Particle board is one of the materials most commonly used in manufactured kitchen cabinets. Particle board is composite material, made from wood chips mixed with a synthetic resin to create panels that are then cut into boards for furniture manufacture and building purposes. One of the reasons that particle board is so popular is how much cheaper it is than real wood, but many people are becoming concerned about the use of particle board in their home because the resins used to create it contain formaldehyde, an acknowledged carcinogen and sensitizer, which is bad for those with allergies.

When you begin shopping for kitchen cabinets there are alternatives if formaldehyde exposure is a concern for you. You could, of course, go for metal kitchen cabinets, but they are often too sterile and industrial looking for many people’s tastes. A stainless steel refrigerator and cooker looks clean and modern, but an entire kitchen done in metal can look a little too bland and uninviting.

Solid wood is another obvious alternative, but you will have to be prepared to pay a little more than you might for other options. These days you might have to turn to a custom kitchen cabinet maker to get cabinets that are constructed completely with solid wood, but the extra expense can pay off in terms of visual appeal as well as durability and preserving the “health” of your home.

Bamboo is another non lumber product that is being used increasingly in kitchen cabinetry. This “green” alternative is as strong and durable as hardwoods but you should look for products that have low VOC (volatile organic compound) finishes, as some bamboo products on the market are finished with glazes and stains that can be as bad as formaldehyde.