
Merillat Cabinets Guide: Styles, Finishes, Reviews & Buying Tips
July 16, 2025
When upgrading your kitchen or bathroom, Merillat cabinets offer a blend of quality, affordability, and style. Known for their American craftsmanship and wide selection of designs, Merillat has been a trusted brand since 1946. This guide explores Merillat cabinet styles, materials, reviews, costs, and comparisons—everything you need to make an informed decision.

Content
Overview of Merillat Cabinet Collections
Merillat offers three major product lines: Merillat Basics, Merillat Classic, and Merillat Autograph.

- Merillat Basics is budget-friendly, featuring simple designs and laminate finishes ideal for starter homes or rental properties.
- Merillat Classic offers more durable construction with solid wood doors, various styles, and attractive finishes.
- Merillat Autograph is the premium line, boasting soft-close drawers, dovetail joints, and customizable features for a high-end finish.
Each collection includes multiple cabinet types, configurations, and storage solutions to meet your space requirements.
Popular Merillat Cabinet Styles & Door Types
Choosing the right Merillat cabinet style affects both function and aesthetic. Styles range from traditional to contemporary.

- Shaker: Clean lines, flat panel
- Raised Panel: Adds depth with carved detailing
- Slab: Flat and sleek, ideal for modern kitchens
- Arch and Cathedral: Traditional shapes with curved upper panels
These Merillat cabinet door types are available in different woods and finishes, allowing you to customize your cabinetry to your decor.
Available Finishes and Materials
Merillat uses a range of woods and finishes to suit various home styles and budgets.
- Wood options: Maple, Oak, Cherry, Hickory
- Finish options: Natural stains, painted surfaces, glazes, and specialty treatments
- Laminate and Thermofoil: Available in lower-priced lines like Basics
Each material affects durability and cleaning. For example, maple cabinets with a natural finish resist scratches better than painted ones.
Merillat Cabinet Accessories and Storage Solutions
Enhance kitchen functionality with Merillat cabinet accessories like:
- Pull-out trays and corner carousels
- Built-in spice racks and pan organizers
- Soft-close hinges and drawers
- Trash and recycling pull-outs
These accessories are available in both base and wall cabinet formats, helping maximize storage without sacrificing style.
Merillat Cabinet Installation Guide
Merillat cabinets come ready-to-install, but professional help is recommended for complex layouts.
Installation steps:
- Measure space and plan layout
- Install upper cabinets first
- Align base cabinets to wall studs
- Use shims to level
- Secure with screws and brackets
Most lines come with detailed guides. DIY installation is easier with Merillat Basics, while Autograph may require pro installation due to custom elements.
Merillat Cabinet Pricing & Warranty
Merillat cabinet cost depends on the line and customization:
- Basics: $60–$100 per linear foot
- Classic: $130–$250 per linear foot
- Autograph: $300+ per linear foot
Pricing may vary by region, supplier, and selected options.
Merillat cabinet warranty details:
- Basics: 1-year limited
- Classic: 25-year limited
- Autograph: Lifetime limited (for original owner)
Be sure to register your purchase and save receipts to validate any future claims.
Merillat Cabinet Maintenance & Care Tips
Proper care extends the life of your cabinets. Here’s how to maintain your Merillat cabinetry:
- Wipe spills immediately with a damp cloth
- Use mild soap and warm water for cleaning
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
- Polish wood cabinets periodically to retain luster
Specialty finishes like glazes should be cleaned according to manufacturer instructions.
Customer Reviews & Performance Insights
Many homeowners praise Merillat cabinet reviews for quality and design variety.
Positive reviews mention:
- Affordable mid-range pricing
- Smooth drawer slides and hinges
- Attractive cabinet styles and finish options
Negative reviews sometimes highlight:
- Laminate chipping on Basics line
- Shipping damage
- Limited customization for lower-priced models
Overall, Merillat Classic and Autograph lines receive higher satisfaction ratings than Basics.
Merillat vs Competitor Cabinets
When comparing brands, many consider Merillat vs KraftMaid and others.
Feature | Merillat Classic | KraftMaid | IKEA |
---|---|---|---|
Price Range | Mid | Upper Mid | Budget |
Custom Options | Limited | Extensive | Minimal |
Materials | Wood + MDF | Mostly Solid | Particleboard |
Installation | Moderate | Pro Recommended | DIY Friendly |
Merillat vs KraftMaid shows Merillat as the better choice for mid-range budgets, while KraftMaid offers more customization at a higher price.
Design Ideas Featuring Merillat Cabinets
Looking for inspiration? Here are design tips using Merillat cabinet design ideas:
- Use white Shaker cabinets with brushed nickel hardware for a timeless look
- Pair dark cherry cabinets with light quartz countertops for contrast
- Install glass-front upper cabinets to showcase glassware or dishes
- Combine open shelving with Merillat base cabinets for a modern farmhouse style
Try Merillat’s kitchen planner tool online to visualize your dream space.
Conclusion
Merillat cabinets combine American craftsmanship, affordability, and customizable options. Whether you’re remodeling on a budget or planning a high-end kitchen, Merillat’s cabinet styles, finishes, and accessories provide flexible solutions. With excellent customer reviews, a solid warranty, and convenient installation, they remain a top choice for homeowners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Merillat Classic and Merillat Autograph cabinets?
The Merillat Classic line offers mid-range durability and style, suitable for most homes, while the Merillat Autograph line provides premium features like soft-close drawers, dovetail joints, and enhanced customization options.
Are Merillat cabinets made of real wood?
Yes, many Merillat cabinets use real wood, especially in the Classic and Autograph lines. Options include maple, oak, cherry, and hickory, though the Basics line may include engineered materials or laminates to keep costs down.

Christine Kelley is a dedicated home blogger who has been blogging for over six years. She covers everything home related. Christine also loves writing posts about her travels to Europe with her husband and two children.