Refresh Cabinets and Furniture With the Right Paint
Painting cabinets and furniture is a quick, easy and affordable way to update your home. Before jumping into the project, choose the best cabinet paint or furniture paint to ensure a smooth, durable and long-lasting finish. In general, this type of paint can be used interchangeably on either cabinets or furniture. However, there are a few specifics to keep in mind, depending on what you’re painting.
What to Look for When Choosing Cabinet and Furniture Paint
Choosing the best paint comes down to a few things.
Finish
Different finishes vary in appearance. You can choose from sheens including semi-gloss, satin, matte and flat. Semi-gloss and satin finishes offer a shiny look, while matte and flat finishes are shine-free.
Durability
How well can the paint stand up to everyday life? Cabinets are usually in busy areas of the home, so think about paint that’s hard wearing, has protective qualities and is easy to clean. Typically, paints with shinier finishes, like semi-gloss and satin, are a durable choice.
Coverage
Some paint is designed to give you full coverage with just one coat. For cabinets, it’s smart to plan for at least two coats, even if you get good coverage with a single coat, since cabinets see a lot of activity throughout the day. You'll also need to prime the cabinets first to ensure better paint adhesion. You can follow the same plan for furniture.
Paint Base Material
Latex and acrylic paints are water-based options. Both dry quickly and are easy to clean. Latex typically has lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than acrylic paint. Acrylic paint expands and contracts as temperatures change, so it’s a good choice for kitchens. Oil-based paint is also an option, but releases more VOCs, produces more fumes, and requires chemicals like mineral spirits for cleanup.
Features
Some paints are formulated to resist stains and mildew, while others have a scrubbable finish that’s easy to clean without worrying about damage. Paint-and-primer-in-one formulas help speed up the process by eliminating the need for the extra priming step.
Color
Choose a hue that will complement the space, whether the color is being used as a focal point or to coexist with other pieces in the room. For kitchen cabinets, see DIY Kitchen Color Schemes and Paint Ideas for inspiration.
Make sure you have plenty of ventilation during a paint project. Check the paint label for application instructions, drying times, curing times and safety information. Some paints require a specific type of respirator. For example, oil-based paints require a respirator designed for organic vapors. Follow the manufacturer’s specifications for your product.
Best Cabinet Paint
Cabinets, especially in busy areas of the home like kitchens and bathrooms, need paint that’s durable and washable. Hybrid alkyd enamel paints offer the durability of oil-based paint with easy water cleanup and a hard, chip-resistant finish perfect for these surfaces.
Certain finishes work better for high-touch surfaces too. Paint with a semi-gloss finish is a favorite for kitchen cabinets. It has a light-reflecting, shiny appearance many people like while maintaining durability. It also offers a washable surface that stands up to stains, fading and chipping for a look that lasts. Satin finish paint is another option great for drawers and cabinets. Its durable finish is easy to clean, so you can maintain its appearance with minimal effort.
The higher the gloss, the more surface imperfections will show through.
Best Furniture Paint
Chalky and milk paints usually work well for furniture makeovers. Acrylic and latex paint, including those with a satin finish, are durable and versatile options too. You can even use spray paint if you’re working on small pieces or furniture with more detailed designs.
When painting furniture, you have more flexibility to choose paint for its appearance. Chalky paint has no shine and offers a distressed look, perfect for farmhouse and vintage charm. Be sure to seal chalky paint with a soft wax top coat to protect it from normal wear and tear, chipping and flaking. Check out How to Use Chalky Paint for specifics on this paint type. Milk paint has a similar effect, creating an aged look on the surfaces it’s used on. It can also lend a smooth, deep color to your projects — it just depends on the look you’re going for. Satin finish paint is often described as smooth and velvety; its soft shine gives an instant lift to dressers, end tables and more.
Cabinet and Furniture Paint Tips
- Prep the surface you’re going to paint. Wipe it down to remove dirt, dust and grease. You may also need to sand or scrape away old paint and smooth out any unevenness. Some surfaces, such as lacquered furniture or surfaces treated with polyurethane, require more extensive preparation.
- Use primer. Paint sticks to surfaces better after a primer is applied, resulting in a more professional finish.
- Consider dry time. If you’re applying multiple coats or looking for a quick turnaround on your project, choose a paint type that dries more quickly, like latex paint.
- Think about upgrading hardware. A new coat of paint pairs well with a fresh set of knobs or pulls to complete the look.
- Dispose of your paint properly. Check the procedures and restrictions for your area regarding paint disposal. Some towns have hazardous waste disposal events where you can drop off old paint.
From furniture to kitchen cabinets to bathroom vanities, we’re here to help you achieve your painting projects with our helpful guides — How to Paint Furniture, How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets and How to Paint a Bath Vanity.
Wear safety glasses and a respirator when sanding and when scraping paint.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cabinet and Furniture Paint
What type of paint is best for kitchen cabinets?
Durability is the most important factor when it comes to kitchen cabinet paint. Sheens like semi-gloss and satin are generally easy to clean. Look for paints with scrubbable, washable and stain- and mildew-resistant qualities. Enamels apply like oil-based paint for a smooth, hard finish that’s also easy to clean.
Can I paint laminate furniture and cabinets?
Yes, but you’ll need to prep the surface first. This includes cleaning, sanding and priming before applying the paint.
Do I need to seal painted furniture?
Sealing chalky and milk paints is essential for increasing durability and protecting from scratches, stains and moisture. For chalky paint, a wax seal also helps to maintain the distressed look. Other paint types, like enamel, don’t typically need to be sealed but can be, especially if the furniture is going to be used a lot.
Get Started on Your Project
Whether you need to choose paint for cabinets or furniture, your options are similar to those for any paint project. Glossy sheens are easier to clean, but flatter sheens hide imperfections. Water-based paints, like latex and acrylic paints offer easy cleanup with soap and water. Pick a color that complements existing décor or creates a standout look. Follow the paint label instructions for application, safety, drying times, curing times and cleanup.
Shop Lowes.com for cabinet and furniture paint to find the right choice for your project. Browse our paint article library for tips on choosing and using paint. Or visit your local Lowe’s and talk to a Red Vest associate. They’ll help you find the perfect paint and make sure you’ve got the tools and supplies you need for a successful project and a professional finish.