Mark Cox Installations

5.0

Care & Maintenance

Well-made fitted furniture should look and perform beautifully for years. A little regular care helps protect the finish, keep everything running smoothly, and prevent avoidable wear.

This guide covers simple, practical steps for looking after your kitchen, bathroom cabinetry and bespoke fitted furniture.

Day-to-day cleaning (the basics)

For most painted, laminated or veneered surfaces:

  • Use a soft microfibre cloth with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
  • Wipe spills as soon as possible, especially around sinks, taps and kettles.
  • Dry with a clean cloth to avoid water marks and moisture sitting on edges.

Avoid:

  • Abrasive pads, scouring sponges or gritty cleaners
  • Bleach, solvent-based sprays, acetone or strong degreasers
  • Steam cleaners directly on doors, panels or edging

Moisture & heat: the two biggest enemies

Kitchens and bathrooms are hard-working spaces. Moisture and heat are the most common causes of swelling, lifting edges and premature wear.

  • Keep extractor fans on during cooking and for a short time afterwards.
  • Don’t leave wet cloths or sponges sitting on worktops or against cabinet edges.
  • Wipe around sinks, drainer grooves and taps regularly.
  • Use heat protection under hot pans, air fryers and slow cookers.
  • If you have a dishwasher, open it carefully after a cycle and let steam vent without blasting directly onto doors.

Hinges, drawers and moving parts

Quality hardware is built to last, but it still benefits from occasional checks.

  • Close doors and drawers gently - avoid forcing anything that feels stiff.
  • If a door starts to drop or rub, it usually just needs a small adjustment.
  • Keep runners free of crumbs and debris (a quick vacuum with a soft brush is ideal).

If anything feels off, it’s best to address it early rather than letting it worsen.

Worktops: general guidance

Worktops vary a lot by material, so always follow the specific care advice for what you’ve chosen. As a general rule:

  • Clean up spills quickly (especially oils, wine, coffee and acidic foods).
  • Use chopping boards - avoid cutting directly on the surface.
  • Use trivets/heat mats for hot items.

If you’re unsure what your worktop finish needs, ask - we’ll point you in the right direction.

Painted and timber finishes

Bespoke cabinetry often includes painted or timber elements that deserve a little extra care.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals that can dull or soften paint.
  • Be mindful of rings, watches and keys that can scratch high-touch areas.
  • Keep furniture away from prolonged direct heat sources where possible.

Small marks can often be improved with the right approach - we’re happy to advise.