Give Kitchen Cabinets a New Look without Stripping

Most people think that they have to strip kitchen cabinets to give them new life, and improve the appearance. This is not true, and there are ways to remodel kitchen cabinets without having to strip them. You can choose one of the below-mentioned approaches, or combine several to see a dramatic improvement quickly and efficiently. Here are a few effective ways to give kitchen cabinets a new look without stripping, in no particular order.

The simplest change can sometimes be the most dramatic. Count the number of drawers and cabinets that have handles or knobs, and purchase new knobs and handles that coordinate with your new look in the kitchen. Remove the old knobs and measure the distance between the holes so that you can purchase new hardware in the same size; this will make the project fast and easy. New cabinet hardware can make a huge difference, especially if many of the old knobs are broken, outdated, or missing altogether. With this approach, you can make a big difference for a very small amount of money.

Another simple start is a very thorough cleaning. Some people do not realize the amount of dirt, grime, and grease that accumulates on cabinet doors and drawer faces, even in a short time. Cleansing with a deep cleaning agent can produce almost new cabinets and drawers, with very little cost. Use a cleanser designed for wood, so that you do not mar or destroy the cabinet's finish. For damaged areas, or spots that have worn down to the wood again, use a felt pen that matches the finish to highlight. Do not forget to wipe away any excess from the pen.

For the most thorough cleaning possible, use products that contain mineral spirits to remove grime, grease, and stains that have been ground deep into the wood's finish. Open a window, turn on a fan, or open a screen door to provide adequate ventilation for this type of project, for safety's sake. Always rub with the wood's grain when you are cleaning with any product, to get great looking results that enhance the natural wood.

Even if you are adding a new finish, it is still not necessary to strip first. Clean and sand cabinets and drawer fronts to remove dirt and grime; make sure to label cabinet doors so that you can put them back on the right cabinets. Sand using a sheet of sandpaper wrapped around your hand, and make sure to use a sandpapered finger to get in tighter spots and in detailed areas. Wipe the surface clean, and refinish with a new finish or paint. Remember: it's better to add two lighter coats than one very heavy coat. The finished product will look much more professional and clean.

You can easily give kitchen cabinets a new look without stripping, or spending a large amount of money. Whether you choose to replace knobs and handles, paint, or refinish, you can improve the look of the entire kitchen even with the simplest of changes. A simple cleansing can provide the dramatic results, especially when combined with beautiful modern knobs or handles.