Line kitchen cabinets to upgrade their appearance and protect their contents. Lining cabinets is an affordable way to refresh your space without a full remodel. Let’s explore when you need to line cabinets and how to do it right.
What Is Cabinet Lining?
Cabinet lining refers to covering the interior surfaces with a separate material. It serves both functional and aesthetic purposes:
- Protects the original cabinet interior from wear and tear
- Conceals damage or flaws in the original surface
- Provides an opportunity to change the look or color
Lining can be done with various materials like wood, laminate, or vinyl. Self-adhesive plastic liners are also popular for their ease of installation.
Reasons to Line Kitchen Cabinets
Here are some of the top reasons homeowners choose to line their cabinets:
Refresh the Look
Lining cabinets is an easy and affordable way to update the style. You can choose liner material and color to match the latest trends or your personal taste. It allows changing the interior design without a major renovation.
Conceal Flaws
Over time, cabinet interiors can get blemishes, stains, or damage. Lining covers up these imperfections for a neater, cleaner look inside. It’s a quick fix for upgrades.
Protect Surfaces
The constant use of opening and closing cabinets can wear down the original materials. Plastic liners protect wood or laminate from scratches, dents, and other signs of regular wear.
Make Cleaning Easier
Cabinet liners create a smooth, uniform surface that’s easy to wipe clean. Spills and messes won’t seep into cracks or open wood grains. Cleaning day becomes much simpler.
Reduce Noise
Some materials like laminate can make sounds when opening or closing cabinets. Plastic liners dampen the noise for a quieter kitchen environment.
When Should You Avoid Liners?
While liners have multiple benefits, they aren’t the best choice in every kitchen:
- In antique or specialty cabinets with finishes worth preserving
- If the cabinets are in near-perfect condition
- For a seamless look in cabinetry with glass doors
- In high moisture areas like near a sink or dishwasher
- If you frequently change out contents and interior layout
Evaluate the current state and usage of your cabinets to decide if liners are right for your needs.
Choosing a Liner Material
Consider the pros and cons of popular liner options:
Plastic
Pros: Affordable, durable, easy self-adhesive installation, moisture-resistant
Cons: Can look cheap, not heat-resistant, less eco-friendly
Wood Veneer
Pros: Natural look, stainable, complements cabinetry
Cons: More difficult installation, pricier
Laminate
Pros: Affordable, durable, moisture-resistant
Cons: Fewer color/pattern options than plastic
Vinyl Cloth
Pros: Soft texture, easy to glue on, range of colors/patterns
Cons: Less durable, absorbs moisture, needs gentle cleaning
Factor in your goals, budget, and kitchen use to pick the right liner type.
How to Line Kitchen Cabinets
Lining cabinets takes careful preparation but straightforward installation:
1. Remove Shelves and Contents
Empty the cabinets completely and take out all removable shelves and hardware. This allows full access to interior surfaces.
2. Clean Surfaces
Use a degreaser or all-purpose cleaner to thoroughly clean inside cabinet walls, doors, and frame edges. Let dry fully.
3. Cut Liners to Fit
Measure cabinet dimensions precisely and transfer to liner material. Cut with sharp blade or scissors for clean edges.
4. Attach Adhesive Liners
Peel off backing and firmly press in place, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles as you go. Roll edges with roller.
5. Reinstall Shelves and Hardware
Put fixed shelves, adjustable shelves, and hardware pieces back in place. Anchor securely.
6. Add Contents
Finally, arrange dishes, food items, and other belongings back inside the refreshed cabinets. Enjoy your updated space!
Do You Need to Line Kitchen Cabinets?
Lining can completely transform the look and function of tired, flawed cabinets for a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. Consider your needs and kitchen use to decide if lining is right for you. With the proper prep and materials, you can do this simple upgrade yourself. The result is stylish, organized, and protected storage space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to line cabinets?
It takes 2-3 hours for a DIYer to line an average kitchen’s cabinets. The time varies based on cabinet size, prep work, and liner material used.
Do you have to take doors off to line cabinets?
Usually, yes. Removing doors allows full access to sidewalls and back panels. It also lets doors be lined individually for easier handling.
Should you paint or line cabinets?
Painting takes more prep work but allows full custom color options. Lining is simpler but offers less dramatic results. Pick based on your goal and budget.
Does lining cabinets make them look cheap?
It can, if using basic plastic liners in a noticeable color/pattern. Opt for subtle hues and natural materials like wood veneer for a seamless look.
What adhesive is best for lining cabinets?
For plastic liners, the brand’s recommended adhesive ensures best results. Wood glue or liquid nails work for other materials.
Can you line just cabinet doors?
Yes, it’s possible to only line the doors if the cabinet interiors are in good condition. Take doors off to easily line the back of each one.
How do you attach vinyl liner to cabinets?
Lightly sand cabinet surfaces, clean, apply adhesive, then smoothly adhere vinyl. Use a roller over liner edges to fully secure.
Conclusion
Lining kitchen cabinets allows you to refresh the look, conceal flaws, protect interiors, reduce noise, and simplify cleaning. Carefully evaluate your needs to decide if lining is suited for your space. When done properly with quality materials, it can give worn cabinets new life at a reasonable cost. With some handy DIY skills, you can tackle this small-scale update project on your own.