Solutions for removing cabinet residue

Q. How can I get rid of the sticky feeling on my kitchen cabinets around the knobs and handles?

A. Over the years, grease and dirt will build up on kitchen cabinets. This can be noticeable, especially around the handles and pulls, and is difficult, if not impossible, to remove. But it’s worth a try.

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First, try to determine if the cabinet’s finish is lacquer, shellac, varnish or sealer. Older finishes tend to be varnish or shellac and can be damaged by water. With those finishes, it may be best to use a commercial degreaser or cleaner containing ammonia. (To know for sure, remove a door or drawer and take it to a paint store or refinishing shop for an opinion.

They may also recommend a cleaner for the finish.)

Generally, to clean finished wood, add 1 cup of mild detergent (such as Dawn dish soap) and 6 tablespoons of ammonia to 1 gallon of warm water. Wash the surfaces and dry immediately.

If that doesn’t clean completely, apply the solution to the cupboard surfaces and let set for three minutes to soften the grease. (One way to do that is to saturate paper toweling with the solution and lay it on the surface.) Remove it, then scrub the area with a nonabrasive pad, rubbing with the wood’s grain. Dry immediately.

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Cleaning cabinets may not fully restore them. The areas around the handles may be damaged and worn as well as dirty. If that’s the case, you’ll probably have to refinish or paint the cupboards to eliminate the worn spots.

Q. In the past few months, I have noticed fruit flies (small, fluttery things) anywhere I sit down in the house – my favorite chair, formal living room, all over the place. I can’t figure out where they’re coming from and don’t know what to do about them.

A. The first step to solve your fly problem is to properly identify the insects. There are a variety of one-eighth-inch flies that can infest homes.

While the basic control, finding and removing the food source, is the same for all of these flies, their food preferences vary.

For example:

*Fruit flies lay eggs in all types of fermenting organic material and are commonly found infesting overripe fruits and vegetables such as bananas and onions, soft drinks, wine and beer residue (bottles and cans that are being saved for recycling) as well as in trash baskets between the liner and the container.

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*Moth flies are associated with moist, organic material. They are typically found in the gelatinous film in drains and sinks and can be associated with sewers and sewage from sewer breaks.

*Phorid flies are also found in many types of moist decaying organic material. They are commonly found in bathroom sink and shower drains, food residues in trash containers, rotting food, dirty mops and old dish rags, and sewage from broken sewer lines.

*Fungus gnats are associated with fungus and commonly infest overwatered houseplants. They can occasionally be found in rotting produce (a potato that has started to mold), or even in a new home (wet wood in the walls allows fungus to grow).

Finding the source of the infestation can be challenging and often involves some detective work. Keep in mind that the above examples are common sites where these flies have been found. However, there are many instances of odd and unexpected sources that these flies have infested.

Despite how difficult it can be to find the food source, it is crucial you find it to eliminate the flies. It may be tempting to use sprays, but you will never get rid of them by doing this.

As long as a food source remains, you will always see flies.

Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Kitchens