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Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/greasy oak cabinets with moisture problem

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Expert: - 10/5/2008


Question

kitchen cabinets
Hi Eileen - I read one of your posts from 2007 about someone wanting to restore luster to oak cabinets that were bare in some places due to proximity to dishwasher. I have a similar problem and will try your solution of TSP with steel wool followed by MinWax and then tung oil.  This problem is with 2 or 3 doors.  The others look fine but my tenants that have been living there cook a lot of greasy food and ALL the cabinets are greasy.  I don't think your process that I will use on the lacklustercabinets is appropriate for the ones that look OK but are just greasy.  My question is should I use just the TSP for getting the greasiness off the cabinets (not with steel wool)or will that remove the finish that's in good condition? Attaching picture of cabinets in current state. Problem cabinets are below counter next to DW. Thank you!

Answer
Hi Janet
Nice to hear from you.
Janet these cabinets look in overall excellent condition.
Personally in this case I would get a good degreaser and scrub them well.
Use a rag, not steel wool. I agree with you that the steel wool with the TSP will deglaze the surface in this case.
If you can get a product calleed Citrus Solve in your area you will find it to be the best product to use for this type of soiling.
Glad you asked before proceeding.
Regards
Eileen
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThank you for the advice! I hope I can find the product locally. Janet


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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

Hi..I can answer most questions about the repairing,stripping and refinishing of all your old furniture and wood items(the things we call antiques)I can give advice about what to buy/avoid at auctions/flea markets. I do not give appraisals on antiques.

Experience

I have been refinishing antiques for the past 30yrs. While I have taken several courses over the years,I have found that "hands on" learning is the best teacher. Perhaps I can help you avoid some of the mistakes I made while learning.

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