Wood Cabinet Surfaces
As with all wood products, avoid excessive moisture. Crossroads cabinetry is designed
for use inside the home or other buildings and is not intended for outdoor applications.
Once your cabinets have been installed, wipe down all exteriors with a damp cloth
to remove dust. Complete a small area at a time and wipe dry. Wood cabinetry finishes
may be cleaned and protected by using any commercially available cleaning polish.
Crossroads recommends an emulsion-type cleaner (such as Murphy’s Oil Soap). These
are formulated without wax, petroleum solvents or silicones. The extended use of
wax polishes can result in a wax film buildup, while the use of silicone polishes
can harm the cabinet’s finish.
Cleaning Agents
Avoid spray-type polishes containing petroleum solvents, as they are flammable and
toxic if swallowed. Use a damp cloth when cleaning normal household spills. After
wiping thoroughly, dry the surface with a lint-free cotton cloth. For stubborn stains,
it may be necessary to use a mild detergent with warm water. Always dry the surface
immediately. Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads or powdered cleansers. Do
not allow oven cleaner to touch any part of the cabinet.
NOTE: Do not use a dish cloth to wipe your cabinet exterior, since it may contain
remnants of grease or detergents.
Everyday Care
It is important to wipe up spills and water marks as they occur. Give special attention
to areas around the sink and dishwasher. Avoid draping damp or wet dish towels over
the door of the sink base cabinet. Over time, this moisture can cause permanent
water damage to the door. A convenient, out-of-the-way sliding towel rack can be
purchased from Crossroads.
Care and Cleaning of Hardware
Periodically, use mild soap and warm water to clean door/drawer knobs or pulls.
Thoroughly dry all hardware joints and surfaces and the surrounding area with a
clean, soft cloth. Buff hardware with a clean, dry cloth. Lubrication of hinges
is not necessary; however, hinges can be cleaned or dusted using cotton-tipped swabs.
CAUTION: Many brass and silver polishes contain harsh chemicals that can damage
the hardware’s surface. These polishes and cleaners are NOT recommended.
Melamine and Thermofoil Surfaces
Crossroads’ exterior and interior melamine and thermofoil panels are extremely durable
and designed to give you years of beauty and trouble-free service. They can be cleaned
with most nonabrasive household cleaners. However, agents containing acetone, acetate
or ethyl alcohol should not be used. Harsh solvents and/or abrasives such as turpentine
may break down bonds on edgebanding and should also be avoided. Ammonia cleaners
should be diluted. Certain waxes may lead to discoloration and are not recommended.
If a damp cloth does not sufficiently clean an area, a non-detergent, nonabrasive
household cleaner (such as Murphy’s Oil Soap) is recommended. For stubborn stains,
use mineral spirits (such as Nature Sol).
IMPORTANT NOTE: Apply solvents to a clean cloth and never directly to the cabinet
surface. Never leave a cloth moistened with solvents on a cabinet surface for any
length of time.
Avoid Excessive Heat
Self-cleaning appliances generate intense heat during a cleaning cycle. Since the
integrity of the appliance seal or gasket may be compromised during installation
or with age, Crossroads recommends the removal of doors and/or drawers from cabinets
adjacent to or directly above an appliance during a cleaning cycle. This will help
prevent possible damage to the finish or surface of these cabinets.
Care and Cleaning of Glass Door Inserts
If your kitchen contains cabinetry accented with glass doors, a few precautions
are necessary. Apply glass cleaner to a towel, not directly to the glass.