A bar cart is an excellent piece of furniture in your home. It allows you to entertain guests, provides storage, and can amplify the style of your space. Finding the perfect bar cart cabinet for your needs can be difficult. With bar carts becoming more popular, there are many options on the market.
This article will provide tips for choosing the perfect bar cart for you. Before providing you with four helpful tips, we will discuss the standard features and materials of bar carts. After reading this, you will feel equipped to shop for a cabinet bar cart!
How to Choose a Bar Cart
It’s important to find the perfect bar cart for you. There is a lot to consider while you’re shopping for one. Whether you want a vintage bar cart or a trunk bar cart, we can help.
It’s essential to know what you’re looking for. We will educate you on some materials and features.
Materials
Bar carts come in many different materials. In general, you will see five different types. Some bar carts will have a mixture of other materials. Each material serves a different purpose, has unique benefits, and offers various durability and longevity.
Some of the most common materials you will find include:
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Wood. Wood bar carts offer a beautiful rustic or country theme to your home. It provides a beautiful aesthetic that is long-lasting and sturdy. Some wood bar carts are treated so that they can be used both indoors and outdoors. Generally speaking, wood carts are more expensive than other options. They can also be bulkier. However, this is an excellent way to go if you want a durable piece or a vintage bar cart that will last years.
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Metal. Metal is a great addition to an industrial-style space. Metal bar carts typically look more minimalistic and modern than other styles and materials. These bar carts are incredibly light, allowing you to store them when you aren't using them. Some options can even be folded up! Metal isn't necessarily as sturdy as wood, so be mindful of the weight you're putting on it.
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Glass. Glass bar carts aren’t bulky and won’t draw too much attention. They are extremely modern-looking. However, it’s important to note that they will get dirty easier than other materials. Furthermore, heavy bottles can break the glass.
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Manufactured wood. Manufactured wood is a cheaper option than solid wood. It is often lighter and requires less maintenance. However, they aren’t as durable or long-lasting.
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Stone. If you’re a fan of granite or quartz, then a stone bar cart may be perfect for you. Often these bar carts are mixed with other materials (otherwise, they would be very heavy). Stone carts are usually best staying in one place, as opposed to moving around frequently.
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Plastic. Lastly is a plastic bar cart. These are very light and durable. They are often much cheaper than other materials.
Bar Cart Features
Now that we've discussed bar cart materials, we will touch on the features. Bar carts can have a variety of features. Each element can serve a different purpose or benefit. Knowing what you need a bar cart for will help narrow down what features to search for. Some common features include the following:
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Shelves
People often store different liquor bottles, shaker cups, and other items in their bar carts. Having shelves for this can allow you to keep everything you need. Larger bar carts may feature several shelves. However, small bar carts may only have one or two.
Brainstorm what you will be storing before purchasing a cart. Determine the number of shelves that work best for your needs. You will want more shelving if you own an extensive liquor collection, stemless wine glasses, and other cocktail syrups.
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Locking Wheels
One of the best features of most bar carts is that they come on wheels! It will allow you to quickly move the cart around your home and attend to your guests. It will also be easy to reposition in your home without lifting or removing all items on it.
Look for a bar cart with 1-2 locking wheels to keep it in place. While wheels are great, having a lock on them is almost essential! This will keep your bar cart sturdy on a day-to-day basis. Otherwise, moving it can cause bottles and glasses to fall.
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Racks for Glasses
Storing wine glasses can look a little cluttered - unless you have racks to do it. These racks will often hold the stem of the wine glass. The glass will then conveniently hang. It will not take up shelf space, doesn't look cluttered, and will add to the area's elegance.
Racks for glasses also offer a safe place for your breakables to go. This will give you peace of mind as you move the bar cart around your home.
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Handles
Handles are an essential feature on many different carts. It will allow you to push or pull the cart around the home. Furthermore, the handles add elegance and make the bar cart look finished. It can be very inconvenient to move your bar cart without handles.
Some carts will have handles on either side, whereas others will have them on one side.
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Countertop
If you often find yourself mixing and garnishing drinks, then a countertop would be great. On your countertop, you'll be able to cut limes, chop garnishes and ingredients, and have space to make your favorite cocktail.
Another nice thing about a countertop is it works as additional storage. You can also serve drinks to guests on it. A countertop is a great option, especially if your bar cart is stored away from your kitchen.
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Cabinets
Cabinets will allow you to store glasses, liquor bottles, and accessories without looking cluttered. A cabinet bar cart is great if you aren't opposed to a more bulky option. It is a great way to make your space look elegant and clean.
Many people like their bar cart accessories to be on display. If you like that, you may want to opt for a bar cart cabinet cart with only 1-2 cabinets and shelving.
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Drawers
Another feature similar to cabinets is drawers! Drawers are a great way to store stir sticks/spoons, knives, and other small utensils and accessories. Drawers can come in various sizes. They act as an excellent place for storage.
It's important to know that both drawers and cabinets will add to the weight of the bar cart. If you want one that is easy to store or move, you might opt for a simpler model.
Bar Cart Shopping Tips
Now that we’ve discussed some important information about bar carts, we will share some tips and suggestions as you shop.
1. What Size Do You Need?
One of the most important things to consider is the size of the bar cart you will need. To decide this, you’ll have to understand what you’ll be storing on it, how much room you need to work or prep, and how much space you have in your home. A bar cart should act as a home accent, not a large and overwhelming piece of furniture.
Measure the space that you want your bar cart to go in. Keep it a fair distance away from other furniture pieces. Once you identify the space you have for the cart to go, visualize yourself working on it. If the cart is strictly for storage, you could opt for a slightly taller and leaner one.
2. What Features Do You Need?
Now that we’ve discussed the different features you can choose from, determine what is most important to you. If you dislike the look of clutter, you may opt for a bar cart with cabinets or drawers. If you want to prepare cocktails at the cart, you may prioritize a countertop. Furthermore, if you are a wine lover, you may require wine racks.
Knowing your bar cart's purpose will help you narrow down the many options.
3. What Materials Are Best for You?
You may decide on materials based on what style you want to achieve. For example, if you wish for an industrial-style home, you may opt for a metal black bar cart. A wooden option may be best for you if you want a long-lasting piece that can be used indoors or outdoors.
We recommend staying away from stone if you prioritize portability. Glass is also a great option for the minimalist; However, it can be difficult to keep clean if you have children.
4. Should You Build or Buy?
If you want a custom bar cart to fit into a specific space, building one may be a better option. Building is often cheaper. However, it can be challenging and time-consuming.
Conclusion
Are you ready to invest in a bar cart cabinet? This is a great way to add style, convenience, and practicality to your home. A bar cart is excellent if you enjoy a good cocktail or glass of wine. After discussing the materials available, different features, and four tips, you should be ready to begin shopping. Regardless of your preferences, you'll be able to find the perfect option for your needs.
