CARE FOR YOUR KITCHEN

Thank you for choosing Eastern Baltic to manufacture and install your new kitchen.

We take great pride in our workmanship and hope that your new kitchen will bring you many years of happiness and satisfaction.

The following Care and Maintenance details should cover most common on-going care details.

We suggest you observe the care processes & hints (as applicable) to keep your new kitchen looking bright and as new for many years to come.

If you require further information or any more details not covered in this document, please do not hesitate to contact us.

DOORS & PANELS

TWO PACK DOORS (Polyurethane Paint)

Two Pack finishes offer superior features such as:

• Hard wearing
• Longer lifespan
• Seamless edges
• Various gloss levels available from matt to high gloss

To care for your two pack doors, please clean up any spillages immediately.

DO NOT use abrasives, solvent-based or cream cleanser to clean your painted doors, these can have an adverse effect on the paint and cause bubbling or cracking. It’s recommended to only use warm soapy water and a soft cloth.

Painted doors can be damaged by mechanical damage. Avoid contact with sharp and/or hard objects, like cutlery, pots, pans and utensils.

WARNING: WHEN CLEANING, BE CAREFUL NOT TO RUB AND EXCESSIVELY. THIS MAY CAUSE A COLOR FADING ON THE AREA.

LAMINATE DOORS

Laminate is a hardwearing material, but like all materials it can be damaged if used without the proper care and maintenance. The following information should help you to maintain the surface of laminate with the minimum of time and effort.

CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

A wipe over with a clean soft damp cloth should be sufficient to keep all laminate surfaces clean. Soiled or light stains are removed with warm soapy water or with a common detergent, such as Dissol, Nifti Solvent or bathroom cleaner, Flash Liquid, Bathroom Plus or Extra Strength Windex, containing no abrasive or no strongly acidic or alkaline ingredients.

It may be necessary to use a toothbrush as well, where the surface is of a textured or embossed finish. Wax or other polishes are unnecessary and should not be used on decorative laminates.

If acrylic materials are used, avoid cleaning for 5 days after removal of the plastic protective film to allow the time for air curing.

WARNING: WHEN CLEANING, BE CAREFUL NOT TO RUB EXCESSIVELY. THIS MAY CAUSE A SHINE ON THE AREA.

THERMO-FORMED DOORS (Vinyl Wrap)

Vinyl-wrap or thermo formed doors are a coated door that undergoes a heat vacuum process to wrap an MDF door substrate. They are low maintenance and can be easily cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge (a toothbrush may be useful for hard-to-reach areas). Towel dry afterwards. Stubborn stains and marks (such as ball point ink) should be removed immediately by gently wiping the surface with mentholated spirits.

DO NOT use abrasives, solvent based or cream cleansers.

DO NOT allow hot objects to come into contact with the surface finishes.

Excessive heat, hot gases, steam and fumes produced by cooking appliances such as wall ovens, hotplates and dishwashers, can lead to damage to your thermo-formed doors and panels, such as delamination and    discoloration.

To avoid such occurrences, the following precautions should be taken:

• Regularly check the condition and functions of the door seals around wall ovens and dishwashers so as to avoid leakage.
• Never allow heat, hot gases and fumes produced by wall ovens to come in to contact with cupboard doors and panels surrounding wall oven or appliances. It is recommended that (if possible) the wall oven to be installed with a rear ducted exhaust. In the case of front panel exhaust, a heat deflector shield will need to be used.
• Always operate the Rangehood exhaust when using your bench top hot plates.

WARNING: HIGH TEMPERATURES AND COOKING FUMES WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING CUPBOARD DOORS AND PANELS UNLESS AN EFFICIENT EXHAUST IS USED.

SOLID TIMBER DOORS

Don’t be alarmed if your timber doors move. Timber is a natural product that will absorb moisture and expand or contract. Excessive heat may cause shrinkage. The moisture content in your doors will, with time, vary in response to changes in the relative humidity of the air surrounding it.

To help avoid this, utilize your rangehood whilst cooking and open your doors and windows if you have evaporative air conditioning.

UV rays in sunlight can discolour timber doors. Red toned timber will turn browner, whilst light timbers will gain a honey colour. There is no remedy for this occurring.

If you notice shrinkage, (which is a natural occurrence), within the center panels, we suggest you purchase a bottle of Marveer or O’Cedar Oil (often available from your local supermarket or hardware store).

Apply these polishes to the exposed timber area with a clean white rag. This will enhance and protect the timber surface.

To ensure that your surface finish remains in perfect condition the above polishes should be applied at three monthly intervals for the life of the product. Particular attention should be directed to the end grain areas of your doors or bench tops (as applicable).

CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

The use of furniture polishes (in particular, ones which contain silicon) and waxes are not recommended for use on the timber surfaces.

Wipe with a warm damp cloth followed by a soft, dry cloth whenever spills occur.

Clean cooking grease off after cooking. Ensure handle area is wiped clean regularly.

Dust should be wiped from the surface with a clean, soft cloth in the direction of the grain as the fine dust particles can act as an abrasive.

Spilling of some materials as mentioned in “Staining” can affect the lacquer surfaces so the procedure of wiping spills as soon as they occur will help avoid damage to the timber surfaces.

BENCHTOPS

FABRICATED STONE BENCH TOPS

(Engineered Stone, Marble & Granite)

Supports have been incorporated in opening apertures of your sink, hotplates, dishwashers etc. However, because of the reduced amount of stone left, the area immediately surrounding these areas are more vulnerable to accidental damage and/or abuse.

In general, DO NOT under any circumstance sit or stand on Stone Bench Tops. They are NOT unbreakable.

ENGINEERED STONE BENCH TOPS

(Quartz Stone)

The most common type of stone bench top is engineered stone which are generally 91%-95% quartz based. It usually has outstanding properties that ensure ease of maintenance and longevity.

They will withstand exposure to tea, soda, wine, vinegar, lemon juice and strongly colored spices but can be permanently damaged by exposure to strong chemicals and solvents.

DO NOT use products that contain trichloroethane or methylene chloride, such as paint removers or strippers. Avoid any highly aggressive cleaning agents like oven cleaner that have high alkaline/h levels. Should the surface be accidentally to any of these damaging agents, rinse immediately with water to neutralize the effect.

CLEAN & MAINTENANCE

Engineered stone requires very little maintenance to keep the surface looking like new. For everyday routine cleaning of engineered stone, we recommend wiping the surface with warm soapy water (a mild detergent) and a damp cloth or alternatively use a quality spray and wipe type cleaner if you wish to give a thorough clean. Cream Gumption, Jif or Powder Ajax with a plastic scourer can be used without damaging the stone.

Bleach and acetone can also be used if required to remove stubborn marks. To remove adhered materials like food, gum, nail polish, first scrape away the excess with a sharp blade. If there are any grey metal marks on the surface, one of the regular cleaning agents will remove it.

HEAT RESISTANCE

Engineered stone will tolerate brief exposures to moderately hot temperatures; however, it is suggested to avoid contact with very hot pots, pans, electric frying pans and oven trays directly from the hotplate or out of an oven onto the surface of stone. We always recommend the use of a hot pad or trivet to place hot items onto.

POLISHING

As engineered stone is non-porous, it will therefore keep its lustrous gloss and ultra smooth surface without polishing. And it never needs sealing.

MARBLE BENCH TOPS

Marble is a soft porous natural stone. Variation in colour, grain, structure and veining are to be expected. Small holes, pot marks, fine cracks, and imperfections are common in many marble colours and are unavoidable. Different Marble comes in varying slab sizes and as such joins in bench tops may be frequent.

Marble can be scratched and stained easily and with almost any household items. It cracks easily if abused or misused and is only recommended if very little abuse is likely.

In cases where the surface has been stained, scratched or cracked there is little chance of satisfactory rectification.

CLEAN & MAINTENANCE

To keep a marble surface clean, mild soap and warm water should be used. Avoid any kind of chemical cleaning products.

Use clear car wax to refresh marble surface.

For the removal of fresh stains on a marble surface pure methylated spirits or pure chlorine can be used. (Put methylated spirits or chlorine on a clean white cloth and leave it on the stain for at least 24 hours). Repeat this process as many times as required to dissolve the stain.

PLEASE NOTE: CHLORINE ON POLISHED MARBLE SURFACES MAY CREATE DULL SPOTS.

GRANITE BENCH TOPS

Granite is a hard but porous stone. Variation in colour, grain, structure and veining are to be expected. Small holes, pot marks, fine cracks, and imperfections are common in many granite colours and are unavoidable. Different granites come in varying slab sizes and as such joins in bench tops may be unavoidable.

Granite might stain if it comes in contact with many household items. Particular care should be taken with hot oil.

Granite might scratch if it comes in contact with another stone, (especially granite and diamonds).

Granite might crack if it comes in contact with extremely hot items and if it is abused or misused.

CLEAN & MAINTENANCE

To keep a Granite surface clean, mild soap and warm water should be used. Avoid any kind of chemical cleaning products.

Use clear car wax to refresh granite surface.

In the event of accidental damage or abuse by scratching or cracking there is very little that can be done to rectify the surface.

LAMINATE BENCH TOPS

Laminate Bench tops are produced by a variety of manufactures, care and maintenance for all laminate bench tops is similar.

GENERAL CARE

• Avoid scourers and abrasives as they will damage the surface.
• Do not place hot appliances or objects from oven or cooker onto a laminate surface.
• Do not cut on the laminate surface.
• Keep waxes and polishes well away as they dull the natural shine.
• Do not use strong acidic, alkaline or bleach for normal cleaning as these might etch the surface.

STREAKS

Streaky marks sometimes show on dark colours after cleaning. An all-purpose cleaner such as Windex spray cleaner or Ajax Spray n Wipe usually removes these.

GREASE

U sing a mild dishwashing detergent in water will remove greasy marks. Dab, wait and wipe away. Finish with an all-purpose cleaner such as Windex spray cleaner or Ajax Spray n Wipe.

SPILLS

Laminate surfaces resist staining from most household chemicals. With some accidental spills however, prompt action is essential. Wipe off beetroot, grape and berry juices, concentrated bleach, dishwasher detergents, oven cleaners, artificial dyes, hair coloring and solvent based pen ink immediately. Specialty glues such as Super Glue must also be removed straight away with acetone (nail polish remover).

STAINS

If the stain won’t budge with Extra Strength Windex, try methylated spirits or dab the stain with a diluted bleach mixture (1 part bleach to 8 parts water); leave for 3 minutes then wash off with water and dry. Finish off with Extra Strength Windex. Only as a last resort if a stain persists try 2 or 3 rubs with a crème cleanser or white toothpaste, wash and dry. Please note that bleach or these abrasive cleaners may irreversibly damage the laminate surface.

SCRATCHES

Laminate surfaces will withstand normal wear and tear, but can be damaged by scratching or cutting with utensils, knives and unglazed pottery. Darker colours will show scratches more readily than lighter colours. In general, dark colours and high gloss surfaces require more care and maintenance than lighter colours or lower gloss colours. To minimise scratching, always place and lift objects from the surface – never drag or slide them across the surface.

SPECIFIC CARE

(This applies to Squareform Benchtops, Fire Retardant Laminates, Chemical Resistant Laminates, Aquapanel Wet Area Paneling, Vizage Wall Lining, Fusion Laminates  and Compact Laminate)

A damp cloth will remove spills and greasy spots. Rub with a clean dry cloth to bring back brightness. Occasionally clean with mild dishwashing detergent. To remove heavy build-up of dirt use cleaners such as Mr. Muscle, Windex or Ajax Spray n Wipe spray cleaners.

OTHER LAMINATE BENCH TOPS

DIAMOND GLOSS LAMINATES

Wipe off spills or marks promptly with gentle rubbing using a soft cloth and mild dishwashing detergent. Dry with a soft, dry cloth. For more persistent marks, use a glass window cleaner. Never use abrasive cleaners – even those in liquid form – as they will mark the high gloss surface.

METALLIC LAMINATES (Innovations)

Wipe off spills or marks promptly with a soft cloth and mild dishwashing detergent. Dry with a soft, dry cloth. For more persistent marks, use a glass window cleaner. Never use abrasive cleaners – even those in liquid form – as they will mark the surface. Also never use solvents on metallic laminates or acids or alkalis.

STAINLESS STEEL LAMINATES (Innovations)

Wipe off spills or marks promptly with a soft cloth and mild dishwashing detergent. Dry with a soft, dry cloth. For more persistent marks, use a glass window cleaner or methylated spirits. Never use abrasive cleaners – even those in liquid form – as they will mark the surface. Specialty stainless steel cleaner can also be used if necessary.

BENCH TOPS – CORIAN®

Corian® is the original solid surface material made only by DuPont. By nature, Corian® is easy to clean, easy to care for and easy to live with. With proper care, Corian® can remain as beautiful and elegant as the day it was installed. However, Corian® is unlike any other material and there is a unique way to look after it.

The following guidelines will help to ensure your Corian® surface continues to perform for many years to come.

PREVENTING TIPS

Although Corian® is quite resistant to heat, you should always use a hot pad or a trivet with rubber feet to protect Corian®.

Hot pans, as well as some heat-generating appliances like frying pans or electric cooking pots, can damage the surface if a hot pad or trivet is not used.

In most cases, Corian® can be repaired if it is accidentally damaged. However, be sure to follow these guidelines to prevent any permanent damage to Corian®.

Avoid exposing Corian® to strong chemicals, such as paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. If contact occurs, quickly flush the surface with water.

Remove nail polish with a non-acetone-based polish remover and flush with water.

DO NOT cut directly on Corian® countertops.

SIMPLE CLEAN

As a general rule, when caring for Corian® always start with a Simple Clean. Avoid using abrasive scouring pads for routine cleaning.

After food preparation and cooking simply wipe your Corian® surface with a damp sponge or cloth. Thanks to the non-porosity of Corian®, this will hygienically clean your Corian® surface.

Use soapy water or an ammonia-based cleaner along with a damp sponge or cloth. Rinse clean.

Wipe your surface with a damp sponge or cloth and towel try. Hard water leaves visible water marks on Corian®, just as on glassware, which is why it should be wiped dry with a soft cloth. If marks persist, try the method outlined under Deep Clean – Stubborn Stains.

DEEP CLEAN

–  STUBBORN STAINS

For more stubborn stains you will need to occasionally give your Corian® surface a more thorough clean and refresh using a mild abrasive cleanser like Gumption® paste cleanser, Jif Cream Cleanser or Ajax cream or powder cleanser.

Firmly wipe your Corian® surface with either a non-scratch Scotch-Brite pad or a damp cloth, using a wide circular motion. Always finish by rinsing and wiping your surface with a damp cloth or sponge. The Vileda® range of cloths and non-scratch scourers are recommended by Corian®.

–  LIGHT MARKS & SCUFFS

Most light marks and scuffs may be removed by wiping your surface firmly with a damp sponge or cloth and a mild abrasive cleanser. However, if this technique fails to work, please contact Corian® Customer Service Centre to personally discuss other care alternatives.

DOOR HINGE ADJUSTMENTS

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

This adjustment involves two screws, one to the top and one to the bottom of the base plate of the hinge. Loosen the screws slightly and then lift or lower the door until it is in the position you want. Re-tighten the screws to secure the door.

DEPTH ADJUSTMENT

Use the rear adjustment screw on the hinge to adjust how far out or in the doors are in comparison to your cabinet and to the other cabinet doors and drawers surrounding it. Loosen the screw and manually push or pull the door to adjust it. Re-tighten the screw when the door is in the position you want.

SIDE TO SIDE ADJUSTMENT

Turn the front adjustment screw clockwise and counter-clockwise to move the door. The direction of turn and its effect is dependent on which the side of the door the hinge is attached.

On a door with a RIGHT-SIDE HINGE:

• Turn the screw CLOCKWISE to move the door to the RIGHT
• Turn the screw COUNTERCLOCKWISE to move the door to the LEFT

On a door with a LEFT-SIDE HINGE:

• Turn the screw CLOCKWISE to move the door to the LEFT
• Turn the screw COUNTERCLOCKWISE to move the door to the RIGHT

Eastern Baltic can organise for one of our lovely team members to make the adjustments for you, however there is a charge for this service.

Please contact us for further information.

NOTE: FAILURE TO COMPLY THE ABOVE CARE PROCESSES MAY VOID YOUR WARRANTY.

WARRANTY TERMS

Subject to the terms and conditions set out in this warranty, EASTERN BALTIC warrants to the original purchaser for interior residential use that we will repair or replace any cabinet carcass that suffers a failure in its structural integrity as a result of materials or manufacturing defect without charge within 7 years from date of installation. Failure of structural integrity means the carcass breaking or cracking under normal domestic use.

The warranty period for our cabinets, doors, drawer runners, hinges, bench top and internal fittings against defective materials or faulty workmanship is subject to manufacturer limited warranty. This guarantee is in addition to all other statutory warranties which usually apply.

THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER THE FOLLOWING CIRCUMSTANCES:
• If the house shifts, and the cabinets go out of level;
• Any natural occurrence or other circumstances not within the control of Eastern Baltic such as flood, fire, water damage;
• Alteration of any part of kitchen or cabinets by any person other than someone employed by or subcontracted by Eastern Baltic;
• Shrinkage of panels and joints are normal;
• Any damage to the cabinets due to faulty or incorrect installation by any person other than someone employed by or subcontracted by Eastern Baltic;
• Any damage caused to the cabinets if you are arranging your own delivery rather than using Eastern Baltic’s delivery service;
• Natural fading or damage due to direct or indirect exposure to sunlight or other;
• Natural variations in the colour, texture or grain pattern of the wood or other materials are not to be considered defects.
• Any cabinetry less than $6,600 including GST in value;
• Normal wear and tear;
• Handles, knobs, sinks, tapware; Accessories and appliances;
• Physical abuse, misuse, accidents, exposure to excessive heat, exposure to excessive moisture, exposure to excessive weight placed in, on, surrounding or attached to product;
• The use of solvents, abrasives, unsuitable cleaning agents or corrosives, improper maintenance, scratches, scuffs, burns, stains, wipe marks on darker colour or glossy or smoother surfaces;
• Insect or vermin infestation; pet claws;
• Outdoor kitchens, the warranties only apply to indoor kitchens;
• Specific product that is with different manufacturer warranty terms and conditions;
• Failure on making the full payment of purchase.

PLEASE NOTE:
Eastern Baltic reserves the right for the product to be inspected by an authorized representative prior to any claim being processed. If the representative finds that the item is not under warranty then a call-out fee of $220 plus GST will apply and the customer agrees to pay such fee.

If a product is no longer available and/or cannot be repaired, Eastern Baltic will, in its absolute discretion, replace the warranted product with a substituted item which would be as close as possible in dimension-function and colour, however Eastern Baltic will not guarantee that the replacement item will be exactly the same in all aspects when compared with the original item.

For all warranty related replacements, Eastern Baltic has an hourly rate of $110 plus GST to re-hinge, drill and /or reinstall a door, panel or cabinet, etc. Additional service fee may incur for schedule a contractor to coordinate with the work, such as a plumber or electrician, etc.

Eastern Baltic will not, under any circumstances, be liable for indirect, special or consequential loss or damages, such as loss of use, inconvenience, loss or damage to personal property. In no event shall Eastern Baltic be liable, under this warranty for a warranted product, exceed the purchase price of that warranted product or its replacement.

This warranty is not transferable including to subsequent property owners.

All warranty claim must be made in writing. Please retain this warranty certificate with your purchase receipt as this will be required when claiming service under this warranty.

These terms are subject to change without notice. We reserve the right, at our sole discretion, to modify or replace these Terms at any time.