Step 1: Set Aside Time to Make It Happen
Let’s be honest—sometimes the hardest part of home improvement is just finding the time. To keep this task manageable, pick one weekend and dedicate just a few hours to refreshing your cabinets. Put on a good playlist, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and treat it like a mini home refresh project. The payoff is worth it.
Step 2: Deep Clean for a Fresh Start
Kitchen cabinets take a beating—grease, spills, and daily fingerprints add up over time, leaving them looking dull or grimy. The simplest way to revive them? A thorough deep clean using products you may already have in your home.
For a safe and effective clean, I recommend Dawn Dish Soap or Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds. Both cut through built-up grease and grime without damaging your cabinet finish. Just mix a few drops in warm water, use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth, and gently scrub your cabinet surfaces—don’t forget the handles and edges! You’ll be amazed at how much better they look with just a good cleaning.
Step 3: Swap Out the Hardware for an Instant Upgrade
If you want to go a step further (without breaking the bank), consider switching out your kitchen hardware. It’s a simple DIY project that makes a huge visual impact. Sleek new knobs or pulls can instantly modernize outdated cabinets and elevate your kitchen’s entire look.
I personally love Liberty Hardware for their variety, quality, and budget-friendly options. Whether you're going for brushed brass, matte black, or timeless chrome, there's something for every kitchen style. Plus, new hardware is easy to install with just a screwdriver, making it a great weekend project for any skill level.
Take a peek at a few of my favorites:
- Champagne Adjust-a-Pull (the best!!)
- Black Matte Adjust-a-Pull (we use this often in our projects!!)
- Black Knobs (just used these for a client coffee bar)
- Champagne Drawer Cup Pull
Let's Keep the Work Going
If you're feeling inspired and ready to truly invest in your kitchen cabinets, painting them might be the perfect next step. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform your space, giving you that designer look without the designer price tag. Whether you’re working with golden oak cabinets, dated finishes, or just want a clean, modern refresh—painting is an achievable DIY upgrade.
To guide you through every step of the process, we created the Paint Like a Pro Cabinetry Makeover Course. For just $17, you’ll get access to detailed tutorials that walk you through everything from prep to final topcoat. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and packed with tips to help you avoid the mistakes most people make.
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