What is the Best Wood for Fitted Wardrobes?

When it comes to choosing the perfect wood for your bespoke fitted wardrobes, it’s essential to consider both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the materials. Wardrobes are not just storage solutions; they are a key design element in your room that can enhance its overall look and feel. The choice of wood will influence not only the wardrobe's appearance but also its durability and longevity.

In this blog, we will explore the two main types of wood commonly used for fitted wardrobes: Hardwoods and Engineered Woods. Each has its advantages and characteristics that make them suitable for different needs. We will also compare their various types to help you make an informed decision when choosing the best material for your wardrobe.

1. Hardwood for Fitted Wardrobes

What is Hardwood?

Hardwood comes from trees that have broad leaves, such as oak, maple, cherry, and walnut. These trees grow more slowly, which results in a denser and stronger wood. Hardwoods are typically more expensive than softwoods but offer superior durability, longevity, and a natural, elegant finish.

Advantages of Hardwood:

• Durability: Hardwoods like oak and maple are known for their resilience and long lifespan, making them ideal for wardrobes that are meant to last.

• Natural Beauty: They have rich grain patterns and textures, which give them a luxurious, high-end look.

• Eco-friendly: Hardwoods are often sustainably harvested, providing an eco-conscious choice when looking for materials for your wardrobe.

• Custom Finish Options: Hardwood can be stained or varnished in various finishes to match your room's decor.

  
  

Popular Types of Hardwood for Fitted Wardrobes

Oak

• Appearance: Oak is one of the most popular hardwoods for furniture. It is known for its rich, golden-brown hues with prominent grain patterns, making it visually appealing and timeless.

• Durability: Oak is extremely durable, offering excellent resistance to wear and tear. It’s highly resistant to scratching, making it a great choice for wardrobes that experience regular use.

• Cost: Oak is generally on the higher end in terms of price, but its durability and classic look justify the cost.

  
  

Maple

• Appearance: Maple has a light, creamy color with a subtle grain pattern, making it perfect for modern, minimalist interiors.

• Durability: Maple is very dense and tough, offering a sturdy option for wardrobes that will withstand heavy usage.

• Cost: Slightly more affordable than oak, maple is a good choice for those seeking a balance between price and performance.

  
  

Walnut

• Appearance: Walnut is known for its deep, rich tones ranging from chocolate brown to purplish hues. It’s often used for high-end wardrobes and adds a touch of luxury to any room.

• Durability: Although walnut is strong and durable, it is softer than oak, so it might show wear and tear a bit more easily.

• Cost: Walnut is one of the more expensive hardwoods due to its rich color and rarity.

  
  

2. Engineered Wood for Fitted Wardrobes

What is Engineered Wood?

Engineered wood is a type of wood product made by binding together different layers of wood fibers or particles with adhesives. The most common types of engineered wood include

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), MFC (Melamine Faced Chipboard), and PLYWOOD.

Engineered wood offers a more affordable, stable, and versatile option for wardrobes, especially if you are working with a specific design or budget in mind.

Advantages of Engineered Wood:

• Affordability: Engineered wood options are typically more affordable than hardwoods, making them a cost-effective choice for large wardrobes.

• Consistency: Unlike natural wood, engineered wood is less prone to warping, shrinking, or expanding due to humidity changes.

• Design Flexibility: Engineered wood can be easily molded into different shapes and is often available in a variety of finishes and textures, allowing for greater design freedom.

• Eco-friendly: Many engineered wood products use recycled wood fibers, making them more environmentally friendly than solid wood alternatives.

  
  

Popular Types of Engineered Wood for Fitted Wardrobes

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)

• Appearance: MDF is smooth and dense, offering an even surface for painting or veneering. It is often used for wardrobes that require a painted finish.

• Durability: MDF is relatively sturdy but can be prone to damage from moisture and heavy impacts. It’s not as strong as hardwood but still offers a good solution for lighter use wardrobes.

• Cost: One of the most affordable engineered wood options available, MDF is popular for budget-conscious wardrobe designs.

  
  

MFC (Melamine Faced Chipboard)

• Appearance: MFC is made by applying a melamine resin coating to chipboard, offering a durable and smooth surface. It comes in a variety of textures and finishes, including wood veneers and colored finishes.

• Durability: MFC is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture, making it a solid option for wardrobes in high-traffic areas.

• Cost: MFC is often more affordable than MDF and hardwood, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

  
  

Plywood

• Appearance: Plywood has a layered construction, giving it a natural, multi-grain texture. It can be used in wardrobes where the wood's appearance is an important feature, especially if the layers are visible.

• Durability: Plywood is incredibly strong and stable, making it an excellent choice for heavier wardrobes.

• Cost: The cost of plywood can vary depending on the type of wood used, but it is generally affordable compared to hardwoods like oak and walnut.

  
  

Comparison of Hardwood and Engineered Wood for Fitted Wardrobes

Aspect	Hardwood	Engineered Wood
Durability	High (oak and maple are particularly strong)	Medium (MDF and MFC are less durable)
Aesthetic Appeal	Natural, rich grain patterns	Smooth, can be veneered for high-quality finishes
Cost	Expensive (especially walnut and oak)	Affordable, budget-friendly
Environmental Impact	Can be sustainably harvested	Often uses recycled wood fibers, more eco-friendly
Resistance to Moisture	Moderate (oak is better for moisture resistance)	High (especially MFC, which is moisture resistant)
Maintenance	Requires regular care (e.g., waxing, polishing)	Low maintenance, easy to clean
Suitability for Heavy Use	Excellent, especially for wardrobes with heavy items	Suitable for lighter wardrobes, less heavy-duty
Customization	Can be stained or varnished for a unique finish	Can be molded and finished in various textures and colors

Conclusion

When choosing the best wood for your fitted wardrobe, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preferences, budget, and specific requirements. Here’s a brief recap of the options:

• Hardwood: If you are looking for luxury, durability, and a natural finish, hardwoods like oak, maple, or walnut are excellent choices. They are perfect for creating a timeless wardrobe that will last for years and add value to your home.

• Engineered Wood: If affordability, versatility, and sustainability are important to you, then engineered woods like MDF, MFC, or plywood are fantastic options. They are cost-effective, easy to work with, and still offer great durability and design flexibility.

  
  

No matter your choice, ensuring that the wood used for your fitted wardrobe is durable, practical, and aesthetically pleasing will help you create a storage solution that enhances both the look and function of your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1 Is Plywood or MDF Better for Wardrobes?

Both plywood and MDF have their unique advantages when used for wardrobes. However, plywood is generally considered better for heavy-duty wardrobes due to its strength and durability. It is more stable, resistant to warping, and can support more weight. If you're looking for long-lasting, sturdy wardrobes, plywood is the ideal choice.

MDF, on the other hand, is smoother and better for wardrobes that will be painted or veneered. It is more affordable but less durable than plywood, especially when exposed to moisture. If your wardrobe design requires high-quality paint finishes and is not exposed to extreme conditions, MDF is a good alternative.

Q.2 What is the Best Material to Make Wardrobes Out Of?

The best material for making wardrobes depends on your needs and budget. Hardwood like oak or maple is often considered the best choice for those who value natural beauty, durability, and luxury. If you're on a budget or looking for versatility, engineered wood options like MDF and MFC are great alternatives.

For those seeking a strong, long-lasting wardrobe that can carry a lot of weight, plywood is a top option. It offers both strength and versatility. Ultimately, the material should suit your aesthetic preferences, budget, and usage requirements.

Q.3 Which Board is Best for Making a Wardrobe?

The best board for making a wardrobe largely depends on the desired finish and functionality:

• Plywood is ideal for wardrobes that need to support heavy loads and have a natural wood finish.

• MDF is excellent if you want a smooth, seamless surface that’s perfect for painting or applying veneers.

• MFC is another engineered wood option that offers affordability and moisture resistance, making it a solid choice for wardrobe construction.

Each material offers distinct benefits, so the choice should align with your wardrobe’s design, weight-bearing needs, and finish preferences.

Q.4 What Thickness of Plywood for a Wardrobe?

For a wardrobe, a plywood thickness of 18mm to 25mm is generally recommended, depending on the size and structure of the wardrobe. Thicker plywood provides more stability and can support heavier items, making it ideal for wardrobe shelves and back panels. For smaller wardrobes or lighter applications, 18mm plywood may suffice, but for larger wardrobes or drawers, it’s better to go for 25mm plywood for added strength.

Q.5 Which is Costlier, MDF or Plywood?