Cabinet Base Material Selection Guide (Part 2): How to Choose the Best Material Based on Your Needs?
In Guide (Part 1), we introduced the characteristics of the five mainstream cabinet base materials. But how do you choose the most suitable material based on actual needs?
This guide will help you precisely match materials from three dimensions—usage scenarios, budget, and environmental requirements—to avoid common pitfalls!
1. Choosing by Usage Scenario – Optimal Material Pairings for Different Areas
(1) Kitchen Cabinets
- Recommended Cabinet Body:Moisture-resistant particleboard (chipboard)plywood
- Kitchens are humid, so moisture resistance is critical. Particleboard (with moisture-proof particles) offers the best cost-performance, while plywood is more durable but slightly more expensive.
- Recommended Door Panels:
- Budget-friendly:Melamine board (decorative board)
- Mid-to-high-end:MDF with PVC film (vacuum-formed door panel)
- Premium custom:Solid wood frame + plywood core
(2) Bathroom Vanities
- Must choose moisture-proof materials!
- Cabinet Body:Plywood (Class I waterproof) > Moisture-resistant particleboard
- Door Panel:PVC vacuum-formed dooraluminum-framed glass door
- Avoid:
(3) Living Room/Bedroom Storage Cabinets
- Dry environments allow flexibility:
- Best value:
- Luxury style:
- Natural style:
2. Choosing by Budget – From Budget-Friendly to Premium Options
Budget Tier | Recommended Material Combination | Key Features |
Economy | Particleboard cabinet body + melamine door panel | Lowest cost, ideal for rentals/short-term use |
Practical | Plywood cabinet body + PVC vacuum-formed door panel | Moisture-resistant, durable, best cost-performance |
High-end | Plywood cabinet body + real wood veneer door panel | Near-solid wood texture, enhanced stability |
Luxury | Solid wood frame + F4-star certified particleboard core | Natural and eco-friendly, but requires maintenance |
Pitfall Warning:
- Low-cost melamine boards may use inferior base materials (formaldehyde risks). Always request environmental test reports
- Claims of "zero formaldehyde" are often marketing gimmicks. Trust CARB P2, F4-star, or ENF certifications
3. Choosing by Environmental Standards – From Basic to Premium
(1) Domestic Standards (China)
- E1 grade (≤0.124mg/m³):
- E0 grade (≤0.05mg/m³):
- ENF grade (≤0.025mg/m³):
(2) International Certifications
- CARB P2 (USA):
- F4-star (Japan):
Recommended Combinations:
- Basic eco-friendly needs:
- Export to EU/US:
Summary: Three Steps to Lock in the Best Material
- Define the usage area
- Set a budget range
- Verify environmental certifications
Next Preview: Cabinet Base Material Guide (Part 3): Comparison of 5 Major Brands & Buying Tips
(Deep dive into global brands like Egger, Kronospan, and Lushuihe)
Which material details interest you most? Leave a comment—we’ll address them in future guides!