Spring is an excellent time to renew your home’s exterior, and your doors are one of the first things visitors notice. Regular cleaning not only keeps them looking excellent, but it also increases their longevity by eliminating dirt, grime, and environmental toxins. Whether you have painted wood, sleek metal, or classic panel designs, a little TLC will go a long way toward keeping them beautiful and useful.

Henley Supply Millwork in Murfreesboro offers excellent doors, windows, and custom millwork items. Murfreesboro homeowners who follow our advice will have immaculate doors all season!

Getting Started/Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

Before you begin, assemble the right tools: 

  • Soft, microfiber cloths
  • Soft bristle brush or toothbrush (for crevices)
  • Optional: Vinegar solution for tough stains

Different types of doors require different cleaning products:

  • Wood Doors: Use pH-neutral, non-abrasive wood cleaners or a mild soap solution. 
  • Metal Doors: Use a non-corrosive cleaner and avoid bleach-based products entirely. 
  • Glass Panels: Apply a streak-free glass cleaner for crystal clear glass. 
  • Painting Surfaces: Test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t dull or damage the finish. 

Cleaning Painted Interior Doors

Interior door cleaning can be a simple process: 

  • Dust and Vacuum: Remove loose dust from panels and crevices with the soft brush attachment on your vacuum or a broom. 
  • Gentle Wash: Mix mild dish soap and warm water, and wipe door surfaces with a microfiber cloth. Ring out the cloth often to prevent over-saturating the wood. 
  • Detailing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reach panel grooves, hinges, and hardware. 
  • Dry Thoroughly: Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe wet door surfaces.

Upgrade your home’s interior doors and hardware by visiting Henley Supply Millwork today!

Cleaning Natural Wood Doors

Cleaning natural wood requires a similar process, with one key difference:

  • Dust and Vacuum: Same as painted doors, use a broom or the soft brush attachment to clean. 
  • Gentle Wash: A soft microfiber cloth, dish soap, and warm water are often enough to clean wooden doors. For tougher stains, use a pH-neutral, non-abrasive wood cleaner. 
  • Dry Thoroughly: Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove moisture.
  • Polish: Periodic oil or wax applications applied with a soft cloth restore moisture, enhance the natural pattern, and help resist humidity. 

Cleaning Glass and Panel Doors

Glass and panel doors require a different process:

  • Dust and Vacuum: Same as before, use a broom or soft brush attachment to clean. 
  • Apply Glass Cleaner: Spray a streak-free window cleaner on both sides of the glass panels and wipe with a lint-free cloth. 
  • Clean Door Frame and Muntins: Use a microfiber cloth or cotton swabs dipped in mild soap solution to clean the wood or metal strips dividing panes. 
  • Dry Thoroughly: Use a lint-free, microfiber cloth to dry the glass panes. 

Upgrade your interior doors with Henley Supply Millwork’s wide selection of wooden, metal, and panel doors!

Cleaning Exterior Doors

Exterior doors face harsher conditions like rain, UV exposure, and dirt and dust. To rejuvenate your entryway: 

  • Pressure Rinse: Use a gentle pressure washer setting or garden hose with a spray nozzle to rinse away grime.
  • Light Sanding: For wood doors, lightly sand peeling or chipped areas with fine‑grit sandpaper.
  • Refinish or Repaint: If needed, apply a weather‑resistant stain, sealer, or exterior paint to protect against moisture and fading.
  • Hardware Refresh: Clean or replace weathered doorknobs, locks, and kick plates for a polished look.

Addressing Common Door Issues

Even with regular cleaning, some issues may arise: 

  • Scuff Marks: Lightly buff with a magic‑eraser pad, then polish with a microfiber cloth.
  • Sticky Hinges: Apply a drop of silicone spray or graphite lubricant to hinge joints.
  • Peeling Paint or Finish: Sand the affected area lightly, then touch up with matching paint or stain.
  • Water Spots or Mildew: Use a vinegar‑water solution (1:1 ratio) on mildew spots; let sit for 10 minutes before wiping.

Looking for a fresh new finish? Henley Supply Millwork offers custom interior and exterior door refinishing services in Murfreesboro!

Preventative Maintenance

Beyond spring cleaning, regular upkeep will keep your doors operating smoothly and looking pristine: 

  • Lubricate Hinges: Apply a silicone‑based lubricant every six months to prevent squeaks.
  • Check Weatherstripping: Replace worn seals to maintain energy efficiency and block drafts.
  • Touch-Up Paint: Keep a small supply of matching paint or stain on hand for quick repairs.
  • Inspect Hardware: Tighten screws and replace any rusted or damaged components promptly.

These small steps protect your doors from Murfreesboro’s seasonal swings and daily wear and tear.

Quality Interior and Exterior Doors from Henley Supply Millwork

With these spring‑cleaning tips, your doors will look and perform like new, enhancing curb appeal and protecting your Murfreesboro home. From routine dusting to professional refinishing and upgrades, these best practices will keep your doors looking pristine through every season. Henley Supply Millwork offers the products, expertise, and showroom experience you need to select, care for, and enjoy your millwork for years to come. 

Visit Henley Supply Millwork in Murfreesboro today, visit us online, or call 615‑648‑7458 to get started on your door project!