If you d prefer a cleaning alternative feel free to use vinegar or ammonia instead.
Cleaning painted wood shelves.
Because most cabinets are painted with a high gloss or semi gloss paint they will be more durable and easier to wipe clean than say a matte finish wall paint but you do want to take care not to use anything so harsh that you end up striping the paint or.
Wood furniture that is untreated that is unfinished or unsealed behaves much like a fresh unused board porous and absorbent.
Dusting the shelves periodically at least weekly will help extend the time between needed deep cleanings.
If you have painted cabinet doors either your own diy project or the work of a professional there are some things to keep in mind.
On the off shot that oil makes wipe the cabinets with smelling salts and water.
Additional tips and advice.
If the shelves have greasy residue or dirt and dust build up see the guides how to clean kitchen cabinets and how to remove dirt build up from wooden furniture for additional cleaning tips and advice.
Water based polyurethane can be used with both latex and alkyd painted surfaces and will not alter the color unlike oil based polyurethanes which add a yellowish tint clean the shelves well before application and let the polyurethane dry for several days before putting the shelves back in service.
Apply two coats of water based polyurethane over the shelves.
With a little bit of tlc your painted wood fixtures will be squeaky clean in no time.
Wash the surface with a moment material and clean water.
Natural ways to clean untreated wood furniture.