We walk through doors in our home multiple times a day, but rarely give much thought about how to keep them clean and working well. The condition of doors in your home hinges on the upkeep – find out how with our door maintenance tips.

Cleaning Tips

To clean your door, first sweep off dust on its surface with a lint free cloth. Next, slightly moisten the cloth with a mixture of mild soap and water and use it to wipe the door and its fittings. For wooden doors in particular, take extra care to limit moisture while cleaning, as moisture may warp or damage the door.

To keep glass doors looking pristine, don’t leave them to air dry after you’ve cleaned them with soap and water. Instead, buff them dry using a clean lint free cloth or newspaper to prevent water stains. Pro door maintenance tip: never use harsh cleaners or brushes with stiff bristles which can damage the door surface.

General Door Maintenance

Besides cleaning your doors, do ensure your door mechanisms work well.

When door hinges lack lubrication or have a build-up of dust or dirt, their ability to move can be affected. Squeaky hinges are a tell-tale sign! One of the door maintenance tips is to apply lubricant to oil the moving parts of your door, such as the hinge or lock, at least twice a year. If you have difficulties opening or closing your door, check the hinges for any loose screws and tighten them.

You may also have sliding doors and bi-fold doors in your home, such as for your cupboard or between the kitchen and service yard. To clean the track, use a vacuum with a narrow attachment to remove any dust or debris. For more thorough cleaning, especially in hard-to-reach areas, use a toothbrush and warm, soapy water. If necessary, lubricate the track with a silicon spray for smooth movement.

For more on home maintenance, read our guide to maintaining your flat. Need some interior inspiration? Find out how to make a first great impression with these unique front gate ideas.