A Complete Checklist to Choose the Best Wardrobe Materials: 5 Wardrobe Material Options (2024)

Is MDF good for wardrobes? Or should you stick with wood – traditionally the best wardrobe material? If so, which is the best wood for wardrobes? Are you facing the ultimate dilemma? Worry not! We’re here to rescue you. There are too many wardrobe materials in the market, and deciding what to go with can really get confusing. However, here is a comprehensive list of wardrobe materials that can help you decide which is the best option for you.

When it comes to looks, you can count on the finish of your wardrobe to balance out the interior design scheme of the room it is in, whether in terms of colour, texture or visual appeal. That said, the best material for wardrobe is one that balances durability and functionality with oodles of style. Here is a wardrobe material list to pick from:

#1: Plywood: The Substitute Wardrobe Materials For Wood

Plywood is one of the most durable wardrobe materials and robust substitutes for solid wood. This material used for a wardrobe is made by putting together sheets upon sheets of wood veneer.

They are evenly distributed in strength and can create solid layers. Despite that, plywood is a considerably lighter and easier wardrobe material to work with, making it a versatile option for more detailed wardrobe designs.

This makes it one of the best sheet material for wardrobes. Used as a base for laminates, plywood allows you to deck it up in a variety of colours without compromising on strength. Plywood comes in larger sheets, which means minimal wastage and larger surface areas covered with a single sheet.

Also Read: 11 Trendy Cabinet and Wardrobe Finishes That Can Enhance the Look of Your Home Interiors

#2: MDF: Eco-Friendly Wardrobe Materials

Wondering which environmental-friendly material is best for wardrobes? Among several, MDF is a great option. MDF or Medium Particle Fibreboard consists of wood residue that’s been hammered down into sheets.

Since fine particles are used in the making, the resulting surface is typically smooth and even, without bumps and knots. This makes it the best wardrobe material for painting on.

Among all the wardrobe materials, MDF is relatively affordable—and much cheaper than plywood—in addition to being environmentally friendly for using waste wood. Smooth edges allow for decorative cuts and corners, which makes it one of the best material for wardrobe designs in terms of versatility!

#3: Particleboard: Cost-Effective Wardrobe Materials

Quite like MDF, particleboard is also another of those engineered wardrobe materials made from waste wood chips and sawdust, making it yet another eco-friendly option.

This bedroom cupboard material can cost less in comparison to MDF and plywood and often comes pre-laminated, which reduces the decision-making process.

However, particleboard isn’t as strong as plywood or MDF, and that’s one downside you must consider.

#4: Glass: The Best Wardrobe Materials for Compact Spaces

Glass is one of the best wardrobe material options that can be incorporated with any other materials. Glass is increasingly becoming a regular feature in the best wardrobe material list for its contemporary appeal.

Glass-fronted wardrobes make the otherwise solid structure look lighter and also encourage homeowners to keep the interiors clean! Unlike a lot of almirah material types, it is resistant to most wear and tear and can be wiped down for fingerprints and stains.

If transparent glass isn’t up your alley, opaque and coloured glass are equally attractive options, and also offer a little more privacy.

#5: Solid Wood: Popular Wardrobe Materials for Wardrobe Design

When asked which material is good for wardrobe design, most homeowners would swear on wood. Solid wood is considered to be the best wood for wardrobes. A traditional favourite, wood is still considered to be the best wardrobe material by many design classicists.

It stands the test of time and has the visual appeal of natural textures, striations and colour differences.

If you like these wardrobe materials, take a look at what’s new in wooden wardrobes.

And while it is not as customisable as other wardrobe materials, when it comes to colour and finishes, many owners prefer it that way. Solid wood is heavy and can be susceptible to scratches and nicks if not taken care of properly.

Pro Tip: You could also consider mixing and matching two or more wardrobe materials listed above to get the best of both worlds. For example, you could use MDF for wardrobe doors and plywood for the body, as the former is more customisable and the latter, durable.

Choosing wardrobe materials that suit your needs go a long way in ensuring it remains timeless, both in durability and style!

For more wardrobe design ideas, check out:

Cost of Wardrobe Materials Carcass

Now that we have created thislist of wardrobe materials, let us look at the most popular materials used for the carcass – plywood and MDF. Their prices are:

What Are Some Finishing Materials for Wardrobes?

Now that you know the different types of wardrobe materials, here are some finishes you should look out for.

Decorative Veneers

Veneer is nothing but finely sliced wood sheets pressed into a plywood base. The use of wood gives this finish a rich, luxe and warm appearance. However, since only the surface is wood, it is not as expensive as a solid wood wardrobe. While veneer-finish wardrobe materials can be plain, you can even opt for decorative ones for a unique look.

Also Read: Which Type of Wardrobe Is Best?

Decorative Laminates

Laminates are factory-manufactured synthetic materials. One of the most popular wardrobe finishes available to homeowners, laminate is versatile, cost-effective and easy-to-maintain. Whether you want matte or glossy, blue or red, everything is available when it comes to laminate.

Metal and Leather

Metal and leather is a very uncommon wardrobe finish. While you can get an entire wardrobe customised in these two materials, it will be both expensive and difficult to maintain. An easier option would be to opt for metal handles for your wardrobes, and decorate them with leather, as you can see in this room.

Frosted Glass

Want to provide a glimpse of the contents of your wardrobes without revealing everything? A frosted glass finish is the best option for you! Frosted glass wardrobes help to maintain privacy, unlike glass wardrobes, while also providing a hint of what’s inside. If you have a compact bedroom, a frosted glass wardrobe in neutral shades like white is a good choice.

Check out more wardrobe design ideas:

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Disclaimer:All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates.Talk to our designerfor more details on pricing and availability.