Today we discuss Best For Kitchen Cabinets Wax or Poly. Have you ever wondered what’s the difference between wax and polyurethane for your kitchen cabinets? If so, then this blog post is just for you! We’re going to go over some of the biggest differences between these two products. Read on to learn about which one might be best for your needs!
The kitchen has always been the heart of the home. It is where we gather to share a meal, talk about our day, and spend time together. The kitchen cabinets are usually one of the first things people notice when they walk in your door.
Many homeowners want their kitchens to look pristine and well-kept at all times. This can be difficult with all that cooking you do! Luckily there are two great products that will help keep your cabinets looking clean: wax or polyurethane. Which should you use? Read on for more information!
Wax for Kitchen Cabinets:
- Wax is a natural product, which means it will breathe and therefore not off-gas into the home’s air or absorb into food from food containers…Waxing your cabinets will not only give them a new look but also protect them from spills and stains
- Waxing your cabinets will add value to the home because it will make them look cleaner and newer
- If you want your cabinet’s finish to last longer, then you should apply a protective coating before applying wax
- Make sure to use enough wax so that it covers all of the wood; this will help seal in moisture and keep out dirt and grime
- After applying wax, let it dry then buff off any excess with a clean cloth (or vacuum)
- You can apply wax with a soft cloth or paintbrush, depending on what type you buy
- Waxing your kitchen cabinets can take around 30 minutes for every coat of wax applied while poly takes about 5-10 minutes per coat applied
downsides of Wax for Kitchen Cabinets:
- Waxing your cabinets is a difficult process that can be time-consuming
- Waxing your cabinets can also be expensive, with prices for wax starting at $20 per bottle
- Waxing your cabinet may not last as long as you would like it to, and will need to be reapplied every 6 months or so
- It’s not an environmentally friendly way to clean your cabinets
- Wax may leave a residue on the cabinet that will need to be cleaned off with other methods in the future, so it isn’t as much of a one-time solution
- You have to let the wax dry before applying anything else (like paint) or risk getting sticky spots on what you’re painting
Poly for Kitchen Cabinets:
- Poly is made from petroleum products that are sticky to the touch, which offers some protection against cut marks from knives or other utensils scraping against cabinet surfaces,
- Poly is a synthetic material that does not require any maintenance but can be more expensive
- You should use poly if you have an allergy or sensitivity to certain materials such as beeswax
downsides of Poly for Kitchen Cabinets:
- Polyurethane is more expensive than paint.
- The polyurethane coating can be damaged by very hot pots or pans, scratches from metal utensils, and water spills. It’s easy to scratch the surface of the poly if you’re not careful with your cooking utensils.
- It may not last as long as you would like it to – some people have said that their kitchen cabinets are already deteriorating after only two years of use.
- Poly can’t be used on all surfaces, such as glass doors or metal cabinets.
- Once it’s installed, it’s difficult to remove the poly from a cabinet without damaging it in some way.
- It doesn’t have the same natural look as wood, so it’s not very aesthetically pleasing.
- You’ll have to seal it regularly with oil or wax to keep its shine and stop it from chipping.
- because it isn’t breathable, over time the buildup could off-gas chemicals and/or transfer those chemicals onto your food if you store it in the kitchen cupboards where you cook.
which is Best For Kitchen Cabinets Wax or Poly?
That really depends on the type of cabinets. If you have a wood finish, the poly seal could be worth a try. It has excellent pigment protection because it’s formulated for both waterborne and oil-borne finishes, but it does leave a little bit of residue behind to maintain that UV protection. It also gives off that polymerized shine if you want that plastic look or feel your kitchen flooring texture is no good after waxing all surfaces with poly wax. If your kitchen cabinetry is lower-grade metal/vinyl/etc., they can just go ahead with the old-fashioned option! They were never meant to be finished anyway so they don’t need any extra love.
Final words:
The answer to which is best for kitchen cabinets wax or poly depends on what you’re looking for. Waxes are easier to remove and have a more natural look while polyurethanes provide excellent protection from spills and stains. It is a good option for those who want to maintain the natural look of their cabinets. Apply one coat of wax or polyurethane on each side of the cabinet doors and drawers besides, Polyurethane is a great option for those who prefer a more modern, glossy finish. You can also find hybrid options that combine both materials into one product so your decision may depend on the specific needs of your home. No matter whether you decide on the best For Kitchen Cabinets Wax or Poly, be sure to seal it with a clear coat before applying any other type of finish
