Custom kitchen cabinets in Toronto can elevate the aesthetics of your kitchen, but they are also susceptible to damage due to humidity. Aside from basements, genuine wood cabinets are particularly prone to swelling and shrinkage when exposed to fluctuating moisture levels.
Typically, cabinets are built with a target relative humidity range of 40% to 50%, which is ideal for maintaining their structural integrity. However, extreme conditions, such as cold temperatures with humidity levels below 20%, can cause shrinkage. On the other hand, prolonged exposure to humidity levels above 80% can cause the cabinets to swell.
When opening or shutting cabinets, the influence of dampness can be felt on the door. Persistent humidity can cause visible and potentially lasting damage to your kitchen cabinets. Here are some helpful tips for preventing humidity damage in your cabinets:
1. Keep An Eye On Your Home’s Humidity Level
Unmanaged humidity can wreak havoc on your kitchen cabinets. To prevent moisture buildup, it is crucial to monitor the humidity levels in your home. The easiest way to keep track of the current humidity level is to use a built-in hygrometer. If your home doesn’t have one, consider purchasing an inexpensive digital hygrometer.
Using multiple hygrometers allows you to monitor humidity levels on different floors of your home. A hygrometer will alert you when the humidity levels become too high, helping you take timely action.
2. Use Vents and Exhaust Fans in Your Kitchen
To protect your kitchen cabinets Toronto, it’s essential to use vents and exhaust fans. Exhaust fans are designed to remove moisture from the air and expel it outside. When cooking, always ensure that you use an exhaust or ventilation fan. The heat and moisture generated during cooking can cause significant damage to your cabinetry. Additionally, exhaust fans help in removing lingering cooking odors.
Your dryer can also contribute to increased moisture levels if vented inside the house. This added moisture can seep into your kitchen and cause damage to wooden cabinets. Always vent the dryer outside to reduce humidity in your home.
3. Fix Any Leaks or Dampness in the Plumbing System
Kitchens often have higher moisture levels due to running water and appliances like refrigerators. Surprisingly, refrigerators can impact kitchen moisture because their coolant system generates a small amount of wetness.
Address any plumbing leaks or moisture issues immediately, as these can lead to an increase in home humidity levels and cause damage to your kitchen cabinets.
4. Select Cabinet Material With Care
The material you choose for your kitchen cabinets can significantly affect how well they withstand moisture. When storing items, consider using sealed plastic containers to keep moisture out. If you’re storing food items like cereal, opt for breathable, acid-free boxes.
Natural wood and pressure-compressed wood board or plywood are the most common materials used for kitchen cabinets. Choose materials that are less likely to absorb moisture and are easier to maintain in a humid environment.
5. Keep Cabinets Clean and Dry
Dirt and food crumbs can cause scratches, permanent stains, and even attract pests. Therefore, it is crucial to clean your cabinets and stored items regularly. Make sure everything is dry before storing it to prevent moisture buildup.
How To Reduce Humidity In Your Kitchen?
Using a dehumidifier in your kitchen pantry can effectively reduce moisture levels to a point where mold and mildew cannot thrive. If you notice excessive moisture in your kitchen cabinets, a dehumidifier can be a great solution to prevent musty odors and damage to your cabinetry.
Why Consult Cozy Home?
Disposable and small renewable dehumidifiers can be used to control moisture in kitchen cabinets. At Cozy Home, our experts can help you manage excess moisture in your kitchen and protect your cabinets from humidity damage. Contact us today for a free design consultation, see your dream kitchen in 3D, receive a free quote, and discover how much you can save!
