Grease, grime, and sticky buildup on kitchen cabinets is a common issue in most homes—especially near the stove where cooking oils and steam mix to create a stubborn layer of filth. If you’re tired of scrubbing with store-bought cleaners that barely work or are filled with harsh chemicals, this simple DIY method will change your cleaning game.
Using just two natural, kitchen-safe ingredients—coconut oil and baking soda—you can cut through even the greasiest buildup on your cabinets. This method is gentle on wood and laminate finishes, free from toxic fumes, and shockingly effective. In this guide, you’ll learn how to clean your kitchen cabinets naturally, plus tips to keep them looking spotless.
Why Coconut Oil and Baking Soda Work Together
Coconut oil may seem like an odd cleaning product, but it’s surprisingly powerful. It helps break down grease and restores moisture to wood surfaces, leaving a natural shine. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that lifts dirt, stuck-on food, and stains without damaging the surface.
When combined, these two ingredients create a paste that cleans, conditions, and revives dull or grimy kitchen cabinets. It’s safe, non-toxic, and perfect for homes with kids or pets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Natural Cleaning Blend
- 1 part coconut oil – Acts as a natural degreaser and wood conditioner.
- 2 parts baking soda – Gently scrubs away grime and buildup.
That’s it! No vinegar, no ammonia, no harsh fumes—just a pantry-powered cleaner that works wonders.
Tools and Supplies
- Clean soft cloth or sponge
- Old toothbrush (optional but helpful)
- Small bowl for mixing
- Clean dry cloth for wiping
You don’t need any fancy gear. These tools help get into grooves, corners, and edges where grime often hides.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix the Paste
Start by mixing 1 part coconut oil with 2 parts baking soda in a bowl. Stir well until a thick, spreadable paste forms.
For example:
- ¼ cup coconut oil + ½ cup baking soda makes enough to clean multiple cabinets.
- If your coconut oil is solid, warm it slightly in the microwave or over low heat until it softens but doesn’t liquefy completely.
Apply the Mixture
Using a cloth, sponge, or even your fingers, apply the paste directly to the cabinet surface. Work it into greasy areas, paying special attention to:
- Around knobs and handles
- Cabinet edges
- Doors near the stove or sink
Rub in a circular motion to loosen grime. The baking soda will gently exfoliate the surface, while the coconut oil dissolves stuck-on grease.
Tackle the Tough Spots
For intricate carvings, molding, or cabinet corners, use an old toothbrush dipped in the paste. The bristles get into tight spaces and scrub away hidden grime that cloths often miss.
Don’t rush this step—let the paste sit on extra-dirty spots for a few minutes to soften buildup before scrubbing.
Wipe Away Residue
Once you’ve covered and scrubbed the cabinet surfaces, take a clean cloth and wipe off the paste. You’ll notice:
- Dirt, grease, and gunk lifting off with ease
- A subtle shine left behind by the coconut oil
- A cleaner, brighter cabinet surface with zero chemical smell
If needed, repeat the process for areas that are heavily soiled or neglected.
Deep Cleaning vs. Light Touch-Up
For extremely grimy or sticky cabinets, repeat the cleaning process in sections. Cabinets near the stove often need a bit more attention. Once your cabinets are clean, you can use a smaller amount of this mixture every couple of weeks for maintenance cleaning.
Optional: Buff for Extra Shine
Coconut oil naturally conditions wood, but if you want an extra shine:
- After wiping clean, take a dry microfiber cloth and buff the cabinet surface.
- This enhances the wood grain and leaves a polished finish—no commercial wax needed.
Benefits of This 2-Ingredient Method
-
Non-toxic and food-safe
Great for families with children or pets. No need to worry about chemical residue. -
Budget-friendly
Skip expensive specialty cleaners. Both ingredients are likely already in your pantry. -
Safe for most finishes
Works well on wood, laminate, and painted surfaces. Always spot-test in a hidden area first. -
Moisturizes and protects wood
Coconut oil acts as a natural wood conditioner, preventing dryness and cracking over time.
Maintenance Tips for Cleaner Cabinets
- Wipe spills immediately. Oil splatters and food spills harden over time and attract dust.
- Do a quick weekly wipe-down using a damp cloth to prevent buildup.
- Use cabinet liners inside to keep crumbs and grease from soaking into surfaces.
- Install a range hood filter and keep it clean to reduce airborne grease in your kitchen.
By adopting small habits like these, you can keep your kitchen cabinets looking fresh and avoid deep cleans as often.
FAQs
Is coconut oil safe to use on all cabinet types?
Yes, coconut oil is safe for most surfaces including natural wood, painted wood, and laminate. However, always test on a small hidden area first to ensure there’s no discoloration or residue.
Can I use other oils instead of coconut oil?
Coconut oil is preferred because it’s solid at room temperature and doesn’t go rancid easily. If you substitute, use a light oil like mineral oil—but avoid olive oil or vegetable oils, which can become sticky over time.
Will this method remove years of buildup?
Yes, it works impressively well even on long-neglected cabinets. However, you may need to let the mixture sit longer or repeat the cleaning process for deeply embedded grime.
Does it leave behind an oily residue?
When applied correctly and wiped thoroughly, coconut oil shouldn’t leave a sticky residue. If your cabinets feel slick after cleaning, use a damp cloth to remove any excess oil, then buff dry.
Can this be used on cabinet hardware?
Yes! It’s safe to use the paste on metal handles and knobs. The baking soda gently polishes, and the oil helps break down grime. Just make sure to wipe off thoroughly to avoid buildup.
How often should I clean my cabinets like this?
Deep cleaning every 3–6 months is usually enough, depending on how often you cook. For busy kitchens, monthly touch-ups help keep cabinets looking great year-round.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning grimy kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to be frustrating or require harsh chemicals. With just coconut oil and baking soda, you can restore your cabinets to a clean, grease-free, and polished condition—naturally and affordably. This method is a favorite because it works quickly, uses safe ingredients, and leaves your kitchen looking refreshed.
Once you see the results, you might start using this paste in other parts of your home too—on baseboards, appliances, or bathroom cabinets. It’s that good.