ᐅ Cleaning Glossy Kallax – How to Remove Streaks?

Created on: 25 Feb 2016 09:23
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Dennis7
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Dennis7
25 Feb 2016 09:23
Hello everyone,

I recently purchased a Kallax shelf unit with high-gloss fronts, and now I’m facing the problem that cleaning leaves unsightly streaks, which unfortunately do not showcase the glossy finish properly. I’m wondering what the best approach is to get rid of these streaks.

Which cleaning products and techniques are recommended to clean high-gloss surfaces like those on the Kallax shelves without leaving streaks? I have already tried using microfiber cloths and special furniture care products, but the results aren’t as good as I would like.

Does anyone have experience with high-gloss furniture, especially the Kallax shelf? I would really appreciate any tips on how to remove the typical streaks and make the high gloss shine again. Thank you!
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reni45
25 Feb 2016 10:37
Dennis7 schrieb:
I’m wondering what the best way is to get rid of these streaks.

Just use distilled water and a soft microfiber cloth, then polish dry with a clean cloth. Avoid using any harsh cleaners.
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dopite
26 Feb 2016 14:08
Hello Dennis7,

Regarding your issue with streaks on high-gloss Kallax fronts, I can offer a simple step-by-step guide that has consistently worked well for me:

1. Preparation: Wipe off dust with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any abrasive particles.

2. Cleaning: Lightly dampen a soft cloth with distilled water or water mixed with a few drops of mild dish soap, and gently wipe the surface.

3. Drying: Immediately dry and polish the surface with a separate lint-free microfiber cloth.

4. Tips for stubborn streaks: If streaks persist, try adding a drop of rubbing alcohol to the water-soap mixture to help break down oily residues more effectively.

5. Avoid: Do not use abrasive cleaners, ammonia-based products, or all-purpose cleaners, as these can damage the high-gloss finish.

Common mistakes are using too much liquid or inappropriate cloths. It’s important to dry quickly and avoid leaving the surface too wet.

I hope this explanation helps. If you have any specific questions about the process, I’m happy to assist.
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reybo
27 Feb 2016 18:45
Hello Dennis7,

I would like to add some technical information to your post, as the material structure and finish used on high-gloss fronts, especially for Kallax, have some specific features that should be considered during cleaning.

The Kallax high-gloss finish is usually a plastic coating (mostly acrylic or polyurethane) that seals the wood panels and creates the gloss. These surfaces are sensitive to mechanical stress and improper cleaning agents.

Streaks often occur due to:
- Residues from lime scale or hard water in the cleaning water
- Leftover cleaning agents that have not been completely removed
- Microscopic oily residues that are smeared during polishing

Procedure to avoid streaks:

1. Always use distilled water to prevent lime scale stains. Tap water can leave lime deposits on the finish.

2. Use a neutral cleaner with a pH value of about 7 for cleaning. Dish soap can be used but should be as mild and residue-free as possible.

3. Gently dab or wipe the surface with a clean, soft microfiber cloth only. Avoid rough or dirty cloths – these can damage the finish.

4. Always dry the surface immediately with another dry microfiber cloth to prevent residue from evaporating and leaving marks.

5. If streaks are still visible, try using a fine-pored microfiber cloth with some 70% alcohol (spirit) diluted in water to dissolve greasy residues.

6. Always test new cleaning agents on an inconspicuous spot first!

There are also special care products for high-gloss lacquered surfaces that leave a protective film. These can be worthwhile if you plan to clean the shelf frequently.

I would be interested to know which cleaning agents and cloths you have been using so far, so I can advise you more specifically. Are the streaks visible immediately after drying or only after some time?

I look forward to your response!