Painting kitchen cabinets is an affordable way to give your kitchen a fresh, updated look without the expense of a full remodel. With the right prep work, paint selection, and application, painted cabinets can look just as good as—if not better than—stained wood cabinets. Here’s what you need to know about painted kitchen cabinets and how to achieve a beautiful, professional-quality finish.
Painted vs. Stained Cabinets: The Pros and Cons
When deciding between painted and stained kitchen cabinets, there are several factors to weigh. Here are some of the key pros and cons of each option:
Pros of Painted Cabinets
- Affordable: Painting existing cabinets costs a fraction of the price of installing brand new cabinets. Even high-quality cabinet paints cost much less per square foot than stain or replacement.
- Easy to update: Painted cabinets can be refreshed with a new color for an updated look every few years. Simply sand, prime, and recoat with your new shade.
- Durable finish: Modern cabinet paints deliver a smooth, durable finish that stands up well to everyday wear and tear in the kitchen. With proper prep and application, the finish can last for many years before needing a touch up.
- Any color imaginable: Paint offers unlimited color options, from bold hues to soft neutrals and everything in between. Match any decor style.
- Conceals flaws: Paint can conceal wood damage, knots, discoloration, and other flaws in existing cabinetry.
Cons of Painted Cabinets
- Labor intensive prep: Painted cabinets require thorough prep and cleaning to achieve an even, professional-looking finish. Skipping steps can lead to peeling or bubbling down the road.
- Visible brush strokes: Paint shows imperfections like brush strokes much more than stain. Spray painting is ideal for the smoothest look.
- Challenging for DIY: Painted cabinets are doable for DIY but harder to perfect than staining or refacing. Hiring a professional is recommended if you want flawless results.
- Requires commitment: Going from stained to painted cabinets means committing to paint for the foreseeable future. Stripping paint to return to wood is extremely difficult.
Pros of Stained Cabinets
- Shows woodgrain: Stain highlights the natural pattern and beauty of the wood. Paint covers it up.
- Fewer preparation steps: Staining is quicker and easier than painting cabinets. Less need for sanding and cleaning.
- Easier touch ups: Stain is more forgiving than paint. It blends right in for flawless spot repairs.
- Professional quality DIY results: Achieving pro-level stained cabinets is very doable for DIYers. More room for error with stain.
Cons of Stained Cabinets
- Limited color options: Stain only allows natural wood tones in shades of brown, red, grey, etc. Paint offers any color.
- Shows damage: Stain accentuates knots, scratches, dents, and other damage. Paint hides flaws.
- Darkens room: As a rule, stain gives a darker, heavier look than painted cabinets. Paint reflects more light.
- Major change requires refacing/replacing: Switching from stained to painted cabinets means replacing doors or refacing.
What Kind of Paint is Best for Kitchen Cabinets?
Choosing the right cabinet paint is crucial for achieving a smooth, hardwearing finish. The market is flooded with options from DIY brands to professional-grade paints and epoxies. Here are the best types of paint for kitchen cabinets:
Alkyd/Oil-Based Enamel
Traditional oil or alkyd enamels provide a super durable and protective finish. They dry slower than latex paints and require mineral spirits for cleanup, but the hard finish resists nicks, scratches, and yellowing. Often used as cabinet paint by professionals.
Acrylic Latex Enamel
Water-based acrylic latex enamels are ideal for DIY painting. They apply and clean up easily with soap and water but still provide good durability and protection for cabinets. Available in satin, semi-gloss, and high gloss sheens.
Epoxy Paint
Two-part epoxy paints offer the toughest, most chemical-resistant finish for cabinets. They are catalyzed to cure into an extra hard film that is extremely scuff and stain resistant. Often used for paint grade cabinets.
Chalk and Milk Paint
Trendy chalk and milk paint finishes have a matte, powdery look. They aren’t as durable as enamels and epoxies but are great for achieving a distressed, vintage look. Need to be sealed with a protective topcoat.
For most cabinet painting projects, a high-quality acrylic latex enamel is the best choice. It has good durability for the wear and tear cabinets see, cleans up with soap and water, and comes in a wide range of sheens and colors.
How to Prepare Cabinets for Painting
Thorough prep work is vital for getting great results painting kitchen cabinets. Allow 1-3 days for proper cleaning, sanding, repairing, and priming steps before painting:
Clean Surfaces
Use TSP substitute cleaner to remove grease and grime. Scrub both inside and outside of cabinet boxes and doors with an abrasive sponge. Rinse well and let dry fully.
Sand Wood
Lightly sand wood surfaces smooth, wiping away dust often. Use 220 grit sandpaper for stained cabinets, 120-150 grit for previously painted cabinets. Don’t expose bare wood on stained cabinets.
Repair Damage
Fill any holes, gouges or cracks with wood filler, let dry fully, then sand smooth. Use painter’s caulk to fill gaps where cabinets meet walls. Remove hinges and Hardware.
Prime All Surfaces
Apply a quality bonding primer to all surfaces. Oil-based primer works best for blotchy woods and stained cabinets. Allow primer to dry overnight before painting.
Proper prep removes contaminants from the surface while roughening it up for the paint to adhere tightly. Patiently completing each step leads to better adhesion and a smoother finish.
How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets for a Flawless Finish
Applying cabinet paint properly takes skill and practice but can be mastered. Follow these steps for professional quality results:
Set Up Workspace
Work in a dust-free area with adequate ventilation. Cover floors and surfaces to avoid drips and splatters. Have all materials and supplies on hand before starting.
Apply First Coat
Use a high-quality nylon or polyester brush to cut in edges and corners. Then roll on an even coat using a short nap roller sleeve. Work methodically to avoid drips. Allow to dry overnight.
Sand and Vacuum
Lightly sand the first coat to smooth any grain raise or brush marks. Thoroughly vacuum dust before second coat.
Caulk Details
Apply painter’s caulk along seams, corners, and where cabinets meet walls. Smooth with fingertip then wipe area with a damp rag.
Apply Second Coat
Again cut in edges with brush then roll on an even coat using a fresh roller sleeve. Allow paint to cure fully, about 3-5 days.
Install Hardware
Reinstall door hinges and handles/knobs on painted doors and drawers. Avoid overtightening.
Seal and Protect
Use paste wax or silicone sealant to add a protective layer over painted cabinet surfaces, especially around sinks. Buff gently with a soft cloth.
Taking the time to apply multiple coats ensures full coverage and a smooth, even finish. Proper curing between coats allows paint to harden fully before adding the next layer.
Painted Cabinet Colors and Sheens to Consider
The color and sheen of cabinet paint has a big impact on the overall look and feel in your kitchen. Keep these tips in mind when selecting your shade and finish:
Color
- Neutrals like white, gray, and beige work well in almost any kitchen
- Soft blues and greens create a relaxing, casual vibe
- Bold reds, yellows, and oranges make a lively, energetic statement
- Darker hues can feel elegant but absorb light
- Lighter tones visually open and brighten small kitchens
Sheen
- High gloss has a shiny, reflective finish that highlights flaws
- Satin/eggshell is lightly shiny, easy to clean, and hides imperfections
- Flat/matte has zero shine for an ultra smooth look
- Use satin or semi-gloss on cabinet boxes, and gloss on doors/drawers
Undertones
- Cool paint colors have blue/purple undertones
- Warm shades contain yellow/red/orange undertones
- Match undertones to your cabinet style and home decor
Test paint samples on cabinet doors before fully committing to a color. View samples in both natural and artificial light at different times of day.
Expert Tips for Painting Cabinets to Look Professionally Done
Follow these pro tips and techniques for achieving museum-quality results painting your kitchen cabinets:
Use High Quality Paint and Tools
Invest in premium primers, paints, brushes, and rollers. Quality materials make a big difference in the final look and durability.
Take Drawers Out to Paint Separately
Removing drawers from cabinets makes them easier to prep, prime, and paint. Easier to handle too.
Spray Paint Doors in a Controlled Area
Lay cabinet doors flat on sawhorses and spray paint for the most flawless, professional finish.
Paint Inside of Cabinets Before Installing
It’s much easier to paint the cabinet interiors thoroughly before mounting them on the wall.
Use an Angled Paintbrush for Corners
A high quality angled sash brush makes painting cabinet corners and trim work much easier.
Apply Multiple Thin Coats
Applying several thinner coats creates a more durable finish than glopping on thick coats.
Level Safely to Avoid Strain and Fatigue
Work at a comfortable height without straining muscles. Use a sturdy step stool or small scaffolding.
Putting in the necessary prep work and using the right painting techniques will truly make your painted cabinets look like they were professionally installed or refinished. Take your time and don’t cut corners.
Maintaining Your Painted Cabinets Over Time
Painted kitchen cabinets must be properly cared for to maintain their like-new appearance over many years. Here are tips for keeping painted cabinets looking their best:
- Allow paint to cure fully, about 30 days, before cleaning or replacing cabinet items
- Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe painted cabinet surfaces
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub sponges which can wear down the finish
- Rinse cabinet surfaces with clean water after cleaning to remove residue
- Reseal cabinets annually with paste wax or polyacrylic sealant
- Immediately clean up any spills or splatters on cabinet surfaces
- Work gently to remove stuck-on crumbs or grease spatters
- Repaint worn areas and reseal every 2-5 years as needed
- Avoid placing small kitchen appliances directly beneath upper cabinets
- Install heat and moisture barriers behind appliances near cabinets
- Open cabinet doors/drawers slowly and be gentle when operating
- Add rubber or felt pads to bottoms of objects that will sit on cabinets
Avoid waiting until paint is visibly worn or damaged before maintenancing cabinets. Following proper cleaning and sealing practices from day one will maximize the lifespan of your painted kitchen cabinets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Kitchen Cabinets
Can I paint over varnished or stained cabinets?
Yes, you can paint over both varnished and stained wood cabinets to change up the color and finish. Proper prep is vital—sand thoroughly but don’t remove the stain or expose bare wood. The key is using a bonding primer made for painting over slick surfaces.
Should I take cabinet doors off to paint them?
Removing doors from cabinets makes the painting process easier and allows you to lay the doors flat for the smoothest finish. It’s also faster to paint doors separately. Leave cabinet boxes mounted but remove hardware and doors.
What mistakes should I avoid when painting cabinets?
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your painted cabinets come out looking fantastic:
- Inadequate prep and cleaning
- Choosing the wrong paint for the job
- Applying paint too thickly so it drips and sags
- Not allowing proper drying time between coats
- Forgetting to caulk gaps before painting
- Removing doors and misaligning hinges when reinstalling
Can I use a paint sprayer for cabinets?
You can, but airless sprayers require expertise to avoid drips and runs. Newer high volume low pressure (HVLP) spray systems are great for painting cabinets at home. Or have a professional spray them.
How do I get a smooth finish on painted cabinets?
The key steps are proper sanding between coats, applying thin coats of paint, using high-quality brushes and rollers, spraying cabinet doors, caulking gaps, and allowing ample curing time between coats.
Painted Cabinets Can Update Your Kitchen in a Big Way
Painting wood or laminate kitchen cabinets offers an affordable way to transform the entire look of your cooking space. With the right prep, paint products, color selection, and application techniques, freshly painted cabinets can look just as good—if not better—than pricey new cabinetry.
Use a quality bonding primer and paint formulated especially for painting cabinets and woodwork. Neutral colors work well in nearly any kitchen, or choose a fun, vibrant hue that complements your decor. Spray painting the cabinet doors helps achieve a flawless finish. Allow plenty of dry time between coats.
Most importantly, make sure your cabinets are thoroughly cleaned, lightly sanded and free of grease and debris before priming and painting. Rushing the prep stages leads to peeling or chipped paint down the road. But with patience and care, your painted kitchen cabinets can look fit for a magazine cover and last for many years before needing a touch up.
Conclusion
Painting cabinets is an accessible and budget-friendly way to upgrade your kitchen. With the right preparation, paints, tools and techniques, painted cabinets can look just as beautiful as more expensive options. Pay attention to the details during prep, use high quality primer and paint, apply multiple thin coats, and take time with the brushwork. The finished result will update your space with a fresh, flawless look and custom color. Maintain cabinets properly after painting by cleaning gently, avoiding moisture damage and repainting as needed. Investing some labor in properly painting your cabinets pays off for years to come every time you enjoy your gorgeous, welcoming kitchen.