How to Save on Cabinets Without Sacrificing Quality

Cabinets take up a big chunk of your kitchen budget. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean you have to spend more than you should. With the right choices, you can cut costs without ending up with flimsy or dull-looking cabinets. Knowing how to save money on kitchen cabinets can help you keep more money in your pocket while still getting a kitchen that looks great and works well.

From picking the right materials to making smart design decisions, this guide walks you through practical ways to save on cabinets without cutting corners where it matters most. Let’s get right into it.

7 Ways to Save Money on Kitchen Cabinets

You don’t need the most expensive features to have a beautiful kitchen. Cabinets are one area where smart planning pays off. If you’re wondering how to save on kitchen cabinets, the ideas below can help you stay within budget while still building a space you’re proud of.

1.      Compare Door Styles

Some cabinet doors are harder to build, so they cost more. A flat slab door is the most affordable. A shaker-style door is also simple, but it gives a clean and modern look. On the other hand, raised panel doors cost more. They take longer to make. This is one of the easiest ways to trim down your costs.

Don’t choose styles that need extra sanding or layers. Those details may look fancy, but they won’t help the way your kitchen works. If you’re serious about how to save money on kitchen cabinets, keep it simple and skip the extras.

2.      Replace Wall Cabinets With Open Shelving

Wall cabinets are useful, but they aren’t always necessary. Open shelves cost less and need fewer materials while taking less time to install. You don’t need doors or hinges. That alone cuts the price.

If you store dishes, mugs, or dry goods that you use daily, shelves are perfect. You can even add hooks underneath for hanging cups or utensils. If you’re exploring how to save on kitchen cabinets costs, shelves give you the freedom to spend money elsewhere.

3.      Choose an Affordable Wood Species

Wood can look nearly the same across types, but costs can swing wildly. Oak is strong and affordable. Maple is a bit pricier but still reasonable. Cherry and walnut cost much more. You’ll get the same strength and function without the bigger price tag by picking wisely.

If you’re trying to figure out how to save on kitchen cabinets, don’t just think about color. Look at the wood type and the stain. A light stain on oak can mimic more expensive options while costing far less.

4.      Consider Thermofoil or Laminate

Real wood isn’t the only game in town. Thermofoil cabinets are made from fiberboard with a plastic layer on top. They resist stains and are easy to clean. Laminate is another good option. It can look like wood but costs much less.

These materials work great in high-use kitchens. If you have kids or cook often, these surfaces are a lifesaver. They hold up well and save a lot of money. If you’re wondering how to save money on kitchen cabinets and still get a modern look, these options deserve a closer look.

5.      Don’t Add a Glaze to Your Paint or Stain

Glazing adds cost. It’s an extra step that doesn’t change how the cabinet works, just how it looks. If you’re choosing a painted cabinet, stick with a solid color. If you go with stained wood, skip the glaze layer.

This step can save more than you think. Glazes are hand-applied in most cases. That takes time and labor. If your goal is to save on cabinets without giving up function, this cut is smart and painless.

6.      Do Without Soft-Close Drawers and Full-Extension Slides

These features feel nice, but cost extra. Soft-close drawers use special hardware. So do full-extension slides that let you pull the drawer out all the way. That hardware doesn’t come cheap.

If you’re on a tight budget, these are extras you can skip. You’ll still have fully working drawers. They’ll just feel a little different. People trying to learn how to save on kitchen cabinets often overlook the cost of hardware. It adds up fast.

7.      Customize Less

Custom shapes, corner units, and built-ins sound fun, but they come with higher prices. Stick to standard sizes and shapes, and use filler panels if needed. You’ll cut the labor cost and avoid long waits.

You can make your kitchen look great without building every cabinet to a special size. Standard cabinets are made in bulk, so they’re cheaper and faster to get. If you’re thinking about how to save kitchen cabinets, keep your layout simple and straight.

Wrapping Up

Kitchen cabinets don’t need to break the bank. Skip the fancy add-ons and use smart materials to keep the layout simple. These choices help you spend less while still building a kitchen that works.

By following these tips, you now know how to save money on kitchen cabinets without feeling like you gave anything up. Shop budget-smart cabinet solutions now at Frugal Cabinets to make smart choices for better kitchens.

FAQs

Q1: What’s the cheapest way to update my cabinets?

Painting or refacing is the cheapest way. If the boxes are strong, new doors or a coat of paint can give them a brand-new look.

Q2: Are stock cabinets a good idea?

Yes. Stock cabinets are pre-built in common sizes. They cost less and are easier to find, especially if you need something fast.

Q3: Is laminate better than wood for saving money?

Yes. Laminate is cheaper than solid wood. It also holds up well over time, making it a great pick for budget remodels.

Q4: What’s the biggest mistake people make when buying cabinets?

Over-customizing. It adds cost and time. Stick with simple layouts and common cabinet sizes to avoid blowing your budget.

Q5: Can I mix open shelves with regular cabinets?

Absolutely. Use shelves in spots where you often reach. Use cabinets for heavy storage. This keeps costs low and adds style.