Source: Lifestyle

If you are selecting from a store that sells both MDF and plywood furniture, you need to be very careful.

It is difficult to tell the difference between the two in the finished form. Moreover, if the store is not reputed they might palm off MDF furniture for the price of marine ply.

Take someone who knows the difference between two. If that is not possible, try lifting the piece of furniture, if it is not too heavy that is. MDF is much lighter than marine ply.

Waterproof or Not

When planning your kitchen, whether it is fixed or modular, avoid MDF shutters. MDF does not react well to constant water contact and gets destroyed.

Marine ply is a better option for kitchens. Also floor cabinets in the bathroom need a hardy material like marine ply. Keep away from commercial ply too.

Assembling and Dismantling

Marine ply is generally fitted with nails. MDF, on the other hand, is fitted with nuts and bolts, which are relatively easy to remove.

So if you are living on rent or if your job has you relocated often, then MDF is a better bet. Also it is much lighter and can be transported without a hassle.

Pennywise

MDF furniture is not real wood but fibreboard. Plus, it is often imported from countries like China and Malaysia. It costs almost one-third the price of marine ply furniture. However, MDF furniture can be expensive if you buy it from a grand showroom.

In the Long Run

Marine ply is far stronger than MDF. It can also withstand water. So while MDF will last for a maximum of six to eight years, marine ply can last for a good 30 years even.

MDF tends to get damaged with rough use. So for your kitchen, which you don't want to redo too often, opt for marine ply.
For your kid's room you could have MDF furniture. Kids outgrow their stuff very fast. So don't spend too much on it. MDF is great for cupboards, desks and trolleys.

Watch Out for Flaws

Both MDF and marine ply furniture can be painted, laminated, veneered and varnished. However, not all stores sell the furniture this way.

At times parts of MDF furniture that are not readily visible might not be laminated. As for marine ply furniture, the underneath of a table may not be polished. So watch out for these flaws.

MDF furniture stores sell furniture with a simple coat of brown paper on it. This gets destroyed in no time at all and may even peel off.