Popular Wood Types for Kitchen Cabinets

Oak is one of the most popular woods for kitchen cabinets. The pronounced grains and range of color options make oak a versatile choice that fits both traditional and contemporary kitchen designs.

There are two main types of oak used for kitchen cabinets:

Red Oak

Red oak is the most commonly used oak for cabinetry. It has a reddish hue and a bold, wavy grain pattern. Red oak is strong, relatively inexpensive, and ages well over time. It can develop a richer patina as it oxidizes.

Red oak cabinets are available as stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinetry. The wood takes stain evenly, making it easy to get a uniform look. Its durability makes it a practical option for high-traffic areas like kitchens.

White Oak

White oak has a straighter, more subtle grain than red oak. It has a light tan or golden color. White oak is even more dense and scratch-resistant than red oak.

Since white oak is more stable, it is often used for custom cabinetry and furniture. It can be dressed up with an array of stain colors. However, many homeowners appreciate its understated elegance and opt to keep the wood's natural golden tones.

Quarter-sawn white oak is a top choice for Arts & Crafts, Mission, or Shaker style kitchens wanting to achieve an authentic period look.

Maple Wood Kitchen Cabinets

Valued for its smooth, fine grain, hardness, and light color, maple is a popular choice for both traditional and contemporary kitchen cabinet styles.

Maple costs a bit more than oak but not as much as exotic woods. It offers a clean, light look perfect for stain or paint.

Hard Maple

Also known as sugar maple, hard maple is dense, strong, and heavy. It has excellent stain absorption properties. The fine, straight grain has a smooth texture prized in cabinetry and furniture.

Hard maple takes stain exceptionally well. But many homeowners opt to simply finish it with a clear lacquer or oil to achieve a light, natural look. The versatility of maple allows it to work in both traditional and modern kitchens.

Soft Maple

Soft maple is a bit less dense than hard maple. It has a slight grain pattern and is also called silver maple or white maple. Soft maple costs a little less than hard maple.

Like hard maple, soft maple stains easily. But it is also painted to achieve a solid, contemporary monochromatic look. Soft maple works well for high-use kitchen cabinetry.

Cherry Wood Kitchen Cabinets

Known for its rich red tones and elegance, cherry wood is a prized material for high-end custom cabinetry. The smooth texture and straight grain patterns give it a refined, formal look perfect for traditional kitchen styles.

There are two common types of cherry wood used for upscale cabinets:

American Black Cherry

Black cherry has a rich reddish-brown color and may feature streaks or variations in color. As it ages, black cherry darkens into a deeper red-brown. Staining is often used to even out the color.

The wood's straight grain and satiny smooth texture make it a top choice for Shaker, Mission, and Arts & Crafts style cabinetry.

European Cherry

Also called sweet cherry, European cherry is paler than American black cherry. It has a light reddish-brown hue. The fine grain has a uniformly smooth texture.

Since European cherry is more consistent in color, it does not require as much staining. A clear varnish is often used to simply enhance its natural color and patina. The clean look makes it suitable for contemporary kitchens.

Compare Wood Types for Cabinets

When selecting cabinet wood, it helps to compare factors like hardness, cost, ease of staining, and overall look.

Hardness and Durability

Maple is the hardest, followed by oak and then cherry. Oak and maple stand up well to heavy use in kitchens. Cherry is best for low-traffic settings.

Stain and Paint Absorption

Oak and maple absorb stains evenly. Cherry can be blotchy. All three woods paint well. Maple's smooth surface gives the best finish for painted cabinets.

Cost Comparison

Oak is the most affordable option. Maple costs a little more. Cherry is the most expensive since it is only used for custom cabinetry.

Visual Appeal

Oak has dramatic grain patterns. Maple has uniform fine grain. Cherry has a refined, formal look. Choose the visual style you want before selecting a wood type.

Choosing Finish for Wood Cabinets

The right finish protects wood while enhancing its beauty. Consider stain, paint, or clear coats to get your desired cabinet look.

Stains

Penetrating wood stains add color while showcasing the wood's grain. Stains come in a range of hues from light honey to espresso. Oak and maple take stains evenly for a uniform look. Use multiple coats for deeper color.

Paints

Painted cabinets give a fresh, contemporary look. Paint complements woods like maple, cherry, and oak. Use primer first for better adhesion. Opt for cabinet-grade paints that withstand washing.

Natural Oil Finishes

Clear varnish, lacquer, and oils allow the natural beauty of wood to shine through. They highlight the wood's grain and color. Natural finishes work well for high-end woods like maple, oak, and cherry.

Door Styles for Wood Cabinets

Along with choosing wood species, consider how door styles impact the kitchen's overall look.

Slab Cabinet Doors

Slab style doors have a simple, integrated panel design. The clean look pairs well with contemporary kitchens. Match with matte hardware in satin nickel, chrome or oil-rubbed bronze.

Shaker Cabinet Doors

Classic Shaker style doors have a recessed center panel bordered by a frame. The versatile style suits traditional to modern kitchens. Pair with bin or bar pulls in brass, bronze or black.

Inset Cabinet Doors

Inset cabinet doors sit within the cabinet face frame. The seamless look provides a custom, high-end style. Opt for polished nickel or brass hardware.

Factors When Selecting Cabinet Wood

Choosing cabinet wood involves balancing your budget, kitchen design, and how you plan to use the space.

Budget

More affordable oak and maple work well for most kitchens. Upgrade to premium cherry for luxury custom cabinets.

Design Style

Consider woods that complement your desired style. Oak suits traditional spaces; maple goes contemporary. Cherry is formal and elegant.

High Traffic vs Low Traffic

Durable oak and maple suit busy kitchen areas. Cherry pairs well with formal dining spaces used less often.

Select cabinet wood that coordinates with your current floors. Or refinish floors in a matching stain for a cohesive look.