How to Finally Clean the Gap Between Your Kitchen Cabinets and the Ceiling Like a Pro

• Always observe safety precautions when using a ladder to reach high places.
• Use a diluted degreasing cleaning solution to wipe down the top of the cabinets.
• To keep the area clean, lay down a protective barrier (like newspaper) that can be disposed of and replaced the next time.

If you have a gap between the top of your kitchen cabinets and the ceiling, you may use the space for extra storage for dishes and kitchenware you don’t use often. Or perhaps you’ve spent time searching for a way to decorate the space. Either way, there comes a time the gap must be cleaned to remove dust, greasy residue, and grime.

We talked to two cleaning experts to see how they clean the gap between kitchen cabinets and the ceiling, and here’s what they had to say.

How to Clean the Gap Between Cabinets and the Ceiling

The first time cleaning the gap between kitchen cabinets and the ceiling is certainly the hardest. But the good news is as soon as you do it once it’s smooth sailing from there on out.

“This space is important to keep clean, as an accumulation of dust can start to fall and dirty your kitchen counters and cabinets,” says cleaning expert for Fabuloso, Rosa Picosa.

Safety First

The process for cleaning the gap is very similar to how you go about cleaning kitchen cabinets. The one exception: the gap is very high and safety becomes an issue. Always use a sturdy step stool or ladder when cleaning high places.

Standing on kitchen counters is not the best solution because unsupported spots can crack under excess weight and it can be easier to lose your balance when leaning and reaching.

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Use the Right Tools

Before you begin, collect a microfiber duster, microfiber mop, bucket, all-purpose cleaner, and some microfiber towels.

Clean the Tops of the Cabinets

1. Remove any items stored on top of the cabinets. Clean them or set them aside to be cleaned before putting them back.
2. Standing on a sturdy step stool, use a microfiber duster to collect any loose dust and cobwebs first so you won’t be pushing those around as you clean.
3. Mix a solution of warm water and an all-purpose cleaner or dishwashing liquid in a bowl or bucket.
4. Using your microfiber mop or towel, wipe down the tops of the cabinets with the solution. “Since there will probably be some drips, be sure to thoroughly clean your kitchen counters and cabinets as well, to remove any dirt that may have fallen during this process,” Picosa suggests.
5. “Wipe down the area clean with a dry microfiber cloth to remove excess cleaner and moisture that may linger in the area,” says Clorox spokesperson Vanesa Amaro.

How to Keep the Gap Clean for Longer

Once the area is thoroughly cleaned and dried, Amaro uses foil or parchment paper on the top of the cabinets to help catch any grime. You can also use waxed paper because it’s slightly sticky quality will trap grease, dust, and dirt. Roll out the paper and trim it to fit. Then, add a reminder to your calendar to remove and replace the paper at least twice a year.

Regular cleaning won’t keep the gap clean longer but it will make the job much easier.

“A quick wipe with a dry microfiber cloth once a month will keep major dust, grease, and dirt from accumulating so it’s a lighter job the next time you clean,” says Picosa.

Overlooked Kitchen Spots You Should Be Cleaning

• Under, behind, and on top of the refrigerator. Pull out your fridge and carefully vacuum away dust and cobwebs behind it. Remove the vent cover and vacuum the coils to help it run more efficiently. Clean away grease and dust from the top of the appliance and vacuum underneath where food particles are hiding and acting as insect magnets.
• Hidden spots on counters. At least weekly, take time to get into corners, under small appliances, and along the edges between the stove or refrigerator and the countertop. Use warm water and an all-purpose cleaner to get rid of grease, food particles, and dust.
• The kitchen faucet. Kitchen faucets and handles are often coated with bacteria and grease from our hands while we cook and clean. A faucet is also subject to soap residue and mineral deposits. A quick way to clean the faucet every day is to use a disinfecting wipe. For a deep clean, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it around the faucet, leaving it to soak for at least an hour.
• The trash can. Each time you empty the trash, clean the trash can to remove drips and dirt that harbor bacteria. The easiest way to clean the can is to take it outside and fill it with soapy water, give it a quick scrub, rinse, and dry.