Congratulations on your new cabinets! This finish is professional-grade and highly durable. However, like all high-end specialized coatings, it requires specific care to maintain the warranty and appearance.

To ensure the longevity of your finish, please follow these manufacturer-recommended guidelines.

Phase 1: The Curing Period (First 30 Days)

CRITICAL: Although the paint feels dry and hard to the touch, it is still undergoing a chemical process called "cross-linking." It takes approximately 30 days to reach full chemical resistance and hardness.

• Be Gentle: Handle doors and drawers with extreme care. Use knobs/pulls only; avoid touching the painted face of the doors.

• Zero Chemicals: Do not use any cleaners, soaps, or chemicals during this month.

• Air Flow: Keep the kitchen well-ventilated, especially on warm days, to aid the off-gassing and curing process.

• NO WET TOWELS: Never hang wet dish towels or damp cloths over cabinet doors.

Moisture trapped against uncured paint can permanently damage the finish.

Phase 2: Regular Maintenance (After 30 Days)

Once fully cured, your cabinets are ready for daily use.

The Approved Cleaning Method

1. Mix: Use warm water with a small drop of mild dish soap (e.g., Dawn).

2. Wipe: Use a clean, soft microfiber or lint-free cotton cloth to gently wipe the surface.

3. Dry: Immediately dry the area with a second clean, dry cloth. Never let water air-dry on the surface.

Spills & Stains

Wipe up spills immediately. The following substances are acidic or harsh and can burn the finish if left to sit:

• Coffee & Tea

• Mustard & Vinegar

• Citrus Juice & Alcohol

The "Never" List (Strictly Prohibited)

Using the following products may void the finish integrity and cause dulling or scratching. Do NOT use:

• Magic Erasers: These are abrasive sandpaper sponges and will ruin the sheen. 

• Abrasive Scrubbers: No scouring pads, steel wool, or powder cleansers (like Comet/Ajax).

• Harsh Chemicals: No ammonia, bleach, solvents, mineral spirits, or paint thinner.

• Polishes/Waxes: Do not use furniture polish (e.g., Pledge) or wax. This finish is designed to be low-maintenance and does not require them.

Heat & Steam Warning

Modern appliance heat can delaminate or discolor any paint finish over time. 

• Coffee Makers, Toasters, Slow Cookers: Always pull these appliances out from under the upper cabinets so steam and heat vent into the room, not up onto the cabinet doors.

• Direct Sunlight: In areas with intense UV exposure, we recommend using blinds during peak hours to prevent long-term color fading.

Touch-Up Kit

We have provided a small container of leftover paint for minor chips.

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in a temperature-controlled room (not a hot garage).

• Chemistry Note: The finish on your cabinets contains a hardener (catalyst). Your touch-up paint is "un-catalyzed." It is perfect for small cosmetic fixes but will not be as rock-hard as the sprayed finish. 

• Application: Use a toothpick or fine artist brush. Apply a tiny amount inside the scratch—do not "paint" over the surrounding surface.

Thank you for trusting Smith Cabinet Painting with your project needs. If you have any questions regarding your project or the After Care Instructions, please don’t hesitate to reach out!