
What is the most durable paint for kitchen cabinets?
The best paint for furniture
- Rust-Oleum Chalky Finish Furniture Paint. If you want to give a DIY project a go but don’t have loads of time to spend on it, then this Rust-Oleum Chalky ...
- Ronseal Satin Cupboard Paint. Do your kitchen cupboards look a little worse for wear? ...
- Rust-Oleum Gloss Furniture Paint. ...
- Ronseal Chalky Furniture Paint. ...
- Johnstone's Revive Chalky Furniture Paint. ...
How to choose the best way to paint kitchen cabinets?
Prepare to Paint Kitchen Cabinets
- Assess the Cabinet's Condition. Determine the condition of your cabinets. Surfaces that are already painted can be painted again if the existing paint is in good condition.
- Empty the Cabinets and Remove the Doors
- Remove Dirt and Grease, and Repair Damages
- Prep the Area and Sand
- Vacuum the Area. Applying primer is an important step in the painting process. ...
What is the best finish for paint on kitchen cabinets?
The best paint for kitchen cabinets
- Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood Paint. -We couldn't find any! ...
- Shabby Chic Chalk Based Furniture Paint. Want the best kitchen cupboard paint for a rustic, chalky finish? ...
- Ronseal One Coat Cupboard Melamine & MDF Paint White Gloss 750ml. ...
- Farrow & Ball Estate Eggshell Paint. ...
- Johnstone's 2.5 Litre One Coat Quick Dry Satin Paint. ...
How to paint your kitchen cabinets like a professional?
Paint is loaded into a container attached to a spray gun. Once filled, it sprays a fine mist of paint in an even stream, resulting in a clean, even finish. For the smoothest coverage, hold the tip of the spray gun at least 8 inches from the surface of the cabinets and apply using a controlled back-and-forth motion.

What type of paint is best for painting kitchen cabinets?
There are many types of paint to choose from, but the best paint for kitchen cabinets is semi-gloss, gloss or satin. Matte is not practical in kitchens and baths where you will need durable paint you can easily clean.
What kind of paint is most durable for kitchen cabinets?
ProClassic Alkyd Interior EnamelFor painting your kitchen cabinets, the best paint is one that's consistently easy to apply. ProClassic Alkyd Interior Enamel is a traditional oil-based paint that when fully cured (21 to 30 days), provides a harder, more durable finish than latex or acrylic paints.
Should cabinets be satin or semi-gloss?
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.
Is there special paint for cabinets?
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.
Are painted kitchen cabinets durable?
Painted kitchen cabinets can be very durable and look as good as new a decade after painting. But only if they are painted right. The durability of painted kitchen cabinets depends on the type of paint used, the application method and the number of coats applied.
How do you paint kitchen cabinets that won't chip?
Prevent Painted Cabinets From Chipping Look for products labeled "peel bonding primer" or "peel stop." As long as the current coat of paint isn't chipping or peeling, you can apply these primers directly over top of the existing paint after a thorough cleaning.
What paint has the hardest finish?
enamel paintIn general, enamel paint refers to any paint that has incredible durability and dries to a tough, hard finish that can withstand a lot of abuse. If a paint can label has the word “enamel”, you can be sure that it's some of the toughest paint around.
Is oil or latex paint better for kitchen cabinets?
Because they dry quickly and clean up with water, latex paints are more user-friendly than oil-based paints. But many pros still favor oil-based topcoats, arguing that they form a harder, more durable paint film and level out to a smoother finished surface.
What paint is used for kitchen cabinets?
For a paint that’s both stain- and scratch-resistant—two important characteristics for kitchen cabinets—and comes in a wide range of colors, you can’t go wrong with Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel paints. This line of paints is designed for high-traffic surfaces such as doors and trim, and you can choose from dozens of Sherwin-Williams colors and custom tints, as well as satin, semi-gloss, and gloss finishes.
What is BEHR semi gloss paint?
If you don’t want a glossy finish on your cabinets, BEHR Premium Interior Cabinet & Trim Enamel is a budget-friendly semi-gloss paint. This water-based product delivers a durable finish that resists dirt, grime, and mildew, and it dries quickly, allowing you to recoat in just two hours.
Is high gloss paint easy to clean?
Plus, this affordable paint is easy to apply and has a beautiful finish. "High gloss content helps hide imperfections and limits fingerprints from showing. Most importantly, it is easy to clean, which is a requirement when selecting paint for kitchen cabinets.”—. Anne R. Kokoskie, Interior Designer.
What paints come in satin and semi gloss?
Unless you enjoy repainting. Most hybrid enamel paints come in satin and semi-gloss. Satin falls right between semi-gloss and eggshell finish. Benjamin Moore makes a broader range of products, including high-gloss for that candy-coated finish on your cabinets.
What does sheen mean when painting cabinets?
It feels like there’s a correct answer, but it’s also about preference. Sheen refers to how shiny the paint surface is after it dries. When you’re painting kitchen cupboards, the sheen is part of the total package, along with the luster and color.
When was latex paint invented?
Compared to the history of paint, latex paint is still the new kid on the block. Sherwin-Williams used a synthetic rubber, latex, in the 1940s to create the first water enamel paint. Since then, its safety, environmental friendliness, and ease of use have motivated the ongoing development of latex paint technology.
What is oil based paint?
Oil-based paint is the go-big-or-go-home of interior paints. In it, the color pigment is suspended in oil and then thinned with an agent like mineral spirits. It was the preferred type of slow-drying paint to use on wood in homes because of the uniform paint surface.
Is oil based paint good for cabinets?
As you’ll read in the following section, technology’s improved paint formulas. Oil-based paint is no longer the best paint for cabinets, just as it’s no longer suitable for residential applications.
Is latex paint better than oil paint?
Because of the improvements in latex paint formulas, it’s almost as durable and polished as the finish you’d get from oil-based paint. Almost, but not entirely. Latex paint dries much faster than oil-paint, making it difficult to get as even and lustrous of a finish. Using a paint sprayer will minimize unevenness.
What is advance paint?
Advance paint by Benjamin Moore combines the low VOCs of a water-based paint with the smoothness and durability of an oil-based paint in an alkyd-enhanced hybrid . Advance gives you a choice of finishes, including matte, satin, semi-gloss and high-gloss.
What is Pratt and Lambert's hybrid enamel?
Pratt & Lambert’s entry into the hybrid enamel market is Aquanamel Waterborne Alkyd Enamel. With low VOCs and soap-and-water clean-up, you won’t believe the flow and leveling capacity of this paint. Formulated to withstand abuse, it is a perfect match for high-traffic kitchen cabinet doors and frames. This paint works best over primed surfaces and comes in satin, semi-gloss and gloss. Learn how to spray paint kitchen cabinets.
What is Sherwin Williams trim?
As one of Sherwin-Williams’ newest formulations, the Emerald line of water-based paints is described as “a finish that withstands wear and tear and goes on in fewer coats.”. Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel comes highly recommended from professionals for painting kitchen cabinets, ...
Can you paint kitchen cabinets with urethane trim?
Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel comes highly recommended from professionals for painting kitchen cabinets, but they warn that using the wrong brushes and rollers or poor technique yields subpar results with spotty coverage and brush marks.
Is Behr paint good for kitchen cabinets?
It’s clear that paint companies have focused on developing hybrids and Behr offers a good one for painting kitchen cabinets with its Urethane Alkyd Enamel paint. Behr recommends this paint for a variety of surfaces, and its durable, flawless finish is perfect for cabinets. And, it is available in both satin and semi-gloss. How to remove paint from wood surfaces and restore their natural beauty.
What is the best finish for painting interiors?
So skip matte, satin, and eggshell finishes in favor of semi gloss or high gloss. If you choose to paint the interiors, use an eggshell finish, which stands up well to the weight of heavy dishes.
What is the difference between oil based paint and latex paint?
Oil-based is more traditional and popular with purists who like the “painterly” look of brush marks, while latex gives a more consistent finish.
How to Paint your Kitchen Cabinets
Before you start purchasing paint cans, evaluate what type of cabinets you have, determine the prep you will have to do, and then decide on the best paint option for your kitchen upgrade needs.
Which Paint Should You Paint Your Cabinets?
Now that you have evaluated and prepared your cabinets for optimal painting, you can decide which type of paint will suit your kitchen best based on your appearance goals, kitchen traffic, and budget.
Time to Get Started
Now you’re ready to begin the transformation of your kitchen. A simple, cost-effective paint refresh will dramatically elevate your kitchen space in a short amount of time. Consider installing custom shelves and pull-out drawers after you paint to upgrade the functionality and organization of the interior of your kitchen cabinets.
4. Cobblestone, Finish-All-in-One Cabinet Paint
Heirloom’s all-in-one handles your primer and topcoat, saving you time and energy in the process. This is among the more costly alternatives on the list per quart, but feedback from customers’ cabinet paint reviews indicates that you can take out a lot of the preliminary work and still get a great outcome.
5. Giani Countertop Paint Kit (Sicilian Sand), cabinet paint
Revive your old slabs without all the expense and hassle of a complete redesign with cabinet grade paint. Giani Countertop Paint Kits provide everything you’ll need to transform your kitchen or bathroom into a granite-looking space. Giani Countertop Paint Kits are ideal for do-it-yourself cupboard paint for kitchen renovations on a range.
7. Rust-Oleum 331052 Milk Paint Finish, Durable Cabinet Paint
This is yet another fantastic interior paint from the best brand of paint for kitchen cabinets. This paint can also be used on other surfaces. As a result, you may use it to provide an attractive look to any furniture. A single application of the 1-quart quantity may cover up to 125 square feet.
8. BEYOND PAINT – Furniture, Cabinets and All-in-One Refinishing Paint
Furniture, Cabinets, and More with Beyond Pain All-in-One Refinishing Paint is a best paint to use on wood cabinets that is created particularly for cabinets. It’s also versatile since it doesn’t require priming, stripping, sanding, or degreasing your cabinets before painting.
9. Chalk Style Paint – for Furniture, Eco-Friendly – No Wax Needed
The best paints for kitchen cabinets is a chalk-style paint from Country Chic that is designed for painting furniture and household decor. However, it is tough enough to be used outside. As a result, it’s excellent for kitchen cabinets, which are subjected to a lot of wear and tear.
10. olie Finishing Wax – Protective topcoat for Jolie Paint – Use on cabinets
Jolie Finishing Wax – paint for wood cabinets with a finish, will seal and preserve Jolie Paint-painted interior furnishings and home accessories. It creates a lovely matte finish, or a slight shine can be polished. Jolie Finishing Wax is silky, smell-free, and application-friendly.
Final Verdict
We hope that our article “best paints for kitchen cabinets” have provided you with full information along with the guide. All you have to keep in mind is that no matter what is the best paint for kitchen cabinets you make , do spend some effort on preparation before application.
Standout Formulas for Your DIY Project
After blind testing and reviewing twenty-four top brands, here is the ultimate DIY guide on the best paint for cabinets.
My Top Picks for the Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets, 2021
This formula is paint perfection in a can giving you a finish just as smooth and durable as it is gorgeous. READ REVIEW
Terms Defined for Picking the Best Paint for Cabinets
Leveling – The ability of the paint to smooth out even over surface defects. This is especially important when trying to find the best paint for oak cabinets.
The Top 10: What is the Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets?
According to my blind tests, this formula excelled in every area. Benjamin Moore Advance is a high-quality waterborne alkyd paint meaning it has the positives of oil-based paints in a water-based formula.
The Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets – The Full Results
Here is all the data from the cabinet paint testing. Be sure to check out the video to see exactly how I tested to find the best paint for cabinets. If you have trouble seeing it, you can find it here as well: The Best Paint for Cabinets, YouTube Video
Why I Wanted to Find the Best Brand of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets
When we first got married 18 years ago (that makes me feel so old) one of our first projects was to paint our kitchen cabinets?
How Do You Make Old Cabinets Look Modern?
If you have orange honey-oak cabinets in your kitchen like I do, there are more than two main problems. Yes, they are orange, but also most oak cabinets have a very open grain which means they don’t have the smoothest, most modern-looking finish.
Why gloss paint kitchen cabinets?
Because gloss paint reflects the light on your kitchen cabinets to a lesser degree, it helps to keep the color and lighting more consistent throughout your kitchen. In other words, your custom kitchen cabinets aren't reflecting light sources in very different ways (which could make the space seem off-putting).
What is the best clear base coat for kitchen cabinets?
Oil-based polyurethane is one of the most popular clear base coat for kitchen cabinet work. While it takes a long time to dry, oil-based polyurethane is relatively cheap and protects the painted wood for years and years to come.
What is high gloss kitchen?
Sometimes called 100% gloss, high gloss is sleek and shiny, designed to reflect light around the room and turn your kitchen cabinets into statement pieces of their own. This style of kitchen finish became very popular in the 1970s and continues to be featured in modern kitchens today.
What is satin paint?
Sometimes called eggshell, satin is a slightly-shiny finish which is similar to matt. Essentially, satin paint has a silky smooth appearance with a slight pearl-like sheen reminiscent of an eggshell (hence the other name). You can give your kitchen cabinet set a really unique, regal look so your kitchen remodel can make your old cabinets look like new cabinets.
What is the most popular gloss color?
White gloss kitchen cabinets are the most popular of all the gloss colors because they maximize the amount of light being reflected around the room. 100% gloss paint finishes are very common in contemporary designs, having almost futuristic quality to them depending on the design.
What is a matte finish?
Called matte or matt finish depending on where you're from, this style of finish is known for being flat and dull – not reflecting light. Just because this finish absorbs light doesn't mean that it looks drab and boring – lots of modern and transitional kitchen cabinets use pastel-colored matt paint to great effect.
What are the downsides of satin paint?
One of the main downsides of satin paint is that it needs to be applied PERFECTLY or it will look kind of awful. The pearl-like sheen of satin paint is designed for an elegant, opulent look. If this paint is applied poorly, the visible streaks or rough spots will look 1,000 times worse than if the paint was matte, for instance.
