Mid-tone colours and natural wood finishes tend to be the most forgiving in everyday life. They do a better job of hiding fingerprints, light scuffs, dust, and minor wear than very dark colours or very bright finishes. Matte and satin finishes also tend to be easier to live with than high-gloss surfaces.

Dark glossy cabinets can look dramatic, but they usually show everything. Very light finishes can also show grease or splatter more easily in busy cooking zones.

If low maintenance matters to you, a mid-tone cabinet colour with a softer finish is often the easiest choice to keep looking clean. It’s one of those decisions that can make a noticeable difference once the kitchen is in daily use.