Are your kitchen cabinets looking a little worn out? Instead of going through the hassle of a complete remodel, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders!
Choosing the right cabinet paint is crucial for achieving a durable, smooth finish that withstands everyday wear and tear.
If you’re aiming for a sleek, modern look or a classic, evergreen style, the right paint can completely change your kitchen without breaking the bank.
In this guide, you will find the best cabinet paints specifically designed for kitchen cabinets, highlighting top brand options and sharing real user experiences.
From easy application to long-lasting durability, we’ve got the insights you need to make the best choice for your kitchen update.
What Makes the Best Cabinet Paint for Your Kitchen?
When choosing the best cabinet paint for your kitchen, consider factors such as durability, as cabinets are subjected to heavy use, frequent cleaning, and daily wear and tear.
The finish you choose, whether glossy, satin, or matte, affects both the look and the ease of cleaning. Glossy finishes are more durable and easier to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas, such as kitchens.
Different cabinet paints perform differently in kitchens. Oil-based paints, designed for high-moisture areas, prevent damage from steam and spills, while water-based paints dry quickly and are less toxic.
It’s essential to choose a paint that can withstand the heat, moisture, and frequent cleaning demands associated with a kitchen environment.
Top Picks for the Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets
When selecting the best paint for kitchen cabinets, it’s crucial to choose a product that offers durability, a smooth finish, and long-lasting performance.
Here are some of the top options that have earned rave reviews from homeowners and experts alike:
1. Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint
Benjamin Moore’s Advance Interior Paint is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets due to its smooth finish and exceptional durability.
This paint is renowned for its excellent leveling, minimizing brush marks for a professional finish on cabinets. It also offers a durable, stain- and moisture-resistant finish.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent durability | Longer drying time |
| Self-leveling finish | Strong odor during application |
| Smooth, professional finish | It can be tricky for beginners |
Color Recommendations:
White Dove: A soft, warm white that gives a clean, fresh look to kitchen cabinets. It creates a evergreen, classic style and fits any decor, from modern to traditional.
Edgecomb Gray is a classic, muted gray with a subtle warmth. It complements many kitchen styles, providing a calming, neutral backdrop with added depth.
2. Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Acrylic Enamel
Sherwin-Williams ProClassic is a top contender for those seeking a durable and classic cabinet paint.
It provides a hard, durable finish that resists chipping and is ideal for high-traffic areas, such as kitchens. Its acrylic formula gives it superior resistance to moisture and cleaning.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long-lasting and durable | Takes longer to cure |
| Smooth finish | Higher price point |
| Available in multiple finishes | Requires proper prep work |
Color Recommendations:
Alabaster: A soft, warm white that’s perfect for creating a cozy and welcoming kitchen. It’s versatile enough to pair with any kitchen decor and lighting, brightening up the space without feeling too stark.
Sea Salt: A beautiful light green with gray undertones, this color evokes a calming and serene vibe. It pairs well with natural wood elements and is ideal for creating a coastal or farmhouse-inspired kitchen.
3. Behr Premium Plus Ultra Cabinet & Trim Paint
Behr’s Premium Plus Ultra is a budget-friendly yet highly effective option for kitchen cabinets. This paint delivers a smooth, durable finish and is resistant to stains, making it an excellent choice for busy kitchens.
It also offers a quick-drying formula, enabling you to complete your project more quickly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One-coat coverage | Price can be high |
| Durable and stain-resistant | Difficult for beginners to achieve a smooth finish |
| Easy to maintain | Needs proper application techniques |
Color Recommendations:
Ultra Pure White: A clean, crisp white that provides a fresh and modern look for your kitchen cabinets. It’s perfect for achieving a sleek, contemporary design and works great in smaller kitchens to reflect light and create a sense of space.
Bermuda Grass: A bold and refreshing shade of green with blue undertones. This color adds an unexpected pop of color to your kitchen, making it ideal for modern and eclectic designs.
4. Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit
If you’re looking for a paint kit that includes everything you need to upgrade your kitchen cabinets, the Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit is a great choice.
This all-in-one kit includes paint, a bonding agent, and a top coat, making it a convenient option for DIY enthusiasts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy-to-use kit | Time-consuming process |
| Excellent adhesion | Limited color options |
| No priming needed | Requires multiple coats |
Color Recommendations:
Winter Fog: A light, soft gray that brings a subtle, clean look to your cabinets. It pairs beautifully with a variety of countertop and backsplash materials, creating a clean and fresh atmosphere in the kitchen.
Golden Oak: A rich, warm wood-tone finish that adds a traditional charm to your kitchen. This color complements rustic and farmhouse designs, giving your cabinets a natural, welcoming feel.
5. Farrow & Ball Modern Emulsion
Farrow & Ball’s Modern Emulsion is known for its luxurious, matte finish and timeless aesthetic.
Although it’s more commonly used for walls, this paint can be used on cabinets to create a sophisticated look. It provides a firm, durable surface that’s easy to maintain and clean.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Smooth, glossy finish | Less durable than premium options |
| Fast drying time | It can be challenging to apply to textured surfaces |
| Good coverage | Needs multiple coats for darker colors |
Color Recommendations:
Cornforth White: A cool, neutral gray with subtle green undertones, perfect for creating a modern and elegant look. It’s a versatile color that works well with both traditional and contemporary designs, offering a soft contrast to other elements in your kitchen.
Pavilion Gray: A deep, soft gray with a blue undertone, this color provides a more dramatic and sophisticated feel. This color works well in kitchens with muted tones, giving the space a refined, modern look.
By considering your budget, desired finish, and durability needs, any of these top picks can help you achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish for your kitchen cabinets.
What to Know Before Painting Kitchen Cabinets?
Painting your kitchen cabinets can be a rewarding project, but to ensure lasting results, proper preparation and knowledge are essential. Here’s what you should know before you begin:
- Proper Preparation: Clean and sand your cabinets thoroughly to ensure the paint adheres well. Removing grease and dirt is crucial for a smooth, durable finish.
- Choose the Right Paint: Opt for durable, stain-resistant paint designed for cabinets. Oil-based paints are tough, while water-based options dry faster and have less odor.
- Ideal Finish: Choose a finish that suits your kitchen’s style and needs. Glossy finishes are durable and easy to clean, while satin or matte offers a softer, more modern look.
- Drying and Curing Time: Allow enough time between coats for proper drying and curing. Patience is key to achieving a durable, chip-resistant finish.
- Maintenance: Once painted, clean cabinets with mild solutions to maintain the finish. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the paint over time.
This will assist you in creating a beautiful, long-lasting cabinet makeover that you’ll love.
User Reviews and Experiences with Cabinet Paints
When choosing the best cabinet paint for your kitchen, it’s always helpful to hear from other users who have already used these products.
Here’s a breakdown of honest user feedback, offering a balanced perspective on various cabinet paints.
Benjamin Moore Advance
Review: “I’ve used benjamin moore advance for my kitchen cabinets and am very satisfied. The paint applied smoothly, and the self-leveling feature worked perfectly. The flawless finish has withstood spills and moisture well. Over a year later, it still looks new.”
Sherwin-Williams Pro Classic Interior Acrylic Enamel
Review: “Pro classic is one of the best cabinet paints i’ve used. It’s easy to apply, with a smooth, durable finish. No chipping or fading, even in high-traffic kitchen areas. Cleans up well and resists fingerprints.”
Behr Marquee Cabinet & Trim Paint
Review: “I Love behr marquee for my kitchen cabinets. The one-coat coverage was a huge time-saver. The paint is extremely durable and still looks fresh even after constant cleaning. It’s definitely a great investment if you’re looking for something quick and effective.”
Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit
Review: “I used the rust-oleum cabinet transformations kit and was impressed by how easy it was. it has everything you need, and the results were fantastic. My cabinets look new, and i didn’t have to sand or prime them first. It was a huge time-saver!”
Valspar Cabinet & Furniture Enamel
Review: “Valspar changed my kitchen cabinets. The paint applied smoothly, resulting in a glossy, durable finish. Grease and food stains wipe off easily, and it hasn’t chipped. Impressed with its durability for the price.”
Each has benefits, such as smooth application, durability, and easy maintenance, but also presents challenges, including long drying times and the need for multiple coats.
Conclusion
Selecting the best cabinet paints for the kitchen involves considering factors such as durability, finish, ease of application, and the ability to withstand the daily wear and tear of a kitchen environment.
Choosing the right paint is crucial because it should improve your cabinets’ appearance while resisting heat, moisture, and regular cleaning.
Based on user reviews and experiences, products such as Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin-Williams Pro Classic, and Behr Marquee stand out for their exceptional quality and performance.
Ready to get started? Select the ideal paint for your cabinets and upgrade your kitchen today!
