I’m standing in my newly remodeled kitchen, sipping coffee from a mug that finally has a proper home in my sleek, smoky gray Jarlin cabinets. If you’re hunting for cabinets that blend style, durability, and affordability, let me tell you—Jarlin is worth your attention.
These cabinets transformed my space into something elegant yet functional, and I’m thrilled to share my experience. Whether you’re a homeowner dreaming of a kitchen glow-up or a contractor eyeing quality for your next project, Jarlin delivers.
Let’s walk through why I’m sold on them and why you might be, too.
My Experience With Jarlin Cabinets
When I decided to renovate my kitchen, I was overwhelmed.
Cabinets are the backbone of any kitchen, and I wanted something that screamed quality without draining my savings.
After weeks of research, I stumbled across Jarlin Cabinetry, a Fort Lauderdale-based wholesaler known for all-wood construction and budget-friendly prices.
I was skeptical at first—could affordable cabinets really hold up?
But let me tell you, my experience with Jarlin was a game-changer.
I ordered their smoky gray line for my mid-sized kitchen. The ordering process was straightforward through their dealer network, and delivery was surprisingly quick, thanks to their well-stocked warehouse.
When the boxes arrived, I was nervous about the “ready-to-assemble” (RTA) aspect, but Jarlin’s clear instructions made it manageable, even for someone like me who’s handy but no carpenter.
Each cabinet came individually packed, with solid wood doors and plywood boxes that felt sturdy from the moment I touched them.
What struck me was the attention to detail. The soft-closing hinges—European-style, fully concealed—gave the doors a smooth, luxurious feel. I chose the smoky gray finish because it paired beautifully with my quartz countertops, creating a moody, modern vibe.
Installing them took a weekend, but once they were up, my kitchen felt like it belonged in a magazine. The cabinets didn’t just look good; they were practical, with features like full-overlay doors and optional spice pull-outs that maximized my storage.
Six months in, they still look as pristine as day one, handling daily wear from my chaotic household—two kids, a dog, and my questionable cooking skills. Jarlin didn’t just meet my expectations; it exceeded them, making my kitchen the heart of our home.
What Makes Jarlin Cabinets Stand Out?
Jarlin’s appeal lies in its balance of quality and value.
Their all-wood construction, using hardwoods like maple, cherry, and oak, sets them apart in a market flooded with particleboard knockoffs.
I was impressed by their range of finishes—black, white, gray, even a bold aria blue that I almost went for.
These aren’t just cabinets; they’re statement pieces that elevate your space.
The soft-close hinges and drawers add a touch of luxury, and the RTA design keeps costs down without sacrificing durability. Plus, their Fort Lauderdale hub and expanding warehouse network mean you won’t wait months for delivery.
It’s clear Jarlin understands what homeowners like me need: style, function, and a price that doesn’t induce a panic attack.
Pros of Choosing Jarlin Cabinets
- Durability That Holds Up
Let’s talk about why Jarlin cabinets are built to last. The solid wood doors and ½-inch thick plywood boxes are no joke. In my kitchen, where spills and splashes are a daily occurrence, these cabinets have shrugged off everything from tomato sauce splatters to my toddler’s sticky fingers.
Unlike cheaper cabinets I’ve seen at friends’ houses, Jarlin’s don’t warp or chip easily. The hardwood options—maple, cherry, oak—feel substantial, and the 6-way adjustable hinges ensure the doors stay aligned even after heavy use.
I’ve opened and closed those doors hundreds of times, and they still glide like they’re brand new.
- Stylish Versatility
Jarlin’s range of finishes is a designer’s dream. Whether you’re into classic white, dramatic black, or trendy gray like mine, there’s a shade to match your vibe. I went with smoky gray for its ability to blend with my modern decor while still feeling timeless.
The full-overlay doors give a seamless, high-end look, and the option for custom additions like lazy susans or trash roll-outs lets you tailor the cabinets to your needs.
I’ve gotten compliments from guests who assume I spent a fortune, and I just smile, knowing Jarlin’s price tag was far more reasonable than it looks.
- Budget-Friendly Without Compromise
Here’s where Jarlin really shines. Their RTA model cuts costs on shipping and assembly, passing those savings to you. I compared Jarlin to other brands, and for the quality—solid wood, premium hardware, durable finishes—they’re a steal.
My entire kitchen setup, including 12 cabinets, came in under what I’d budgeted for lesser brands. Yet, there’s no skimping on craftsmanship. The European-style hinges and soft-close features feel like something you’d find in a luxury showroom, not a budget-friendly line.
For anyone watching their wallet but refusing to settle for flimsy, Jarlin is a godsend.
- Easy Assembly for DIYers
I’ll admit, I was intimidated by the RTA label at first. But Jarlin makes it approachable. Each cabinet comes with clear instructions, and the pieces fit together like a well-designed puzzle.
I managed the assembly with basic tools and a bit of patience over a weekend. If you’re comfortable with a screwdriver and a level, you’ll be fine. The pre-drilled holes and labeled parts saved me from any major headaches.
For contractors or DIY enthusiasts, this ease of assembly means you can save on labor costs without sacrificing quality.
Cons of Jarlin Cabinets
- Limited Customization Options
Jarlin’s strength is its range of pre-designed styles, but if you’re after hyper-specific customizations, you might feel a bit constrained.
I wanted a unique pull-out shelf for my stand mixer, but Jarlin’s custom options were limited to standard add-ons like spice racks or lazy susans.
For my needs, this wasn’t a dealbreaker—their standard designs covered most bases—but if you’re dreaming of bespoke cabinetry tailored to every inch of your space, you might need to look at higher-end brands that specialize in custom work.
- RTA Assembly Can Be Time-Consuming
While I found the assembly manageable, it’s not for everyone. If you’re not handy or don’t have the time, piecing together a full kitchen’s worth of cabinets can feel daunting.
My husband and I spent a solid weekend on it, and while the instructions were clear, it required focus. Hiring a professional for assembly bumps up the cost, which could eat into the savings of the RTA model.
If you’re not up for a DIY project, you’ll need to factor in that extra expense.
- Dealer Network Variability
Jarlin sells through a network of independent dealers, which can be a mixed bag. My dealer was fantastic—responsive and knowledgeable—but I’ve heard from others who dealt with less reliable distributors.
The quality of your experience might depend on the dealer you choose. I’d recommend researching your local dealer thoroughly or contacting Jarlin directly to ensure you’re working with someone reputable.
It’s not a flaw in the cabinets themselves, but it’s worth noting as it impacts the buying process.
Maintenance Tips For Jarlin Cabinets
- Regular Cleaning for Lasting Shine
Keeping your Jarlin cabinets looking pristine is easier than you’d think, but it does require some care. I clean mine weekly with a soft, damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution—nothing fancy, just a drop of soap in warm water.
Wipe down the surfaces to remove grease or fingerprints, then dry immediately with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as they can dull the finish over time.
For my smoky gray cabinets, this routine keeps them gleaming, and it takes less than 10 minutes for the whole kitchen.
- Handling Spills and Stains
Spills happen, especially in a busy kitchen like mine. When my kid spilled juice on a cabinet door, I panicked but found that acting fast is key. Blot—don’t rub—the spill with a damp cloth to avoid spreading it.
For stubborn stains like grease, I mix a bit of vinegar with water and gently scrub with a soft sponge. It works like a charm without damaging the finish.
If you’re dealing with a particularly tough mark, a baking soda paste can help, but use it sparingly to avoid scratching. Quick action keeps your cabinets looking new.
- Protecting the Finish
Jarlin’s finishes are durable, but they’re not invincible. I learned early on to avoid placing hot pots or wet dishes directly on the cabinet surfaces. Use coasters or trivets to prevent heat marks, and keep a dry towel handy for any water splashes.
I also apply a furniture polish every few months to add an extra layer of protection and keep the wood hydrated. Be sure to choose a polish specifically for wood finishes—my go-to is a silicone-free one to avoid buildup. This small step makes a big difference in maintaining that showroom shine.
- Checking Hardware Regularly
The soft-close hinges and drawers are a highlight, but they need occasional love. Every couple of months, I check the screws on the hinges and drawer tracks to ensure they’re tight. A loose hinge can throw off the alignment, making doors sag or close unevenly.
A quick turn with a screwdriver fixes it. I also lubricate the drawer tracks with a dry silicone spray to keep them gliding smoothly. It’s a five-minute task that prevents bigger issues down the line, especially in a high-traffic kitchen like mine.
Comparing Jarlin To Other Brands
- Jarlin Vs. Kemper Cabinets
When I was shopping for cabinets, Kemper caught my eye with its reputation for blending style and durability.
Kemper offers a wide range of designs, from traditional to contemporary, and their semi-custom options let you tweak sizes and features more than Jarlin’s standard lineup.
I loved Kemper’s rich cherry finishes and their focus on eco-friendly materials, which is a big plus if sustainability is your thing.
However, Kemper’s cabinets often come with a higher price tag—sometimes 30-40% more than Jarlin for similar wood construction. Jarlin’s smoky gray finish and solid plywood boxes gave me a comparable modern look and sturdy build at a fraction of the cost.
Kemper’s lead times were also longer, which didn’t work for my tight renovation schedule. For me, Jarlin’s affordability and quick delivery made it the better pick, but if you’re after more customization and don’t mind the cost, Kemper is a strong contender.
- Jarlin Vs. Homecrest Cabinet
Homecrest was another brand I considered, known for its budget-friendly yet stylish cabinets.
Their designs lean toward clean, transitional looks, which appealed to me for their versatility.
Homecrest also offers some semi-custom options, like adjustable shelving depths, which Jarlin doesn’t match.
But here’s where Jarlin pulled ahead: Homecrest uses a mix of plywood and engineered wood in some lines, while Jarlin sticks to all-wood construction across the board.
I noticed Homecrest’s finishes, while decent, didn’t have the same depth or durability as Jarlin’s—my friend’s Homecrest cabinets showed wear after just a year. Price-wise, Homecrest is competitive, but Jarlin’s RTA model shaved off additional costs, and the soft-close hinges felt more premium.
If you’re on a super tight budget and want simple designs, Homecrest works, but Jarlin’s superior materials and modern flair won me over.
- Jarlin Vs. Bellmont Cabinets
Bellmont cabinets were tempting with their high-end, semi-custom offerings.
Their frameless designs and sleek European-inspired aesthetics were right up my alley, and they offer more customization than Jarlin, like tailored storage solutions for oddly shaped kitchens.
Bellmont’s finishes, especially their matte options, felt ultra-modern, and their construction is top-notch with premium plywood and hardware.
But the cost was a major hurdle—Bellmont’s price was nearly double Jarlin’s for my kitchen layout.
Plus, their lead times stretched up to 8 weeks, while Jarlin’s stock availability meant I had my cabinets in under two weeks. Jarlin’s full-overlay doors and soft-close features gave me a similar high-end feel without the hefty price or wait.
If you’ve got the budget and time for a fully customized look, Bellmont is fantastic, but Jarlin’s balance of style, quality, and value was perfect for my needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Jarlin Cabinets Good Quality?
From my experience, Jarlin cabinets are excellent quality for the price. The solid wood doors, ½-inch plywood boxes, and 6-way adjustable soft-close hinges rival pricier brands. They’ve held up beautifully in my high-traffic kitchen, with no warping or chipping after six months. The finishes are durable, and the construction feels sturdy, making them a solid choice for homeowners or contractors looking for value without sacrificing craftsmanship.
What Is the Best Brand of Kitchen Cabinets?
Choosing the “best” brand depends on your needs. Jarlin impressed me with its balance of affordability, style, and durability, making it ideal for budget-conscious remodels. KraftMaid and Thomasville offer more customization for luxury projects, but their prices are steep. IKEA is great for quick, cheap setups but lacks Jarlin’s longevity. For my kitchen, Jarlin was the sweet spot—high quality, modern looks, and a price that didn’t break the bank.
How to Clean Jarlin Cabinets?
Cleaning Jarlin cabinets is simple. I use a soft cloth with a mild dish soap and water solution, wiping gently to remove grease or fingerprints, then dry with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots. For tougher stains, a vinegar-water mix or a baking soda paste works wonders—just don’t scrub too hard. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, which can damage the finish. A quick weekly wipe-down keeps them sparkling.
Is Cabinets To Go a Good Company?
Cabinets To Go is a solid option, offering decent quality at moderate prices. Their plywood construction and soft-close features are comparable to Jarlin’s, but I found their style range less exciting. They’re reliable, with a strong retail network, but Jarlin’s fresher finishes and slightly lower prices won me over. If you prefer in-store shopping and traditional designs, Cabinets To Go is worth considering.
Why Jarlin Cabinets Are My Top Pick?
After living with my Jarlin cabinets for months, I’m convinced they’re a fantastic choice. They’ve transformed my kitchen into a stylish, functional space without breaking my budget.
The durability, versatile designs, and easy maintenance make them a standout for homeowners and contractors alike. If you’re ready to elevate your kitchen or bath with cabinets that deliver on quality and value, Jarlin is the way to go.
Trust me—you’ll love the look and feel as much as I do.