YOUR COMPLETE CABINET BUYING GUIDE PARA IWAS BUDOL

Ultimate Cabinet Buying Guide

1. Types of Cabinets 

  • Base Cabinets: The foundation of most kitchens, sitting on the floor and supporting countertops. Ideal for storage of heavier items.
  • Wall Cabinets: Mounted on the wall, perfect for storing lightweight items like glasses and plates. 

 

  • Tall Cabinets: Also known as pantry cabinets, these are perfect for maximizing vertical storage.


2. Materials Overview

  • Plywood: Durable, resistant to warping, and a great long-term investment.
  • MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard): Smooth surface for painting, affordable, but less durable when exposed to moisture.
  • Particleboard: Economical, but prone to chipping and swelling when wet.
  • Solid Wood: Classic and durable but can expand or contract with humidity.
  • Stainless Steel: Modern and moisture-resistant, great for industrial-style kitchens.

3. Cabinet Finishes

 

  • Laminates: Cost-effective, comes in a variety of colors and patterns, easy to clean.

 

  • Veneers: Thin layers of real wood for a natural appearance.
  • Painted Finish: Offers a sleek and modern look, customizable in any color.
  • Glazed Finish: Adds a vintage or distressed look to wooden cabinets.

4. Hardware Options

  • Handles and Pulls: Available in metal, wood, or glass; the style should 
    match your kitchen theme.
  • Hinges: Soft-close hinges are ideal for a quiet kitchen experience.
  • Drawer Slides: Full-extension slides provide access to the entire drawer.

5. Cabinet Styles

  • Shaker: Simple and timeless with clean lines.
  • Raised Panel: Elegant and traditional, with a decorative central panel.
  • Flat Panel: Sleek and modern, perfect for contemporary spaces.
  • Glass-Front: Adds transparency and a touch of luxury.

 

 

 

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6. Kitchen Layout Considerations

  • The Work Triangle: Efficient placement of the stove, sink, and refrigerator

The Work Triangle is a smart way to set up a kitchen to make cooking and cleaning easier. It connects three important spots in the kitchen: the stove, the sink, and the refrigerator. These are the places you use the most when preparing food.

 

 

 

 

Why is it Important?

Imagine you’re making a sandwich. You get the ingredients from the refrigerator, wash the vegetables at the sink, and then cook on the stove. If these three things are close to each other but not too crowded, you won’t waste time or energy moving around too much.

     

    • How Does it Work? 

      • The refrigerator is where you store your food.
      • The sink is where you wash your hands, dishes, and food.
      • The stove is where you cook.

      • If these three places form a triangle, it’s easier to move between them. This triangle should have enough space to walk comfortably, but not so far that it feels tiring.

        Example

        Think of it like a triangle in a playground. If the corners are too far apart, it’s hard to run between them. If they’re too close, it feels cramped. The Work Triangle makes sure your kitchen is just the right size for working easily.

    • Storage Needs: Choose cabinets based on what you plan to store—pots, spices, pantry items, etc.

    To enhance your kitchen's functionality and organization, consider implementing the following cabinet storage solutions tailored to specific items:

    1. Pull-Out Shelves for Pots and Pans 

    Pull-out shelves allow easy access to heavy cookware stored in lower cabinets, preventing the need to bend or reach deep into cabinets.

    2. Vertical Dividers for Baking Sheets and Cutting Boards

    Installing vertical dividers in cabinets keeps baking sheets, cutting boards, and trays organized and easily accessible.

    3. Lazy Susans for Corner Cabinets

    Lazy Susans maximize the use of corner cabinet space, making it easier to reach items stored at the back.

    4. Door-Mounted Spice Racks

    Mounting spice racks on the inside of cabinet doors keeps spices organized and within easy reach while cooking.

    5. Pull-Out Pantry Shelves

    Pull-out pantry shelves provide easy access to pantry items, allowing you to see and reach items stored at the back.

    6. Under-Sink Organizers

    Under-sink organizers keep cleaning supplies tidy and accessible, making the most of the often-overlooked space beneath the sink.

    Implementing these storage solutions can significantly improve your kitchen's efficiency and organization, making meal preparation and cooking more enjoyable.

    • Space Optimization: Incorporate corner cabinets or pull-out shelves for maximum storage.

    7. Budget Planning

    • Entry-Level Cabinets: Particleboard or MDF with laminate finishes; ₱10,000–₱20,000 per set.
    • Mid-Range Cabinets: Plywood or MDF with veneer or painted finishes; ₱25,000–₱50,000 per set.
    • Premium Cabinets: Solid wood or stainless steel with custom finishes; ₱60,000 and above.

    8. Quality Indicators

    • Look for sturdy joinery (dovetail or mortise-and-tenon).
    • Check for durable finishes resistant to moisture and scratches.
    • Ensure hinges and slides are smooth and quiet.

    9. How to Choose the Right Cabinet Supplier

    • Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
    • Customization Options: Can they build cabinets tailored to your needs?
    • Warranty and After-Sales Service: Ensure the supplier offers support for repairs or adjustments.

    10. Maintenance Tips

    • Regular Cleaning: Use a damp cloth with mild soap for daily cleaning.
    • Avoid Moisture: Wipe spills immediately and avoid harsh cleaning agents.
    • Hinge and Slide Maintenance: Oil periodically to ensure smooth functioning.