- I would like to lighten the finish on my kitchen cabinets

Dear Shell,

I love your show and have not heard anyone ask this question. I have solid maple cupboards in my kitchen. They are in dire need of cleaning and refinishing. The stain on them is a dark brown and as we just had new rustic, natural maple flooring put in, they need to be lightened. I was advised by a cabinet refinishing company that I couldn't chemically strip them as the glue which holds the panels together will dissolve and I must sand them. The inside panels of the cupboards can be removed and there is a beveled edge and I am not sure how best to sand that area. Can you please shed some light on this? Also, the same company advised me to ONLY clean the cupboards with a product called Cabinet Magic and I cannot find it anywhere. Do you know where I can purchase some of this or a comparable product? I do not want to ruin the cupboards.

Thanks, Sandie

Dear Sandie,

To lighten your cabinets you can use Organic Stripper by Bio Wash (for more information and the retailer nearest you, call 1-800-858-5011). Organic Stripper will not harm your wood veneer. Apply Organic Stripper with a paintbrush and scrub with stain remover pad until top dark colour is removed. Rinse the finish with a warm damp cloth. Wipe the entire cabinet with Contact Cement Solvent and allow to dry. Apply Golden Oak Bri Wax available from Windsor Plywood stores or by mail order from the House Smart Centre 1-888-266-8806. Apply with (0000) Steel Wool and buff with soft cloth.

It's just that easy.

Article courtesy of: Shell Busey