All kitchen cabinetry requires routine care and proper maintenance to preserve its appearance and long-term performance. This guide outlines the approved cleaning, handling, and environmental practices applicable to all AyA cabinetry products, regardless of material or finish.
• Cabinetry should be cleaned regularly using gentle methods only.
• Use a soft, clean, non-abrasive cloth (microfiber recommended) dampened with water to remove dust and surface residue. For routine cleaning, warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap may be used. For more difficult marks, a diluted solution of white vinegar and warm water (50/50 ratio) is acceptable.
• Clean surfaces using light pressure and a gentle circular motion, reapplying as needed until residue is removed. All cleaning agents must be applied to the cloth — never directly to cabinetry surfaces.
• After cleaning, all surfaces must be wiped with a second cloth dampened with clean water to ensure complete removal of any cleaning residue. All cabinet surfaces must then be dried immediately using a clean, lint-free cloth, including door faces, drawer fronts, edges, grooves, cabinet sides, and exposed ends.
• Cabinetry must not be cleaned using harsh or abrasive methods. This includes steel wool, scouring pads, abrasive powders, or aggressive scrubbing. The use of ammonia or ammonia-based cleaners, bleach, solvents, citrus-based cleaners, oil soaps, strong detergents, furniture polish, or wax products is not permitted, as these may damage the surface, cause buildup, or alter the appearance of the finish over time.
• Failure to properly rinse and dry cabinetry surfaces may result in moisture-related damage.
• Moisture should be minimized and controlled at all times. Spills must be wiped up immediately to prevent staining, swelling, warping, delamination, or finish damage.
• Cabinetry should not be exposed to prolonged moisture, steam, or standing water. Dishcloths, wet towels, and damp items must not be left resting against cabinet faces or edges. Care must be taken to ensure sinks, faucets, dishwashers, kettles, coffee makers, and similar appliances do not direct moisture or steam toward cabinetry surfaces.
• Cabinetry must be protected from excessive heat and steam.
• Small heat-producing appliances such as coffee makers, toaster ovens, kettles, and air fryers should not be placed directly beneath upper cabinets. Adequate clearance from all heat and moisture-producing appliances must be maintained.
• Stovetops should be installed approximately ½ inch above the countertop to reduce heat transfer to surrounding cabinetry.
• Dishwashers should not be opened immediately at the end of a cycle. Allow time for steam to dissipate before fully opening the door.
• Prolonged or direct heat exposure may result in discolouration, blistering, delamination, or surface distortion.
• Self-cleaning ovens generate extreme temperatures that may cause permanent damage to adjacent cabinetry.
• Prior to activating the self-clean function, all cabinet doors and drawers adjacent to the oven must be removed. Please refer to the ‘Door & Drawer Adjustment Guide’ for more information.
• Damage resulting from failure to follow these precautions will not be covered under warranty.
Natural and artificial light may cause gradual colour variation over time. Painted and stained finishes may lighten or darken as part of the natural aging process. Slight colour change is expected and is not considered a defect.
Normal daily use may result in light scratches, scuffs, or signs of wear over time. Cabinetry should not be used as a work surface or cutting area, and items should not be dragged or struck against cabinet faces or edges.
Glass inserts should be cleaned only on the glass surface. Glass cleaners should not come into contact with surrounding cabinet finishes.