Having a metal smell coming from your kitchen cabinets can be unpleasant and concerning. However, there are several effective methods you can use to get rid of that lingering metallic odor.
What Causes the Metal Smell in Kitchen Cabinets?
There are a few common culprits that can cause your cabinets to smell like metal:
- Rusting Hardware: Over time, the hinges, pulls, and other hardware on your cabinets can begin to rust and corrode. As the metal breaks down, it releases an iron-like smell.
- Pipes: If you have metal pipes running behind or underneath your cabinets, leaks or condensation on these pipes can create a metallic odor.
- Chemical Reactions: Certain strong cleaners and polishes that interact with the wood and metal of your cabinets can react and give off a chemical smell.
- Poor Ventilation: Lack of proper airflow and moisture buildup inside the cabinets can also amplify any existing metallic smells from hardware, pipes, etc.
Effective Ways to Remove the Metal Smell
Here are some of the most effective DIY methods to get rid of metal odor from your kitchen cabinets:
1. Clean the Cabinet Hardware
Wipe down all of the hinges, pulls, brackets, and other hardware attachments on your cabinets with a mild soap and warm water solution. Make sure to thoroughly dry the hardware and corners to eliminate any musty smells.
For stubborn corrosion and rust stains, use a vinegar-soaked rag to scrub the hardware. The acetic acid in vinegar helps dissolve rust and odor-causing residues.
Finish by applying a thin coat of mineral oil, beeswax, or other food-safe sealant on the hardware to prevent future rusting.
2. Absorb with Baking Soda or Charcoal
Baking soda and activated charcoal work wonders at absorbing foul odors.
Spread boxes of open baking soda or charcoal briquettes on the cabinet shelves. Over several hours, they will help absorb persistent metallic smells from the interior wood and hardware.
For a stronger approach, make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub the inside of doors and edges. Let the paste sit for 15 minutes before wiping clean.
3. Air Out the Cabinets
Improving air circulation and exposing the cabinets to fresh air can help clear out musty smells faster.
Open up all the cabinet doors and drawers, place small removable shelves on the counter, and set up fans to blow air directly into the open cabinets.
If weather permits, open windows in the kitchen to allow in fresh outdoor breeze. The increased airflow will flush out unpleasant metallic odors.
4. Wipe with Vinegar-Water Solution
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the mixture onto cabinet walls, doors, shelves, and hardware.
Then wipe down with a microfiber cloth. Vinegar is a great deodorizer for all kinds of surfaces. Its acetic acid cuts through grease and neutralizes stubborn smells.
Be sure to follow up by wiping with a clean damp cloth. Avoid prolonged exposure to the vinegar which could damage the finish of wood cabinets.
5. Refresh with Vanilla or Citrus
Hide any lingering metallic smells with pleasant scents like vanilla, orange, lemon, etc.
Simmer a small pot of water, vanilla extract, and sliced lemons/oranges on the stove. You can also add cloves or scented oils.
As the mixture steams up the kitchen, the sweet citrus and vanilla notes will overpower unpleasant odors inside cabinets.
Alternatively, place bowls of dried orange/lemon peels or vanilla beans inside the cabinets for a long-lasting scent.
6. Seal Wood with Oil Treatment
Damaged or untreated wood that’s directly exposed to moisture is more vulnerable to mildew and smells.
Applying a food-safe oil treatment creates a protective barrier and gives the raw wood an aromatic boost.
Use a clean cloth to rub a thin coat of mineral oil, coconut oil, or walnut oil onto cabinet walls, undersides of shelves, inside edges etc.
Let the oil soak in fully before replacing shelves and drawers. The wood will be conditioned and sealed from future smells and humidity.
7. Replace Damaged Parts
For permanent relief from stubborn cabinet odors, inspect if any parts need replacement.
Sources like leaky pipes, worn-out sealants, and corroded hardware may require professional repairs.
If there is moisture damage or growth of mold/mildews, the affected wood may need sanding or full replacement. Addressing these root causes is key to keeping the smell away long-term.
Preventing Metal Smells in Kitchen Cabinets
Once you’ve succeeded in removing the unpleasant metal odor from your cabinets, be sure to take these preventive measures so it doesn’t return quickly:
- Keep cabinet hardware greased/oiled and watch for signs of rusting.
- Immediately fix any leaks in kitchen pipes, sinks etc.
- Allow proper ventilation and air circulation in cabinets.
- Use milder, wood-safe cleaners instead of harsh chemicals.
- Limit moisture buildup by running kitchen and bathroom fans.
- Apply protective treatments like varnish or oil periodically.
With some periodic TLC and these deodorizing methods, you can keep those nice-smelling, rust-free cabinets for many years to come!
FAQs About Removing Metal Smell from Kitchen Cabinets
Q: How can I tell if the metal smell is coming from my cabinet hardware or pipes?
You can isolate the source by removing all shelves/hardware and thoroughly cleaning the empty cabinets. If the smell persists, it is likely coming from pipes or the wood itself. If cleaning the detached hardware eliminates the odor, then focus on restoring and protecting the fittings.
Q: Are there any commercial products that remove metal odors from wood?
Yes, there are specific deodorizers made for eliminating metallic smells from wooden cabinets, furniture, floors etc. Look for odor removal products that use enzymes or react with the chemicals causing the smell. Avoid harsh bleaches or acids on wood finishes.
Q: Should I use bleach to disinfect my smelly cabinets?
Bleach is effective against germs and mold but it can damage wood over time. For occasional disinfection, use a diluted bleach solution but immediately rinse and dry the cabinets well. Don’t let the bleach soak in. For regular cleaning, stick to mild detergents.
Q: How do I get rid of musty odors inside the cabinet without harming the wood?
Musty smells can be caused by mildew or lingering moisture. Run a portable dehumidifier inside problem cabinets to reduce excess humidity. Baking soda also absorbs musty odors well. Make sure to address any dampness or leaks that allow moisture to seep into the wood over time.
Q: What’s the fastest way to remove a metallic smell from my cabinets?
The quickest way is to set up fans blowing directly into the open cabinets to air them out. Baking soda, charcoal or coffee grounds can also absorb odors rapidly when left in cabinets overnight. Vinegar rinses work fast but may require additional cleansing afterward.
Conclusion
Persistent metal smells coming from kitchen cabinets can be annoying, but they aren’t impossible to remove. With some strategic cleaning, deodorizing, sealing and air circulation, you can successfully eliminate metallic odors from cabinet hardware, wood, and adjacent pipes.
Be proactive about keeping cabinets greased, dry, and ventilated. Address any corrosion, leaks, or dampness issues promptly. With the right techniques, you can restore the fresh, kitchen-ready smell you want.