Your cabinets are a major part of your home — they store your essentials, define the look of your spaces, and take a lot of daily wear. With proper care, your kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom cupboards can stay looking brand new for years. Here’s how we at El Shaddai Interiors recommend you care for your cabinetry in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal’s coastal climate.
1. Wipe Spills Immediately
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to cabinet life — especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe water, oils, or cleaning product spills as soon as they happen to avoid swelling or staining.
2. Use Gentle Cleaners
Avoid bleach, ammonia, and abrasive powders. Instead, use mild dish soap with warm water and a microfiber cloth. For painted or Duco spray cabinets, use a damp cloth only — no strong chemicals.
3. Polish Hardware Occasionally
Handles and knobs collect grease, especially in kitchens. Wipe them down regularly and polish metal finishes every few months to keep them shiny and corrosion-free.
4. Avoid Hanging Wet Towels on Cabinet Doors
This is especially common in bathrooms — but the moisture can damage the door edges and hinges over time. Always hang damp items on appropriate rails or hooks.
5. Keep Humidity in Check
Durban's coastal air is naturally humid. To protect wooden cabinetry, especially in bedrooms and lounges, consider using a dehumidifier or ensuring good ventilation in your home.
6. Inspect Hinges & Tracks
Every few months, check your drawer slides and door hinges. Tighten loose screws and lubricate any moving parts with silicone spray if needed — it’ll keep everything operating smoothly.
7. Avoid Slamming
If your cabinetry doesn’t already have soft-close hinges, encourage gentle handling. Repeated slamming wears out joints, loosens panels, and damages finishes over time.
Protect Your Investment
At El Shaddai Interiors, we build high-quality custom cabinetry — but even the best craftsmanship benefits from regular care. These simple habits can extend the life, beauty, and function of your cupboards for decades.
Have questions about cabinet maintenance or want to schedule a repair? 👉 Contact us today — we’re happy to help homeowners all across Durban and KwaZulu-Natal.