The Cheap Trick To Protect Your Kitchen Cabinets For The Long Haul

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Two things are vital to avoid the financial headaches of kitchen upgrades: One, that we explore ideas for kitchen-design updates on a budget, and two, that once we do invest in upgrades, we protect them as best as we can for as long as we can. We need to know things like which kitchen appliance brands break down, and what materials are most durable for everything from counters to chairs. Kitchen cabinets are a huge piece of this puzzle — not only do they provide crucial storage space, but they also make up a big portion of your kitchen walls, so their aesthetics matter. They're pricey, so whether you've just updated them or don't want to have to for a while, it's worth considering how to protect them — and how to do so affordably. The answer is surprisingly simple: shelf liners.

Shelf liners can be sticky contact paper, plastic, or vinyl. Their key function is to protect the materials inside your cabinets. Consider how often your cabinet shelves get banged up as doors slam, cans scrape in, and pan lids drag out. Shelf liners are a barrier against dings and scratches. They also keep water damage and spills from damaging shelves, and are easier and cheaper to take off and wash, or replace. They even keep cabinet contents tidy by being non-slip — which also means fewer things rolling and slamming around in there. Some options even ward off bugs and mold, while others offer decorative elements.

One of the most basic options for lining your cabinets is Gorilla Grip PowerGrip Drawer, Shelf, and Cabinet Liner. It conveniently comes in a roll you can cut as needed, and there are different sizes and color options. It's self-gripping vinyl mesh, so you don't need to work with adhesives, and it will help things stay put inside your cabinets. Simply measure the shelf you need to cover, trim, and carefully line it up. 

Items like the SFSGQZTZ Under the Sink Mat are designed to be waterproof, so they'll prevent water damage and mold build-up. You can shop for different sizes and cut them accordingly. They're non-adhesive; their rubber backing will keep them in place, but they can be removed in a cinch for cleaning. If you want to be able to wipe the shelves down effortlessly, but don't want to have to take the liners out to wash separately, consider self-adhesive contact paper. It's lasting protection — just make sure you measure, cut, and place carefully.

The benefit of contact paper is that it typically comes in fun patterns, so you can choose a print that matches your kitchen's design theme. The Kimhan Store's 2-Layer Drawer and Shelf Liner, for instance, comes in modern marble print, while the Glow4U Store's Shelf Liner Contact Paper comes in an elegant floral print. Your cabinets will still need a periodic scrub-down, but even that can be wallet-friendly: Mix baking soda and vinegar for an instant cabinet de-greaser.