Maintenance Guide for Wood Finish Cabinets & Stone Worktops
A well-designed kitchen doesn’t just serve its purpose on installation day—it should remain beautiful and functional for years to come. At Jonathan Wolfe Kitchens, we craft each cabinet and worktop with precision and care, using premium materials such as solid wood, high-quality veneers, and durable stone surfaces like granite and Caesarstone. However, even the finest materials benefit from regular maintenance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to keep your wood-finished cabinets and stone worktops in peak condition, ensuring they continue to shine for years.
1. Caring for Wood-Finish Cabinets
Wood is a living material—it expands, contracts, and matures with age. Whether you’ve opted for solid wooden doors, painted finishes, or veneer panels, here are a few tips to preserve their natural charm:
a. Daily Cleaning
Use a soft, damp microfibre cloth to wipe down cabinet surfaces. For greasy marks or fingerprints, mix a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid with warm water and gently clean the surface. Always wipe dry with a clean cloth to avoid moisture penetration.
Avoid:
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Harsh chemical cleaners
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Abrasive scouring pads
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Excessive water or soaking
These can damage the wood’s finish, dull painted surfaces, or cause warping over time.
b. Managing Moisture and Humidity
Wood and water don’t get along for extended periods. Take care to avoid steam build-up from kettles or dishwashers directly beneath cabinet panels. Use your extractor fan when cooking to help regulate humidity levels in the kitchen.
If you notice doors beginning to stick or warp, this may be due to high humidity. A dehumidifier can help maintain a stable environment, especially in coastal homes around KwaZulu-Natal.
c. Regular Dusting and Polishing
For veneered or painted surfaces, regular dusting with a dry, soft cloth prevents dirt build-up. For natural wood, you may apply a specialist wood polish or conditioner every few months. Be sure to use a product suitable for the type of finish you have—whether oil-based, lacquered, or painted.
2. Protecting and Cleaning Stone Worktops
Granite and Caesarstone are popular choices for worktops thanks to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance. However, they are not entirely invincible and do require some care to preserve their pristine finish.
a. Caesarstone (Quartz Composite) Maintenance
Caesarstone is non-porous, making it resistant to stains and bacteria. This makes it ideal for busy kitchens where hygiene is essential.
Daily Cleaning:
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Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap.
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Avoid abrasive pads or acidic cleaners (such as vinegar, lemon, or bleach).
Stain Removal:
For more stubborn stains, apply a non-abrasive cream cleaner with a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly.
Heat & Scratch Prevention:
Although Caesarstone is heat resistant, always use a trivet for hot pots and pans. Use a cutting board for chopping—this not only protects the surface but also preserves your knives!
b. Granite Worktop Care
Granite is a natural stone, so each slab is unique. It’s also porous, which means it needs to be sealed during installation—and periodically afterwards—to prevent staining.
Daily Cleaning:
Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or warm soapy water. As with Caesarstone, avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives.
Resealing:
Granite should be resealed approximately once a year, depending on usage. You’ll know it’s time when water no longer beads on the surface. Reapplying a sealant helps maintain the surface’s resistance to spills and stains.
Avoiding Damage:
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Don’t stand or sit on the countertop—this can cause cracks.
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Wipe spills quickly, especially acidic ones like wine, citrus juice, or vinegar.
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Use chopping boards and coasters to protect the surface.
3. Preventing Common Problems Before They Arise
Proactive maintenance goes a long way in extending the life of your kitchen. Here are a few golden rules to keep both cabinets and worktops looking their best:
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Ventilation is key – a well-ventilated kitchen reduces excess moisture that can harm wood and stone.
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Sunlight can fade finishes – consider UV-protective window coverings if your kitchen gets strong sunlight all day.
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Always lift, never drag – when moving small appliances or décor items across your countertop, lift them to avoid scratching.
4. When to Call in the Professionals
Some maintenance tasks are better left to the experts. For instance, if you notice discolouration on stone surfaces or damage to cabinet finishes that cleaning can’t resolve, it may be time for a professional resurface, polish, or re-sealing. At Jonathan Wolfe Kitchens, we offer ongoing support and advice—even years after installation. You’re welcome to contact us for guidance or service recommendations.
Final Thoughts
A bespoke kitchen is an investment, not only in your property but in your daily lifestyle. With a little regular care, your cabinetry and worktops will reward you with years of beauty and performance. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll protect your kitchen’s value and preserve the pride you felt the day it was installed.
