The Best Materials for Lining Kitchen Cabinets
Whether you're renovating your kitchen or just looking to refresh it, lining your cabinets is an easy upgrade that can make a big difference. Lining your cabinets will not only protect them from wear and tear but also help keep them clean and organized.
But with so many lining options available, how do you choose? We'll help you select the best liner for your needs.
Wax Paper
Wax paper is a thin, moisture-resistant paper that can be cut to size to fit inside your cabinets. Thanks to its wax coating, it creates a barrier that protects your cabinets from spills, condensation, and scratches.
Benefits of wax paper:
- Inexpensive and readily available
- Disposable - easily replaced
- Moisture barrier
- Minimal effort to install - just cut to size
Drawbacks of wax paper:
- Not as durable with heavy use
- Can rip or tear over time
- Doesn't grip items to prevent sliding
We recommend using two layers of wax paper for better protection. Since it tears easily, replace it frequently, at least every few months. Wax paper works best for low-use cabinets like infrequently accessed corners or under the sink.
Foil
Like wax paper, aluminum foil can also be used to line cabinets. It creates a moisture barrier and is easy to install by cutting sheets to size.
Benefits of foil:
- Inexpensive and easy to find
- Moldable to fit cabinet shape
- Disposable
- Moisture barrier
Downsides of using foil:
- Wrinkles easily and can look messy
- Tears more easily than other materials
- Doesn't grip items to prevent sliding
We recommend smoothing wrinkles and doubling up layers of foil for greater protection. Replace it frequently to keep cabinets looking tidy. It works best for low-use areas.
Wrapping Paper
For a quick and stylish liner, use rolls of decorative wrapping paper inside cabinets. The paper is available in endless colors and prints to fit your style.
Benefits of wrapping paper:
- Inexpensive
- Easy to find
- Variety of stylish patterns available
- Can change it up seasonally
The drawbacks of wrapping paper:
- Not moisture resistant
- Thinner than other papers
- Doesn't grip items to prevent sliding
We recommend lining it with wax paper first for moisture protection. Swap out the paper occasionally to keep your kitchen looking fresh.
Fabric
For a soft, textured look, use fabric to line your cabinets. Good options include linen, cotton, vinyl tablecloths, or oilcloth fabric.
The benefits of fabric:
- Soft, textured appearance
- Easily changed for new looks
- Reusable
- Variety available
The downsides of fabric:
- Must be sewn or glued
- Not as protective as other liners
- May stain or absorb smells
Preshrink your fabric first to prevent future warping. Use fabric glue or velcro dots to adhere it inside cabinets. Change it out frequently to prevent staining.
Adhesive Shelf Liner
Self-adhesive vinyl shelf liner is a popular option for lining cabinets. The textured, grippy surface helps keep items from sliding around.
Benefits of adhesive liner:
- Moisture resistant
- Grips items to prevent sliding
- Reusable - can be cleaned
- Easy peel-and-stick application
Potential drawbacks:
- Adhesive can leave residue over time
- Not removable/replaceable
- Surface scratches and wears down over time
Apply it precisely since it's not removable. Clean gently with mild soap and water to prolong its life. Replace approximately every 1-2 years.
Cork
Cork is a sustainable material harvested from the bark of cork oak trees. It comes in rolls or sheets for lining cabinets.
The benefits of cork:
- Naturally moisture and mildew resistant
- Grips items firmly to prevent sliding
- Reusable and long-lasting
- Sustainable material
Potential cons of cork:
- Shows dirt, smudges, and scrapes more visibly
- Can be expensive
- Difficult to cut perfectly flush with cabinet edges
Wipe cork clean gently with a damp cloth. Use a utility knife to trim cork to fit your cabinets precisely. It's best for frequently used cabinets that need good grip.
Plastic Laminate
Plastic laminate shelving provides a super durable and moisture-resistant liner option. The thin laminate surface is bonded to particleboard or MDF.
Pros of plastic laminate:
- Extremely durable
- Waterproof and stain resistant
- Seamless, easy-to-clean surface
Cons to consider:
- Can have a dated appearance
- Doesn't grip items to prevent sliding as well as other liners
- Must be cut to size
Clean laminate with a damp cloth and mild detergent. For high-wear cabinets, the durability of laminate can't be beat.
Chalkboard Contact Paper
For a fun, custom look, use chalkboard contact paper to line your cabinets. Kids will love it too!
Benefits of chalkboard paper:
- Writable surface for notes, art, menus, etc.
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Easy peel-and-stick application
- Inexpensive
Potential cons:
- Requires frequent cleaning
- Chalk dust can be messy
- May stain or wear over time
Use high-quality chalk markers and prime the surface before writing. Replace paper every 6 months to 1 year to keep it looking fresh.
How to Choose the Best Liner for Your Cabinets
When selecting a liner, consider your cabinet's purpose and level of use. Ask yourself:
- Is it a high-traffic area prone to spills and wear?
- Will moisture be an issue, like under the kitchen sink?
- Do you need to grip bottles or jars to keep them sliding out?
- Do you want a fun, customized look?
- What's your budget?
Prioritize liners that are durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean for high-use cabinets. For low-use cabinets, inexpensive papers or fabrics may suffice.
Grippy, textured liners help keep items in place in cabinets storing spices, oils, canned goods, etc. Waterproof vinyl or plastic liners are great for under the sink. Cork and chalkboard liners allow for customization.
Installing Your New Liner
Installing liner is a quick DIY project for most kitchen cabinets:
- Empty the cabinet fully and clean interior surfaces.
- Take precise measurements and use them to cut your liner material to size as needed.
- For adhesive-backed liner, peel off backing and press onto surfaces firmly.
- For loose liners, use velcro, magnets, or tacks to secure in place.
- Use a utility knife to trim edges for a perfect custom fit.
- Replace cabinet contents, enjoy your refreshed space!
Pro tip: Line the bottom of cabinets first, then do drawer liners last to achieve the perfect fitted shape.
To maximize the life of your cabinet liners:
- Wipe vinyl, laminate, and cork liners clean periodically with mild soap and water.
- Shake out loose lining materials like paper to remove dust and crumbs.
- Watch for tearing, staining, or curling and replace liner promptly when needed.
- Use liners designed for moisture resistance in humid environments.
The right liner will keep your kitchen cabinets organized and protected. Choose a material that fits your cabinets' use, style and budget needs. Follow our tips for installing and maintaining your liner. Putting in new cabinet liners is an easy way to refresh your kitchen's look!