At Callaghan Interiors, we believe a beautifully designed kitchen should not only look stunning on day one, but continue to feel fresh, functional and timeless for years to come. The right care and maintenance can make a world of difference when it comes to protecting your investment – whether it’s bespoke cabinetry, natural stone worktops, or carefully chosen fittings.
Here are our top tips for maintaining your kitchen, ensuring your surfaces and cabinets stay in perfect condition for the long term.
We always tell our clients that a little daily care goes a long way. Wiping down worktops and cupboard fronts with a soft, damp cloth and a mild detergent helps prevent grease build-up and stains from setting in. Avoid harsh, abrasive cleaners that can scratch surfaces or strip finishes.
For natural stone such as marble or granite, we recommend using pH-neutral cleaners designed specifically for stone surfaces. This helps to protect the natural beauty and prevent etching or dullness over time.
Worktops are one of the busiest areas in any kitchen. To keep them looking their best:
Always use chopping boards rather than cutting directly on the surface.
Wipe spills immediately, especially acidic ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine that can damage natural stone.
Use trivets or heat pads to protect against hot pans – heat can cause permanent marks or cracks on many materials.
Treat stains correctly – we often recommend Bar Keepers Friend as a gentle but effective option for removing stubborn marks from quartz surfaces without damaging the finish.
When it comes to wood worktops, we always remind clients that a little ongoing care is essential. Over time, wooden surfaces benefit from being lightly sanded and re-oiled to keep them nourished, protected, and looking their best.
At Callaghan Interiors, we help clients choose worktop materials that suit their lifestyle. With the right care, even delicate surfaces can last beautifully.
Your kitchen cabinets face daily wear, from cooking splashes to fingerprints. To maintain their finish:
Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, avoiding abrasive sponges.
Wipe handles regularly to prevent grease and oils from building up.
Check hinges and runners occasionally to make sure doors and drawers continue to open smoothly.
For painted finishes, we always advise extra care. Spills should be blotted rather than rubbed, as aggressive scrubbing or strong chemicals can damage the paintwork. Painted cabinetry benefits most from gentle cleaning – keeping them vibrant and fresh without compromising the finish.
For wood cabinetry, a nourishing polish from time to time helps preserve the depth of colour and grain.
Handles, taps, and hinges are the finishing touches that bring a kitchen together. They’re also the most touched surfaces in the room. We suggest cleaning them with a microfibre cloth and warm soapy water, followed by a dry polish. Avoid chemical sprays that can tarnish metal finishes.
One of the simplest maintenance steps is proper ventilation. Cooking without extraction can lead to lingering odours, grease build-up, and even moisture damage to cabinets. Using your extractor fan or keeping a window open helps protect your kitchen surfaces over time.
We often remind our clients that a kitchen is easier to maintain when it’s not overcrowded. Regularly reorganise cupboards and drawers to keep items accessible and prevent unnecessary strain on shelves. Decluttering also helps your kitchen feel calmer and more enjoyable to spend time in.
We believe a well-maintained kitchen will serve you beautifully for decades. With regular care, thoughtful cleaning, and the right protective habits, your surfaces and cabinetry can stay just as impressive as the day they were installed.
At Callaghan Interiors, we love guiding our clients not only in designing their dream kitchens but also in keeping them at their very best. If you’d like more advice on caring for your bespoke kitchen, or are ready to design one built to last, contact us today or visit our Twickenham showroom.
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