Best Low-Prep Paints To Revamp Stained Cabinets (2024)

Painting kitchen cabinets is a great way to refresh your kitchen without breaking the bank. It is a straightforward DIY makeover, albeit a time-consuming one. The more kitchen cabinets you have, the more time-intensive the paint job will be. You will need a significant amount of space to lay out your cabinet doors for sanding, priming, painting, and drying. It is important to use the right kind of paint. Latex paints are more user-friendly than oil-based paints because they dry quickly and clean up with water. However, many professionals still favour oil-based topcoats, arguing that they form a harder, more durable paint film.

Prepping cabinets for painting

Remove Cabinet Doors, Drawers, and Hardware:

Start by removing all cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware. Label each door and drawer with painter's tape to indicate their corresponding locations. Place the hardware in a plastic bag and label it accordingly. An electric screwdriver can speed up the process of removing screws.

Clean the Cabinets:

Clean all surfaces of the cabinets, doors, and drawers using a degreaser such as trisodium phosphate (TSP) to remove any grease, dirt, or grime. This step is crucial for paint adhesion and a smooth finish.

Repair Damages:

Look for any imperfections, such as deep scuffs, nicks, holes, or scratches, and repair them using wood filler. Use a putty knife to fill and smooth out the filler, following the directions for drying time.

Sand the Cabinets:

Sand all surfaces with medium-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface that will help the paint adhere better. Use a sanding block or an orbital sander for larger areas, and fold the sandpaper to reach detailed areas. Be careful not to sand too deeply, especially if you have laminate cabinets.

Vacuum and Clean the Area:

After sanding, thoroughly clean the area by vacuuming and wiping down all surfaces with a tack cloth. Ensure that all dust is removed before proceeding to the next step.

Prime the Cabinets:

Applying primer is an important step to provide a suitable base for the paint. Use a brush for corners and detailed areas, and a mini roller for larger, flat surfaces. Work from the inside out, and use even strokes, finishing back into the wet primer. Let the primer dry according to the directions.

Sand, Caulk, and Fill (Optional):

Once the primer is dry, you may choose to sand the flat surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper for an even smoother finish. Fill any small dents, scratches, or dings with vinyl spackle, and smooth it out with a putty knife. After the spackle dries, sand again, vacuum, and wipe with a tack cloth.

Prepare the Painting Area:

Before starting to paint, prepare the area by covering countertops, appliances, and other nearby surfaces with drop cloths or plastic sheets. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and wearing a dust mask or a painting safety mask. Set up a worktable for painting doors, drawers, and shelves if needed.

Choosing the right paint

The right paint can make a significant difference in the appearance of your cabinets and their longevity. Consider the overall style of your kitchen and home when choosing paint. Lighter colours can make a small kitchen feel larger and brighter, while darker colours can add depth and sophistication to a room.

Use colour swatches or sample pots to test colours in your kitchen's lighting before making a final decision. Choose a paint that's specifically formulated for high-use surfaces. Look for moisture- and mildew-resistant options that can withstand the heat and humidity of a kitchen environment. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are ideal as they are easy to paint and feature a subtle sheen.

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. With latex paints, always follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding cure time.

Benjamin Moore and Behr are examples of major brands that offer cabinet-specific paints. If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, ECOS Paints offers an interior air-purifying varnish. For a low-VOC option, consider Sherwin-Williams' Zero-VOC Harmony interior latex paint.

Preparation and Sanding

Before painting, it's important to clean and prepare the cabinet surfaces thoroughly. This includes removing any dirt, grease, or grime that could interfere with paint adhesion. Use a grease-cutting soap or a vinegar-and-water solution for cleaning. Additionally, consider using a deglosser or liquid sandpaper to create a rough surface for better paint adhesion.

If your cabinets have an existing finish, you may need to strip or sand the finish before painting. This is especially important if you plan to change the colour significantly. Sanding can be done by hand or with an orbital sander, depending on the condition of the cabinets. It's crucial to create a smooth surface by sanding twice: first to remove old paint and then to smooth out the wood.

After sanding, apply a primer to the cabinets. A primer will improve the evenness and colour of the paint. Choose a primer suitable for the surface you're painting, such as an oil-based or 100% acrylic latex primer for wood cabinets. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Painting techniques

Laminate Cabinets

Laminate cabinets require a special bonding primer. The laminate must be in good condition for the best results. Be careful not to sand too deep and damage the laminate. Just a light once-over will do.

Solid Wood Cabinets

Wood cabinets are ideal for painting, but any surface that can be scuffed with sandpaper can be painted.

Metal Cabinets

Choose a high-quality paint. Special cabinet paints are available that provide a smooth finish, but any high-quality paint should work.

General Painting Techniques

• Make sure your paint is acrylic, not vinyl. Acrylic latex-based paint is durable and easy to clean up.
• With latex paints, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding cure time.
• A gloss finish will make your cabinets sheen, but it may show a lot of dings or mistakes. Semi-gloss or satin finishes are typically used for kitchens. Some flat finish paints can be difficult to clean. Check the instructions for details.
• Always wear the appropriate safety gear and open the windows for ventilation.
• Remove the doors and drawers and work on them in an area that’s out of the way, like a garage or basem*nt. Make sure you’ll have proper ventilation there too.
• Clean all surfaces with TSP cleaner to remove any grease and dirt.
• Repair damaged areas. Dents and holes can be filled with wood filler. Use a putty knife to press it in and smooth it out. Let it dry according to the directions.
• Cover your countertops, appliances and other areas you want to protect. Placing painter’s tape on the wall along the cabinet edges is helpful.
• Sand everything with medium-grit sandpaper to help the paint stick to the surface. Fold the sandpaper to get into the detailed areas on doors and drawers, and in the corners on the frames.
• Clean all surfaces with a vacuum and a tack cloth. Everything should be dust-free before painting.
• Applying primer is an important step in the painting process. Primer provides a suitable surface for the paint to stick to and it covers imperfections.
• Use a brush to get into corners and detailed areas. It’s important to use even strokes and finish back into the wet primer.
• Use a mini roller on large, flat areas. Primer doesn’t have to look perfect. Its purpose is to cover the surface and provide a good base for the finish paint.
• Paint the doors and drawers. Start with the backside and apply a smooth, even coat. When it’s dry, flip the door over and paint the front. Start with the detailed areas, making sure the primer doesn’t pool in the corners, and feather out the edges. Then work on the larger, flat surfaces with a foam roller.
• Paint can be applied with a brush and roller (DIY-friendly) or a sprayer (advanced).
• Start with the cabinet frames, using a high-quality brush for smaller areas and a foam roller for larger surfaces. The technique is the same as for the primer — use even strokes with the brush and finish the stroke back into the wet paint and feather out the edges. Also, remember to lay off after the surface has been painted.
• On the cabinet doors and drawer fronts, paint the backs, let them dry, then paint the fronts. Follow the paint directions for the correct dry time. Do not rush, let the paint completely cure.
• Apply a second coat of paint. This should be your finish coat. Allow the paint to dry. Avoid putting everything back together before the paint has completely cured.

Drying and curing times

When painting stained cabinets, it is important to consider the drying and curing times of the paint to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish. The drying time refers to how long it takes for the paint to feel dry to the touch, while the curing time is the period it takes for the paint to fully harden and reach its maximum hardness. Here are some insights into the drying and curing times for different types of paint:

Latex Paint

Latex paint is a common choice for painting cabinets and typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to feel dry to the touch. It is recommended to wait for about 2 to 4 hours before applying a second coat. In terms of curing time, latex paint can take up to 14 to 30 days to fully cure and harden. During this period, it is best to avoid placing furniture or hanging wall art on the painted surface.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is another option for cabinet painting and has similar drying times to latex paint. It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to feel dry, and a second coat can be applied after 2 to 4 hours. Acrylic paint also has a long curing time, ranging from 14 to 30 days. It is important to allow sufficient time for the paint to cure before exposing it to heavy use or placing objects directly against the painted surface.

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paint takes longer to dry compared to latex and acrylic paints. It typically takes 4 to 6 hours for oil-based paint to feel dry, and it is recommended to wait for about 8 hours before applying the second coat. However, oil-based paint has a shorter curing time compared to latex and acrylic paints. It usually cures within 7 days, making it a faster option for achieving a durable finish.

Environmental Factors

It is important to note that the drying and curing times can be influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and ventilation. Painting in a cold environment may prolong the drying time, as low temperatures can slow down evaporation. On the other hand, high temperatures can cause the paint to dry on the surface, but the underlying film may remain soft and struggle to dry properly. High humidity can also extend drying times, as moisture in the air slows down the evaporation process. Adequate ventilation and temperature control can help optimize the drying and curing process.

Additional Considerations

The thickness of the paint coat can also impact drying and curing times. Applying paint too thickly can lengthen the time needed for the solvents to evaporate, affecting the overall drying and curing process. On the other hand, applying too thin of a coat may compromise the paint's performance and adhesion to the surface. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for the specific paint product being used.

Finishing touches

Congratulations! You've completed the bulk of the work and are almost done with your cabinet painting project. Here are some final steps to ensure a professional finish:

Reassemble the Cabinets

Once the paint has fully cured, it's time to put your cabinets back together. Use the labels you made earlier to ensure that the doors and drawers go back in their correct spots. If you're using new cabinet hardware that requires drilling new holes, use a mounting template or a special jig designed for cabinet hardware to ensure everything lines up correctly.

Install Cabinet Lighting and Accessories (Optional)

Now that your cabinets look brand new, you may want to take this opportunity to enhance your kitchen further. Consider installing under-cabinet lighting to brighten up your workspace or adding a new backsplash to complement your freshly painted cabinets. These additional touches can truly elevate the look and feel of your kitchen.

Maintain Your Cabinets

To keep your cabinets looking their best, proper maintenance is key. Regularly clean your cabinets with a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or sponges, as these can scratch or damage the paint finish. For stubborn stains, a magic eraser can be a gentle yet effective tool. Additionally, consider adding cabinet liners to protect your shelves and keep them looking neat and organised.

Troubleshooting

If you notice any imperfections in the paint finish after reassembling the cabinets, don't panic. Small touch-ups can be done with a paintbrush and some leftover paint. Ensure the area is clean and dry before applying the touch-up paint. If you're concerned about colour matching, test the paint on an inconspicuous area first.

Remember, a successful painting project is all about preparation and attention to detail. Taking your time and following the proper steps will ensure a beautiful and long-lasting finish on your cabinets. Enjoy your refreshed kitchen!

Frequently asked questions