Not Just 'Green': Recycled Paper Kitchen Cabinets Are More Durable Than You'd Think

There are a number of features to look for when purchasing new kitchen cabinets., and many homeowners are searching for that sweet spot between affordability, durability, and style. In an increasingly eco-conscious world, it also wouldn't hurt to work in some "green" cabinet materials while renovating your kitchen. If you're hoping to design your home with sustainable materials, recycled paper kitchen cabinets might be an excellent option. As you may imagine, these cabinets are made from paper-based recycled materials, but they're anything but flimsy or fragile. Manufacturers compress thick layers of post-consumer and post-industrial recycled paper, sealing them together with heat and a natural, non-petroleum resin. They add various pigments to the paper and resin to create a variety of colors, finishes, grains, and styles. The result is a surprisingly durable material that can compete with other traditional cabinetry materials.

PaperStone and Richlite are two big names in the paper cabinet sphere. Both brands, among others, are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, further solidifying that this material as a means to make your home more eco-friendly. Not only is this option sustainable, but it's also exceptionally sturdy. Recycled paper cabinets are heat-, scratch-, and stain-resistant. This seamless, solid material is actually harder than wood. It's also nonporous so it stands up to moisture, whether cleaning cabinets or using cutting boards. Despite how sturdy these cabinets are, they are also quite lightweight,.and many people feel they have a warmer, more organic texture than MDF or other fabricated materials. Moreover, this material is often manufactured to be low-VOC (volatile organic compound) or VOC-free. These cabinets come in a multitude of colors and finishes. Recycled paper cabinets can even have a similar look to soapstone or slate, fitting seamlessly within just any aesthetic.

Currently, recycled paper cabinets can be a bit harder to track down than traditional cabinet materials. You are probably going to need to shop online, and there are only a handful of manufacturers. If you're worried about how the color and texture will look in person, most companies offer samples for a small fee. You might even be able to purchase a sample box with multiple options included. Recycled paper cabinets are also quite affordable compared to other materials. You can expect to pay roughly $40 to $80 per square foot including installation cost for this material. If you're really drawn to this material, you can opt to finish your countertops with recycled paper as well.

There are some maintenance considerations to keep in mind if you choose to go with recycled paper cabinets. Luckily, the care protocol isn't too irksome. To start, you'll need to seal the cabinets with a natural oil or wax-based sealer to protect them from stains. You'll also need to keep up with regular cleaning. Use a damp cloth to wipe down cabinets every so often to remove accumulated grease, water spots, and dust. It's also important to keep in mind that recycled paper cabinets will shift and age as time goes on. As you continue to use your cabinets, they will develop a lived-in, natural patina, which fans of the material claim gives it an even more organic, authentic feel. This is especially true at points where cabinets or counters are handled the most. As with most materials, constant UV exposure may fade recycled paper surfaces over time. With proper maintenance, your recycled paper cabinets should last you 25 years or longer.