Have you ever walked into a kitchen and thought, “Wow, those cabinets are beautiful!”? Maybe you’re dreaming of that feeling in your own home. You might be considering a kitchen makeover, and that means choosing new cabinets. One popular option is unfinished kitchen cabinets. But, why choose them? And how do you even start?
Unfinished cabinets are a great choice because they give you control. You get to decide the exact color and finish! However, the choices can feel overwhelming. Picking the right wood type, stain, and finish can be tricky. You might worry about the cabinets looking cheap or the project being too difficult. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you!
This blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about unfinished kitchen cabinets. We’ll explore the benefits, the different wood types, and how to choose the perfect finish for your kitchen. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes and create a stunning kitchen you’ll love. Get ready to transform your kitchen! Let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of unfinished cabinets!
Our Top 5 Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets Detailed Reviews
1. Quicklock RTA (Ready-to-Assemble)
Rating: 9.4/10
The Quicklock RTA Base Kitchen Cabinet is a great choice for your kitchen! This cabinet is ready to assemble. It features a Shaker style and is made in America. The cabinet is made of raw maple. It is 24 inches wide, 34.5 inches high, and 24 inches deep. It includes four drawers. This cabinet is designed for easy assembly and offers a blend of style and functionality.
What We Like:
- Raw Maple Design – The raw maple design is perfect if you want a rustic look. You can also paint or finish it yourself.
- 3 Full Extension Drawers – You can store your pots, pans, and utensils in the three drawers. This gives you plenty of space.
- Soft Close Hardware – The soft close hardware is great for a busy kitchen. It prevents slamming doors and pinched fingers.
- Easy to Assemble – You do not need to worry about a hard construction. The cabinet is easy to assemble with step-by-step instructions.
What Could Be Improved:
- We did not find any cons.
This Quicklock RTA cabinet is a solid choice for anyone looking for a kitchen upgrade. The easy assembly and useful features make this cabinet a winner.
2. Linon Harris Unfinished Wood Backless Nook with Interior Storage
Rating: 9.3/10
The Linon Harris Unfinished Wood Backless Nook with Interior Storage is a versatile piece of furniture. It offers seating and storage. This nook is a great addition to your kitchen, mudroom, or entertainment area. It’s made in Brazil from solid wood. You can customize it to fit your style. This nook is perfect for adding seating and storage to your home.
What We Like:
- The unfinished wood lets you paint or stain it.
- It has hidden storage under the bench tops.
- The bench can hold up to 600 pounds.
- You can assemble it to face left or right.
- The wood has a rustic look.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires some assembly.
This Linon Harris Nook is a solid choice for any home. This nook is perfect for anyone who wants extra seating and storage.
3. Quicklock RTA Cabinets
Rating: 8.7/10
Looking for a kitchen upgrade that’s easy and stylish? The Quicklock RTA Cabinets Kitchen Starter Set is a great choice! This set, perfect for small kitchens and apartments, offers a complete solution. It features beautiful raw maple cabinets. This set is proudly made in America with care and attention to detail. It’s ready to assemble, making the transformation of your space quick and easy. This set is ideal for those wanting a functional and attractive kitchen without a huge project.
What We Like:
- Proudly made in America! These cabinets are crafted with care by Amish artisans.
- Made from solid hardwood. They are strong and look great in any kitchen.
- Soft-close hardware is included. Doors and drawers close gently and quietly.
- Easy to assemble. The cabinets are lightweight and designed for easy installation.
- Ample storage space. The set includes wall and base cabinets for all your kitchen needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description does not mention if the raw maple needs to be sealed or stained.
This Quicklock RTA Cabinet set provides a great combination of quality, convenience, and style. It’s a smart choice for anyone needing a practical and beautiful kitchen solution.
4. Quicklock RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) 42″ Tall Wall Kitchen Cabinets – Shaker Style
Rating: 8.7/10
The Quicklock RTA 42″ Tall Wall Kitchen Cabinet is a great choice for your home. This cabinet is ready to assemble, so you can build it quickly. It features a Shaker style and is made of 100% hardwood. The cabinet has soft-close hardware and is made in America. The raw maple finish gives it a rustic look, but you can also paint or stain it. The interior is water-resistant and UV-coated for easy cleaning. This cabinet is perfect for any room in your house!
What We Like:
- The cabinets are made with quality Amish craftsmanship in America.
- Soft-close hardware helps prevent slamming and protects the hinges.
- The raw maple exterior is stylish and fits many home styles.
- The water-resistant interior makes cleaning easy.
- The ready-to-assemble design makes building the cabinet simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- Instructions could be clearer for some users.
- The raw maple finish may require some maintenance.
Overall, this Quicklock cabinet is a good product. It’s easy to put together and looks great. You will love the soft-close doors and the quality craftsmanship!
5. Unfinished Poplar Base Kitchen Cabinet
Rating: 8.9/10
Need extra storage? This Unfinished Poplar Base Kitchen Cabinet is a great choice! It’s 36 inches wide, 34 1/2 inches tall, and 24 inches deep. This cabinet is made of solid wood and has Shaker-style doors. You can use it in your kitchen, office, garage, or laundry room. It’s ready to help you organize your space.
What We Like:
- Strong Build: The cabinet is made with solid poplar and a sturdy plywood box. This means it will last a long time.
- Lots of Space: It has two big drawers. You can store many items in them.
- Clean Look: The inside has a special coating that stops scratches. It keeps the cabinet looking nice.
- Easy to Install: The cabinet comes already put together. You can set it up quickly.
- Made in the USA: It’s made in the USA and meets high standards for safety and quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- This cabinet is unfinished. You will need to paint or stain it to match your space.
This cabinet is a solid choice for adding storage. It is well-built and easy to install. You can’t go wrong with this storage solution.
Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets: Your Guide to a New Kitchen
Are you ready to remodel your kitchen? Unfinished kitchen cabinets are a great way to save money. They also let you customize your kitchen. This guide will help you choose the best unfinished cabinets for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When buying unfinished cabinets, look at these important features:
- Construction: Strong joints are important. Look for dovetail or mortise and tenon joints. These are strong and last a long time.
- Door and Drawer Hardware: Make sure the hinges and drawer slides are good quality. Look for soft-close features. They prevent slamming and make things quiet.
- Cabinet Style: Decide on the style that you want. Do you like traditional, modern, or something else? Choose a style that matches your kitchen.
- Adjustable Shelves: Cabinets with adjustable shelves give you flexibility. You can change the shelf height to fit your needs.
Important Materials
The material of your cabinets matters. Here are some common materials:
- Solid Wood: Solid wood cabinets are strong and beautiful. They can last for years. Common woods include maple, oak, and cherry. They can be a bit more expensive.
- Plywood: Plywood is a good choice for cabinet boxes. It is strong and resistant to warping. It’s made of layers of wood glued together.
- Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF): MDF is made of wood fibers. It is smooth and paints well. It is a good option for cabinet doors and drawer fronts. It is less expensive than solid wood.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect the quality of unfinished cabinets:
- Wood Quality: Higher-grade wood is better. It has fewer knots and imperfections.
- Construction Methods: Strong joints and accurate cuts mean better quality.
- Hardware Quality: Good hinges and drawer slides will last longer.
- Thickness of Materials: Thicker materials are usually stronger.
- Finish Quality: Even though they are unfinished, the wood should be sanded well. This makes it easier to paint or stain them.
User Experience and Use Cases
Unfinished cabinets are great for DIY projects. You can paint or stain them to match your kitchen. This gives you a lot of control over the final look.
- DIY Enthusiasts: These cabinets are perfect for people who like to do things themselves. You can save money and customize your kitchen.
- Budget-Friendly Projects: Unfinished cabinets are usually less expensive than pre-finished ones.
- Customization: You can choose your own paint color or stain. This allows you to create a unique kitchen.
- Small Kitchens: These cabinets work well in small kitchens. You can make the most of your space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the main advantage of unfinished cabinets?
A: The main advantage is the ability to customize your cabinets. You can paint or stain them any color you want.
Q: Are unfinished cabinets difficult to install?
A: The installation process is usually the same as pre-finished cabinets. You’ll use screws and level the cabinets.
Q: Can I stain unfinished cabinets?
A: Yes, you can stain unfinished cabinets. You need to sand them first.
Q: What kind of paint is best for unfinished cabinets?
A: Oil-based or latex paints are both good choices. It’s best to use a primer before painting.
Q: What are the most common types of wood used?
A: Maple, oak, and MDF are some of the most common materials.
Q: Are unfinished cabinets cheaper?
A: Yes, unfinished cabinets are generally less expensive than pre-finished ones.
Q: How do I prepare the cabinets for painting or staining?
A: You need to sand the cabinets. Then, clean them and apply a primer.
Q: What kind of hardware should I buy?
A: Choose hinges and drawer slides that match your style and budget.
Q: Are unfinished cabinets a good choice for beginners?
A: Yes, they are a good choice for beginners. You can learn as you go!
Q: How long will it take to finish the cabinets?
A: The time it takes depends on the size of your kitchen and your experience. It can take a few days to a couple of weeks.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.