13 Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets This Year

Haven’t got the budget for replacing kitchen cabinets? Get things sorted with a fresh coat of paint to rejuvenate old, dingy cabinets.

Obviously, painting over is not a brand new idea, but then again, even the most seasoned DIY-ers may need help choosing paints that can amp up their outmoded cabinetry. That’s why we took it upon ourselves to do all the hard work and find the best performers on the market.

And for that, we had to look through multiple catalogs, consult with decor experts, and dig up more about the highest rated products. It was only after all that groundwork that we ended up with 13 best paint for kitchen cabinets this year.

So without further ado, let’s begin, shall we?

Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Our Top PickOur Top Pick	Rust-Oleum 263231 Cabinet Transformations	Kit includes an instructional DVD No stripping, sanding or priming required	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	General Finishes Oil Base Gel Stain	Heavy-bodied paint Can be applied with a cloth	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Nuvo FG-NU DRIFT KIT Driftwood Cabinet Paint Kit	No top coat required Covers up to 100 sq ft	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Interior Chalked Paint	Ultra matte, creamy finish Excellent adhesion	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Giani Countertop Paint Kit, Sicilian Sand	Works on only laminate, wood, and marble Simple application process	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Retique It by Renaissance Chalk Finish Furniture Paint	Smooth, chalky finish Zero VOCs, safe for indoor use	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	General Finishes MAQ Chalk Style Paint	Can be intermixed Great durability and adhesion	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	KILZ Adhesion Interior/Exterior Primer	Bonds to a wide range of surfaces Covers 300 sq ft per gallon	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Shabby Chic Chalk Furniture Paint	No primer or undercoat required Water-based paint	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Sinopia All Natural Artisanal Milk Paint	Based on Casein protein from milk Easy to clean	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	INSL-X CC550109A-01 Cabinet Coat Enamel	Durable, factory-like finish Works with roller, brush, and sprayer	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Jolie Paint Matte Finish	No sanding or priming required Easy to clean and maintain	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Ronseal One Coat Cupboard Melamine & MDF Paint	Does not need a primer Attractive satin finish	VIEW LATEST PRICE →

1. Rust-Oleum 263231 Cabinet Transformations

Reigning in position number one, the Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations is an iconic product that can zing up your kitchen in a snap. Not all of us have the budget for elaborate kitchen restorations, but there’s a lot a jar of paint can do, at least if you have the right one.

Sale

Rust-Oleum 263231 Cabinet Transformations, Small Kit,...

• Ideal for wood melamine metal and laminat cabinetry
• Easy to use, no stripping, sanding, or priming required
• 102-Square-Foot kit is perfect for kitchen cabinets bath...
• Beautiful, durable and professional results

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Why Did We Like It?

First and foremost, we love the texture and finish of this paint that can add a classy touch to even the rustiest looking cupboards. However, the best part is that you don’t need to undertake any preparatory steps apart from basic cleaning, as the paint can be applied to the cabinets right away.

Also, we love how versatile this product is as it works on wood, metal, laminate, and melamine cabinetry as well. Furthermore, it’s quite simple to apply, and you don’t require professional help once you’re clear on the instructions laid out in the included DVD.

Moreover, the kit comes complete with a deglosser, bond coat, decorative glaze, and a decorative top coat to create a beautiful and professional look. All in all, it’s a perfect touch-up kit for the kitchen with a remarkable coverage of 102 sq ft.

What Could’ve Been Better?

You can devote a whole weekend to the restoration project, but that won’t be enough even if you get help. Long story short, if you have more than a couple of cabinets to work on, it may take some time to finish as you must use each component in the kit.

2. General Finishes Oil Base Gel Stain

Our second product from the house of General Finishes has us thrilled with the lustrous and smooth effect post-application. If your kitchen cabinets look like they need more than just a paint-over, we recommend this item for achieving truly desirable results. And the best part is you get to do it all without spending a ton.

Sale

General Finishes Oil Base Gel Stain, 1 Quart, Java

• This is the stain that has the most "finishing feel" of all...
• Woodworkers love the lustrous finish that shows up
• Heavy-bodied, and so does not penetrate as deeply into the...
• Can help you get a more even appearance on difficult woods...

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Why Did We Like It?

To begin with, this oil base paint will really appeal to woodworking enthusiasts as it works like a charm even on the most unaccommodating timber varieties like aspen or pine. So if you’re keen on a rustic yet chic appearance, just go to town with a can of this.

Furthermore, we love the texture of this stain as it sits perfectly on the cabinet surface without penetrating deeply, unlike liquid oil base items. Therefore, you can get a natural smooth finish that can snazz up the decor of your interiors.

However, before beginning the DIY session, make sure that you have the necessary applicator for use. And in that case, even a piece of cloth will do, but ideally, it’s best to use a foam brush to prevent spills and splashes.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We love the overall quality of the paint and found the coverage decent enough as well. However, don’t expect all that transformation to set in by putting just one coat. Therefore, you may have to buy more paint as you’ll need at least a couple of layers to create the perfect look.

3. Nuvo FG-NU DRIFT KIT Driftwood Cabinet Paint Kit

Update your boring kitchen cabinets with the superb Driftwood Cabinet Paint Kit from Nuvo. If you’re an avid DIY-er, then our third entry will simply charm your socks off as it’s the ultimate one-day combo cabinet paint that needs no priming. So all you need is a brush and a roller, and you’re set to paint.

Sale

Nuvo Driftwood 1 Day Cabinet Makeover Kit

• Low VOC, low odor, water-based acrylic paint and primer in...
• One-day application process that dries in a soft, satin...
• Professional results with simple tools included in each kit
• Covers 100 square feet of cabinet surface (40 linear feet) -...

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Why Did We Like It?

The kitchen is one of those places at home that does not get a lot of makeovers, mainly because it cannot be closed off for a long project. That’s why we suggest buying this kit as you do not have to remove the cabinet doors before applying it. Therefore, you end up saving a lot of time and effort, which you’d otherwise spend on prepping.

Also, this specialized paint and primer-in-one kit creates a beautiful satin finish and brings about a new glow on old, worn-out units. Apart from that, we like the durable water-based acrylic formula used on the paint, ensuring minimal odor and low VOCs.

Overall, it’s a highly dependable product that comes included with a pair of applicators (roller arm and brush) offering great value for money.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Don’t get us wrong, we’re quite happy with the quality and finish of the paint as it adheres pretty well to most surfaces. However, the paint blisters and peels off if there’s even a bit of grease on the cabinets, so make sure you thoroughly clean the unit before application.

4. Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Interior Chalked Paint

Up next, we have the Ultra Matte Interior Chalked Paint from the house of Rust-Oleum that can incorporate a cozy and antique look into your kitchen decor. So if you plan on refurbishing the kitchen cabinets and have enough time on your hands to finish the entire project with a top coat, buy this for incredible results.

Rustoleum 285140 30 Oz Linen White Chalked Ultra Matte Paint

• Size: 30 Oz
• Color: Linen White
• Dries to a velvety smooth matte finish
• Brings new life to tired and worn pieces

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Why Did We Like It?

First off, we like that this chalked paint works on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, ceramic, and even canvas. Therefore, homeowners looking to execute a well done touch-up job will love this high-quality paint as it can create the most desirable matte look, regardless of the surface.

Also, you can bring alive your inner Picasso and distress the paint for a lovely vintage get up. Furthermore, we love that the paint dries up in only 30 minutes, but for better adhesion, we advise washing the surface with water and removing loose paint and rust.

Other than that, we like the latex-based formula used in the product that facilitates easy cleaning with soap and water. Besides, one can of this covers about 150 sq ft, so you need not buy a whole batch to finish the project.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We love the royal matte finish of this paint as it really elevates the appearance of even the most worn-out cabinets. However, no matter what, with this, you need to get that top coat or else the paint job won’t last.

5. Giani Countertop Paint Kit, Sicilian Sand

You may not have the finances for a total replacement, but that shouldn’t stop you from getting a fancy looking kitchen. Therefore, if you’re looking to bring more grandeur to those plain Jane cabinets, we suggest using the Giani Countertop Paint Kit for the much needed revamp.

Sale

Giani Countertop Paint Kit, Sicilian Sand

• Low VOC, low odor, water-based acrylic paint for...
• Fun, easy DIY project complete with step-by-step...
• One weekend application process that dries in a high gloss...
• Covers 35 square feet (16 linear feet of standard 24" wide...

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Why Did We Like It? 

This kit not only comes with your chosen paint color but also includes a range of other tools and components that ensure a classy, well-designed look after completion. As the name suggests, this item is primarily for countertops, meaning you can use it on the tops of your cabinets and cover about 35 sq ft of the kitchen workstation.

But it doesn’t have to be limited to countertops only as the paint also adheres to multiple solid surfaces like ceramic tiles, wood, and other heavier materials. Other than that, we like the superior adhesion and lustrous texture of this water-based product, perfectly obscuring existing scratches and stains. 

What Could’ve Been Better? 

If your cabinet countertop is in terrible shape and needs a lot of work, we suggest using this product as a cheaper yet effective solution. However, if you have a considerably bigger workstation and more spaces to cover, one kit will not suffice.

6. Retique It by Renaissance Chalk Finish Furniture Paint

The Retique It by Renaissance is a premium quality product that can transform the dowdiest cabinets into stylish and modern units. That being said, this item also deserves all the attention for its high finish and non-toxic composition, making it safe for use among children and pets. 

Retique It by Renaissance chalk finish furniture paint, 32...

• Superior coverage - Usually 1 to 2 coats!
• No sanding or priming required
• Non-toxic, zero VOC’s, Safe to use indoors.
• Specifically designed for furniture and cabinets.

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Why Did We Like It? 

Let’s just start by saying that with this zero-emissions paint, you can altogether avoid the tiresome sanding and priming sessions before application. Since the paint is made with the highest quality ingredients, you can get dabbing with minimum prepping and cover a lot of space in just 1-2 coats. 

Moreover, you do not have to deal with harmful fumes, and to makes things even safer, the product is labeled hypoallergenic as well. Moreover, it’s even-leveling so that you can spread out a thick coat on a flat surface, and it’ll gradually smoothen out as it dries. 

Therefore, you end up saving a lot of time, which you’d otherwise spend on correcting mistakes made in terms of paint distribution or thickness. Lastly, it’s an excellent choice as it works on a range of surfaces and even on previously painted units, providing a sophisticated and durable look. 

What Could’ve Been Better? 

To be honest, we could hardly find any flaws with this paint as it checks more than a few boxes when it comes to quality and user safety. However, despite the simple application procedure, this paint demands an extended period of drying time. 

7. General Finishes MAQ Chalk Style Paint

We’re halfway through our recommendations, and now is a good time to introduce the chalk style paint line up from the house of General Finishes. On that note, we may seem a tad partial to this brand, but honestly, a list of best paints for kitchen cabinets is incomplete without this dependable item.  

General Finishes MAQ Chalk Style Paint, 1 quart, Apricot

• Wet distensible within 12 hours
• Can be intermixed or layered with our milk Paints
• Does not require a sealer unless used on horizontal...
• Can be sprayed with compressed air, help, airless & C.A.S....

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Why Did We Like It? 

Kitchen cupboards are high-wear areas, and so it only makes sense to invest in paints that are resistant to continued physical impact. That’s why we recommend using the MAQ Chalk Style Paint as it offers superior strength and adhesion from the get-go. 

Also, if you thought ‘once coat, full coverage’ was an exaggeration, give this product a shot for unparalleled area coverage. Furthermore, we like that the product is wet-distensible within 12 hours and can be layered or mixed with other colors to create a desirable effect.

Apart from that, if you want to go for a casual and fun look on kitchen storage units, you can try spraying the paint and splashes around with different colors. Lastly, you can use it for exterior surfaces, but it may not last that long.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We are delighted with the vibrant look and high coverage of this paint, and we do not have any complaints regarding its quality. However, we’re not impressed with the packaging of the product as the cans are quite flimsy and unlikely to survive a minor fall or hit.

8. KILZ Adhesion Interior/Exterior Primer

The KILZ Adhesion Primer is popular among professionals and DIY-ers alike, primarily for its versatile applicability across interior and exterior surfaces. Therefore, if you’d rather use a high-performing primer instead of a paint on kitchen cabinets, give this item a shot for high coverage and durability.

KILZ Adhesion High-Bonding Interior/Exterior Latex...

• A good bonding primer is essential to ensure that topcoats...
• KILZ Adhesion is a unique latex primer developed to bond...
• Bonds to tough-to-paint surfaces including Kynar, PVC,...
• Use on most interior and exterior surfaces where a secure...

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Why Did We Like It?

For starters, this bonding primer lets you paint over on even the most unaccommodating surfaces, working as an intermediate layer to facilitate better adhesion. Also, this unique latex base product secures superior bonding on slick surfaces, where traditional water or oil-base primers fail.

Basically, if you buy one can of this, you can apply it on the entire set of matching cabinets before running out as it can cover about 300 sq ft. Furthermore, since it’s quick-drying, it becomes safe to touch within thirty minutes and is ready for a fresh coat of paint within an hour.

What we like best is that it can sustain in the most demanding situations without showing any signs of cracking or coming off. Also, it doesn’t flake, while cleaned or put in contact with water, meaning that it won’t damage nearby furniture.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We love this resilient, high adhesion primer, and despite its comparatively higher price, we recommend users to buy this. However, the product only supports latex and oil-based paints, so make sure to get only those if you intend to use this.

9. Shabby Chic Chalk Furniture Paint

We decided to go with the trend and included the Shabby Chic Chalk Furniture to our list as it’s truly versatile and timeless in appearance. We love the velvety matte finish of this paint that can bring new life to the mundane cabinets installed in your kitchen since forever.

Shabby Chic Chalk Furniture Paint - Antique White 250ml -...

• Furniture Chalk Paint consists of a thick, richly pigmented...
• Create a distressed look by applying two coats in...
• Whether it’s the coffee table or a display cabinet, our...
• Shabby Chic furniture paint is a water-based paint which...

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Why Did We Like It?

This furniture paint can be applied on a range of surfaces, including previously painted ones, and can also be used to create a distressed look by applying contrasting colors. What we like best is the thick and pigmented color formula used in the paint, allowing you to experiment with the most vibrant hues and beautiful patterns.

Also, since the paint can be applied to both indoor and outdoor surfaces, you can use the excess paint on the stand-alone porch furniture or accent pieces. Furthermore, we like that the paint gets touch dry within an hour, so you can safely use it, especially if you’ve hyperactive children or pets at home.

Lastly, it’s pretty low maintenance, meaning you can keep the gorgeous look intact with a basic wipe down with water now and then.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We like the overall quality of the product, but we couldn’t help but notice the limited coverage of 12m² per liter. Therefore, while we love the color pay off, we’re far from satisfied with the coverage and would’ve preferred something more substantial in terms of coating capability.

10. Sinopia All Natural Artisanal Milk Paint

Milk paints may not be the most conventional option when it comes to refurbishing kitchen cabinets, but you’ll love the creamy, regal finish of the Sinopia Artisanal Milk Paint. That being said, this multi-purpose paint is made of 100% natural ingredients, allowing you to use it without worrying about toxic fumes.

Sinopia All Natural Artisanal Milk Paint Haystack Gold...

• Ready to use straight from the container
• Can be thinned with water and cleans up with water
• Use any tool for application (brush, roller, sponge, etc.)
• Use indoors and outside on any type of surface

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Why Did We Like It? 

First off, this all-natural paint works on more or less all surfaces and does not require weighing, measuring, or mixing with other colors or components. Therefore, it’s available ready to use straight out of the bucket or jar, and if required, you can even thin it down with some water.

The option for diluting makes it the ideal paint for DIY kitchen refurbishing as you have the liberty to cover more spaces with one unit. Furthermore, with these natural pigments, absolutely anything works as an applicator, including brushes, rollers, and sponge. 

Also, since it can be applied on any surface both inside and outside the home, if you’ve any leftover after the paint job, you may use it for repainting outdoor furniture.

What Could’ve Been Better?

To be honest, we love the smooth, matte finish of these creamy colors that stays intact without interacting with the materials it’s applied over. However, we noticed that the paint tends to get a bit sludgy at times, so be careful while using it.

11. INSL-X CC550109A-01 Cabinet Coat Enamel

We’re a fan of the factory-style finish the INSL-X Enamel Paint provides as it creates the ultimate no-frills look on the kitchen cabinets. Besides, it works on wood, metal, and laminates and does not require any priming before the paint job. So if you’re looking for a flawless finish on your dingy units, get to work with this premium quality product.

INSL-X CC550109A-44 Cabinet Coat Enamel, Satin Sheen...

• The ultimate “factory-like” finish for refurbishing...
• Delivers an ultra smooth, durable urethane acrylic cabinet...
• Super adhesion to hard-to-coat surfaces without primer
• Durable satin finish that resists chipping, scuffing, food...

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Why Did We Like It?

First things first, the Cabinet Coat Enamel can cover up to 450 sq ft per gallon, which is quite extensive compared to other similar products at this price range. Therefore, if you have an elaborate up-gradation project in mind, including entire sets of cabinets and other furniture, we suggest investing in this reliable product.

Besides, we’re very impressed with its superior adhesion even across hard-to-coat surfaces without requiring a primer or bonding agent. However, for best results, we advise taking apart the cabinet doors and thoroughly cleaning it to remove dust or any residue.

Also, after applying this, you can expect an extremely durable satin finish, resistant to chipping, moisture, stains, and other physical damages. And since it’s self-leveling, it can evenly disperse excess paint without you having to make any corrections.

What Could’ve Been Better?

You must be wondering what could be wrong about this product, especially when we couldn’t stop raving about its qualities. Well, the only catch is that the paint is not meant for surfaces in close contact with water or anywhere near the stove.

12. Jolie Paint Matte Finish

Our 12th product is a high-quality chalk finish paint that requires the least bit of preparation before application. So once you have all the colors needed for redoing the cabinets, unleash your inner artist and decorate the units to give a complete makeover to the cooking area.

Jolie Paint - Premier Chalk Finish Paint - Matte Finish...

• Premier Chalk Finish Paint - Minimal to no prep with no...
• Water-based for easy clean-up with soap and water
• Non-toxic and low VOC paint that is safe to use indoors
• Superior coverage: one 32oz quart covers about 150 sq. ft;...

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Why Did We Like It?

This product is quite versatile, to begin with as it can be applied on multiple surfaces and provides excellent coverage in just 1-2 coats. Moreover, it saves you a lot of effort by drying within 30 minutes, so you don’t have to correct smudges and smears here and there.

Other than that, we like how low maintenance this water-based paint is, meaning you can simply use soap to wipe away dirt once in a while. Besides, the product is non-toxic and contains low VOCs, allowing you to apply it on indoor surfaces safely.

So if you’re looking for that smart matte finish on the cabinets, adding just the right amount of gravitas, we recommend using this paint that can completely transform interior decor.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We’re happy with the rich color of the paint, but the only catch is the price of this sample size item. While it offers superb adhesion and durability, it’s hardly the most economical option on the market. So we recommend buying it only if you don’t find an equally good, cheaper alternative.

13. Ronseal One Coat Cupboard Melamine & MDF Paint

Now that we’ve reached the end of our list, we would like to finish off with the One Coat Paint by Ronseal. However, we would like to clarify that its bottom rank is not a comment on the quality of the product as it’s merely the last in our selection of the best-performing candidates.

Why Did We Like It?

Firstly, let’s just begin by assuring you that this product certainly lives up to its name. Meaning, a single coat of this paint can effectively hide the ugliest scratches, stains, and botched paint jobs. Therefore, if you’re looking for an instant facelift on the kitchen unit, try this product for a high gloss finish.

Since it’s specially developed for use on melamine and MDF cupboards, you will love the pay off and high sustainability of this product. Also, you can confidently use it on cabinet surfaces that receive a lot of traffic as the paint is resistant to chipping and flaking.

Furthermore, it’s applicable on plywood and chipboard as well, so if you’ve any other indoor surface to protect, you can use the leftover paint from the project.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Well, there’s no sugarcoating this, but this product does not score high in terms of user safety. Long story short, users may experience drowsiness or dizziness while handling this item or develop an allergic reaction to it. Therefore, it’s best to use it only if you’ve tested it before and not undergone any of these symptoms.

Buyers’ Guide for Best Kitchen Cabinet Paints

Knowing all about the 13 best paint for kitchen cabinets this year is hardly too much information. You still need to figure out which one of these options suits your existing decor best. That’s why we went the extra mile and created this brief buyers’ guide for you.

We have listed a few factors you need to consider when buying paints for kitchen units. Read on to know more…

Color

This may seem like a no-brainer, but the color of the paint you select should primarily complement the overall decor of your kitchen. Obviously, you’ll find several options in the market, but not all of them can sync with the existing color scheme.

Also, depending on the material of the cabinets, pick a color that looks natural and evenly spreads on the surface. For inspiration, you can browse through catalogs, magazines, and decor websites to find the colors that will look best.

Finish

The finish you want on the cabinet is also an important point to weigh in and should be selected in conjunction with the color. For instance, you can go for a high satin finish or a glossy look if your unit is metal-made and can reflect the color well.

Conversely, you can try a muted, matte finish on wooden cupboards to add a sophisticated charm to the interiors. While thinking about the finish, also ensure that it blends perfectly with the existing decor.

Formula

It’s essential to note the formula of the paint, especially if you’ve children or pets at home. That being said, some colors release toxic fumes and VOCs and are not safe for using indoors. Also, if you’ve allergic tendencies, make sure that the product you buy is labeled hypoallergenic and does not contain toxic components.

Verdict

As a homeowner, you may want to change the kitchen decor, but if you’re on a tight budget, painting the cabinets is an excellent place to start. Just add a coat of your favorite color, and your kitchen cabinets look as good as new.

On that note, we have come to the end of this brief and informative guide, and we hope you could find an ideal option from among our all-star selection.

But before signing off, let’s go for a quick recap. The Rust-Oleum 263231 Cabinet Transformations is the best overall, while the INSL-X CC550109A-01 Cabinet Coat Enamel offers superb coverage. Other than that, the Shabby Chic Chalk Furniture Paint is the best low maintenance option, and the Sinopia All Natural Artisanal Milk Paint is the most eco-friendly alternative.

Let us know in the comments section below if you agree with our verdict.

Till next time, keep adding color!

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