A Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Garage Cabinets for Lasting Freshness

Empty the Cabinets Completely

Start by pulling everything out of your cabinets. Every bottle, box, tool, and half-used can of WD-40. It’s the only way to see what you’re working with.

Group items by type as you go, putting chemicals in one pile, tools in another, hardware in yet another, and seasonal decorations off to the side. That way, when it’s time to put things back, you’re not guessing what goes where.

I also use this moment to declutter. If something is expired, broken, or hasn’t been touched in years, it’s probably not worth keeping. I’ve helped dozens of homeowners who didn’t realize their clutter was the biggest source of the “garage funk” they were trying to solve.

Vacuum and Dust the Interior

Once the cabinets are empty, grab a vacuum with a soft-bristle brush attachment. Start from the top and work your way down. Corners and hinges love to hide cobwebs and dust that look harmless but trap moisture and smell over time. Don’t skip this step. It’s quick, but it makes the next few steps way more effective.

Wipe Down Surfaces With the Right Cleaner

Now that everything’s dust-free, it’s time to wipe down every shelf, door, and handle, inside and out. Just make sure you’re using the right cleaner for your cabinet material.

• Wood Cabinets: Use a mild wood cleaner or a solution of vinegar and water. Harsh chemicals can strip the finish or soak in and leave behind strong smells. I use a damp cloth and dry right after.
• Laminate Cabinets: A gentle all-purpose cleaner works well here. Just avoid anything too abrasive. Laminate scratches more easily than you’d think, and even soft abrasions can trap dirt.
• Metal Cabinets: Use a non-corrosive degreaser or a simple dish soap and water mix. Wipe dry to prevent rust in humid months. I usually follow up with a clean microfiber cloth to buff out any streaks.
• MDF Cabinets: These are among the easiest to clean. Most surfaces are sealed with a smooth laminate or thermofoil finish that wipes clean with just a damp cloth and a mild all-purpose cleaner. Stains don’t soak in, and you don’t have to worry about scratching the surface if you’re using soft cloths. 

No matter what type you’re cleaning, don’t forget the cabinet tops. They collect a surprising amount of dust and sticky residue.

Address Stains, Spills, and Odors

Stains happen. Sometimes it’s spilled oil. Other times it’s something sticky that leaked from a bottle three summers ago. Spot-treat each area with a mild soap or degreaser. If you’re nervous about damage, test a corner first.

For lingering smells, I use natural odor fighters. Baking soda works great in a pinch, just sprinkle it on a damp cloth and wipe, or leave a small bowl inside the cabinet overnight. White vinegar is another go-to for neutralizing musty air without masking it.

If odors keep coming back, consider lining your shelves with absorbent, waterproof shelf mats. They protect against spills and are easy to toss in the wash.

Clean and Inspect Hardware

Cabinet hardware takes a beating, especially if you’re working with dirty or greasy hands like I often do. Wipe down every hinge, knob, handle, and bracket. Use a damp cloth and a tiny bit of mild soap if needed.

Tighten any loose screws while you’re at it. If a hinge squeaks or a door doesn’t close right, lubricate it now before it gets worse. WD-40 or a silicone-based spray does the job fast and clean.

Improve Ventilation and Moisture Control

Garages aren’t known for perfect airflow, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with stale air and creeping dampness. Check your cabinets for any signs of mold or moisture buildup, especially on lower shelves and backs against exterior walls.

If you notice dampness, use moisture absorbers like silica gel packs or even a small dehumidifier near your cabinet zone. Better airflow keeps odors at bay and protects everything from rust and mold.

Organize and Refill Cabinets Thoughtfully

Once your cabinets are dry and clean, it’s time to put things back, but don’t just shove everything in. Only return what’s clean, needed, and still usable. Group items by category and store your most-used tools and supplies at eye level or within easy reach. I like to keep automotive supplies together, power tools in another zone, and seasonal stuff toward the bottom or top, depending on when I’ll need it.

Labeled bins can, surprisingly, be a big help in your organization efforts. I swear by clear plastic totes with bold labels for keeping things visible and ordered.

Add Freshness Boosters

If you want your cabinets to stay fresh and pleasant to open, it helps to add a few odor-fighting extras. Here are my top choices:

• Charcoal Bags: These are fantastic for absorbing moisture and neutralizing odors. I toss one in each cabinet and replace it every month or two. They’re especially useful if your garage gets humid.
• Cedar Blocks: These aren’t just for closets. Cedar naturally repels insects and smells clean without being overpowering. Just give them a light sanding now and then to refresh the scent.
• Baking Soda Boxes: The same kind you’d throw in the fridge works just as well in a garage. Tuck one in the back corner of each cabinet and swap it every three months.

None of these are high-maintenance, and together they make a big difference. The goal isn’t to make your garage smell like a spa, but to make it feel clean and comfortable enough to spend time in.

Conclusion

Deep cleaning your garage cabinets is absolutely one of the best things you can do to make your space more usable and enjoyable. Clean cabinets are much easier to organize. On top of that, they last longer and keep your garage from becoming a dumping ground. As someone who spends time in the garage daily, I know this routine’s worth doing at least a few times a year. Make it a part of your seasonal maintenance and your garage will be more fun to be in!