Whether you’re looking to refresh your kitchen, bathroom, or any other space in your home, painting cabinets can be a cost-effective way to achieve a new look. However, selecting the right paint is crucial for ensuring a professional finish that lasts. In this guide, we’ll explore the best DIY cabinet paints available today, along with tips to help you achieve a flawless result.
Why Cabinet Paint Matters
Cabinets are high-touch, high-traffic surfaces that require durability and resistance to moisture, stains, and everyday wear and tear. Ordinary wall paint won’t cut it for cabinets—specialized paints are essential for the job. When selecting a cabinet paint, you should consider the following factors:
Durability: Cabinets need a paint that can withstand frequent cleaning and resist chipping, peeling, and staining.
Finish: The right finish enhances the look and durability. Satin, semi-gloss, and gloss finishes are popular for cabinets because they’re easy to clean and offer a sleek appearance.
Ease of Application: Look for paints that provide smooth coverage and are easy to apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer.
Top DIY Cabinet Paints for a Professional Finish
Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Satin Paint
Pros:
Exceptional durability and a smooth, furniture-like finish.
Self-leveling properties reduce brush marks.
Available in a wide range of colors.
Cons:
Slightly longer drying time between coats.
Higher price point compared to other paints.
Why It’s Great: Benjamin Moore’s Advance is a top choice among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its waterborne alkyd formula combines the benefits of water-based paint with the durability of oil-based, making it ideal for cabinets.
Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Waterbased Acrylic-Alkyd
Pros:
Durable finish that’s resistant to yellowing.
Dries quickly with minimal brush strokes.
Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons:
Requires careful prep work for the best results.
Limited availability in some areas.
Why It’s Great: Sherwin-Williams ProClassic is known for its smooth finish and durability. Its hybrid formula provides the hard, durable finish of an oil-based paint with the easy cleanup of water-based paint.
Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit
Pros:
Complete kit with everything you need for the project.
No sanding or priming required.
Affordable and available in a variety of colors.
Cons:
Longer application process with multiple steps.
Limited color options compared to traditional paints.
Why It’s Great: This all-in-one kit is perfect for beginners. It includes a deglosser, bond coat, decorative glaze, and protective top coat, taking the guesswork out of cabinet painting.
Valspar Cabinet Enamel Semi-Gloss Latex Interior Paint
Pros:
Smooth finish with excellent coverage.
Quick drying and easy to clean up.
Low odor and VOC (volatile organic compounds).
Cons:
May require a primer for the best adhesion.
Not as durable as oil-based paints.
Why It’s Great: Valspar’s Cabinet Enamel offers great value for money and is ideal for DIYers looking for a quick and easy cabinet refresh. Its semi-gloss finish is easy to clean, making it a practical choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Behr Alkyd Semi-Gloss Enamel
Pros:
Oil-like durability with water-based cleanup.
Resists moisture, mildew, and household chemicals.
Smooth, durable finish that mimics professional spray applications.
Cons:
Requires proper surface preparation for best results.
Slightly longer curing time.
Why It’s Great: Behr’s Alkyd Semi-Gloss Enamel is perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Its strong, durable finish stands up to frequent cleaning and use, making it a reliable choice for DIY cabinet painting projects.
Tips for a Successful DIY Cabinet Painting Project
Prep Thoroughly: Clean the cabinets with a degreaser, remove hardware, and lightly sand the surfaces to ensure the paint adheres well.
Prime When Necessary: While some paints are self-priming, using a primer can enhance adhesion and durability, especially on darker wood or previously stained cabinets.
Use Quality Tools: Invest in high-quality brushes, rollers, or a paint sprayer to achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish.
Take Your Time: Allow sufficient drying time between coats to avoid streaks or tackiness. Patience is key to a beautiful result.
Seal the Deal: Consider applying a clear topcoat for added durability, especially in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Painting your cabinets is a fantastic way to refresh your space without the expense of a full renovation. By choosing the right paint and following best practices, you can achieve a stunning, long-lasting finish that transforms your kitchen or bathroom. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, these top cabinet paints offer quality, durability, and ease of application to help you achieve professional results.
DIY Cabinet Painting FAQ: Addressing Common Concerns
When embarking on a DIY cabinet painting project, many questions can arise. Below, we address some of the most common concerns and provide expert tips to ensure your project goes off without a hitch.
Do I Need to Remove the Cabinet Doors?
Answer: Yes, it’s highly recommended to remove the cabinet doors and hardware before painting. This allows you to paint the entire surface evenly and prevents drips or uneven coverage. Label each door and corresponding cabinet space to make reinstallation easier.
Should I Sand the Cabinets Before Painting?
Answer: Sanding is an essential step if your cabinets have a glossy finish or previous paint that might prevent the new paint from adhering properly. A light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) should suffice. For laminate or heavily stained wood, use a high-quality primer to ensure adhesion.
How Many Coats of Paint Do I Need?
Answer: Most cabinet paints require two to three coats for full coverage, especially if you’re painting over dark wood or a contrasting color. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding drying time between coats to avoid a sticky or uneven finish.
What If I Want to Change the Hardware?
Answer: If you’re planning to replace the hardware, do so after painting. If the new hardware has a different screw hole placement, fill the existing holes with wood filler before sanding and painting. Then, drill new holes once the paint is fully cured.
Can I Use a Roller Instead of a Brush?
Answer: Yes, you can use a roller for flat surfaces to achieve a smooth finish without brush marks. A high-density foam roller is ideal for cabinets as it leaves minimal texture. However, for detailed areas like corners or trim, a high-quality brush will provide better control.
How Long Should I Wait Before Reinstalling the Doors?
Answer: While paint may feel dry to the touch within a few hours, it’s best to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before reattaching the doors to allow the paint to cure fully. If possible, give the cabinets a full week to cure before subjecting them to heavy use.
What If I Make a Mistake?
Answer: Don’t panic! If you notice drips, uneven coverage, or brush marks, allow the paint to dry completely before lightly sanding the area and applying another coat. Touch-ups are a normal part of any painting project.
Popular DIY Cabinet Paint Color Trends
Choosing the right color can make a significant impact on the overall look of your space. Here are some trending colors for cabinet painting in 2024:
Classic White
Why It’s Trending: White cabinets never go out of style. They offer a clean, timeless look that brightens up any space and works well with various design styles, from modern to farmhouse.
Warm Greys
Why It’s Trending: Grey has been a popular neutral for years, but warm greys are taking center stage. These shades add depth and warmth without being overpowering, making them a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Navy Blue
Why It’s Trending: Navy blue cabinets make a bold statement and can give a sophisticated, modern look to any kitchen. This color pairs beautifully with brass hardware and white countertops for a high-contrast, elegant design.
Muted Greens
Why It’s Trending: Soft, muted greens are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners seek to bring the calming effects of nature indoors. These shades work well in both traditional and contemporary spaces.
Two-Tone Cabinets
Why It’s Trending: Mixing two complementary colors—such as a darker shade on the lower cabinets and a lighter one on the upper—adds visual interest and depth to your kitchen. This trend allows for creativity and personalization in your space.
Is DIY Cabinet Painting Worth It?
Painting your cabinets can be a time-consuming project, but the payoff is significant. With the right preparation, tools, and paint, you can transform your space and add value to your home. Not only is it cost-effective compared to replacing cabinets, but it also allows you to customize your space to fit your style.
If you’re willing to put in the effort, DIY cabinet painting is a rewarding project that can dramatically change the look and feel of your home. So, grab your paintbrush, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to breathe new life into your cabinets!
Ready to Start Your Project?
Have you recently painted your cabinets? Share your experiences, tips, and before-and-after photos in the comments below! For more DIY home improvement tips and product recommendations, be sure to subscribe to our blog and tune into our latest podcast episodes.
DIY Cabinet Painting Success Stories: Inspiration from Real Homeowners
There’s nothing more motivating than seeing the incredible transformations others have achieved with their DIY cabinet painting projects. Here, we’ve gathered a few success stories from real homeowners who took the plunge and revamped their spaces. These stories showcase a range of styles, techniques, and results that prove just how impactful a fresh coat of paint can be.
From Dated Oak to Modern Farmhouse
Homeowner: Sarah B.
Location: Austin, Texas
Project Overview: Sarah was tired of her outdated oak kitchen cabinets but didn’t want to spend a fortune on a full remodel. She chose to paint her cabinets a crisp white (using Benjamin Moore’s Advance in White Dove) to create a bright, airy feel. She added black matte hardware and a subway tile backsplash to complete the modern farmhouse look.
Results: “I couldn’t believe the difference it made. Our kitchen looks brand new! The paint was easy to work with, and I’m so glad I invested the time to do it myself,” Sarah shares.
Tip from Sarah: “Don’t skip on prep work. Cleaning and sanding are tedious but make all the difference in how the paint adheres.”
Bold and Blue: A Navy Kitchen Makeover
Homeowner: Josh and Emily R.
Location: Seattle, Washington
Project Overview: Josh and Emily wanted to add some personality to their kitchen, so they opted for a bold navy blue (using Sherwin-Williams ProClassic in Naval). To balance the deep color, they kept the countertops white and added brass hardware for a pop of warmth.
Results: “We were a bit nervous about going so dark, but the result is stunning. It feels like a completely different kitchen—modern, chic, and very us,” Emily explains.
Tip from Josh and Emily: “If you’re going with a darker color, be patient with multiple coats. The coverage can take time, but the end result is worth it.”
Two-Tone Transformation
Homeowner: Lisa M.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Project Overview: Lisa’s kitchen felt too monochromatic with all-white cabinets, so she decided to try the two-tone trend. She painted her upper cabinets a soft gray (Behr’s Marquee in Silver Drop) and the lower cabinets a deep charcoal (Behr’s Alkyd Semi-Gloss in Limousine Leather).
Results: “The two-tone look brought so much dimension and interest to my kitchen. It feels more custom and stylish now,” says Lisa.
Tip from Lisa: “Make sure to plan out your color placement carefully and consider how the colors will interact with your walls, floors, and countertops.”
Budget-Friendly Bathroom Cabinet Refresh
Homeowner: Mark and Clara S.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Project Overview: Mark and Clara wanted to refresh their bathroom cabinets without spending too much. They chose Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit in Espresso to give their space a rich, luxurious feel. The kit’s all-in-one design made the process straightforward and budget-friendly.
Results: “We saved so much money by doing it ourselves, and the dark color really elevated the whole bathroom. It feels much more modern,” Mark notes.
Tip from Mark and Clara: “Take your time with each step in the kit, especially the deglosser and bond coat. It’s worth the extra effort to ensure a lasting finish.”
How to Avoid Common Cabinet Painting Mistakes
Even the best DIYers can run into challenges when painting cabinets. Here are some common mistakes to avoid, ensuring your project is a success:
Skipping the Primer
The Problem: Some paints claim to be self-priming, but skipping a dedicated primer can lead to poor adhesion, especially on slick surfaces like laminate or glossy wood.
The Fix: Always use a high-quality primer designed for cabinets, particularly if you’re working with a difficult surface. A primer will not only help the paint adhere better but also improve the durability of the finish.
Rushing the Drying Process
The Problem: Impatience can lead to applying coats too quickly, resulting in a sticky, uneven finish that’s prone to fingerprints and smudges.
The Fix: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying times between coats, and be prepared to wait a bit longer if you’re painting in a humid environment. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 24 hours between coats, and up to a week before heavy use.
Using the Wrong Tools
The Problem: Cheap brushes and rollers can leave streaks, lint, and uneven coverage on your cabinets, making the final result look amateurish.
The Fix: Invest in high-quality tools like a synthetic brush for water-based paints, a foam roller for smooth surfaces, and even a paint sprayer for a flawless, professional-looking finish.
Not Cleaning the Cabinets Properly
The Problem: Grease, dust, and dirt can prevent paint from sticking properly, leading to peeling and flaking over time.
The Fix: Before you even think about painting, clean your cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser or a mix of warm water and TSP (trisodium phosphate). Rinse well and allow to dry completely before sanding and priming.
Ignoring the Curing Process
The Problem: Even if the paint feels dry, it may not be fully cured. Using the cabinets too soon can cause the paint to chip or scratch.
The Fix: Be patient and let the paint cure fully before reassembling the cabinets or placing items inside. This can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the paint and environmental conditions.
Your Cabinet Painting Journey Starts Now
DIY cabinet painting is a fantastic way to revitalize your home without breaking the bank. With the right materials, proper preparation, and a little patience, you can achieve professional-looking results that will make you proud every time you walk into your kitchen or bathroom.
Remember, the key to a successful project is choosing the right paint and taking the time to do it right.
Whether you’re inspired by the classic elegance of white cabinets, the bold statement of navy blue, or the modern flair of two-tone designs, there’s a perfect paint out there for your needs.
Now that you’re armed with all the tips, tricks, and product recommendations, it’s time to start your cabinet painting journey. Happy painting, and may your cabinets look better than ever!
