and around the stove, where grease builds up the most.
4. If grease is stubborn, gently rub in small circles rather than pressing hard.

If the cloth gets dirty, rinse and wring it again before continuing.

Step 6: Let the Cleaner Sit on Tough Spots

For thicker, older grease:

• Apply the soapy cloth to the greasy area.
• Hold it there for 20 to 30 seconds.
• This gives the soap time to soften the grease before you scrub.

You can also gently press the cloth onto corners and trim where buildup is heavy.

Step 7: Use a Soft Sponge or Brush for Stubborn Grease

If some spots do not come off with a cloth:

• Use a non-scratch sponge with the same soapy water.
• Rub lightly in small circles.
• For grooves, corners, or detailed trim, use an old toothbrush.

Do not use rough scouring pads. They can scratch the surface or remove the finish.

Step 8: Rinse With Clean Water

Once the grease is removed from a door or drawer front:

• Dip a second clean cloth into plain warm water (no soap).
• Wring it out well.
• Wipe the same area to remove any soap or cleaner left behind.

Leaving soap residue on cabinets can attract more dirt over time, so this step is important.

Step 9: Dry the Cabinets Right Away

Use a dry towel or microfiber cloth to:

• Wipe the cabinet surface until it is completely dry.
• Buff lightly to restore shine.

This helps prevent water damage, warping, or streaks, especially on wood or painted cabinets.

Step 10: Treat Extra Stubborn Areas With Baking Soda Paste

If you still see greasy patches:

1. Mix a spoonful of baking soda with a few drops of water to make a paste.
2. Apply the paste gently to the greasy area.
3. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Wipe with a damp cloth or lightly scrub with a soft sponge.
5. Rinse and dry again.

Do not use baking soda paste on highly glossy or delicate finishes without testing a small area first.

Step 11: Repeat On All Doors, Drawers, and Cabinet Frames

Continue the same process across:

• all upper cabinets
• all lower cabinets
• cabinet sides and frames
• the area above the stove and near the oven

This method may take time on older grease, but it is safer for your cabinets in the long run.

How to Remove Heavy, Long-Term Grease Buildup

If your cabinets have years of grease buildup, you may need a slightly stronger approach.

Try these techniques:

Baking Soda Paste for Thick Patches

Use on areas where grease feels sticky or layered.

• Apply the paste directly to greasy patches.
• Let it sit for a few minutes.
• Gently scrub and wipe clean.

Oil-Based Cleaners for Old Grease

For hardened, dry grease:

• Put a small amount of coconut oil or mineral oil on a cloth.
• Rub the greasy spot in circles until it softens.
• Wash afterward with dish soap and water to remove oily residue.

Soft Bristle Brush for Details

Use a small, soft brush on:

• carved details
• grooves in wood
• the edge of shaker-style doors

Always brush gently to avoid damaging the finish.

What Not to Use on Kitchen Cabinets

Some cleaning products and tools can permanently damage your cabinets.

Avoid:

• bleach
• oven cleaner
• harsh chemical degreasers
• steel wool or metal scrub pads
• scouring powders
• very hot steam applied directly to cabinet surfaces

These can strip paint, scratch wood, damage laminate, or remove protective finishes.

Cleaning Different Types of Kitchen Cabinets

Not all cabinets respond the same way to degreasers. Here are tips for each type.

Wood Cabinets

Wood is sensitive to water and harsh cleaners.

• Use mild soap and water only.
• Do not soak the wood.
• Always dry right away.
• If the wood looks dry after cleaning, apply a small amount of wood conditioner or furniture polish to restore moisture.

Painted Cabinets

Painted surfaces can chip or fade if scrubbed too hard.

• Use gentle dish soap and water.
• Avoid abrasive pads.
• Do not let water sit on the surface.
• Touch up chipped paint after cleaning if needed.

Laminate Cabinets

Laminate is usually easy to clean.

• Safe for dish soap, vinegar, and baking soda.
• Avoid oil-based cleaners and very strong chemicals.
• Do not flood the edges with water, as moisture can cause swelling.

Thermofoil Cabinets

These have a vinyl-like coating over a core.

• Use mild soap and water only.
• Avoid hot water or high heat, which can loosen the adhesive.
• Do not scrub aggressively, as the top layer can peel.

Glass Front Cabinets

Both the glass and frame can collect grease.

• Use glass cleaner on the glass panels.
• Use dish soap and water on the frame.
• Clean around the edges where grease often hides.

How to Clean Cabinet Handles and Hardware

Cabinet handles collect a lot of grease from hands and cooking.

To clean them:

• If possible, remove the handles with a screwdriver.
• Soak them in warm, soapy water for several minutes.
• Scrub with an old toothbrush, especially around grooves.
• Rinse and dry well before reinstalling.
• Wipe the area behind and around the handle before putting it back.

Shiny hardware often makes cabinets look newer and cleaner.

Signs of Grease Damage on Cabinets

If grease has been left on cabinets for a long time, it may already have caused some damage.

Look for:

• sticky residue that does not fully go away
• yellow or dark stains around handles or near the stove
• faded or dull patches on the finish
• dry or cracked wood areas
• peeling or bubbling paint or laminate
• a strong, lingering, greasy smell

Mild damage can often be improved with careful cleaning. Serious damage may need refinishing or replacement.

How to Keep Your Cabinets Grease-Free

Prevention is the easiest way to avoid heavy scrubbing later.

• Wipe cabinet doors once a week with warm water and a drop of dish soap.
• Always turn on your stove hood fan when cooking.
• Cover pans when frying to reduce splatter.
• Clean splashes or spills on the same day.
• Do a quick wipe around handles after cooking greasy meals.

Regular light cleaning prevents thick, stubborn buildup.

When to Hire a Professional Cleaner

Sometimes, grease buildup is too stubborn to remove on your own. You may need professional help if:

• your cabinets have thick, sticky layers that do not budge
• you are worried about damaging wood or special finishes
• you have a large kitchen and no time for detailed cleaning
• you are preparing for a move, sale, or renovation
• you want a full deep, clean that includes cabinets, appliances, and more

Professionals use safe methods and products that protect your cabinets while removing tough grease.

Final Thoughts

So, what cleans grease off of kitchen cabinets? Most of the time, the best answer is simple: warm water, mild dish soap, and patience. For tougher spots, baking soda paste, gentle degreasers, and oil-based cleaners can help break down years of buildup. The most important rule is to clean carefully so you do not damage the cabinet finish.

With a thoughtful step-by-step approach and regular upkeep, you can restore your cabinets and keep them looking fresh for years, without harsh chemicals or aggressive scrubbing.

If your kitchen cabinets need more than a simple wipe down, ProClean’s House Cleaning Langley team is ready to help. We specialize in safe, effective grease removal and full kitchen cleaning that protects your surfaces. To schedule a visit or learn more about our services, simply get a quote today!

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Find out more articles that can help you below:

• Why are My Kitchen Cabinets Sticky After Cleaning
• What Is the Effect of Oven Cleaner on Kitchen Countertops
• What Cleans Grease Off of Kitchen Cabinets