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Style & materials 04/30/2025

How to clean doors, complete maintenance guide

How to clean doors, complete maintenance guide
Doors are not only functional elements of a home; they are also one of the most noticeable design details. Neglecting them could compromise the appearance and elegance of your space. This article will guide you through the cleaning and maintenance of your home's doors, helping you preserve their beauty and functionality over time. 

Find out how to clean doors according to their material, be it wood, lacquer, glass or metal, for impeccable results that will brighten up your rooms.

Why door cleaning is important

Regular cleaning of doors is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also of hygiene. Dust, fingerprints and residues can accumulate on the surfaces of doors, especially the most frequently used ones. Dirty or neglected doors can detract from the appearance of the entire space, whereas a well-groomed door indicates attention to detail and refinement.

Clean doors regularly:

  • prevents the accumulation of dust and dirt;
  • keeps surfaces in good condition, prolonging their service life;
  • reduces the presence of bacteria on surfaces such as handles.

The maintenance of doors varies depending on the material they are made of. Let's find out together the recommended methods and products for each type.

How to clean doors according to material

Every door deserves a specific treatment that respects and enhances the material it is made of. Here is a detailed cleaning guide for the most common materials. 

How to clean wooden doors

Wooden doors are a symbol of timeless elegance, but they need proper care to maintain their charm.

Cleaning Steps:

1.     Remove dust with a soft microfibre cloth.
2.     Prepare a solution with lukewarm water and a mild detergent specifically for wood. 
3.     Run the damp cloth over the surface, always following the natural grain. 
4.     Use a second dry cloth to remove moisture.

Maintenance of Walnut Doors

Wondering how to clean walnut or varnished wooden doors? Use specific products for precious woods and polishing wax for a perfectly shiny result. See also our article Cleaning wooden doors: between tips and myths busted for more details.

How to clean lacquered doors

Lacquered doors, often white or coloured, add brightness to the room but can easily show stains or yellowing.

Recommended technique:

1.     Remove dust with a microfibre cloth.
2.     Use a solution of water and neutral detergent to gently clean them.
3.     For yellowed white doors, try a natural cleaner based on baking soda and water. 

Absolutely avoid abrasive products that could damage the surface. For other solutions, visit our article Yellow Doors? How to whiten them.
How to clean lacquered doors

How to clean glass doors

Glass doors, whether transparent or frosted, add a modern touch to the home. However, they require thorough cleaning to avoid halos.

Procedure for clear and frosted glass:

  1. Use a glass cleaner or a vinegar-water solution. 
  2. Wipe with a microfibre cloth or newspaper to avoid streaks.
  3. For frosted door glass, use a soft sponge to reach any etched patterns. 

How to clean metal doors

Metal doors, often used for exteriors or modern spaces, require anti-corrosion treatment and regular polishing.

Instructions:

  1. Clean the surface with a soft cloth and a mixture of mild soap and water. 
  2. To remove persistent stains, use a bicarbonate paste.

Read our article How to Clean Door Handles to stay up-to-date on cleaning these important functional and aesthetic accessories.

How to clean laminate doors

Laminate doors are an increasingly popular choice for home interiors due to their strength, durability and modern design. However, to keep them beautiful and functional over time, it is important to maintain them properly.

Steps to follow:
 
  1. Start by removing dust from the door with a soft cloth or a hoover with a soft brush.
  2. Prepare a solution of lukewarm water and mild detergent (e.g. dish soap or special product for laminates).
  3. Soak a soft sponge or cloth in the cleaner and wring it out well.
  4. Gently wipe the sponge over the surface of the door, always following the direction of the wood grain.
  5. Make sure not to leave the cleaner on the door for too long, as it may damage the laminate layer.
  6. Rinse the door with a damp cloth and dry it immediately with another dry cloth.
  7. If there are more stubborn stains, you can use a specific degreaser for laminate wood, but be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
  8. Once you have finished cleaning, wipe the door with a dry microfibre cloth to give it a shine and remove any detergent residue.

In addition to regular cleaning, there are some steps you can take to keep your laminate doors looking good. First of all, avoid using sharp or abrasive objects on the surface, as they may scratch or damage it.

Also, if you notice any stains that are difficult to remove, such as paint or glue stains, use a cloth soaked in denatured alcohol and rub it gently on the affected area. Make sure, however, not to leave the product on the surface for too long to avoid damage to the laminate.

How to keep doors always clean

For effective maintenance:

  • Spend time cleaning at least once a month.
  • Apply protective products specific to the door material.
  • Check handles and hinges periodically to avoid squeaks or malfunctions. 
 
Doors such as laminate doors, for example, require little care but can deteriorate if not looked after properly. We invite you to find out more details by reading ‘How to clean laminate doors’. 
 
A final touch to your spaces 
 
Now that you know how to clean your doors impeccably, don't forget that even small details make a difference to the appearance of a room. A polished, well-maintained door reflects care, style and elegance. 
If you would like more personalised advice on how to keep your interior perfect, continue exploring our dedicated articles or contact us for more tips.
How to keep doors always clean