Short answer: MDF is an engineered wood panel made from fine wood fibres mixed with resin and pressed under heat. It has a smooth, even surface that takes paint or veneer well. Standard grades are mainly for indoor use.
What two sources say about MDF
| Source page | Publisher | What the page says |
|---|---|---|
| Medium-density fibreboard - Wikipedia | Wikipedia | Defines MDF as an engineered wood panel made by breaking wood residues into fibre, combining it with wax and resin, and pressing it under heat. It lists a smooth, stable surface, poor moisture resistance and formaldehyde release among its properties. |
| Medium density fibreboard | EPF (European Panel Federation) | Describes MDF as a dry-process fibreboard made from refined wood fibres and a synthetic resin binder, formed into a mat and hot-pressed. It gives density figures and notes that its smooth surface suits paint, foils and veneer. |
Key points
- MDF is made by breaking wood into fibres, mixing them with a resin binder, and pressing a mat of fibre under heat. [1, 2]
- It is a dry-process fibreboard and is denser than plywood and particleboard. [1, 2]
- Typical density is about 600 to 800 kg per cubic metre; the faces are denser than the core. [1, 2]
- The surface is smooth and flat, suited to painting, foils and veneering. [1, 2]
- Standard MDF resists moisture poorly and can swell; moisture-resistant grades exist. [1, 2]
- MDF can release formaldehyde, especially when cut or sanded. [1]
MDF compared with HDF (high-density fibreboard)
| Aspect | MDF | HDF (high-density fibreboard) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | Standard MDF averages about 700 to 800 kg per cubic metre. | HDF is above 800 kg per cubic metre. | [2] |
| Typical use | Table tops, door panels and drawer fronts with profiled edges. | Main base board for laminate flooring. | [2] |
| Process | Dry-process fibreboard. | Denser variant in the same fibreboard family. | [2] |
Where sources differ
Sources give slightly different density ranges (Wikipedia 500 to 1,000 overall, 600 to 800 typical; EPF about 700 to 800 average). Wikipedia states MDF is a generic name for dry-process fibreboard.
Questions to ask a supplier about MDF
- [ ] What density does the supplier state, in kg per cubic metre?
- [ ] What formaldehyde emission class does the board meet?
- [ ] Is a moisture-resistant grade needed for the use?
- [ ] What thickness tolerance does the board hold?
- [ ] Which resin binder is used?
Read next on this site
- Frame materials compared: polystyrene, wood and aluminium
- Private label wall art and paintings, made under your label
- Wall Art and Canvas Buyer Guide for Private Label
More terms and explainers
Start an enquiry when your list is ready; we reply within 1 business day.
Sources: [1] Wikipedia, fetched 2026-11-12; [2] EPF (European Panel Federation), fetched 2026-11-12. As of 2026-11-12. General information, not legal, customs or tax advice. Wording is paraphrased from the pages linked; your written quote and contract govern.