Wardrobes are no longer just storage units—they are an integral part of modern interior design. The right wardrobe shutter finish can elevate the look of a bedroom, enhance durability, and simplify maintenance over time. With a wide range of finishes available today, choosing the right one requires a clear understanding of aesthetics, performance, and lifestyle needs.
In this guide by ISTO Furniture, we explore the types of wardrobe finishes used in home interiors, their pros and cons, and the key factors to consider before making a decision.
Types of Wardrobe Finishes Used in Home Interiors
PU Finish (Polyurethane)
PU finishes are widely regarded as the most premium wardrobe shutter finish available today. They are known for their seamless, join-free appearance, superior durability, and complete design flexibility.
At ISTO Furniture, PU shutters are finished using an advanced multi-layer process consisting of primer, base coat, and top coat, typically applied in 6–12 layers. This ensures excellent surface strength, colour depth, and long-term performance.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
- Seamless finish with no visible joints
- Available in any colour and sheen (full matt to high gloss)
- Can be applied on CNC-routed and detailed surfaces
- Excellent stain resistance
Considerations:
- Higher cost compared to laminates
- Requires skilled manufacturing and controlled finishing environment
PU finishes are ideal for homeowners seeking a luxury, custom-made wardrobe with precise detailing and flawless surface quality.
Veneer Finish
Veneer finishes use a thin layer of natural wood, giving wardrobes an authentic, warm, and organic appearance. Each veneer sheet has a unique grain pattern, making every shutter distinct.
To protect the natural wood surface, veneer shutters require a PU polish, as they are sensitive to sunlight and moisture.
Pros:
- Natural wood aesthetics
- Rich, premium appearance
- Each shutter has unique grain character
Considerations:
- Sensitive to humidity and direct sunlight
- Requires PU coating for protection
- Higher cost and maintenance
- Grain matching is required for optimal results
While veneer remains a premium choice, many clients today are moving towards modern alternatives that offer similar aesthetics with lower maintenance. Synchon laminates offer a comparable appearance with a fraction of the cost.
Acrylic Finish
Acrylic finishes are known for their high-gloss, reflective surfaces and contemporary appeal. They are factory-finished sheets bonded onto boards, resulting in a smooth and uniform look.
Pros:
- Mirror-like glossy appearance
- Moisture-resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Colour consistency across shutters
Considerations:
- Shows fingerprints and smudges easily
- Limited colour depth compared to PU
- Not suitable for routed or detailed designs
Acrylic wardrobes are ideal for modern homes where a sleek, minimalist look is desired.
Glass Finish
Glass wardrobes use tinted, lacquered or back-painted glass panels mounted on shutters. They are often used as accent finishes or for walk-in wardrobes.
Pros:
- Premium, contemporary look
- Easy to clean
- Resistant to moisture
Considerations:
- Fragile compared to other finishes
- Higher cost
- Limited design flexibility
Glass finishes work best in luxury bedrooms and walk-in closets with controlled usage.
Cane Finish
Cane or rattan finishes are making a comeback in heritage-inspired and tropical interiors. They add texture and a handcrafted feel to wardrobe shutters.
Pros:
- Natural, breathable material
- Distinctive handcrafted appeal
- Suits bohemian and classic interiors
Considerations:
- Requires regular maintenance
- Sensitive to moisture
- Limited durability compared to modern finishes
Cane is best used as a design accent rather than a full wardrobe finish.
Laminate Finish
Laminate is the most widely used wardrobe finish in the market today. It is cost-effective, durable, and available in a vast range of colours, textures, and finishes.
Modern laminates include advanced options such as synchronised laminates, where the texture follows the wood grain.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to maintain
- Good moisture resistance
- Wide design variety (matt, gloss, woodgrain, solid colours)
Considerations:
- Visible edge bands (though matching edges improve appearance)
- Less premium feel compared to PU or veneer
Merino Senses, a synchronised laminate range, is an excellent alternative to veneer. It offers:
- Deep-embossed wood grain texture
- Matching edge bands
- No need for PU polish
- Natural feel with significantly lower cost and maintenance
For clients considering veneer wardrobes, synchronised laminates are a highly recommended substitute.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Wardrobe Finishes
Cost
Laminates are the most economical option, followed by synchronised laminates and acrylics. Veneer and PU finishes fall into the premium category, with PU being the most customisable.
Durability
PU and laminates offer excellent durability for daily use. Acrylics are durable but prone to visible scratches, while veneer requires careful handling.
Moisture Resistance / Humidity
For Indian conditions, moisture resistance is critical. Laminates, acrylics, PU, lacquer, and PVC-based finishes perform well in humid environments. Veneer needs additional protection.
Maintenance
Laminates and acrylics are the easiest to maintain. PU finishes require minimal upkeep but benefit from professional finishing. Veneer demands regular care to preserve its appearance.
Customisation Options for Wardrobes
When choosing your wardrobe finish, take into consideration customisation options that tailor both functionality and aesthetics to your lifestyle and interior theme.
Options include:
- Handles and knobs in metal, ceramic, or wood
- Sliding doors for space efficiency
- Hinged doors for a timeless, classic look
- Pull-out trays and drawers
- Adjustable shelves
- Specialised storage for accessories, shoes, or jewellery
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Integrated LED lighting for enhanced visibility
At ISTO Furniture, wardrobes are designed and manufactured with a fully integrated CAD-CAM process, ensuring precision, consistency, and long-term reliability. Add options to enhance functionality and aesthetics.
FAQs
1. What are the most common types of wardrobe finishes?
Common wardrobe finishes include laminate, synchron laminates with veneer appearance, veneer, acrylic, PU, glass, and cane.
2. What is the difference between matte and glossy laminate finishes?
Matte laminates are subtle, hide fingerprints, and are easy to maintain. Glossy laminates look sleek and elegant but require more frequent cleaning.
3. What are the benefits of acrylic finishes for wardrobes?
Acrylic finishes are glossy, durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean, making them ideal for modern interiors that seek to impress.
4. Are PU-painted wardrobes durable and customisable?
Yes. PU finishes are highly durable, fully customisable, and offer excellent protection against stains and scratches.
5. Which finish is best for moisture resistance?
Laminate, acrylic, and PU provide good moisture resistance.
6. Are veneer finishes still popular for wardrobes?
Yes, veneer remains popular for its natural wood look, though many clients now prefer synchronised laminates as a low-maintenance alternative with excellent durability and lower cost.