Glossy Versus Matte Kitchen Cabinets

Choosing the right finish for your cabinets affects both the aesthetic and functionality of your kitchen. Kitchen cabinets with a glossy surface can make a space look brighter and more modern, and while these are easy to maintain, dirt and marks are more noticeable on them. On the other hand, matte kitchen cabinets give off a more simple (yet still stylish) country-style vibe. However, because they don’t reflect light, their subdued effect could make a kitchen feel more cramped.

Glossy cabinets have a smooth and shiny finish that reflects light. This gives them a clean and sophisticated look that works well in modern spaces. Their ability to reflect light also makes them ideal for smaller areas as they can help them appear more open and spacious. Plus, the polished surface of glossy cabinets is easy to clean, allowing for simple maintenance.

There are several ways to make cabinets look glossy, from DIY solutions like applying paint or epoxy to professional options like replacing units with high-gloss doors and cabinets. The downside of glossy cabinets is that dirt and flaws are more noticeable on them. Scratches, grime, and fingerprints, along with tiny imperfections on the surface, stand out. So you’ll need to exercise some caution in the kitchen to keep them looking pristine.

Matte cabinets are the opposite of glossy cabinets in that they don’t reflect light. Instead, they absorb it, giving spaces a more soft and muted look. This makes them more suitable for kitchens that are going for a traditional or country-style aesthetic.

Because light doesn’t reflect on matte cabinets, they present a more even appearance. Faults are also less obvious on them versus on glossy kitchen cabinets. 

Matte cabinets, however, may fall short of giving your kitchen a contemporary vibe. And if you’re working with a small space, they won’t do much in opening up the area.

The choice between glossy and matte kitchen cabinets will depend on your budget and preferences. But to help you make the right decision, here’s a quick overview of their differences:

A major deciding factor for choosing between glossy and matte kitchen cabinets is the look they give your space. Glossy kitchen cabinets are ideal for small and modern kitchens; they’re great if you want your space to look classy. Meanwhile, matte kitchen cabinets are suited for traditional areas that require a more muted aesthetic.

Glossy and matte kitchen cabinets have similar levels of durability, so you can be sure that your units can take the wear and tear of everyday use. That said, matte cabinets may be better at hiding imperfections thanks to their non-reflective nature.

Glossy kitchen cabinets are easy to clean and can remain spotless when you wipe them down regularly. You don’t need any fancy equipment to maintain them–just a good few swipes with a microfiber cloth will keep them spotless! Matte kitchen cabinets are also simple to maintain; they don’t require a lot of cleaning as they don’t display smudges too noticeably on their surface.

If you eventually experience some chips or dents in your cabinets, glossy-finished doors won’t be too hard to repair. Fixing chips in glossy cabinets is as simple as refilling, repainting, and refinishing. The same can be said with matte cabinets. 

The cost of glossy and matte kitchen cabinets will depend on the specifications of the project. These consider the materials used, the sizes of the panels, and the required services (if any) to install them, among other factors. 

Generally, however, matte kitchen cabinets are more affordable. That said, high-gloss kitchen cabinets are still a great investment if you wish to give your kitchen a more stylish aesthetic.

Now the question is: should you choose glossy or matte kitchen cabinets? If you’d like to achieve a more contemporary look, high-gloss kitchen cabinets are the best choice. Otherwise, matte kitchen cabinets will work for a more muted look.

27EStore offers more than 200 color choices for high-quality and customizable high-gloss kitchen cabinets and doors. Check out our website to choose the right style for you and place an order today!