You’re getting ready to renovate your kitchen, but you’re not sure whether to go with cabinets or cupboards. Each one is suited for different styles of kitchens. Without the right planning and knowledge, you may be unable to choose the best option for your home.
Kitchen cabinets are typically larger and are used for storing general items, while cupboards are smaller and are typically used for storing food and dishes. Both cabinets and cupboards can be customized to match any kitchen decor. Yet there are a few key differences between a kitchen cabinet vs cupboard.
Today I’m going to discuss the major points of contention between kitchen cabinets and cupboards. By the end of this article, you’ll understand which option is right for you.
Here Are the Differences In between Kitchen Cabinet Vs Cupboard
If you’re remodeling your kitchen or simply want to know more about the different types of storage solutions available, you may be wondering what the difference is between cabinetry and cupboards. Here’s a quick overview of the two terms:
1. Type of Each
There are three main types of kitchen cabinets: partial overlay, full overlay, and inset. Partial overlay cabinets are the most common type, as they offer a balance between cost and function.
Full overlay cabinets provide more storage space and allow for greater customization, but they’re also more expensive. Inset cabinets are less common and sit flush with the door frame, making them ideal for small kitchens or those with a traditional style.
Cupboards are also available in three main types: airing cupboards, built-in cupboards, and linen cupboards. Airing cupboards typically hold towels and other items that need to air out, while built-in cupboards are designed to be installed in a specific space. Linen cupboards are often used for storing tablecloths, sheets, and other linens.
2. Uses Material
Cabinet material is usually made of solid wood or laminate. They have door fronts and shelves inside, and they can be either freestanding or built into the wall. On the other hand, cupboards are usually just open shelving.
You can put whatever you want on the shelves, and some models don’t have a door like a cabinet door front. They are also usually made of wood and laminate but can also be made of other materials.
3. Size and Dimensions
A kitchen cabinet should be big enough to comfortably hold all of your kitchen items while also being small enough to fit in the space you have available. Cupboards can be any size and shape you want. They can be as big or small as you need, which makes them perfect for smaller spaces.
However, because they are not as deep as cabinets, they may not be able to hold as much. So, when deciding between a kitchen cabinet and a cupboard, make sure to consider both the size and the depth of the unit.
4. Applications in the Kitchen
Generally speaking, cabinets are taller and have doors that enclose the interior space, while cupboards are shorter and typically have open shelving.
This means that cupboards are better suited for storing items that you need to access frequently, such as dishes and glassware. In contrast, hanging cabinets are ideal storage solutions for keeping out of sight, such as food storage containers and large appliances.
5. Installation Process
Installing kitchen cabinets is a fairly straightforward process. You can either have them built into the wall or install them as freestanding units. Wall cabinets are generally more expensive and require more work to install, but they provide a more polished look.
Alternatively, cupboards are much easier to install. You can simply put them wherever you want, and they don’t require any special installation process. And because they are lighter than cabinets, they are also easier to move around if you ever need to change the layout of your kitchen.
6. Aesthetics and Style
Choosing between kitchen cabinets or cupboards may ultimately come down to aesthetics and style. Cupboards tend to have a more traditional look, while cabinets can offer a more modern and sleek appearance.
If you’re aiming for a rustic kitchen, cupboards are the way to go. If you want something that looks straight out of a magazine, cabinets might be the better option.
7. Maintenance and Cleaning
Both kitchen cabinets and cupboards will require some maintenance and cleaning. However, because kitchen cabinets, doors, and shelves enclose the interior, they can be more difficult to clean than cupboards. For example, an upper cabinet with glass doors will require regular dusting to prevent fingerprints and grime from building up.
While cupboards are easier to clean, they may not provide as much protection for your items from dust and other airborne particles. So, if you are someone who is particularly concerned about keeping your kitchen clean, inset cabinets are better suited to you.
8. Budget-Friendly Option
Depending on the specific style of cabinet or cupboard that you select for your kitchen, one option may be more budget-friendly than the other. Regarding kitchen cabinets, there are many different styles and materials to choose from, which can affect the overall cost.
Meanwhile, cupboards are typically less expensive since they are not as complex. If you work with a limited budget, cupboards may make more sense for your kitchen.
How Do I Decide Which One Is Right For My Kitchen?
When it comes to deciding on kitchen cabinets or cupboards, there is no correct or inaccurate answer. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences.
If you’re looking for something that is easy to install and maintain, cupboards could be a good choice. However, if you need more storage space or want a more modern look for your kitchen, cabinets may be a better choice.
Consider your budget, the amount of space you have available, and the style you are going for in your kitchen. With all of these factors in mind, you should be able to make the right decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some FAQs to keep in mind when contemplating a kitchen cabinet vs a cupboard:
1. What Is the Bottom of Kitchen Cupboards Called?
It Plinths. They are fitted at the bottom of the base cabinet and sit on the floor, covering the gap created by the cabinet legs. They usually range from 60-200mm in height, although this will vary depending on the style of the kitchen.
Base cabinets with plinths can create a more polished look, but they can also make it more difficult to clean the floor beneath the cabinets.
2. What Is a Cabinet without Doors Called?
Open shelving. The trend of open shelving in the kitchen is definitely growing. Part of the reason may be that open shelving gives the illusion of more space. After all, if you can see all the way to the back of the shelves, it looks like there’s more room than if doors blocked those shelves.
3. What Is a Faceless Cabinet?
Frameless cabinets, also known as faceless cabinets, are a modern take on kitchen design. The face frame is removed, and the doors are secured firmly to the sides of the cabinet box. This gives the cabinet a clean, modern look.
Conclusion
As I’ve outlined above, there are many things to consider when choosing kitchen cabinets or cupboards. They each have their own pros and cons that you’ll need to weigh depending on your specific needs.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to what will work best for you and your kitchen. Just be sure to take your time and make a decision that you’ll be happy with for the foreseeable future. And if you’re still not sure, you can always consult with a kitchen designer or remodeler to get their expert opinion.