on July 26, 2025
Painting kitchen cabinets is a reliable way to refresh a kitchen without structural renovation. In residential refurbishment projects, when the process is properly executed, the result is durable, easy to maintain and visually consistent over time. Most failures observed in kitchens in daily use are not caused by the paint itself, but by inadequate preparation and sequencing.
This guide outlines how to paint kitchen cabinets made of new wood, previously painted wood or MDF, with a focus on long-term performance rather than short-term appearance.
Preparation Before Painting Kitchen Cabinets
Before painting kitchen cabinets, all surfaces must be clean, dry and entirely free from grease or residue. In residential kitchens, this step is frequently underestimated and remains the most common cause of premature paint failure.
Issues such as poor adhesion, uneven texture or early wear are most often identified in cabinets that were insufficiently prepared. In practice, preparation determines the outcome of the entire process.
Painting Kitchen Cabinets Made of New or Unpainted Wood
In kitchen renovation projects involving bare wood cabinetry, the objective is to establish a stable and uniform base.
A light sanding is required to open the grain and promote adhesion. Where knots or resinous areas are present, these should be treated in advance. In finished kitchens, untreated resin commonly becomes visible over time, even when the initial result appears satisfactory.
Once prepared, apply a primer appropriate to the wood type, ensuring even coverage. After proper drying, finish with two coats of topcoat paint, observing the recommended drying times between coats. In residential settings, this stage is often accelerated, and the final result typically reflects it.
Painting Previously Painted Kitchen Cabinets
When kitchen cabinets have already been painted, the condition of the existing surface must first be assessed. In refurbishment work, unstable paint layers are a frequent underlying issue.
Paint that is peeling, bubbling or unstable should be removed. Applying new paint over a compromised surface rarely delivers a durable result in kitchens subject to regular use, even if it appears acceptable initially.
After removing loose areas and smoothing transitions, lightly sand the entire surface. Apply primer to repaired sections, followed by a uniform base coat across all surfaces. Complete the process with two coats of finish paint. In completed kitchens, inconsistencies at this stage are immediately noticeable.
Painting MDF Kitchen Cabinets
MDF is widely used in modern kitchen cabinetry and requires particular attention, especially along edges and cut surfaces.
In residential kitchens, these areas absorb more material and are commonly responsible for uneven finishes if not properly prepared. It is not unusual for the first coat to be absorbed unevenly, particularly along exposed edges. A light sanding helps reduce this effect.
A primer specifically formulated for MDF should be applied and allowed to dry fully before proceeding. Two finish coats are then applied. If fibres rise between coats, a very light sanding restores surface smoothness. Dust protection is recommended, as MDF dust should not be inhaled.
Practical Considerations for a Long-Lasting Result
In kitchens subjected to daily use, durability depends on several practical factors.
Respecting drying times, using appropriate application tools and working in a well-ventilated environment without strong air movement all contribute to a superior finish. When correctly applied, painted kitchen cabinets are easier to maintain and retain their appearance over many years of regular use.
Colour Selection for Kitchen Cabinets
Colour choice plays a defining role in the final result.
In kitchens with good natural light, deeper and well-pigmented tones tend to perform particularly well, enhancing form and detail without overwhelming the space. In long-term residential settings, balanced colours consistently age more gracefully and maintain visual coherence over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sanding necessary before painting kitchen cabinets?
Yes. In both new installations and refurbishment projects, sanding improves adhesion and is recommended even on previously painted surfaces.
What type of paint should be used for kitchen cabinets?
Paint designed for high-use surfaces should be selected and always applied over a compatible primer for wood or MDF.
How many coats are required?
In most residential applications, two finish coats are sufficient when the surface has been properly prepared.
Painting kitchen cabinets is not inherently complex.
In residential kitchens, long-lasting results depend on methodical preparation and disciplined application.
When these conditions are met, the transformation is reliable, durable and appropriate for everyday use.