June 6, 2022

Is Laminate a Good Choice for Wardrobes in Singapore?

Laminates are a great way to transform your wardrobe into a stylish and durable space. Not only does it offer protection from water and moisture, but it also offers protection against scratches and scuffs.

There are many different types of laminates that you can choose from. For example, wood laminate and fabric laminate are some of the options to look out for. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks that you should be aware of before deciding on your wardrobe laminate designs. With this in mind, here’s what you need to know about laminates and how it helps your wardrobe.

Is Laminate Good for Wardrobe?

Laminates are a common alternative to natural materials such as wood or hardwood. This has led it to become a popular design material, especially for furniture like cabinets and wardrobes. It is also economical compared to materials like real wood or veneer.

Most laminates are made by pressing thin layers of kraft papers with plastic resins under high temperature and pressure. The top layer is usually printed with colours and decorative patterns like wood. It can also be customised to suit your decorative needs.

There are several finishes for wardrobe laminate:

  • Glossy – Gives off a shiny, polished effect on the surface, making the furniture or room more appealing. These glossy wardrobe laminates are also easy to clean and maintain.

  • Matte – In contrast with glossy wardrobe laminates, laminates with a matte finish give off a muted effect on the surface, making marks and scratches less noticeable.

  • Super Matte – Like matte laminates, super matte laminates give off a muted effect on the surface but are less grainy.

  • Textured – Laminates with a textured finish tend to replicate the look and feel of different natural materials such as stone, marble, and wood. They can be used to bring an element of depth into any space.

Pros and Cons of Wardrobe Laminate

Depending on the finish and type of laminate you choose, there are several advantages and drawbacks of using wardrobe laminate. Here are some to consider:

Pros

  1. Easy to clean

Wardrobe laminate provides protection from moisture and dust, which makes it easy to clean, especially for glossy wardrobe laminates. You can use a microfibre towel to wipe the wardrobe and maintain its appearance.

  1. Low maintenance

Laminates are generally scratch-resistant and water-resistant, which makes them low maintenance. However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t give it the necessary care, such as a regular wipe.

  1. Durable

With low maintenance, wardrobe laminates are durable as they retain their look and shine for long with proper care. If appropriately glued, they can also withstand moisture and water for a few decades.

  1. Versatile

Thanks to modern technology, wardrobe laminates come in various designs and colours. This allows you to customise the look of your wardrobe. You can also use different colours of laminates to create a variety of looks for the different rooms.

Cons

  1. It cannot be refinished

Unlike natural wood, which can be sanded and refinished to renew its appearance, a wardrobe laminate cannot be refinished. Once it sustains any damage or wears and tear, you will need to replace the laminate as it cannot be repaired.

  1. Susceptible to damage

Wardrobe laminates are generally manufactured to withstand moisture and water due to their non-porous nature. But if the edges or sides are not sealed properly, water may seep through the plywood, causing the wood to warp.

  1. Release harmful chemicals

Some surface laminates are produced with formaldehyde and other chemicals, which may off-gas over time. It can also emit volatile organic content (VOC) into the air, which may be harmful to humans.

You can reduce this possibility by getting your wardrobe laminates from a certified laminate supplier in Singapore like Jennings Laminates, which is a proud recipient of the Singapore Green Label certificate.

This certifies that the laminates produced have fulfilled the requirements of low emission and low toxicity, which make them suitable for use in various indoor spaces.

With the pros and cons above, it is fair to deduce that laminates make a better surfacing alternative for your wardrobe when compared to wood or hardwood. After all, it is far more affordable with a wide selection of designs for your interior.

If you are looking for a laminate supplier in Singapore, you can reach out to us here! We offer a wide variety of laminates to give you the real deal at a more affordable price. View our full catalogue for more options and inspirations for your interior!