How to Clean Sticky Grease off Kitchen Cabinets
Sticky kitchen cabinets are more common than you’d think, especially if you love cooking! Over time, airborne grease, food splatters, and even just touching cabinets with oily hands can lead to a stubborn layer of sticky grime. The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals to get your kitchen looking spotless again. In this guide, Dolphin Home Cleaning shares proven, safe, and effective methods to clean sticky grease off kitchen cabinets, using simple products you likely already have at home.
What Causes Grease Build-Up on Kitchen Cabinets?
Kitchen cabinets, especially those closest to the stove or oven, are prime targets for grease build-up. The main causes include:
- Cooking with oils and fats, which release tiny grease particles into the air
- Lack of proper ventilation or use of extractor fans
- Regular contact with greasy hands or utensils
- Infrequent cleaning, allowing grease to layer over time
✨ The Best Methods to Clean Sticky Grease
Dish Soap and Warm Water (Best for Light Grease)
A mild dish soap cuts through grease effectively without damaging cabinet finishes.
Warm water
A few drops of dish soap
Microfiber cloth or soft sponge
Mix warm water with dish soap. Dip a cloth in the solution, wring it out, and wipe down cabinets. For tougher spots, apply a bit of soap directly to the sponge. Rinse with clean water and dry with a cloth.
White Vinegar Solution (Natural Degreaser for Moderate Grease)
White vinegar’s acidity helps dissolve grease safely.
White vinegar
Warm water (1:1 ratio)
Spray bottle
Soft cloth
Spray the vinegar solution onto greasy areas. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes. Wipe with a damp cloth, then dry with a clean towel. Great for most cabinet finishes, including laminate and gloss.
Baking Soda and Lemon (Ideal for Stubborn, Sticky Grease)
This combo is gentle but powerful, and smells fresh too.
1 part baking soda
2 parts warm water
Juice of 1 lemon
Sponge
Spray bottle
Mix ingredients and add to a spray bottle. Spray directly on grease. Wait 2–3 minutes, then scrub with a soft sponge. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Citrus-Based Cleaners (Store-Bought Natural Option)
Many multipurpose cleaners use citrus oils, which are natural degreasers.
How to use:
Spray the cleaner directly onto the cabinets, let sit briefly, and wipe clean with a damp cloth. Follow with a dry cloth to remove any moisture.
Tips for Specific Cabinet Types
👉 Gloss Cabinets:
Use soft cloths and avoid abrasives to protect the shiny finish. Vinegar solutions work well here.
👉 Wood Cabinets:
Be gentle to avoid damaging the finish. After cleaning, consider applying a small amount of wood polish or beeswax conditioner to restore moisture and protection.
Which Cabinets Get the Greasiest?
Cabinets above or near the stove are the greasiest zones, thanks to rising steam and oil particles. Cabinets near fryers, toasters, or microwaves may also accumulate grime faster. Regular cleaning of these high-impact areas will save you time in the long run.
How to Prevent Grease Buildup in the Future
At Dolphin Home Cleaning, we believe prevention is just as important as the clean itself. Try these tips:
Use your range hood or extractor fan while cooking
Cook with lids to reduce splatters
Wipe down cabinets weekly with warm soapy water
Install cabinet liners to catch messes
Use grease guards while frying
Clean spills immediately
Consider grease-resistant paint or finishes in your next kitchen reno
Prefer to Leave It to the Pros?
If you’re dealing with years of built-up grease or simply don’t have the time, let the experts at Dolphin Home Cleaning take care of it. We specialize in eco-friendly kitchen cleaning services in Miami, using safe, effective products that get real results, without damaging your surfaces.
Sticky grease might be stubborn, but it’s no match for the right technique and a little patience. Whether you’re a DIY cleaner or prefer to call in the pros, keeping your kitchen cabinets clean makes your entire space feel fresher, brighter, and more hygienic.
