Best Cabinet Paints for a Smooth and Durable Finish

Painting your cabinets is a great way to give your kitchen a fresh look without breaking the bank. However, not all paints are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can lead to a disappointing outcome. That’s where the best cabinet paint comes in.

The best cabinet paint is one that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use, resist chipping and peeling, and provide a smooth and even finish. When looking for the best cabinet paint, it’s important to pay attention to factors such as durability, coverage, and ease of application.

Durability is key when it comes to cabinet paint. Cabinets are subject to a lot of wear and tear, from spills and splatters to constant opening and closing. The best cabinet paint will be able to withstand this abuse and still look great for years to come.

Coverage is another important factor to consider. Cabinets often have intricate details and hard-to-reach areas, so you’ll want a paint that can cover them evenly and completely. A paint with good coverage will also require fewer coats, saving you time and money.

Finally, ease of application is crucial. Cabinet painting can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, so you’ll want a paint that goes on smoothly and dries quickly. A paint that requires multiple coats or extensive prep work can make the process even more daunting.

We spent hours researching and testing several cabinet paints to identify the ones that meet these criteria and deliver the best results. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks for the best cabinet paint on the market.

Best Cabinet Paints

When it comes to giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh new look, painting them is often the most cost-effective option. However, not all paints are created equal, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in the final result. After thorough research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best cabinet paints on the market. These paints are durable, easy to apply, and provide a smooth and long-lasting finish. Check out our top picks below.

1) Heirloom Traditions Paint

If you’re looking for a durable and easy-to-use all-in-one paint for your cabinets and furniture, Heirloom Traditions Paint is a great option.

PROS

  • No sanding, priming or top coat required
  • Low luster, velvet sheen finish
  • Suitable for a variety of surfaces including hard surfaces like walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, and floor and wall tile

CONS

  • Results may vary due to digital screens not showing colors accurately
  • Some users reported that the Truffle color was darker than expected
  • While the paint is suitable for a variety of surfaces, it may not adhere well to some types of plastic

We recently used Heirloom Traditions Paint to redo our kitchen cabinets and were impressed with the results. The paint went on easily and covered well in just two coats. We appreciated that there was no need for sanding, priming or a top coat, which saved us a lot of time and effort. The low luster, velvet sheen finish gave our cabinets a professional look.

One thing to keep in mind is that the color may look different in person than it does on your screen, so we recommend getting a Heirloom Traditions Color Card Fan Deck for accurate color choice. Additionally, while the paint is suitable for a variety of surfaces, we found that it did not adhere well to some types of plastic.

Overall, we would recommend Heirloom Traditions Paint for anyone looking for an easy and durable all-in-one paint for their cabinets and furniture.

2) Rust-Oleum Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim Paint

If you’re looking for a fast, one-step solution to update your outdated bathroom and kitchen cabinets, Rust-Oleum Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim Paint is worth considering.

PROS

  • The quick-drying formula goes on smoothly and provides exceptional flow and leveling.
  • It dries to the touch in 30 minutes and covers up to 50 sq. ft. per quart.
  • Provides a durable semi-gloss finish in just one step.

CONS

  • Some users have reported that the white color is not pure white but more of an off-white shade.
  • A few users have mentioned that the paint can be thin, requiring multiple coats.
  • Some users have reported that the paint has a strong odor.

In our experience, Rust-Oleum Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim Paint is a great option for those who want to update their cabinets without the hassle of sanding and priming. The paint goes on smoothly and dries quickly, providing a durable semi-gloss finish in just one step. However, some users have reported that the white color is not pure white but more of an off-white shade, and the paint can be thin, requiring multiple coats. Additionally, the paint has a strong odor, so make sure to use it in a well-ventilated area.

Overall, if you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to update your cabinets, Rust-Oleum Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim Paint is definitely worth considering.

3) INSL-X Cabinet Coat Enamel, Satin Sheen Paint

If you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting paint for your cabinets, INSL-X Cabinet Coat Enamel is a great choice. We’ve used it ourselves and found it to be an excellent option for refurbishing dingy cabinets and furniture.

PROS

  • Provides a smooth and ultra-durable finish that looks like it came straight from the factory.
  • Superior adhesion allows painting difficult surfaces, even polyurethane and varnish, without using a primer.
  • Resists chipping, scuffing, food stains, grease, and water, making it ideal for kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

CONS

  • Can be a bit pricey compared to other cabinet paints on the market.
  • Requires proper preparation and application, which can be time-consuming.
  • May require multiple coats to achieve desired coverage.

We found that INSL-X Cabinet Coat Enamel provided excellent coverage and a beautiful satin finish. It’s also very durable and resists stains and scratches, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas. However, it does require proper preparation and application, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Overall, if you want a professional-looking finish for your cabinets that will last for years to come, we highly recommend INSL-X Cabinet Coat Enamel.

4) INSL-X Cabinet Coat

We highly recommend INSL-X Cabinet Coat for anyone looking to refurbish their kitchen and bathroom cabinets, furniture, trim, and crown molding. This acrylic cabinet paint delivers an ultra-smooth, durable finish that will look like new for years.

PROS

  • Delivers an ultra-smooth, durable finish
  • Super adhesion to hard-to-coat surfaces without primer
  • Durable satin cabinet finish that resists chipping, scuffing, food stains, grease & water

CONS

  • Requires proper preparation and application for best results
  • May require multiple coats to achieve desired coverage
  • Not recommended for use on exterior surfaces

We recently used INSL-X Cabinet Coat to paint our outdated kitchen cabinets and were impressed with the results. The paint flowed on smoothly and evenly, and the satin finish gave our cabinets a modern, updated look. The paint also held up well to everyday wear and tear, resisting chipping, scuffing, and stains.

Before painting, we made sure to review the INSL-X Cabinet Coat label for proper preparation and application tips. We found that the key to achieving the best results was to thoroughly clean and sand our cabinets before applying the paint. We also made sure to apply the paint when the air, product, or surface temperature was above 50 °F (10 °C) and below 90 °F (32 °C), as recommended by the manufacturer.

Overall, we were extremely satisfied with INSL-X Cabinet Coat and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to refurbish their cabinets or other interior surfaces.

5) Dixie Belle Paint Company Chalk Finish Furniture Paint | Caviar (32 Fl Oz) | Matte Black Chic Chalk Mineral Paint | DIY Furniture Paint | Made in the USA 1 Quart (Pack of 1) Caviar

If you’re looking for a chic and sophisticated black paint for your cabinets, Dixie Belle Paint Company’s Caviar Chalk Mineral Paint is definitely worth considering.

PROS

  • The muted matte finish adds a soft and elegant feel to any space.
  • It’s easy to use and doesn’t require sanding or priming.
  • It’s versatile and can be used on various surfaces such as wood, metal, plastics, brick, stone, glass, and concrete.

CONS

  • The dark color may require 2 coats for full coverage.
  • The paint may dry quickly, so it’s important to work fast and avoid drips.
  • It may not be the most affordable option on the market.

We recently used this paint to refinish our kitchen cabinets and were impressed with the results. The Caviar color is a true, deep black that looks stunning against our white countertops. The matte finish is subtle yet elegant and gives the cabinets a high-end look.

We appreciated that the paint didn’t require any sanding or priming before application, which saved us a lot of time and effort. The paint went on smoothly and covered well, though we did need to apply a second coat to achieve full coverage.

One thing to note is that the paint dries quickly, so it’s important to work fast and avoid drips. We also found that the paint goes a long way, so 8oz should cover about 38 sq. ft. of surface area.

Overall, we highly recommend Dixie Belle Paint Company’s Caviar Chalk Mineral Paint for anyone looking to give their cabinets a chic and sophisticated update. It’s easy to use, versatile, and delivers stunning results.

6) Beyond Paint BP19 Furniture Refinishing Paint

If you’re looking for an easy way to transform your furniture, cabinets, or accessories, Beyond Paint BP19 Furniture Refinishing Paint is a great option. Here’s what we found:

PROS

  • No stripping, sanding, or priming needed
  • Quick and easy application
  • Durable, washable finish in just one or two coats

CONS

  • Some reviewers reported issues with the color not being as expected
  • May be more expensive than other cabinet paints
  • Some users found that a second coat was necessary for best results

We found that Beyond Paint BP19 Furniture Refinishing Paint was a great option for anyone who wants to update their furniture or cabinets without a lot of prep work. The paint goes on smoothly and dries quickly, leaving a durable finish that can be easily wiped clean.

One of the biggest benefits of this paint is that there’s no need to strip, sand, or prime your furniture before painting. This can save you a lot of time and effort, especially if you’re working on a large project. The paint also dries quickly, so you can finish your project in just a day or two.

We did find that some reviewers reported issues with the color not being as expected. While the Pebble color is described as a light beige, some users found that it was more gray or taupe in person. This is something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a very specific color.

Another potential downside of this paint is that it may be more expensive than other cabinet paints on the market. However, we think that the ease of use and durability of the finish make it worth the investment.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Beyond Paint BP19 Furniture Refinishing Paint to anyone looking for an easy way to update their furniture or cabinets. With no stripping, sanding, or priming needed, it’s a great option for beginners or anyone who wants to save time on their project.

7) Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Chalked Paint

If you’re looking for a versatile paint that can give your furniture or home decor a vintage look, Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Chalked Paint is worth considering.

PROS

  • The low-odor, latex formula makes it easy to clean up with soap and water.
  • It dries to the touch in just 30 minutes and covers up to 150 sq ft, allowing for quick and easy project completion.
  • The excellent adhesion and easy application with minimal prep make it a great choice for DIY projects.

CONS

  • Some users have reported that the paint can be easily scratched or chipped.
  • The paint may require multiple coats for full coverage, depending on the surface being painted.
  • The finish may not be as durable as other types of paint.

We recently used Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Chalked Paint to give an old dresser a new look. The paint was easy to apply and dried quickly, allowing us to finish the project in a single day. The finish had a velvety, smooth look that we were very happy with.

One thing to keep in mind is that the paint can be easily distressed to create a vintage look, so if you’re looking for a more durable finish, you may want to consider using a sealant or topcoat.

Overall, we would recommend Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Chalked Paint for anyone looking for an easy-to-use, versatile paint that can give furniture and home decor a unique, vintage look.

8) Beyond Paint Furniture, Cabinets and More All-in-one Refinishing Paint Gallon, No Stripping, Sanding or Priming Needed, Soft Gray (BP23)

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use paint that doesn’t require stripping, sanding, or priming, Beyond Paint Furniture, Cabinets and More All-in-one Refinishing Paint is worth considering.

PROS

  • The all-in-one formula makes it quick and easy to apply, with no need for additional products or steps.
  • The paint cures to a durable, washable surface in just one or two coats, leaving a professional-looking finish.
  • It can be used on almost any surface, including wood, metal, plastic, and fabric.

CONS

  • The paint may not adhere well to surfaces that are already slick or glossy, so it’s important to clean and degrease the surface thoroughly before applying.
  • Some users have reported that the paint can be difficult to work with, particularly if you’re not used to working with thicker paints.
  • The color may not be an exact match to what’s shown on the label, so it’s important to test a small area before painting the entire surface.

We recently used Beyond Paint Furniture, Cabinets and More All-in-one Refinishing Paint to update an old cabinet in our kitchen. We were impressed with how easy it was to apply, and how quickly it dried to a smooth, even finish. The soft gray color we chose was a nice neutral that complemented our kitchen decor well.

One thing we did notice was that the paint was quite thick, which made it a bit challenging to work with at times. However, we found that as long as we applied it in thin, even coats, it went on smoothly and looked great.

Overall, we would recommend Beyond Paint Furniture, Cabinets and More All-in-one Refinishing Paint to anyone looking for an easy-to-use paint that delivers professional-looking results. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully, and test a small area before painting the entire surface.

9) Giani Cabinet Makeover Kit

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to transform your kitchen cabinets, the Giani Cabinet Makeover Kit is a great option.

PROS

  • The ultra-white hue gives cabinets a modern, timeless look
  • Easy brush-and-roll application allows for a one-day transformation without professional help
  • All-inclusive kit includes all necessary tools for a flawless finish

CONS

  • Some users reported that the paint may be delicate and require touch-ups
  • The strong smell may be bothersome during application
  • The ultra-white color may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its brightness

We recently used the Giani Cabinet Makeover Kit to transform our outdated kitchen cabinets and were impressed with the results. The ultra-white hue gave our cabinets a fresh, modern look, and the brush-and-roll application made the process quick and easy. The all-inclusive kit included everything we needed to achieve a flawless finish, and we appreciated the low-VOC, water-based formula for a safer painting experience.

While we were pleased with the results, we did notice that the paint may be delicate and require touch-ups in high-traffic areas. Additionally, the strong smell during application may be bothersome to some users. Finally, the bright white color may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its pristine appearance.

Overall, we would recommend the Giani Cabinet Makeover Kit for anyone looking for a quick and easy way to transform their kitchen cabinets without professional help.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best cabinet paint, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend looking at the following factors before making a purchase:

1. Type of Paint

There are two main types of cabinet paint: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based paints are known for their durability and smooth finish, but they can take longer to dry and produce strong fumes. Water-based paints, on the other hand, are easier to clean up and have a lower odor, but they may not be as durable as oil-based paints.

2. Finish

Cabinet paint comes in a variety of finishes, including matte, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. The finish you choose will depend on your personal preference and the look you’re going for. Matte finishes are great for a more subtle look, while high-gloss finishes can make a bold statement.

3. Color

Choosing the right color for your cabinets is important, as it can completely transform the look of your space. We recommend selecting a color that complements the rest of your decor and fits with your personal style.

4. Coverage

Make sure to choose a paint that offers good coverage, as this will save you time and money in the long run. Look for a paint that covers in one or two coats and doesn’t require a primer.

5. Brand Reputation

Lastly, consider the reputation of the brand you’re considering. Look for brands that are known for producing high-quality paints and have a good track record with customers.

By considering these factors, you can find the best cabinet paint for your needs and achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most durable paint options for cabinetry?

When it comes to durability, we recommend using high-quality paints that are specifically designed for cabinetry. Some of the most durable options include oil-based paints, acrylic paints, and alkyd paints. These paints are known for their ability to withstand wear and tear, resist moisture, and provide a long-lasting finish.

Which paint colors are currently trending for kitchen cabinets?

There are a variety of paint colors that are currently trending for kitchen cabinets. Some of the most popular options include shades of white, gray, blue, and green. Neutral colors like white and gray are timeless and versatile, while bolder colors like blue and green can add a pop of personality to your kitchen.

How can I achieve a professional finish when painting my cabinets?

Achieving a professional finish when painting your cabinets requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Before painting, make sure to clean and sand your cabinets thoroughly to ensure a smooth surface. Use high-quality brushes and rollers to apply the paint evenly, and apply multiple coats as needed. Finally, allow the paint to dry completely before reattaching the cabinet doors and hardware.

Is it possible to paint cabinets without prior sanding?

While it is possible to paint cabinets without prior sanding, we strongly recommend against it. Sanding helps to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to, and it also helps to remove any existing finish or paint. Skipping this step can result in a less-than-perfect finish and may cause the paint to peel or chip over time.

What type of paint do experts recommend for wooden cabinets?

Experts typically recommend using a high-quality, oil-based paint for wooden cabinets. Oil-based paints are known for their durability and ability to provide a smooth, even finish. They also tend to dry more slowly than water-based paints, which can be an advantage when painting cabinets.

Which paint rollers should be used for a smooth cabinet finish?

For a smooth cabinet finish, we recommend using a high-density foam roller. Foam rollers are great for applying paint evenly and leaving behind a smooth, streak-free finish. Be sure to choose a roller that is the appropriate size for your cabinets and that is designed for use with the type of paint you have chosen.

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