Best Kitchen Cabinet Paint: Painting kitchen cabinets is also one of those affordable yet high-impact ways to add a modern and stylish spin to the kitchen. Kitchen cabinets are often the showstoppers of a kitchen, so using the right paint can work wonders. If updating tired old cabinets or just putting a new spin on your kitchen is on your agenda, choosing the best kitchen cabinet paint means that whatever kitchen cabinet paint you use will keep your cabinets looking fresh, tough and good.
In this blog, I will show you how to pick the best paint for kitchen cabinets, recommend top options, and toss tips on achieving the smoothest finish for a professional look. I will also touch on a few important factors such as durability, ease of application and what finishes work best for your kitchen style. Let’s dive in!
Reasons Why Painting Kitchen Cabinets is a Good Idea
Before we dive into the details of the best paints, let’s discuss why painting your kitchen cabinets is such a great idea.
Reasonably Priced: Installing new kitchen cabinets can be a costly endeavor. You can save a lot of money by painting them instead without sacrificing too much aesthetic firepower.
Customizable Look: When it comes to painting, you can fully customize to hue and pick and choose colors that fit your kitchen vibe — modern, farmhouse or traditional.
Protective Layer: Good quality cabinet paint forms a protective layer against daily wear and tear, stains, grease and moisture, and is ideal for a high-traffic area like the kitchen.
Fast & Simple Upgrade: Just a little paint can do wonders for old or faded cabinets, providing a brand new look in no time at all.
Now, let’s discuss how to choose the right kitchen cabinet paint for your project.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Kitchen Cabinet Paint
For a smooth, beautiful finish that lasts to several factors in choosing right paint. Here’s what you should be on the lookout for:
Durability
The kitchen is the most active room in the house and your cabinets must be built to withstand repetitive use. Choose paints that are designed for high-traffic areas. These paints should be resistant to scuffs, scratches, moisture, and grease, keeping your cabinets looking good for years.
Finish
The finish you select for your cabinets will have a big impact on how your kitchen looks and feels. The most common finishes are:
Matte or Flat Finish: Provides a smooth, non-reflective finish but may be more prone to showing fingerprints and stains.
Satin Finish: Provides a soft sheen that is (*relatively) easy to clean and can disguise imperfections more effectively than matte finishes.
Semi-Gloss Finish — This finish is ideal for cabinets since it’s durable and easily wiped clean. It also has a touch of shine that helps the cabinets pop.
High gloss finish — Very shiny and provides a sleek, contemporary appearance; however, it can bring out surface flaws.
Ease of Application
If the paint doesn’t flow well, cabinet painting can be hard. Try finding paints that are meant for cabinetry and have easy application features. Some paints are low-prep and self-leveling, minimizing the chance of streaks or brush marks.
Odor and Drying Time
Kitchens tend to be relatively small and enclosed, so a low- or no-odor paint is important. Seek low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) or no-VOC paints, which are better for your health as well as more enjoyable to work with.
Color and Aesthetics
Lastly, you’ll need to select a paint color that’s in line with the aesthetic of your kitchen. If your kitchen has an overall kitchen theme or countertops and backsplash colors that are accommodating, make sure the color choice of your kitchen cabinets goes with it, whether you prefer stressed wood or a solid, make or break the whole kitchen atmosphere.
Top Picks: The Best Kitchen Cabinet Paints
Now that you know what to look out for, let’s jump right to some of the best kitchen cabinet paints available on the market. These picks have been selected for their durability, finish, and ease of use.
Benjamin Moore Advance
Benjamin Moore’s Advance line is both top-tier and dependable. This is a paint that is formulated for cabinets and dries to a hard, durable finish that is resistant to stains and scratches. Self-leveling formula for a smooth, brushstroke-free finish (especially important when painting kitchen cabinets) Available in satin and semi-gloss, it comes in a massive array of colors.
Best for: Long-lasting results and slick look.
Finish: Satin, Semi-Gloss.
Drying time: 4-6 hours (ntact in 16 hours).
Sherwin Williams Pro Classic Interior Water based Acrylic-Alkyd
Sherwin Williams’ Pro Classic provides a smooth, durable finish that resists stains and moisture — ideal for the kitchen. The paint levels its surface as it dries, making it easy to apply and helping to avoid brush marks. It also has low VOC levels, meaning less odor and fumes.
- Best for: Durability and user-friendliness.
- Finish: Satin, Semi-Gloss.
- Drying Time: 2-4 hours.
Behr Premium Plus Ultra
When it comes to a cheap, but good product, Behr Premium Plus Ultra helps you get the best of both worlds. This paint offers solid coverage and durability, plus a stain-blocking formula that conceals imperfections. It is available in several finishes and colors to suit custom cabinet projects.
- Best for: Budget, stain resistance.
- Finish: Satin, Semi-Gloss.
- Drying Time: 1 hour; recoat in 4 hours.
Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations
Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations makes a great DIY-friendly option. It includes all you need, from bonding primer to topcoat. Best for Freshening Up Old Cabinetry Without a Hectic Redo
- Best for: DIY reader, easy to apply.
- Finish: Satin, Gloss.
- Drying Time: 2-4 hours.
Zinsser Perma-White Interior Paint
For those seeking a mildew- and moisture-resistant paint (ideal for humid kitchens), Zinsser Perma-White is a great choice. It’s a mildew- and mold-resistant formula and also is long-lasting. It’s ideal for kitchens near sinks or stovetops where moisture can be an issue.
- Ideal for: Resistance to moisture.
- Finish: Satin.
- Dry Time: 1 hour (recoat in 4 hours).
Comparison Table of the Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets
To help you assess your options, here’s a brief comparison of the properties of each paint:
| Paint Brand | Best For | Finish Options | Drying Time | VOC Content |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore Advance | Durability and smooth finish | Satin, Semi-Gloss | 4-6 hours (recoat 16 hours) | Low VOC |
| Sherwin Williams Pro Classic | High durability and ease of use | Satin, Semi-Gloss | 2-4 hours | Low VOC |
| Behr Premium Plus Ultra | Budget-friendly, stain resistance | Satin, Semi-Gloss | 1 hour (recoat in 4 hours) | Low VOC |
| Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations | DIY projects, ease of application | Satin, Gloss | 2-4 hours | Low VOC |
| Zinsser Perma-White | Moisture and mildew resistance | Satin | 1 hour (recoat in 4 hours) | Low VOC |
But Here’s a How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets Like a Pro
Now that we’ve talked the best kitchen cabinet paints, it’s time to get to the more important part — how to paint your cabinets. However, doing so to a professional standard requires patience, attention to detail, and the appropriate techniques. Don’t worry, though! If done correctly, you can turn your kitchen cabinets into something that looks like it’s out of a designer catalog. Here’s a guide for doing it like a pro, step by step.
Prep Your Cabinets
Preparation is also the first and most crucial step to getting a perfect paint job. Speeding through this approach can result in uneven tone, flaking paint, and weak bonding. Let’s break down what prepping your cabinets means:
Step 1: Remove the Cabinet Doors, Drawers and Hardware
To get an even finish, the doors and drawers of the cabinets must be removed. Doing it this way, you can paint all of your surfaces, without hardware getting in the way. Remove any shelves, as well, so you don’t accidentally get paint on them. Unscrew the knobs, handles, hinges and other hardware. Keep the hardware in a labelled bag, to make reassembly easier later on.
Clean the Surfaces Thoroughly
Kitchens are susceptible to buildup from grease, oils, food splatters, and dust. You must make sure the surfaces are very clean before you start to paint. Use degreaser or warm water with a bit of mild dish soap to wipe the surfaces of the cabinets. Focus especially around the stove or the sink, as these tend to collect grease. If you’ve cleaned the surfaces, rinse them with plain water to get rid of soap residue, and then wipe them dry using a clean cloth.
Sand the Cabinets
Even if your cabinets are smooth, sanding them lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (180-220 grit) is crucial to help the paint stick better. It can also aid in removing old finish or residue, creating a smoother, more uniform application. If you have a sanding block (or, if you’re really fancy, an orbital sander), you can gently smooth the surface, especially on surfaces that might have scraps, dents, or uneven spots.
Don’t sand too aggressively, because you don’t want to damage the wood or create deep grooves. When you sand between coats, make sure to wipe away the dust with a damp cloth the tack cloth. Dust left on a surface prevents paint from properly adhering and can create an uneven finish.
Step 2: Prime the Cabinets
After the surfaces have been cleaned and prepped appropriately, you are ready for a primer. A good primer is a binding agent that assists the paint in surface adhesion as well as creating a smooth coat for the paint to adhere to. If you skip this step, paint can chip, especially in a heavy use space such as the kitchen.
Choose the Right Primer
The type of primer used depends on the cabinet material. For wooden cabinets, you’ll need an oil-based or bonding primer. This type of primer sticks well to wood and prevents tannins from bleeding through the paint. If your cabinets are laminate or MDF, you should use a bonding primer specifically designed to adhere to non-porous surfaces.
Apply the Primer Evenly
Pull on a thin, even coat of primer with a good paintbrush or foam roller. The trick is to evenly apply the primer without overloading your brush or roller. Allow yourself time and use in thin coats, brushing with the grain (for timber) or evenly along the surface.
(The instructions on your primer will tell you if the primer needs a second coat for better coverage; plan for enough drying time between coats.) Prime coats will typically dry in 1-2 hours, but always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific dry time.
Sand After Priming
Once the primer has dried, sand the cabinets again lightly, using fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit). This step is critical in eliminating brush strokes, roller marks, any blemishes that may have occurred while priming. Sanding the primer lightly will smooth and even the primer layer for the paint. Once sanding is complete, wipe down cabinets once more to remove dust.
Step 3: Apply the Paint
And now, the fun stuff: painting your kitchen cabinets. The secret to achieving a perfect finish is in the application of the paint, so take care to ensure even coverage. To help you achieve a flawless look, here are some tips:
Use the Right Tools
Use high-quality brushes and rollers for the best finish. A 2-inch angled brush is ideal for cutting in edges and painting smaller sections, while a foam roller is more suited for larger, flat surfaces such as the cabinet doors and side panels. The foam roller reduces brush marks and gives an even coat.
Apply Thin Coats
Use thin, even coats of paint. Applying the paint too thickly can lead to running, dripping, or an uneven finish. One thick coat isn’t as effective as several lighter coats. First, paint the cabinet frames before you do the doors and drawers. And, when you paint the uprights, use long, smooth strokes and maintain your brush pressure to avoid visible brush marks.
Work in Sections
If you’re painting a bunch of doors or cabinets, then plan on doing it in sections. Don’t attempt to paint everything at the same time This provides more control for less risk of streaks or uneven patches. You want to paint one side of the cabinet doors, let it dry, then flip to the other side and paint the other side.
Allow Drying Time
Allow each coat of paint to dry all the way before putting on the next one. While most paints will dry to the touch within 1-2 hours, waiting 4-6 hours between coats will give the best results. Always follow the specific drying time guidelines the paint manufacturer recommends. Some cabinet paints have a longer dry time, such as Benjamin Moore Advance or some others, to help the paint level more and eliminate brush strokes and roller marks better.
Apply Multiple Coats
Your paint may require you to apply multiple coats over your surface. Use what you have, be patient, allow time for each coat to dry, and for each coat to be smooth. If you see any brush marks or other imperfections, sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) between coats to allow the next layer to adhere well.
Step 4: Reassemble and Enjoy
When the last coat of paint is fully dry, it’s time to put it all back together. This is how you can close out your project:
Replace the Cabinet Doors and Hardware
Reconnect the cabinet doors and drawers to their respective frames carefully. Be certain all hinges are firmly in place, and that the doors open and close properly. If you have taken off the knobs and handles, put them back on now. Consider updating the hardware (handles or knobs) and you will have a brand-new looking cabinet.
Touch Up Any Mistakes
When you’re putting the doors back on your cabinets, inspect the paint job closely to see if there are any areas that you missed or looked imperfect. If you see any, just touch them up with a tiny paint brush.
Enjoy Your New Kitchen
Lastly, stand back and admire your gorgeous kitchen cabinets! Wise men say the transformation is worth it. They offer a professional-looking face-lift to your kitchen, and whether you’ve gone with a classic white finish, a daring color, or a soft, neutral tone, you’ve just upgraded your kitchen for the next few years for a fraction of what you might’ve spent otherwise.
Some More Tips for the Best Finish
Be patient: Don’t hurry the process. Between coats, get the time needed for dry and cure for the best possible result.
Use the right paint: Invest in high-quality paint that’s specially made for cabinets. This will provide a hard, tough finish.
Make sure that your kitchen is well-ventilated while you’re painting to decrease the amount of paint fumes and potentially help speed up your drying times.
Thanks to these steps and tips, you’ll have kitchen cabinets that both look amazing and can stand up to what your everyday life throws at them. So, put on your favorite clothes and get ready to paint your kitchen like a pro!
10 Most Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs) When Painting Kitchen Cabinets
What kind of paint do you use for kitchen cabinets?
When deciding on the best paint for kitchen cabinets, you need to consider factors such as wear ability and finish, as well as ease of application. Kitchen cabinets: For cabinets, use high-resiliency types of coatings from formulations developed for kitchen cabinetry, including semi-gloss or satin, all of which give you stain-repelling and cleanability. Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin Williams Pro Classic and Behr Premium Plus Ultra are all popular choices.
Should I sand my cabinets before painting?
Yes, sanding is crucial. It assists in stripping the old finish, scuffing the surface slightly to enable paint to adhere better, and evening out imperfections. Sand those cabinets lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (180 to 220 grit), and wipe away any dust with a damp cloth — before painting the primer.
Can I do a kitchen cabinet paint job without sanding?
It is possible to paint without sanding, but it’s not advisable if you want the best outcome. Sanding helps to enhance paint adhesion, while preventing peeling or chipping with time. If you’d rather not sand, use a bonding primer designed to stick without sanding.
Kitchen cabinet paint drying time: how long?
Depending on the paint you use and the kitchen temperature/humidity levels, drying times may vary. In general, most paints should dry-to-touch in 1-2 hours. Normally, recoating takes about 4- 6 hrs. Always leave 24 hours or longer for the paint to cure before reattaching hardware or putting the cabinets to use.
Can you paint light color over dark cabinets?
You can paint lighter over your darker cabinets but it may take more coats. To keep the old color from seeping through, use a stain-blocking primer if you’re using a dark color. Using a good bonding or stain-blocking primer will help the new paint coat the old color better.
Water-Based or Oil-Based Paint for Cabinets: Which Should I Use?
Oil-based and water-based paints can both work well for kitchen cabinets, but water-based paints (such as Benjamin Moore Advance or Sherwin Williams Pro Classic) tend to be more common because they dry more quickly, have less odor and are less difficult to clean up. Oil-based paints create a hard, smooth finish but tend to smell worse and take longer to dry.
How many coats of paint do you put on kitchen cabinets?
2-3 coats of paint will provide great coverage and a smooth finish for most kitchen cabinet projects. Make sure to build up thin layers, and let each layer dry completely before going in with the next. The 301 W4 PTFE Paste Brush is a great option for small projects.
What is the best finish for kitchen cabinets?
Typically, the best kitchen cabinet finish is semi-gloss or satin, which provides a pleasing balance between sheen and durability, as well as ease of cleaning. Semi-gloss works especially well for kitchen cabinets because it has a stain-, moisture- and grease-repellent quality that means it’s easier to wipe down.
Preventing Brush Marks When Painting Cabinets.
Applying paint in thin, even layers will help reduce the risk of brush marks if using a high-quality brush or foam roller. Self-leveling paints such as Benjamin Moore Advance also help minimize brush marks, yielding a flawless finish. Always remember to brush along the grain of the wood, and to avoid overloading the brush with too much paint.
Can you paint kitchen cabinet doors on the hinges?
You certainly can paint cabinet doors while still attached, but it’s a good idea to remove them. Taking the doors off means you can paint them with greater ease, providing a uniform coating and access to all sides, including the edges. This way, you can paint the cabinet frames and the doors when they are drying.
Final Thoughts
The right kitchen cabinet paint can completely overhaul your kitchen and give it a fresh modern makeover without the cost of a full renovation. The right paint will deliver both functionality and beauty, whether you go with Benjamin Moore Advance for its durability or Sherwin Williams Pro Classic for its ease of application.
Keep in mind that prep work is just as important as the paint itself—spending time on sanding, priming, and applying several thin coats will make sure your cabinets not only look great but also hold up to everyday life.
Therefore, do not rush, select the right paint at the right time, and enjoy painting your kitchen!
