The Pros and Cons of High Gloss Kitchen Cabinets

When most people think of modern kitchens, high gloss kitchen cabinets come to mind. When paired with stone countertops, high gloss cabinets create an upscale look that complements any sized kitchen.

While a great choice for most kitchens, high gloss isn’t the best option for everyone. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of this style before renovating your home kitchen.

What is a High-gloss Finish?

High gloss finish kitchen cabinets have a reflective surface. They’re typically made from acrylic, which is a high-quality plastic that’s an excellent alternative to glass. The reflective surface is durable and resistant to stains.

High gloss cabinets are ideal for contemporary kitchens, particularly if you have flat or handleless cabinets.

Because of their reflective properties, high gloss cabinets can make a small kitchen feel bigger and brighter. 

Advantages of High Gloss

There are many advantages to installing high gloss cabinets in your kitchen.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

One of the biggest advantages of high gloss cabinets is that they’re easy to clean and maintain. Food marks, stains and dust are easily wiped away with a soft, damp cloth. Cleaning high gloss kitchen cabinets is a breeze.

Oil marks are also virtually invisible on glossy finishes. With matte finishes, on the other hand, you can see every oil and water mark.

Some cabinet finishes require a lot of maintenance, but high-gloss finishes are easy to maintain. They don’t require any special sealing, and their water-resistant qualities make them ideal for kitchen use.

If you want to spend less time maintaining your kitchen (who doesn’t?), consider installing high gloss cabinets.

Makes Small Kitchens Look Bigger

High-gloss cabinets reflect light, which can make a smaller kitchen feel bigger, brighter and more open. This is a big reason why glossy cabinets are still – and will always be – in style.

If your kitchen doesn’t receive a lot of natural light, high-glass surfaces will brighten up the space and make it feel more inviting. It’s a simple way to create volume and space without investing in a costly addition.

Available in a Variety of Colors and Styles

Have a particular color or style in mind for your kitchen renovation? You’re sure to find a high-gloss option that meets your needs.

Glossy cabinets come in a wide variety of colors and styles – far more than traditional wood or other materials. From bright blue to cream, gray and everything in between, high-gloss cabinets can be made in virtually any color.

You’ll also find a variety of door styles. Flat cabinets are the most popular option, but you’ll find both handled and handleless varieties available.

Creates a Contemporary Look

If you’re remodeling your kitchen and want a more contemporary style, high gloss is the way to go. This finish is commonly found in flat panel cabinets, which are a staple in modern kitchens.

Glossy cabinets are visually appealing and inviting, making them a great option if you regularly entertain or eat together as a family. 

Disadvantages of High Gloss

While there are many advantages of glossy kitchen cabinets, there are also some disadvantages that need to be considered.

They Show Scratches, Smudges and Fingerprints

High gloss kitchen cabinets scratch easily, and their reflective nature means that smudges and fingerprints are more easily noticeable.

Glossy cabinets are easy to clean, but you may find yourself cleaning them more often than usual. A soft, clean cloth is really all you need to remove smudges and fingerprints from your cabinets.

Higher Cost

Luxury and sophistication come at a cost. High-gloss cabinets are popular among homeowners, and they add a certain level of elegance to the space. For these reasons, glossy cabinets tend to come at a higher cost compared to other styles and finishes.

While the cost may be higher, it’s worth the investment. The high gloss style is timeless and will look every bit as elegant five years from now as it does today.

High gloss cabinets are a great addition to any modern home kitchen. They’re easy to clean, low maintenance and will never go out of style. They require a little more cleaning and come at a higher cost, but it’s a small price to pay for the elegance and beauty they provide.

Do you have high gloss cabinets in your home? Share your experiences in the comments below.