How can I get rid of the honey oak look on my cabinets
+1
I have honey oak cabinets and believe it or not they were not given a coat of polyurethane.
I need to clean them really well (not sure what to use) then maybe strip them with something (not sure what to use) to get rid of the yellow tone. Not looking to sand as I want an oak look just a lighter not honey/yellow look.
Thoughts?
Suggested Project Book
Use Citristip. Then sand, it will give you a far more professional finish. Then see if you like the color as is. If not, then test different stains until you find one you like. Then stain, then seal.
They've been sealed. Just not with a high gloss poly. To do a really good cleaning, use baking soda and a magic sponge. Make a paste of baking soda and water. Wipe down well. Making lighter can be tricky, but I use hair peroxide (25%). I apply a thin coat, cover with cling wrap and let sit at least 24 hours. I would test on a small section of your cabinets first (preferably where it can't be seen). The hair peroxide will penetrate the sealer. You may need to use a second coat to get them lighter. Do not use skin peroxide. Gallon containers of hair peroxide can be bought at any beauty supply store. Sealing is necessary, but you will need to know if the original sealer was oil or water based. If unknown, use paste wax. However, you will never get them white. Good luck.
Thank you for your responses the peroxide method sounds interesting. I'll try it first. Can always sand later but really just looking to lift the color a little and get rid of yellow tone
I will definitely try cleaning with the baking soda as well. I prefer working with non chemical Items. Thanks again for the answers
Use General finishes gel stain. link to video showing how to refinish kitchen cabinets without removing existing finish. https://generalfinishes.com/how-to-videos?page=2