Second-hand kitchens: a buyer’s guide
Buying a new kitchen can set you back thousands of pounds, so if you’re considering a renovation, a second-hand or ex-display kitchen could be a good choice.
According to used-kitchen specialist Rehome, you could save 5,000kg of carbon and spend up to 85% less compared with buying the same kitchen brand new (including appliances).
Our guide has everything you need to know.
But if you do opt to buy brand new, discover the best and worst kitchen brands according to Which? members and our rigorous testing.
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Is a second-hand kitchen the same as an ex-display kitchen?
Second-hand and ex-display kitchens are both types of used kitchens, but no, they're not the same.
A second-hand kitchen is a pre-owned kitchen from somebody's home. An ex-display kitchen has been set up in a showroom, but won't have been used for daily activities such as cooking. For this reason, these are typically less worn than second-hand kitchens, but more expensive.
One advantage of an ex-display kitchen is that it will be a more recent model than a second-hand kitchen, so you may be able to get replacement cabinets and fittings should you need to. But don't assume this is the case: always check before buying.
How does it work?
It's possible to reuse kitchens because they come in units (for example a base cabinet or a wall cabinet) that are fitted together to create the whole kitchen.
‘You can think of a kitchen unit as an individual box with a lid (the worktop) attached to the top,’ says Helen Lord, founder of Rehome (formerly the Used Kitchen Exchange). ‘That means kitchens can be taken apart and reassembled in new spaces.’
For example, a U-shaped kitchen can be remodelled into an L-shape, or you can create a kitchen island with unused cabinets.
Kitchen units also typically come in standard sizes (for example 50 or 60mm wide), which makes the fitting and reusing process even easier.
If you choose to buy a used kitchen, it will be taken apart in its original home, the units will be transported, and then it can be reassembled to make your new kitchen.
Need help planning your space? Check out our kitchen layout ideas
Where to buy second-hand kitchen cabinets
You can buy second-hand kitchen cabinets online or in stores.
The main advantage of shopping online is that you can browse a large number of used kitchens very quickly.
There are several online stores dedicated to selling used kitchens, including The Used Kitchen Company, Rehome and Pre Owned Kitchens. They stock kitchens from a variety of companies and second-hand sellers.
They sometimes carry kitchens that are made bespoke for clients who later cancel the order.
Alternatively, search for a used kitchen store or hub near you. Some charity shops, such as the British Red Cross, also have furniture stores, from which you may be able to buy a kitchen. Check the availability before you travel.
You can also look for second-hand kitchens from online marketplaces such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree. But be careful when handing over large amounts of money to sellers from these sites.
For further guidance, read What are my shopping rights on an online marketplace? and The best and worst places to shop second-hand online
How to buy second-hand kitchen cabinets
1. Measure your own kitchen
The first step of buying a new kitchen is measuring your existing kitchen. Measure the lengths of the walls you're looking to fill; be aware of your windows, doors, electrics and plumbing; and consider any height restrictions.
Remember that most kitchen units come in standard sizes (eg 50 or 60mm wide), which makes it easier to work from your existing design.
As well as knowing your kitchen dimensions, consider the number of units you need.
Find further advice in How do I measure my kitchen?
2. Browse, browse, browse
Look for kitchen design ideas to get a sense of the style and colours you like, and how best to use your space.
Remember that when you buy a second-hand kitchen, your choice will be limited by the range of kitchens on offer at that time.
As well as checking different websites, you can often sign up for email updates to hear about new kitchens as soon as they become available.
Be prepared to wait to find your perfect kitchen.
3. View the kitchen and gather information
If you're buying a kitchen online, always try to book a viewing to assess the quality and state of the kitchen in person.
Try to find out about how the kitchen cabinets were made, what they're made of, how old they are and how they've been used.
If you can only view the kitchen online, ask for as many pictures as possible.
4. Book removal and installation
The process of removal and installation will depend on where you buy your kitchen from.
In general, you'll want a professional to remove, transport and install the kitchen at your house.
‘It is important not just to protect the kitchen units themselves, but also the house from which they are being removed or into which they are being installed,’ Helen explains. ‘Plus, transporting the kitchen can be difficult. You may even find the kitchen is over the weight limit for your car or van, which would make it very dangerous to drive.'
Most second-hand kitchen retailers have dedicated teams for removing, transporting and installing used kitchens. However, if you buy from stores or online marketplaces, you may have to organise this yourself.
If the kitchen is flat-pack, the process will be easier. You may also be able to install the kitchen yourself if you're competent at DIY (and you're not moving any electrical or plumbing elements).
It's often a false economy to think you can do this with the help of friends or a 'man with a van', as this could result in the worktops or units getting damaged. You can use Which? Trusted Traders to find a reliable kitchen fitter near you.
What about worktops, sinks and appliances?
A lot of ex-display kitchens come with sinks and appliances, which is great if you're looking for a total overhaul.
However, with second-hand kitchens, it will vary depending on the owner.
Most used kitchens do come with worktops – it's up to you whether you want to keep or replace them.
Laminate worktops can break easily, or you could end up with visible seams and other imperfections when they're reinstalled. But more durable materials such as granite, marble or wood can usually be reused.
Discover the pros and cons of different types of kitchen worktops
Tips for buying a second-hand kitchen
Rehome's Helen Lord shares her top four tips:
1. Map out your kitchen
'Get some graph paper and map out your current kitchen,' says Helen. 'Draw it to scale, and mark your windows, plumbing and other relevant details.
'Then, on another piece of graph paper, draw and cut out the units of the kitchen you are considering. Make sure you keep them in scale with your map.
'That will help you play around with your layout and visualise the kitchen in your space.'
2. Buy a little bigger
Some experts recommend that you buy a kitchen that's up to 10% bigger than what you need.
'Having a few extra units will give you the ability to truly customise your kitchen and build a space that works for you.'
3. Customise awkward spaces
Don’t worry if your new kitchen design leaves some small gaps, or is a little too big.
‘It’s easy to customise those little spaces,’ says Helen. ‘For example, you can get a joiner to make you a wine rack to fill a small gap.’
If your units are too big, you can also get a carpenter to narrow them down.
4. Assess the quality of your second-hand kitchen
Second-hand kitchen specialists will check the quality and state of the kitchens they list, but it's always a good idea to check yourself.
To start, find out if the kitchen is flat-pack or factory assembled. If you're considering a flat-pack kitchen, ensure it's high quality and consider transporting it without disassembling the units.
Always check the thickness of the units – ideally, look for units that are thicker than 15mm.
You should also consider the material of your kitchen. For example, MDF is higher density and stronger than chipboard and tends to be more water resistant. Solid wood kitchen units are considered to be the most durable.
Finally, check the kitchen for damage: ‘The main things that damage your kitchen are heat, water and steam, so the main places to check are around the oven, sink and kettle,' says Helen. ‘If the kitchen is laminated or vinyl wrapped, it can start to bubble or peel. MDF can also swell when it gets wet. Those issues can’t really be fixed.’
Any chips or knocks can easily be remedied, so don't worry too much about those. If the cabinets need repainting, you could even try that yourself.
Is a second-hand kitchen right for me?
The main advantages of a used kitchen are the cost-saving and environmental benefits.
You might also be able to buy a luxury or designer kitchen for a fraction of the price.
‘Some people worry that their kitchen will be lower quality because it has been used,’ says Helen, ‘but actually you might be able to afford a much higher-quality kitchen if you buy second-hand. That means it should age much more slowly, and look better for longer.’
The main disadvantage to buying second-hand is the inconvenience. It can take a lot of work to find, check, install and refurbish the kitchen.
However, if you're willing to invest the time, then you could end up with a beautiful – and much more sustainable – kitchen.
Not sure a second-hand kitchen is right for you? Read our guide to the best and worst kitchen brands to find those that score most highly for durability, customer service and more.
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