Ready To Remodel Your Bathroom? Avoid One Type Of Cabinetry At All Costs
If you're thinking about remodeling ideas for your bathroom, you've probably already started planning the look you want: fresh tiles, sleek mirrors, and maybe even spa-like features. But there's one thing you need to ensure you absolutely avoid when it comes to your bathroom cabinetry — particle board. That inexpensive, compressed wood material that you may have seen at your local hardware store might seem like a good deal at first, but your bathroom deserves better. Particle board absorbs moisture and weakens over time, making it a poor choice for your renovation.
Particle boards are made by gluing small wood scraps together under heat and pressure, and they are very sensitive to moisture. Bathrooms, as you know, are a humid environment. From showers to sinks, the constant moisture will quickly weaken the cabinet, causing it to swell and warp. While particle board is usually covered with a thin veneer or laminate to give it a better look, once that surface gets scratched or starts peeling off (which typically happens), you'll be left with a sad-looking cabinet that needs to be repaired or replaced. Also, particle board tends to have a shorter lifespan than other materials. It's the kind of cabinetry that might look okay for up to three years, but is bound to degrade, costing you more in the long run. Plus, particle board doesn't hold screws well because it's made from wood pieces, which can lead to loosening joints and wobbly doors. It's not exactly the quality you want in your new bathroom remodel.
Consider these alternatives to particle board for your bathroom cabinets
If you're looking for the types of wood that will hold up to your bathroom's humidity, moisture, and wear and tear, you should opt for MDF or plywood. First, moisture-resistant MDF (medium density fiberboard) is smooth, dense, and less likely to warp or swell in the bathroom's humid environment, making it an excellent cabinetry choice. Plus, this MDF is relatively affordable, since it's less costly than solid wood cabinets. So you get the best of both worlds with durability and price.
For something more premium, plywood is a fantastic bathroom cabinet option. Plywood is made from layers of wood veneer, making it incredibly strong and durable. Plywood cabinets can be a good choice for your home as certain grades are moisture-resistant and specifically designed for high-humidity environments like bathrooms. Plus, this material is relatively easy to work with and can be stained or painted to match your bathroom's style. While it may cost a bit more than MDF, the extra investment is worth it for its long-term durability and aesthetic appeal.