Painting kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look of your kitchen. With so many paint options available, it can be tricky to determine the best paint for cabinets. The right cabinet paint will provide a smooth, durable finish that stands up to everyday use. Here is an in-depth look at the best paint for cabinets.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cabinet Paint
When selecting a paint for your cabinets, there are several factors to take into account:
Type of Paint
The main types of paint for cabinets are latex acrylic, alkyd, and polyurethane. Latex acrylic paints provide a smooth, rich finish and are easy to apply. Alkyd paints are more durable and better for heavily used cabinets. Polyurethane paints provide the most protection.
Sheen Level
The sheen refers to how glossy or matte the finished paint will look. Options include flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. Flat and eggshell have little to no sheen, while glossier finishes like semi-gloss are more durable and highlight wood grain.
Ease of Application
Consider whether you want a paint that is easy to apply yourself or one that requires an experienced painter. Enamel paints offer excellent coverage but can be tricky for DIYers. Latex acrylic paints are more beginner-friendly.
Durability
For cabinets that get a lot of wear, choose a durable alkyd or polyurethane paint. Check reviews to confirm the paint can withstand cleaning, moisture, and daily use without chipping or scratching off.
Color Options
Will you paint the cabinets a bold, dark color or stick with something lighter? Make sure to choose a paint with your desired shades and finishes.
Top Paints for Kitchen Cabinets
With the above factors in mind, here are some of the best paint options for cabinets:
1. Benjamin Moore Advance
- Offers a smooth, hard finish that resists yellowing over time
- Acrylic-alkyd blend flows nicely for an even application
- Available in nearly any color with multiple sheens
- Dries slowly so there’s time to smooth out brush strokes
Benjamin Moore Advance provides a noticeably harder finish than standard acrylic paints. It self-levels well to hide brush marks. The alkyd gives it better adhesion and durability. Advance comes highly rated for painting cabinets thanks to its smooth, durable finish.
2. Sherwin-Williams ProClassic
- Water-based acrylic-alkyd formula
- Resistant to chipping, cracking, and peeling
- Fast drying time between coats
- Provides excellent flow and leveling
- Comes in flat, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss sheens
ProClassic offers the durability and adhesion of an alkyd paint with the easy soap-and-water cleanup of a latex acrylic. It dries remarkably fast, so you can quickly apply multiple coats for a flawless finish. Reviewers praise its coverage and durability when painting cabinets and furniture.
3. Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations
- All-in-one kit includes primer, paint, and topcoat
- Optimized for use on laminate and wood cabinets
- Available in multiple on-trend colors
- Contains decorative glazing for an antiqued look
- kits for doors, drawers, and cabinets
For a foolproof cabinet makeover, Cabinet Transformations kits are easy to apply. The included primer bonds well to glossy and laminate surfaces. The topcoat provides enhanced protection and beautiful color. Reviewers say the included brush makes it easy to paint cabinets and achieve an updated look.
4. Behr Premium Cabinet and Trim Interior Paint
- Acrylic-alkyd formula offers durability
- Excellent hiding power and adhesion
- Resists chipping, fading, and stains
- Applies smoothly without visible brush marks
- Available in all sheens and unlimited colors
Behr Premium Cabinet and Trim paint goes on incredibly smooth. It levels well to hide imperfections and provides great flow and coverage. Behr offers excellent hide so you can transition dark cabinets to a light color easily. This versatile paint works on wood, laminate, metal, and more.
5. INSL-X Cabinet Coat
- 100% acrylic formula won’t yellow over time
- Bonds well to glossy and laminate surfaces
- Super durable yet flexible finish
- Easy soap and water cleanup
- Low odor and VOC content
INSL-X Cabinet Coat flows on smoothly and cures to a noticeably harder finish than standard acrylics. It offers industrial-grade adhesion and durability. The acrylic formula means no strong paint fumes. Cabinets painted with Cabinet Coat resist chipping, fading, and staining even with heavy use.
Prepping Cabinets for Painting
Proper prep work is crucial for getting an ideal painted finish on cabinets. Follow these steps:
- Clean cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser to remove any dirt, oil or grime
- Lightly sand to rough up the surface and help paint adhere
- Remove doors and drawers for easier access to cabinet frames
- Fill any holes or imperfections with wood filler and sand smooth
- Prime cabinets before painting for better coverage
- Use high quality angled trim brushes for cutting in edges
- Allow proper dry time between coats as recommended by paint manufacturer
Thorough prep removes any gloss or residue that could cause adhesion issues. Light sanding gives the paint something to grip. Applying 2-3 coats ensures a fully opaque, seamless look. Proper dry time prevents drips or tackiness.
Painting Cabinet Doors
To paint doors evenly:
- Remove all hardware and sand lightly before priming
- Set doors on sawhorses or lay flat for painting
- Use high density foam rollers and angled sash brushes
- Apply paint in thin, even coats going with the wood grain
- Allow proper dry time between coats based on humidity
- Seal painted doors before reinstalling hardware
Painting doors separately from the frames allows you to evenly coat all sides. Go slowly to avoid drips and sags. Sealing the painted finish prevents water damage when cleaning.
Caring for Newly Painted Cabinets
Once your cabinet paint job is complete, allow 1-2 weeks for the paint to fully cure before regular use. Avoid slamming doors or scuffing the finish while curing. Use care when cleaning:
- Allow paint at least 7 days to cure before cleaning
- Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild soap and water
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads
- Immediately wipe up any spills or splatters
- Reapply a fresh coat of paint every few years or as needed
Gently cleaning and taking care not to damage the finish will help your fresh paint job maintain its beautiful look. Touch up paint as needed to cover any nicks or scratches.
Best Paint for Cabinets – FAQs
What is the most durable paint for cabinets?
Alkyd and polyurethane paints provide the most durable finish for high-use cabinets. Brands like Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin-Williams ProClassic, and Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations offer paints fortified with alkyds or polyurethanes for enhanced durability.
Can you use regular wall paint on cabinets?
It’s best to avoid regular wall paints for cabinets. Paints made specifically for cabinetry are formulated to be more durable, stain-resistant, and washable. They provide superior adhesion to slick surfaces like laminate.
How do you paint cabinets white?
Start by thoroughly cleaning cabinets and removing doors and hardware. Sand surfaces lightly, then apply a staining-blocking primer. Use a high-quality trim paint in a satin, semi-gloss, or gloss finish for durability. Apply 2-3 thin, even coats allowing proper dry time between coats.
What sheen is best for painting cabinets?
A satin, semi-gloss, or gloss sheen provides the most durable and scrubbable finish for cabinets. Satin (around 40-50% gloss) offers subtle shine while still hiding imperfections well. Semi-gloss (55-60% gloss) is very easy to clean.
How long does it take for cabinet paint to cure?
Oil-based cabinet paints fully cure in 5-7 days. Latex acrylic paints can take up to 2 weeks to fully cure and become washable. Avoid heavy cleaning or moisture during the curing period. Check your paint brand’s instructions for exact cure times.
Conclusion
The best paint for cabinets offers maximum durability, ample coverage, and a smooth, uniform finish. When selecting a top-quality paint like Benjamin Moore Advance or Sherwin-Williams ProClassic, be sure to properly prep and apply for professional-looking results. Taking the time to properly paint your cabinets can give your entire kitchen a fresh, updated look.
