How to remove greasy film from oak kitchen cabinets without removing the finish?

Question

Cabinets are probably 20 yrs. old and seem to have never been cleaned! I'm using Murphy's Oil soap, but there is still "grime" near the handles. I'm afraid I will remove the finish on the doors and don't want another project! This house is 55 yrs old and has plenty of projects already :)

I have tried Murphy's Oil Soap. The icky grime is still not rubbing off. It must be years of accumulation. I did take the handles off (you don't want to know what those looked like). I don't want to remove the varnish or finish of the cabinets and have a major project on my hands. What is the name of a "degreaser" that you would recommend?
Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

There is a product called Goo Gone that will do the job.

Answer 2

I have found that Mr Clean Magic Eraser cleans grease off like a champ! My microwave and toaster oven were both caked and it cleaned it right off. The best thing to do though is to test an area on the cabinets first. After you clean the spot wait around a half an hour to an hour, then look at the spot you cleaned in different lights and different perspectives (like off to the side) and make sure the original shine doesn't come off with the grease. Those Magic Erasers are really strong so you have to be careful with them but when they work they are life savers! If they are to harsh then try a dish washing liquid like Dawn (one that cuts grease) and white vinegar (white vinegar to clean, brown vinegar to cook is the rule). A solution of that in warm/hot water should also take it right off! That is also more natural and less harsh than a lot of commercial cleaners out there. Good luck and happy scrubbing :)

Answer 3

Take the handles off and try the Murphy's Oil Soap. That should work well.

Answer 4

Degreaser and as hot of water as you can stand should work just fine.

Answer 5

Use water as hot as possible and GREASE LIGHTNING. Spray it on . Wait a few seconds, wipe and rinse