4 Professional Tips for Painting Kitchen Cabinets

A fresh coat of paint truly transforms your kitchen. Cabinets often take up most of the visual space here, so a color update can make everything feel brighter, cleaner, and more current.

1. Preparing Your Kitchen Cabinets Is Key

No matter which color you choose, preparation is the foundation of a flawless finish. Start by removing cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware. Clean all surfaces thoroughly to remove grease, residue, or old polish.

Once these surfaces are dry, lightly sanding your cabinets helps ensure the new coat of paint adheres perfectly.

Don't forget a high-quality primer, especially for glossy or previously finished surfaces. Primer evens out texture, which you’ll need if you've sanded down a surface, but also prevents stains from showing through lighter shades.

Although it might not seem like you need it at first, skipping primer can lead to premature peeling or patchy color over time.

2. Choose the Right Paint for the Job

The best paint for kitchen cabinets is one that balances aesthetics and durability. Kitchens are often high-traffic spaces subject to heat, humidity, and must stand up to frequent cleaning.

For cabinets, our top pick is an alkyd paint like the Benjamin Moore Advance® collection, especially the water-based high gloss formula. High gloss is a solid choice for any space that may need a quick wipe-down while maintaining its beauty.

These paint formulas not only provide great coverage but also dry to a smooth, full color that will resist chips and stains.

3. Use Professional Grade Tools

Once you’ve prepped and chosen the right paint, apply it with patience, precision, and the right tools for the job. For painting kitchen cabinets, our Hoover Paint team recommends foam or high-density rollers for smooth coats, as well as a sander, degreaser (to prep the cabinets), and painter's tape, in addition to the usual drip cloths and trays.

When working with wood cabinets, pay special attention to the direction of the grain. This is why we recommend a light sanding between coats to maintain that professional-grade finish.

4. Exercise Patience

Even though paint dries within hours, full curing takes longer. Wait a few days before reattaching doors and hardware to avoid smudges or marks. Once the paint has cured, you’ll have a finish that looks just as good as a brand-new installation.

Start Your Kitchen Transformation Near Murfreesboro, TN

Learning how to paint your own kitchen cabinets is easier with the right products and guidance. At Hoover Paint, we carry a full selection of Benjamin Moore cabinet paint, primers, and tools to help you achieve professional results no matter the project.

Not sure where to begin with your interior painting project? Stop by our Murfreesboro paint store or contact us online, and let's work together to set you up for success.

Hoover Paint is a locally owned and operated paint store that’s proud to serve Murfreesboro and surrounding areas, including Christiana, Lascassas, Rockvale, and Plainview, TN.