Cabinet Doors vs. Drawers: Selecting a Storage Option

If you're currently remodeling your kitchen or upgrading your layout, you'll soon face a tough decision about whether to choose cabinet drawers or doors. There are advantages to both options, and most homeowners have a mix of both in their kitchen. To determine which approach is best for you and your home, consider your storage needs for your everyday essentials.
At Cabinet Door Factory, we offer cabinet doors and drawer fronts in various styles, sizes, and wood species. All solutions are custom-made to perfectly fit your home's needs. Whether you have a small kitchen with limited space or you want to improve the functionality of your oversized kitchen, we have a solution that will complement your needs.
Here's how to determine if kitchen cabinet drawers or doors are best for your home.
Kitchen Cabinet Doors vs Drawers: What’s the Difference?
Cabinets and drawers work together in a space to maximize functionality and accommodate your storage needs. Kitchen cabinet doors are used to cover the opening of your kitchen cabinetry. Shelving is typically found inside the cabinets.
Cabinet drawers offer pull-out storage that's best for silverware, dishcloths, and measuring cups. Drawers are typically used on the lower cabinets and are better for smaller items.
When to Choose Kitchen Cabinets with Doors
Kitchen storage cabinets with doors are essential for traditional kitchen layouts and are typically used on the upper cabinets or pantry-style storage. Cabinet doors with shelving storage are ideal for larger items, such as small kitchen appliances, pots, pans, and dishware.
When to Choose Kitchen Cabinets with Drawers
Kitchen cabinets with drawers are better for smaller household items, such as utensils, spices, and dishcloths. Kitchen drawer storage typically pulls out, making smaller items more accessible. While you're cooking near the stove or preparing dinner, you can quickly grab the tools you need without having to reach the back of a shelf.
Can You Mix Cabinet Doors and Drawers?
Yes, most modern-day kitchen designs have a blend of kitchen cabinet doors and drawers. Blending the two storage solutions is the most effective way to build a functional space that aligns with your needs for cooking.
Matching vs. Mixing Styles for Cabinet Doors and Drawer Fronts
When pairing cabinet doors and drawer fronts, try to match the materials, hardware, and paint colors. This is the most effective way to get a cohesive look in your home and will make your kitchen feel more put together.
If you decide to mix and match styles, ensure that your approach is purposeful and complements your vision for the space. For example, you can match shaker drawer fronts with slab doors to make your space more visually interesting. Slab doors have a smooth surface that lacks ornate details, but pairing them with a shaker drawer front will create a more elevated appearance without going over the top.
At Cabinet Door Factory, we offer a variety of drawer fronts and cabinet door styles. Our cabinet door styles are part of a bigger product family that includes a matching drawer front and glass-ready door. However, you can also consider exploring mixing the styles.
Hardware Considerations for Cabinets and Drawers
Another functional and aesthetic component to consider is the hardware. Cabinet door knobs are a more popular choice for cabinet doors, and cabinet pulls are more suited for cabinet drawers. If you're looking for a more modern and simple approach, you can also consider a handle-less option paired with a slab cabinet door and drawer front.
The hardware you choose can also impact the look and feel of your kitchen. If you decide to mix and match different styles for your cabinets and drawers, consider sticking with the same finish to get a cohesive look.
Design Your Storage with Custom Cabinet Doors and Drawer Fronts
No matter the size of your kitchen, storage will always be a top priority. If you're renovating your kitchen to maximize storage and improve functionality, we're here to help. At Cabinet Door Factory, we specialize in custom-made solutions that are designed to perfectly fit the cabinets and drawers in your home. Our replacement cabinet doors and drawer fronts are crafted with care and designed with high-end materials that are built to last.
Explore our collection of cabinet door styles today.
FAQ
Can I replace just the drawer fronts without replacing the entire drawer?
Yes, you can install replacement drawer fronts. This is the most eco-friendly and cost-effective way to enhance the look of your kitchen without doing a full remodel.
Are cabinet doors or drawers more expensive?
Ordering cabinet doors is more expensive because they use more materials, and you typically have more cabinets than drawers in your home.
Can I install new cabinet doors and drawer fronts myself?
Yes, you can install cabinet doors and drawer fronts yourself. Installing your cabinet doors yourself is a great way to save on labor costs. We also offer a free step-by-step guide to help you install them on your own.
How do I measure for replacement cabinet doors or drawer fronts?
You'll need to measure the height and width of the cabinet door opening. Here is a measuring guide you can use to get accurate measurements.