4 Simple Steps to Clean Kitchen Drawers and Cupboards – No Fuss, Just Results

Removing items from the cutterly drawer to clean

How to Clean Kitchen Drawers and Cupboards Like a Pro

Let’s be real for a second: kitchen drawers and kitchen cupboards are a bit of a mystery. They’re closed most of the time, right? So how on earth do they end up so dirty? Crumbs, sticky spots, mysterious smudges—where does it all come from? It’s like a dirt fairy sneaks in when we’re not looking. But whatever the cause, one thing is clear: those grubby drawers and cupboards aren’t going to clean themselves.

Heres’ the deal—tackling this task doesn’t have to be a marathon of misery. In fact, with the right approach (and maybe a little background music), it can be a satisfying and surprisingly quick job. But before you dive headfirst in the cleaning mission you’ll need to decide on one thing: are you here to clean or are you here to organise? Because trying to do both at the same time can turn a quick job into an all-day event. Not that there’s anything wrong with that—just know what you’re in for!

So, here’s what we’re going to do: grab a cuppa, pop on your favourite podcast or playlist, and let’s roll up those sleeves. We’re about to get your kitchen storage spaces so clean, you’ll want to show them off (or at least stop dreading opening that one dreaded drawer!), Ready? Let’s dive in!

Step 1: The Drawer-by-Drawer (or Shelf-by-Shelf) Method for kitchen drawers and cupboards

Removing plates from the kitchen cupboard to clean the cupboard

Start with one kitchen drawer or one kitchen shelf. Trying to tackle the whole kitchen at once can get overwhelming, so breaking it down keeps things manageable. If you open a drawer and are greeted by an army of crumbs, don’t fret. Just vacuum them up first. It’s far easier than trying to wipe them out of the corners.

Pro Tip: As you go, take inventory of what’s in each drawer. Are there items you rarely use? Maybe it’s time to relocate or donate them? Less clutter means it’s easier to find a home for what you do use regularly and easier cleaning next time too!

Step 2: Spray and wipe your kitchen drawers or cupboards

Spraying kitchen drawer with Figgy & Co's Everyday Spray    Spraying Kitchen cupboard with Figgy & Co's Everyday Spray

Once your drawer or cupboard is crumb-free, grab your Everyday Spray. Give the inside a good spritz and let it sit for a moment. This little pause allows the spray to work its magic, lifting away any grime. After a minute, wipe it all down with your cloth. If you find something particularly sticky, let the spray sit for a little longer before wiping it away. This trick works wonders on those sticky, dusty spots that seem to camp out on top of cupboards. You can also use warm soapy water for cleaning this space. Both a non-toxic and ideal for cleaning around your kitchen items.

Pro Tip: For those stubborn scuff marks, cast iron pan marks or hardened gunk, our Figgy & Co Cleaning Paste is your best friend. This is our best selling hard surface cleaner, a little goes a long way in making those marks disappear with absolute ease.

Many modern kitchen cabinets have a matt finish, which when freshly clean look great. However, these show greasy finger prints like crazy. When you are cleaning your matt cupboard fronts, use a streak free cloth (like the Figgy eco cloth) and apply a good amount of pressure to help lift grime, you might find spraying onto your cloth rather than onto your cabinetry works better. Wiping in one direction will keep streaks at bay too.

Step 3: handle the handles (and more) on your kitchen drawers and cupboards

Cleaning the handles on the kitchen drawer with Figgy & Co's Everyday Spray

Handles, edges, and facings often get overlooked, but they can be a germ party if you’re not careful – with spills that can be hidden and a high touch point from frequent opening and closing. After you’ve cleaned them using the same spray-and-wipe method, finish with a disinfectant spray or a vinegar-based cleaner to keep those microbe levels down. And don’t forget to rinse and wring out your cloth regularly—you’ll be surprised at how much dirt comes off!

Step 4: rinse, repeat, and enjoy your clean kitchen drawers and cupboards

Move on to the next kitchen drawer or cupboard and repeat the process until your kitchen storage is sparkling. Sure, it might take a bit of time, but think of how satisfying it will be when you open a drawer and it’s actually clean! Plus, with everything in its rightful place, you’ll save time and reduce stress in your daily kitchen routine.

Stop the shuffle: If  you have drawers and find items slide around when opening and closing – look for a drawer liner that gives some grip, and stops your cups and plates going for a slide. You can use a natural felt or the modern roll out liner you’ll find at spotlight.

How to Keep your kitchen drawers and cupboards Clean for Longer

Once your drawers and cupboards are spotless, you’ll want to keep them that way! A quick wipe-down once a week can prevent grime from building up again. Store items you use frequently in the most accessible spots. This reduces the chances of spills and crumbs in drawers that aren’t opened as often.

Remember, you don’t have to tackle this all-in-one go—do a little at a time, and before you know it, your kitchen will be a beacon of cleanliness. Happy cleaning!

 

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