If you are looking for a clean and simple look in your kitchen, then stainless steel kitchen cabinet accessories may be the perfect choice. It’s an ideal match for new stainless steel appliances and can add a touch of modern elegance to any kitchen. While stainless steel kitchen cabinet hardware is probably the least demanding when it comes to cleaning, it will still need a little TLC from time to time. Heat and grease can take a toll on your kitchen cabinet hardware, and stainless steel is no exception. So get ready to do some maintenance on this otherwise carefree home hardware.

If your stainless steel cabinet handles and drawer pulls have been up for a while, they may be looking a bit dull and in need of cleaning. Clean-in-place is possible if the kitchen cabinet hardware is not too dirty. You can clean them along with the surface of your cabinets, using a soft, damp cloth and an orange-based degreasing cleaner. Follow up with a dry cloth to buff your kitchen cabinet hardware to a shimmering shine.

Remove your stainless steel cabinet handles for a thorough cleaning

If your stainless steel hardware is really greasy and dirty, you really should remove it for a deeper clean. This means grabbing your screwdriver and removing all the drawer pulls, knobs, and hinges so you can give them a good scrub. It’s a good idea if you can have someone help you with this, as it will require removing the cabinet doors and you don’t want them to twist or fall off in the process. Start by unscrewing the bottom hinge first and leave the top screw on the top hinge all the way through. Have your helper hold the door while you remove the last screw and carefully lower the door.

Remove all kitchen cabinet hardware from the doors and do the same for all the drawers. Mark each door and drawer as to its location using a small label or piece of tape. Place the screws in a container for safe storage. If these need cleaning, add water and some orange cleaner to let them soak. Place all of your accessories in a basin or other properly sized container and cover with warm water and orange degreasing cleaner, following label directions for amount to use. Do not put small parts, such as knobs, directly into the kitchen sink. If you have a disposal unit in your sink, it’s easy for smaller pieces to fall into it.

Reinstalling Your Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

After the kitchen cabinet hardware has soaked for about 15 to 20 minutes, it’s time to scrub off the grime. This is where an old toothbrush can come in handy. It’s tough enough to remove loose dirt, but won’t scratch drawer pulls and knobs like steel wool or harsh abrasives would. It’s also great if your stainless steel cabinet knobs and handles have any detail. Lay all clean parts on a towel and let dry or hand dry. Pay special attention to the hinges to make sure they are completely dry.

Replace your kitchen cabinet hardware by putting hinges on the doors and then knobs or handles. Attach the door to the frame using the top hinge first, then aligning the remaining screw holes. Add a drop of oil to the hinges. Use a brand that displaces moisture and use sparingly. If you remember to routinely clean your stainless steel cabinet hardware along with the rest of your kitchen, you’ll rarely have to remove it for a deeper clean.