Gloss vs Matt Kitchen Finishes: Which One is Right for Your Home?

Choosing the right kitchen cabinet door finish can feel like a big decision, and it's not hard to see why. Your kitchen is more than just a space for cooking; it's the heart of your home.

Whether you're creating a sleek, modern look or a warm, timeless atmosphere, understanding the difference between gloss and matt finishes can help you make a choice that reflects your style and meets your practical needs.

What is a Gloss Kitchen Finish?

A gloss kitchen finish is all about shine. These cabinets have a high-gloss surface that’s reflective and sleek, making your kitchen look brighter and more spacious. The shine creates a luxurious, high-end feel that can elevate any kitchen design, giving it a modern edge and a touch of elegance.

Gloss finishes are typically made from materials like high-quality lacquer or acrylic. They come in a variety of colours, from classic neutrals to bold, eye-catching shades. When chosen thoughtfully, a gloss finish can be a show-stopping feature in any home.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Gloss Kitchen Finishes

Pros:

Brightens the space: The reflective surface bounces light around, making your kitchen look larger and more open. This can be especially helpful for smaller kitchens or spaces with limited natural light.
Contemporary appeal: Gloss finishes are perfect for modern and minimalist designs, adding a touch of sophistication and a polished look to your kitchen.
Easy to clean: Smooth surfaces make it easier to wipe away spills and stains, keeping your kitchen looking pristine and hygienic.
Adds a touch of luxury: Glossy surfaces are synonymous with a high-end, designer feel, making your kitchen feel more expensive and upscale.

Cons:

Visible fingerprints and smudges: Glossy surfaces can show marks, requiring regular cleaning to maintain their pristine look. If you have a busy household, this may be an important consideration.
Potential glare: The shine can create unwanted reflections, especially in well-lit kitchens. If you’re sensitive to glare or have large windows that let in a lot of natural light, this may be a downside.
Susceptible to scratches: Lower-quality gloss finishes may show scratches more easily, impacting their visual appeal. Choosing a high-quality material can reduce this issue but may come at a higher price.
Not ideal for all styles: Gloss finishes may not suit more traditional or rustic kitchen designs, as they tend to lean toward a contemporary aesthetic.

Maintenance of Gloss Kitchen Finishes

Maintaining gloss kitchen finishes requires a bit of extra attention to ensure they stay looking their best. Here are some tips:

Regular wiping: Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down surfaces and remove fingerprints and smudges. A gentle, non-abrasive cleaner can also help maintain the shine without leaving streaks.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Stick to non-abrasive cleaning products to prevent damage to the finish. Strong chemicals or rough scrubbing can cause the surface to lose its glossy shine or even scratch.
Handle with care: Be mindful of sharp objects that could scratch the surface. While high-quality gloss finishes are more durable, it's best to avoid any unnecessary risk.
Polish for extra shine: Occasionally polishing the surface with a specially designed gloss cleaner can help maintain the reflective quality and keep it looking fresh.

What is a Matt Kitchen Finish?

Matt kitchen finishes are the perfect choice for those who prefer subtlety over shine. With a non-reflective surface, matt kitchen doors offer an understated elegance that suits a range of kitchen styles. They are a great option for homeowners looking to create a cozy, inviting space.

Matt finishes are often made from materials such as matt laminate or painted wood. They come in a wide array of colours, from soft neutrals to deep, bold tones, providing the flexibility to match different design preferences.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Matt Kitchen Finishes

Pros:

Hides imperfections: Matt finishes do a great job of concealing fingerprints, smudges, and minor scratches. This makes them an excellent choice for families or homes with pets and young children.
Timeless look: With their soft, muted appearance, matt cabinets are perfect for both traditional and contemporary kitchens. The matt finish lends a warm, sophisticated look that works well in many settings, from industrial lofts to cozy country kitchens.
Durable and robust: Matt surfaces are often more resistant to damage compared to glossy finishes. They are less likely to show small scratches and tend to be more forgiving over time.
Reduces glare: Unlike gloss finishes, matt surfaces don’t create glare, making them ideal for kitchens with lots of natural light or those that experience a lot of direct sunlight.

Cons:

Less reflective: Matt finishes don’t bounce light around the room, so they may not be the best choice for kitchens lacking natural light. This can make a space feel smaller or darker than desired.
Cleaning can be challenging: Depending on the material, smudges and spills may be more noticeable on matt surfaces, requiring specific cleaning solutions and a bit more effort to keep them spotless.
Limited shine: Matt finishes won’t offer that high-gloss shine that many homeowners look for in modern kitchens. This can be a drawback for those who prefer a more polished look.

Maintenance of Matt Kitchen Finishes

While matt finishes can be easier to maintain in terms of hiding fingerprints, keeping them spotless still requires a bit of know-how:

Regular dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and particles that can settle on the surface.
Use mild cleaners: Choose non-abrasive, gentle cleaning products that won’t damage the surface or leave a residue.
Avoid excessive water: Too much moisture can damage the finish over time. Use a slightly damp cloth for cleaning and dry immediately with a clean towel to prevent water spots or damage.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Kitchen

When deciding between gloss and matt, consider how you use your kitchen and the atmosphere you want to create. Here are a few things to think about:

Lighting: If your kitchen receives a lot of natural light or you want to make it feel bigger and brighter, a gloss finish can be the way to go. For spaces with less natural light, a matt finish can add warmth and depth, making the room feel cozier.
Style preferences: Glossy surfaces are perfect for a modern, contemporary look, while matt finishes suit a more traditional or industrial style. Matt can be especially appealing for those seeking a minimalist or farmhouse aesthetic.
Maintenance: If you prefer a kitchen that hides smudges and fingerprints, matt may be your best bet. However, gloss finishes are easy to clean if you don’t mind frequent upkeep.
Budget: Gloss finishes, especially high-quality ones, can be more expensive than matt finishes. If cost is a concern, consider your budget when making your decision.

At TKDC, we understand that choosing the perfect finish for your kitchen cabinets is a personal decision that depends on your style, needs, and space. Whether you're drawn to the sleek, reflective elegance of gloss or the understated sophistication of matt, we’ve got you covered.

For gloss finishes, we offer Laminex, Polytec, Vinyl, Formica, StyleLite, and Painted options. If you’re considering a matt finish, our range includes Laminex, Polytec, Vinyl, Formica, StyleLite, Painted, and StyleLex—perfect for creating durable and stylish alfresco kitchens.

Reface your Kitchen with TKDC

Whether you choose a gloss or matt finish, each option offers unique benefits that cater to different tastes and lifestyles. Gloss finishes add shine and sophistication, brightening up your space, while matt finishes provide a subtle, timeless elegance.

Your choice will ultimately depend on your design preferences, the amount of natural light in your kitchen, and how much time you want to spend on maintenance. Take your time, weigh the pros and cons, and pick the finish that fits your needs best.

The Kitchen Door Company prides itself on producing high-quality, Australian-made doors and kitchen solutions at a very affordable rate. Contact us at 08 9456 0165 or sales@tkdc.com.au where one of our friendly staff will be able to assist you.