Remove Greasy Smoke Stains from Wood Cabinets

Rachel asks,

I have extremely greasy smoke-stained cabinets (previous owners were smokers). I have tried every cabinet cleaner on them without any progress. I want to try TSP on it but I am worried it will take off the finish. Do you have any suggestions for heavy duty cleaner that won’t harm the cabinets?

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Our Answer

I don’t think that TSP will remove wood finish, but I’d test it to be sure. Remove a door or cabinet drawer, mix up a weak solution of TSP and warm water, and see how well it works. Just dont let the wood get excessively wet or it may warp.

If you’ve not tried it yet, Murphy’s Oil Soap is also an option. It’s very well regarded as a furniture cleaner and highly rated on Amazon.