What Are the Parts of a Cabinet Called? Find Out Today

Cabinets are essential pieces of furniture in many homes, used in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and bedrooms. 

Understanding the different components of a cabinet can help you make better decisions when purchasing, assembling, or renovating. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the key parts of a cabinet, their functions, and the materials used to build them.

What are the parts of a cabinet called?

The main parts of a cabinet include the face frame, doors, drawers, sides, top, bottom, and back panel. Each piece contributes to the structure and functionality of the cabinet.

Key Takeaways

• A cabinet consists of several key parts, including the frame, doors, shelves, and hardware.

• The materials used for different parts of the cabinet can affect its durability, appearance, and cost.

• Understanding cabinet parts helps when choosing or designing cabinets for specific needs and spaces.

The Cabinet Frame

The frame is the backbone of the cabinet. It provides structural support and holds all the other parts together. There are two main types of cabinet frames:

Framed Cabinets In framed cabinets, the frame is built around the box, with the doors mounted onto the frame. 

This is the traditional style used in many homes and offers strong support for the door hardware.

Frameless Cabinets Frameless cabinets, also known as European-style cabinets, do not have a front frame. 

Instead, the cabinet doors attach directly to the sides of the cabinet box, providing more storage space and a sleeker, modern appearance.

Materials: The frame can be made from various materials such as plywood, particleboard, MDF, or solid wood. 

Plywood is often preferred for its durability, while particleboard is a more affordable option.

Cabinets are essential furniture pieces in many homes, often used in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and bedrooms. 

Understanding the different components of a cabinet can help you make informed decisions when purchasing, assembling, or even renovating a cabinet. 

We’ll explore the key parts of a cabinet, their functions, and the materials used to build them. 

Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or considering building your own cabinet, knowing these parts will be helpful.

Cabinet Doors

Cabinet doors are the most visible part of the cabinet and play a large role in its aesthetic appeal. They are available in various styles, including:

Shaker Doors Simple, with a flat panel and clean lines, these doors are timeless and work well in both traditional and modern kitchens.

Raised-Panel Doors These doors have a center panel that is raised to create a 3D effect, adding a more classic and decorative look.

Flat-Panel Doors Also known as slab doors, these have a smooth, flat surface. They are often used in contemporary and minimalist designs.

Materials: Cabinet doors can be made from the same materials as the frame, such as wood, MDF, or plywood. The finish can vary, from stained wood to painted or laminated surfaces.

The Cabinet Box

The cabinet box is the main body of the cabinet that holds the shelves, drawers, and other components. It provides the structure needed to support the weight of the items stored inside.

Materials: The cabinet box is often made from plywood, particleboard, or MDF. 

Plywood is the most durable and resistant to warping, making it a preferred choice for higher-quality cabinets. 

MDF and particleboard are less expensive options, but they are also less durable and can warp over time, especially in humid environments.

Cabinet Shelves

Shelves are the interior sections of a cabinet where you store your items. 

Shelves are adjustable in most modern cabinets, allowing you to customize the storage space according to your needs.

Types of Shelves:

Fixed Shelves: These shelves are permanently attached to the sides of the cabinet and cannot be adjusted.

Adjustable Shelves: These shelves sit on metal pegs and can be moved up or down to accommodate items of various heights.

Materials: Shelves are typically made of plywood, MDF, or glass. 

Plywood and MDF shelves are solid and can support heavier items, while glass shelves offer a more elegant, open appearance.

Cabinet Drawers

Cabinets with drawers offer additional storage space and convenience. Drawers are often used for utensils, tools, and smaller items that require easy access. 

The drawer box is the compartment that holds the items, while the drawer front is the visible part that matches the cabinet design.

Parts of a Drawer:

Drawer Box: The container that holds the contents inside the drawer.

Drawer Front: The part of the drawer that is visible when the drawer is closed, often matching the cabinet doors in design.

Drawer Slides: These are the mechanisms that allow the drawer to open and close smoothly. There are different types of drawer slides, including side-mount, under-mount, and centre-mount slides.

Materials: Drawer boxes are typically made of plywood or MDF, while the drawer front matches the material used for the doors and frame.

Cabinet Hardware

Hardware is an essential component of a cabinet, enabling doors and drawers to function smoothly. Cabinet hardware includes hinges, handles, knobs, and drawer slides.

Hinges Hinges allow cabinet doors to swing open and closed. There are several types of hinges, including concealed hinges, European-style hinges, and traditional hinges.

Handles and Knobs Handles and knobs are used to open and close cabinet doors and drawers. 

These come in various styles and materials, including metal, wood, and glass, to match the cabinet design.

Drawer Slides Drawer slides are essential for allowing smooth opening and closing of drawers. High-quality slides can reduce wear and tear on the drawers and prevent them from sticking. Additionally, what are high end cabinets made of often includes premium materials like solid hardwoods, top-grade plywood, and durable metal hardware—such as soft-close, full-extension drawer slides—for superior functionality and longevity.

Materials: Cabinet hardware can be made from brass, stainless steel, or nickel, depending on the desired aesthetic. High-quality hardware ensures smooth operation and longevity.

Cabinet Toe Kick

The toe kick is the recessed area at the bottom of the cabinet. It allows you to stand closer to the cabinet while offering a finished look. 

The toe kick also provides space for your feet when you’re working at the counter or pulling open a drawer.

Materials: Toe kicks are usually made from the same material as the cabinet frame. They can also be made from metal or other durable materials for easy cleaning.

Cabinet Back Panel

The back panel of a cabinet is the part that covers the back of the unit. It provides stability and structure to the cabinet. 

While the back panel isn’t typically visible, it plays an important role in maintaining the strength and durability of the cabinet.

Materials: The back panel is typically made from thin plywood, MDF, or hardboard. It is usually not as thick as the rest of the cabinet components but still plays a vital role in holding the cabinet together.

How to Choose the Right Parts for Your Cabinet

When selecting a cabinet, it’s important to consider the material, style, and function of each component. 

Whether you’re looking for durable, long-lasting storage solutions or aiming for a stylish, modern design, understanding the different parts of a cabinet will help you make an informed decision. Choosing the right color for kitchen cabinets is just as important—select tones that complement your countertops, flooring, and overall kitchen theme to create a cohesive and appealing space.

• Consider the Material: Plywood and MDF are popular materials for the frame, doors, and shelves. Plywood is more durable, while MDF is more affordable but less resistant to wear.

• Think About Functionality: Adjustable shelves and smooth, high-quality drawer slides improve the usability of your cabinets.

• Design and Style: Choose a style of door and hardware that fits your home’s design. Shaker-style doors are great for a minimalist look, while raised-panel doors suit more traditional styles.

For reliable Whole-Home Custom Cabinetry in Miami-Dade County, you can trust Millor Design.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is the most important part of a cabinet?

The frame is the most crucial part of the cabinet, as it provides support for all the other components, including the doors, shelves, and drawers.

2. Can I replace just the cabinet doors?

Yes, it’s possible to replace just the doors if the cabinet frames are still in good condition. This can be a more affordable way to update your cabinets.

3. What material is best for cabinet shelves?

Plywood is the best material for cabinet shelves due to its strength and durability. It can support heavy items and resist warping over time.

Conclusion

Understanding the various parts of a cabinet is key to making an informed decision when designing, purchasing, or upgrading your cabinets. 

From the frame and doors to the hardware and shelves, each part plays a vital role in the cabinet’s functionality and appearance. 

Whether you're building a new kitchen or upgrading your bathroom storage, paying attention to the details will help you create a more functional and aesthetically pleasing space.