Metal lateral cabinets are a popular storage solution for offices, clinics, hospitals, and other professional settings. Over time, these cabinets can accumulate dust, dirt, spills, and grime. Regular cleaning keeps metal lateral cabinets looking their best and helps prevent the buildup of germs. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to thoroughly clean metal lateral cabinets.
Supplies Needed
- Microfiber cloths
- Mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaner
- Clean water
- Glass cleaner
- Soft brush or old toothbrush
- Vacuum with brush attachment
- Rubbing alcohol
- Rags
Preparing to Clean
Before getting started, remove everything from inside the metal lateral cabinets. This gives you full access to clean all surfaces.
Clear off the top of the cabinets as well. Having a clutter-free workspace makes cleaning easier.
Dry Dusting
Start by dry dusting the outside and inside of the cabinets. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down all surfaces. Get into corners and crevices. This removes surface dust and dirt.
Make sure to dust the tops of the cabinets. Don’t forget to gently vacuum air vents if your metal lateral cabinets have them. The vacuum brush helps dislodge debris.
Wet Cleaning
Now it’s time to do some wet cleaning. Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaner.
Dip clean microfiber cloths into the solution and wring out well. Thoroughly wipe down all interior and exterior surfaces, including:
- Fronts, sides, backs, tops and bottoms of cabinets
- Shelves
- Drawers (front, back and underside)
- Handles and knobs
Scrub gently with a soft brush to remove stuck-on dirt and debris. Rinse the microfiber cloth in clean water and wipe again. This removes cleaning solution residue.
For glass cabinet doors and mirrors, spray glass cleaner directly onto the surface. Polish dry with a microfiber cloth or lint-free rag.
Disinfecting & Deodorizing
Disinfect cabinets by wiping down all surfaces with rubbing alcohol or disinfecting wipes. This helps kill germs.
Remove odors by placing bowls of baking soda inside the cabinets for several days. Replace as the baking soda absorbs odors.
Coffee grounds can also help absorb lingering smells. Place some in a small uncovered container.
Cabinet Interior Detailing
Get into the nitty gritty inside the cabinets. Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to gently scrub:
- Corners and crevices
- Hardware (hinges and glides)
- Shelf edges and supports
This removes built-up grime in hard-to-reach areas.
Clean the undersides of shelves and drawer glides. Vacuum out dust if needed.
Finishing Touches
Once everything is fully cleaned, place items back inside the metal lateral cabinets.
Consider adding shelf liner to protect surfaces going forward.
Keep cabinets looking their best by:
- Using coasters under bottles and containers
- Lining shelves with non-slip mats
- Avoiding metal-on-metal contact that can scratch
- Closing doors and drawers gently
With proper care, your quality metal lateral cabinets will provide many years of reliable service. Thorough cleaning every month or two keeps them in tip-top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Metal Lateral Cabinets
How can I clean off crayon, marker or pen marks from the cabinets?
Gently rub the marks with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover. You can also try using a Magic Eraser. Test in an inconspicuous spot first.
What’s the best way to clean the tracks and glides?
Use a brush or cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean tracks. Apply a small amount of lubricant, like WD-40, to help glides slide smoothly.
Should I use bleach or ammonia products on metal cabinets?
Avoid bleach and ammonia, as these can damage the metal finish. Stick to mild dish soap, all-purpose cleaner or disinfecting wipes.
My cabinets have a greasy buildup. What should I use?
Degrease cabinets with an all-purpose cleaner or mix equal parts vinegar and warm water. Rinse well and follow up with disinfectant.
What’s the safest way to clean metal cabinets?
Microfiber cloths, mild soap and water are safe for most finishes. Rub gently and work in sections. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
How can I make stainless steel cabinets shine?
Use a stainless steel cleaner or rubbing alcohol to remove spots and leave a brilliant shine. Wipe with the grain.
Why do my cabinets smell musty?
Musty smells often come from dust and dirt accumulation. Clean thoroughly inside and out. Allow to dry completely before restocking.
Conclusion
Keeping metal lateral cabinets clean is simple with the proper supplies and techniques. Regular care keeps them looking like new while also removing germs and odors. Be sure to fully dry cabinets so moisture doesn’t become trapped. With a little elbow grease, your metal cabinets can stay sparkling and smelling fresh.