best paint for kitchen cabinets

Best Paints for Kitchen Cabinet

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If you are on a budget, considering buying new kitchen cabinets to update your kitchen is not a brilliant idea. However, repainting the cabinet is the best alternative. What you don’t know is that paint can work wonders without spending too much money.

But I should warn you, choosing the best paint for kitchen cabinets is not as easy as it seems. In fact, 9 out of 10 times we end up buying inferior paint.

If you choose a paint that isn’t compatible with your cabinets, you could ruin the entire beauty or end up having leftover volatile fumes in the air that poses a health risk. And we don’t want that to happen.

In a nutshell, here are the things you’ll learn from this article:

  • Top-rated paints for kitchen cabinets
  • Why you should paint your kitchen cabinets
  • How to prep your kitchen cabinets for painting
  • What to look for when buying paint for your cabinets
  • Kitchen cabinet paints FAQ
  • Etc.

That said, here are the best kitchen cabinet paints you should consider right now:

Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets

Why Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets?

Replacing your old kitchen cabinets with new ones can be quite expensive. But, by simply giving your kitchen cabinetry a brand new coat, you can rapidly transform its ugly look into an aesthetic art.

This single action can save you a couple of bucks. Apart from this obvious reason, below are two other reasons why you should consider painting your kitchen cabinets:

1. It Gives your Cabinet a Fresh Look

If your kitchen cabinet’s color is too plain or isn’t bright, you can completely transform the outlook by simply painting the cabinet with a nice coat. When done correctly, the cabinets will definitely look like a brand new one.

As the demand for the best paint for kitchen cabinets rises, manufacturers have introduced better paint products that are more durable than before. Thus, the chances of coming across a good paint in the market are high.

2. It’s much faster and less inconveniencing

Painting your kitchen cabinet is less inconveniencing compared to remodeling the entire kitchen. Remodeling takes about six weeks at a minimum. Sometimes it takes longer than that. This is pretty much a long time to do without a kitchen –and it isn’t funny.

Whereas, painting your cabinets is a short route that can be completed in one week’s time. Besides, you can avoid all the delays in ordering cabinets and waiting for contractors.

Best Kitchen Cabinet Paints Review

best paint for kitchen cabinets

Yes! Paints can give aged kitchen cabinetry, an outstanding designer look –but only high-quality paint products can. And, that is where things get even more complex –searching for the best paint.

Embarking on what type of paint to use for kitchen cabinets can be daunting, as there are several types of paints and cabinets.

Of course, the paint chosen depends largely on the type and current condition of your cabinets, also the kind of finish you need.

To yield the best result, your paint and cabinets must be compatible, else you might end up having a distasteful result. And I know you don’t want that to happen either.

For this reason, we constructed a list of the best paints for kitchen cabinets that will help you nail a flawless finish, without fail. They are all versatile, adhesive, quickly dries up a touch and are water-resistant.

Can’t Wait Anymore? Here’s the List

1. Rust-Oleum 263231 Cabinet Transformations

Rust-Oleum 263231 Cabinet Transformations has a unique coating system that works perfectly on many surfaces like old/new wood, metal, canvas and ceramic. Moreover, the paint dries quickly with a creamy white finish.

On top of that, you can complete your painting project in less than no time, as the paint covers up to 150 square feet. It gives excellent adhesion with almost no preparation needed.

Why spend extra cash on a specialist, whereas you can do-it-yourself?

Interestingly, Rust-Oleum 263231 provides an instructional DVD that walks you through a step-by-step process of transforming and maintaining your furniture.

You can apply the paint as many as 5 coats as you want to get your ideal result.

No primer required, we highly recommend using a high-quality foam brush or synthetic. On the other hand, if using a primer on bare wood; wait two hours before applying the finish.

Lastly, stir thoroughly to spread apart any settled pigment before usage. Additionally, it has low-odor, and the latex formula makes cleaning easy with soap and water.

>>Wanna know the best paint sprayer you can use to paint your kitchen cabinet? Click here now!

  • Low Odor
  • Water-Based
  • Easy to clean
  • Great for DIY Projects
  • Also Available in Chalked Glaze and Chalked Spray
  • It is time-consuming

2. Nuvo Driftwood 1 Day Cabinet Makeover Kit

Update your kitchen cabinets with the Nuvo Driftwood full Paint Kit. If you’re a DIY kind-of-person, then this product is all you need.

Nuvo is a DIY one-day combo cabinet paint that doesn’t require any priming. You can get a professional result, by simply using a brush and roller.

As a heavy-duty paint, each kit covers about 100 square feet/40 linear feet –which is the typical size of most kitchen cabinets. You can as well cover most existing paint colors or wood stains without any need to prime.

The Nuvo Cabinet paint kits are designed to give a customizable two-toned look, with the help of other Nuvo colors or driftwood.

Moreover, the product is safe to use. It has low VOC and low odor. Besides, it’s the ideal product for wood, laminate/prime or metal cabinets.

Unlike most kitchen cabinet paints, the Nuvo has a durable finish, with no additional topcoat of sealer needed. Although, it requires minimal preparation.
Full kit

  • Versatile colors ideal for styling
  • Quick-drying
  • Perfect kitchen or bath makeovers
  • The curing process is 14 days

3. KILZ Adhesion High-Bonding Primer

For every painting problem; KILZ has a solution. The KILZ adhesion high-bonding primer is great for both professionals and DIY alike. Get the job done right!

The product ensures that the topcoats stick to very difficult-to-paint surfaces like PVC, tile, chalky paints, fiberglass and more.

The high adhesion primer bonds to a wide range of surface increasing painting possibilities rapidly. You can use KILZ widely on both exterior and interior surface where bonding might be critical.

KILZ has earned the reputation of making premium primers that bond securely on a smooth and slippery surface where an oil-based primer will fail to stick. It covers approximately 300 sq ft per gallon.

It’s a problem-solving primer which adhesion dries in contact within 30 minutes while recoating takes about an hour.

However, you need to prepare the surfaces free of chalk, rust, peeling paint, mold or even dust for the best result. Also, mix the paint properly before use; you can either apply spray or roller/brush.

4. Retique It by Renaissance RFP-P32-RobinsEgg

You will always get a positive result, whenever you use the Retique It. Brush it, then stain it and you get a contemporary finish.

Renaissance takes safety as their number one priority while producing their paints. So, you are 100% safe while using this genuine liquid wood paint.

The paint was made with the highest quality ingredients that have no dangerous chemical substances in it.

There is no CA Prop 65 warning label on this can. Renaissance has no VOC and zero emissions as well.

Also, the paint has incredible coverage to take about 1-2 coats. It ensures 100% acrylic coating in smooth finishing –excellent to hide old paints, rust or stain.

Renaissance specifically designed for both high gloss modern styling and old wood furniture and cabinet. The paint is versatile and can be used on newly or previously painted surfaces.

Besides, it looks and feels like real wood, with a smooth chalky finish –no sanding or stripping required.

  • Non-toxic
  • Eco-friendly
  • Virtually no odor
  • No priming or sanding required
  • Thick coverage
  • An extended period of drying time

5. Giani Sicilian Sand Countertop Best Paint Kit for cabinets

The Giani Sicilian can convert your outdated countertops without the cost of total replacement. This paint kit has everything you need to give your kitchen cabinet a stunning look.

Each kit covers approximately 35 square feet which are the typical size of most kitchen countertops (about 16 linear ft of standard 24 wide counters). Also, the product is water-based, highly adhesive enough to hide any existing scratches, burns or stains.

You can decorate a variety of kitchen cabinets with the 5 versatile colors. It’s safe and has low odor and low VOC.

With a three-step application, Giani countertop paint provides a great finish. Each kit has a durable gloss acrylic topcoat and all the necessary tools inside each kit.

Lastly, you can DIY completely with the help of the product’s instructions.

How to Prep Kitchen Cabinet for Painting

Here’s how to prep your kitchen cabinets for painting in four easy steps:

1. Prepare the cabinet (clean and degloss)

Using soap and water, you want to pre-clean any deeply soiled kitchen cabinets. Apply deglosser with a scrub pad to prepare the surface for the bond coat.

Don’t forget to follow the grain pattern of the wood and don’t scrub in a circular motion. After that, wipe with a moist cloth and use a dry cloth after application.

2. Apply bond coat

After deglossing, leave it for about an hour, and then use a 2-inches synthetic brush to apply two coats of bond coat 2-3-hours apart.

3. Apply an optional decorative coating

For a custom vintage appearance, apply decorative coating using 2-inches foam or synthetic brush. Don’t forget to wipe excess coating using a cloth.

4. Apply top coat

Apply protective topcoat and leave it for about 12-hours to dry before installing cabinets and drawers.

It’s worth mentioning that you should wait for about 8-hours before applying a topcoat if using decorative glaze step.

Here’s a short video that shows you how to prep kitchen cabinets for painting:

What To Consider When Buying Kitchen Cabinet Paints

I take it by now you have gone through the products review section. If you have, that means you might have gotten some cues on the features, a good paint product should have.

On the other hand, if you are still uncertain about the things to consider when buying kitchen cabinets paint, don’t worry. This section will prep you for the best pick.

1. Color

What kind of color would you like for your kitchen cabinets? You have many colors in the market, but not all colors will work efficiently on certain undercoats or materials.

Thus, if you are not sure of a specific color, it is advisable you look at any example images of it whether or not it matches the specific material you want to use.

Also, be sure to follow the safety precautions or instructions that came with your paint, to make sure you are applying it properly.

2. Formula

Secondly, the finish is another essential feature that largely affects the beauty of the cabinets.

Thus, ensure to opt for a model that promises smooth finishes. One way to know if the paint has a nice finish or not is looking at the customer’s rating on that particular product.

Also, different paint formulas have a different effect on certain materials and surfaces. So, you are likely to have different-feeling coats of paint after they dry.

Most importantly, you should avoid paints that have certain allergens in them like irritating/toxic fumes. They are not friendly, as they might trigger allergic reactions in your body system.

3. Volume

Do you want a large coverage? I recommend buying paint that has a wider square feet coverage. The more paint you have, the more surfaces you can cover.

Let’s say you want a set of cabinets to look identical; you should buy enough paint to give them the right amount of coating needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Cabinet Paints

kitchen cabinet paints

1. I found two Paints I like. Should I mix them?

Speaking from experience, it’s not always a brilliant idea of mixing paints. Yes, it might seem easy on paper but you should bear in mind that different paints using different bases or formulas might not work the way you expect.

Even though they are compatible with one another, you won’t get a manufacturer-set color. 9 out of 10 times, you might end up having two layers of dirty marks rather than a smooth blend you expect.

2. Should I try to Bond my Paint to a Surface it Doesn’t Normally Support?

Yes, it’s a nice idea provided you have extra cash to spend. Although, bonding is really useful, as it enables the paint to stick firmly on surfaces it normally wouldn’t.

However not all bonding agents are reliable. The most I have seen are a total flop on slanted or vertical surfaces.

Thus, you might get a disappointing dribbling wet mess rather than a firm painting on a surface. Most times the awkward finish might seep into your cabinet, and could be really difficult to clean up, moreover, leading to an irreversible change. No warmed!

What kind of paint is best for kitchen cabinets?

While oil-based paints make a case for themselves with their reputation for easy application and a long-lasting finish that can be scrubbed and cleaned regularly, latex paint is widely regarded as the best choice for most kitchen cabinets, since it offers lower levels of VOCs and is quicker to dry.

What is the most common paint finish on kitchen cabinets?

Satin. Satin finish is the most popular type of interior paint. Satin paint’s velvety sheen makes it better suited to high-traffic kitchens than eggshell or matte finishes.

Can you just paint over cabinets?

Wood cabinets are ideal for painting, but any surface that can be scuffed with sandpaper can be painted. Special cabinet paints are available that provide a smooth finish, but any high-quality paint should work. Make sure your paint is acrylic, not vinyl. Acrylic latex-based paint is durable and easy to clean up.

Is it better to spray or roll kitchen cabinets?

Ideally, spray painting cabinets is the most sought after method today. The quality of finish you get from using a spray gun is second to none, and it’s by far a faster and more efficient method. In fact, brush and roll finish projects will typically save you about 25% off the cost of spraying.

Do you have to Prime cabinets before painting?

While priming never hurts, whether it’s necessary or not is determined by the type of paint (oil or latex) currently on your cabinets and the type you plan to use for repainting. If you’re changing the type of paint or painting over natural wood cabinets, then it’s important to prime the cabinets first.

Should cabinets be semi-gloss or satin?

While satin finishes tend to be fairly durable in high traffic areas, they’re not as durable and versatile as semi-gloss against mildew and mold. Kitchen cabinets in high moisture environments can, therefore, do better with semi-gloss paints.

What Sheen should cabinets be?

Tips for Choosing Sheen

The best sheen is really all about what you prefer, but if you want durability, choose gloss sheen. If you a want mixture of durability and low maintenance, go for satin and if you have surface imperfections that need camouflaging, choose an eggshell or matte sheen.

Do you need special paint for kitchen?

Generally speaking, using any paint which is formulated for kitchens or bathrooms should be sufficient and provide you some peace of mind, so by all means choose your own, but be sure that they are formulated for your bathroom/kitchen use.

What happens if you don’t sand cabinets before painting?

You cannot sand off the dirt. If you don’t clean before sanding, contaminates (like cooking grease) will be pressed down into the wood. Contaminates will keep the soon be applied paint for sticking. You can remove the doors here in the process or wait until after you wash them down.

Can I paint my cabinets without sanding?

Can You Paint Over Cabinets Without Sanding? Skipping the sanding step is OK if you’re making a change from one newly painted surface to another, or painting raw, unvarnished wood cabinets.

Best Brand of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets Conclusion

Painting your kitchen cabinets is not a difficult task, provided you have the best paint for the job. Although, to paint cabinet differs from the painting approach of fences or walls.

This kind of painting, professional experience matters less, however, a special tool is what you need the most.

And from what we have here, picking the rightful tool won’t be a problem, because we have highlighted the pros and cons of each product needed for your project.

If you equip yourself with any of the tools we have listed above, I am 100% sure you will get a perfect finish on any cabinets, even if you are a newbie.

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