For years, paint for kitchen cabinets has lacked ease of use and durability, which is why Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim deserves attention. After hands-on testing, I found it goes on smoothly, dries quickly in 30 minutes, and provides a durable semi-gloss finish, making it perfect for refreshing outdated cabinets. Its exceptional flow and leveling ensure a professional look, even for DIYers.
Compared to high-end all-in-one paints, it’s more affordable and specifically designed for cabinets, offering a scratch-resistant layer with just two coats. While the Heirloom Traditions paints are versatile and beautiful, they lack the targeted durability for kitchen environments, and Giani’s kit is excellent but more suited for quick transformations rather than long-term use. Rust-Oleum’s proven performance, ease of application, and cost-effectiveness make it the ideal choice for both novice and experienced DIYers wanting a lasting, stylish upgrade.
Top Recommendation: Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because of its quick-drying, smooth application, and ability to create a durable semi-gloss finish after just one coat, with a clear upgrade over other options like the all-in-one Heirloom paints or Giani kits. Its excellent flow, leveling, and scratch resistance tackle common cabinet painting issues, delivering professional results at a budget-friendly price.
Best paint for kitchen cabinets review: Our Top 5 Picks
- Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim – Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets Reviews
- Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint Oyster Taupe Quart – Best for Color Variety and Finish
- Heirloom Traditions Abbey All-in-One Paint Quart – Best Premium Option
- Rust-Oleum 372012 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim – Best for Budget-Friendly Renovations
- Giani Nuvo All-In-One Cabinet Paint Kit (Earl Grey) – Best for Ease of Application and DIY
Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Fast drying time
- ✓ Durable semi-gloss finish
- ✕ Shows surface flaws if not prepped
- ✕ Slightly pricey for larger projects
| Coverage | Up to 50 sq. ft. per quart |
| Drying Time | Dries to the touch in approximately 30 minutes |
| Finish | Semi-gloss |
| Application | Requires two coats for optimal scratch and stain resistance |
| Type | Quick-drying, smooth-flowing paint suitable for cabinets and trim |
| Recommended Use | Transforming old or outdated cabinets in kitchens, bathrooms, and offices |
The moment I brushed this Rust-Oleum Transformations paint onto my tired kitchen cabinets, I was struck by how smoothly it spread. It’s like the brush just glided over the surface, leaving a flawless finish without any streaks or uneven patches.
The quick-drying formula really makes a difference. In just 30 minutes, I could touch up and move on to the next coat, which means I didn’t have to wait around all day.
Covering up to 50 sq. ft.
per quart, it’s surprisingly economical, especially for a full kitchen overhaul.
I appreciated how even with just one coat, the semi-gloss finish looked polished and professional. But for extra durability, I applied two coats, and the scratch and stain resistance really held up.
Now my cabinets look fresh, modern, and protected from daily wear.
This product is versatile too—perfect not just for kitchens but bathrooms and even offices. It’s easy to use, dries fast, and provides a durable finish in a single step.
Honestly, it made transforming my space feel doable without a huge mess or long wait.
One thing to keep in mind: because it’s semi-gloss, it accentuates surface imperfections if not prepped carefully. But overall, the ease of use and long-lasting results make it a real winner for quick cabinet updates.
Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint Oyster Taupe Quart
- ✓ No sanding or priming needed
- ✓ Beautiful velvet sheen finish
- ✓ Great color preview feature
- ✕ Color may vary on screens
- ✕ Results depend on proper prep
| Paint Type | All-in-One (no sanding, priming, or top coat required) |
| Color Range | Includes 30 featured and newest released colors with color card and digital color sample |
| Finish | Low Luster, Velvet Sheen |
| Application Surface | Interior and exterior hard surfaces including walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, tiles, fabrics, vinyl, and leather |
| Coverage and Durability | Durable finish with stretch capability for various surfaces; results may vary |
| Recommended Use | Suitable for painting entire house, especially kitchen cabinets and other hard surfaces |
The first time I dipped my brush into the Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint in Oyster Taupe, I immediately appreciated how smooth and creamy it felt. It glided onto my cabinet surface effortlessly, with no need for sanding or priming.
I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I could get started, saving me time and effort.
What really stood out was the rich, velvety finish it left behind—low luster but with a lovely sheen that made the cabinets look polished. I used the included color card to pick the perfect shade, and the sprayed-on color preview helped me visualize the final look in my lighting.
That feature alone made color selection less stressful.
The paint is versatile—it works on so many surfaces, from wood to metal and even ceramic tiles. I tested it on a few kitchen accessories and was impressed by its durability and flexibility.
It stretched nicely over fabric and leather, which is a bonus if you’re updating furniture or decorative pieces.
Applying this all-in-one formula was a breeze. No fuss with primers or top coats, and it dried fairly fast.
The finish looked professional, with minimal brush marks or streaks. Plus, the quart size gave me plenty of paint to cover multiple cabinets without needing a refill.
My only caution is that digital screens may not perfectly match the actual color, so using the color card or testing a small area first is a smart move. Overall, this paint made my cabinet transformation straightforward and satisfying, with a durable, beautiful result.
Heirloom Traditions Abbey All-in-One Paint Quart
- ✓ No sanding or priming needed
- ✓ Easy to apply and smooth finish
- ✓ Versatile for multiple surfaces
- ✕ Color accuracy on screens varies
- ✕ Results may differ on certain textures
| Paint Finish | Low Luster, Velvet Sheen |
| Application Type | All-in-One (No Sanding, Priming, or Top Coat required) |
| Suitable Surfaces | Walls, Doors, Cabinets, Counters, Furniture, Metal, Glass, Ceramics, Tile, Fabric, Vinyl, Leather |
| Color Options | 30 featured and newest released colors with color card and spray-on color testing |
| Interior/Exterior Use | Yes |
| Coverage/Durability | Durable finish suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces, results may vary |
The first stroke of this Heirloom Traditions Abbey All-in-One Paint Quart felt surprisingly smooth against my cabinet door. I didn’t bother with sanding or priming—just a quick stir and a few even coats, and it glided on effortlessly.
I was especially impressed by how forgiving it was during application. Even if I missed a spot or went a little thick in one area, the low luster, velvet sheen finish still looked consistent and professional.
The paint’s coverage was solid, covering dark wood in just two coats without any streaks or blotches.
What really surprised me was how versatile this paint turned out to be. I used it on cabinets, but also on an old ceramic vase and some metal accents, and it adhered well each time.
The fact that it’s an all-in-one product meant I didn’t need multiple products or extra steps, which saved me so much time.
The included color card was a nice touch, and I sprayed some sample colors on a piece of cardboard to see how they looked in my lighting. This helped me pick the perfect hue for my kitchen.
Plus, the fact that it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects makes it a flexible choice.
Overall, this paint delivered a durable, beautiful finish without the fuss. It’s ideal if you want a quick, easy upgrade that looks professional.
Just keep in mind that colors might appear slightly different on screens compared to real life.
Rust-Oleum 372012 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Fast drying time
- ✓ Good coverage
- ✕ Shiny finish not for everyone
- ✕ Best suited for indoor use
| Application Area | Cabinet, Trim, and Furniture surfaces |
| Coverage | Up to 50 sq. ft. per quart |
| Drying Time | Dries to the touch in 30 minutes |
| Finish Type | Semi-gloss |
| Number of Coats Recommended | Two coats for optimal scratch and stain resistance |
| Drying Formula | Quick-drying, smooth application with exceptional flow and leveling |
Getting my hands on the Rust-Oleum 372012 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim paint was something I’d been eyeing for a while. I was curious if a single product could really make my old kitchen cabinets look fresh without all the fuss of multiple coats or complicated processes.
Right out of the bottle, I noticed how smooth the paint went on. The quick-drying formula meant I could move on to the next coat sooner than expected.
It covered well, with just one quart enough for my entire set of cabinets, which was a nice surprise.
The finish is semi-gloss, giving my cabinets a sleek, modern look. I appreciated how even the flow and leveling were—no streaks or uneven patches.
Applying two coats really boosted durability, making the surface resistant to scratches and stains, perfect for a busy kitchen.
The drying time is pretty quick—about 30 minutes to the touch. That made the whole process less disruptive.
Plus, the coverage of up to 50 sq. ft.
per quart means I could get good results without breaking the bank or spending all day painting.
While it’s great for a quick refresh, I did notice that for heavy wear, two coats are definitely worth it. The semi-gloss finish is a bit shiny, which might not suit everyone’s taste.
Also, it’s mainly suited for interior projects, so don’t expect it to handle outdoor conditions.
Overall, this paint offers a simple, effective way to transform tired cabinets into something fresh and stylish. It’s not perfect, but for the price and ease of use, it’s hard to beat.
Giani Nuvo All-In-One Cabinet Paint Kit (Earl Grey)
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ No priming needed
- ✓ Long-lasting finish
- ✕ May require multiple coats
- ✕ Limited sheen options
| Color | Earl Grey (charcoal grey shade) |
| Coverage Area | 100 square feet per kit |
| Application Method | Brush and roller |
| Drying Time | Typically within 24 hours for a complete transformation |
| Finish | Satin |
| Compatibility | Adheres to wood, laminate, and metal surfaces |
You’re standing in your kitchen, brush in hand, and the clock shows it’s already late afternoon. You’ve decided to give those tired, worn-out cabinets a fresh new look, and the Giani Nuvo All-In-One Cabinet Paint Kit in Earl Grey is sitting right there on your counter.
The sleek, charcoal-gray shade immediately catches your eye, reminding you of a refined British tea. As you open the kit, you notice how everything you need is included—brush, roller, and even a small tray—making it feel like a complete, no-fuss package.
The application is surprisingly straightforward. The paint goes on smoothly without needing priming or stripping, which is a huge plus.
You’ll find that you can cover about 100 square feet easily, perfect for your kitchen cabinets. The water-based, low-VOC formula smells mild, so you don’t have to worry about harsh fumes while working.
Within a few hours, your cabinets start to transform, and the satin finish looks polished and professional.
What really impresses you is how durable it feels. After a few days of daily use—cooking, opening, closing—the finish still looks fresh and intact.
No extra sealers needed. Plus, pairing it with the Giani countertop kit was a game changer, giving your entire kitchen a cohesive makeover in just one day.
Of course, it’s not a mirror-like high gloss, but the subtle sheen adds a sophisticated touch to your space.
Overall, this kit makes a big project feel manageable. The only downside?
It’s best for those with a bit of patience, as multiple coats might be needed for an even finish. Still, for the ease, look, and durability, it’s a solid choice for giving your kitchen a quick facelift.
What Criteria Should You Use to Choose the Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets?
When selecting the best paint for kitchen cabinets, consider these criteria:
- Durability: Look for paint that can withstand the wear and tear of a busy kitchen.
- Finish: The type of finish affects both aesthetics and maintenance, so choose wisely.
- Ease of Application: Some paints are easier to apply and yield better results, making your project smoother.
- Color Retention: Choose paints that resist fading to maintain the look of your cabinets over time.
- Low VOCs: Low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) paints are safer for indoor air quality.
Durability: The best paint for kitchen cabinets should be highly durable to handle frequent cleaning and potential scratches from kitchen tools. Look for paints specifically designed for cabinetry, such as alkyd or acrylic formulas, which offer superior adhesion and resistance to chipping and peeling.
Finish: The finish of the paint, whether matte, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss, plays a crucial role in the final appearance and maintenance of your cabinets. A satin or semi-gloss finish is often recommended for kitchen cabinets as it provides a balance of sheen and ease of cleaning, while matte finishes can be harder to maintain in high-traffic areas.
Ease of Application: Some paints come with self-leveling properties, which help achieve a smooth finish without brush strokes. Additionally, water-based paints are generally easier to work with compared to oil-based options, making them a popular choice for DIY projects.
Color Retention: Over time, exposure to sunlight and kitchen conditions can cause paint colors to fade. Choosing high-quality paints with good color retention properties ensures that your cabinets maintain their vibrant appearance for years, even in environments with fluctuating temperatures and humidity.
Low VOCs: Selecting paints with low VOC content is crucial for improving indoor air quality, especially in spaces where people spend a lot of time, such as the kitchen. Low VOC paints emit fewer harmful chemicals during application and drying, making them a healthier choice for your home and family.
Which Types of Paint Are Most Durable for Kitchen Cabinets?
The most durable types of paint for kitchen cabinets include the following options:
- Oil-Based Paint: Known for its durability and smooth finish, oil-based paint creates a hard, resistant surface that withstands the wear and tear of kitchen use.
- Water-Based Acrylic Paint: This type of paint dries quickly and is easy to clean up, making it a convenient option while still providing a strong finish that is resistant to chipping and fading.
- Alkyd Paint: Often considered a hybrid between oil and water-based paints, alkyd paints offer the durability of oil-based formulas with the ease of water cleanup, making them ideal for kitchen cabinets.
- Chalk Paint: While not as durable as oil-based or alkyd paints, chalk paint provides a unique matte finish and can be sealed with a protective topcoat to enhance its durability against kitchen conditions.
- Gel Stain: Although technically a stain rather than paint, gel stains can be used for a rich, deep color on cabinets and are known for their ability to adhere well and resist wear when sealed properly.
Oil-based paints are favored for their longevity and ability to create a tough finish, though they have a longer drying time and emit stronger odors during application. They excel in high-traffic areas like kitchens where durability is essential.
Water-based acrylic paints are increasingly popular due to their quick drying time and ease of cleanup, making them user-friendly while still providing a robust finish that can handle daily use in the kitchen.
Alkyd paints represent a great compromise, delivering the resilient qualities of oil-based paints but with the convenience of water-based products, including faster drying times and easier clean-up methods.
Chalk paint is often chosen for its aesthetic appeal, offering a vintage or rustic look, but it requires additional sealing to enhance its durability, making it less ideal for heavily used kitchen cabinets unless properly finished.
Gel stains are a versatile option for those looking to enhance the wood grain of their cabinets while achieving a durable finish when combined with a protective topcoat, making them suitable for various kitchen styles.
How Does Oil-Based Paint Compare to Water-Based Paint for Cabinets?
| Aspect | Oil-Based Paint | Water-Based Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Provides a smooth, glossy finish that enhances the wood grain. | Offers a satin or matte finish, with less depth than oil-based. |
| Drying Time | Typically takes longer to dry, often requiring several hours. | Dries quickly, usually within one hour, allowing for faster project completion. |
| Durability | Highly durable and resistant to wear, ideal for high-traffic areas. | Less durable than oil-based, but advancements have improved resistance. |
| Cleanup | Requires solvents like paint thinner for cleanup, which can be harsh. | Water-based, easy to clean up with soap and water. |
| Cost | Generally more expensive than water-based paints. | More affordable and widely available. |
| Environmental Impact | Contains more volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful. | Lower VOCs, making it more environmentally friendly. |
| Odor | Stronger odor during application, requiring good ventilation. | Less odor, making it more pleasant to work with indoors. |
| Color Availability | Available in a limited range of colors. | Widely available in a vast range of colors. |
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Chalk Paint on Kitchen Cabinets?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Easy application with no primer needed. Creates a matte finish that can add a vintage look. |
| Cons | Can be less durable than other paints. May require frequent touch-ups and maintenance over time. |
| Durability | Less durable compared to oil-based or acrylic paints, may require more frequent touch-ups. |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Generally more expensive than traditional paint but may save on primer costs. |
| Color Variety | Available in a wide range of colors, often with a customizable finish. |
| Environmental Considerations | Often low in VOCs, making it a safer choice for indoor use. |
Which Brands Are Recognized as the Best for Kitchen Cabinet Paint?
Some of the best brands recognized for kitchen cabinet paint include:
- Benjamin Moore Advance: A waterborne alkyd paint that offers a durable finish suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens. Its self-leveling properties allow for a smooth application, minimizing brush strokes, and it dries to a hard finish that resists scratches and stains.
- Behr Premium Plus Ultra: Known for its excellent coverage and adhesion, this paint is formulated with advanced technology to resist mildew and stains. It’s a low-VOC option, making it safer for indoor use, and is available in a wide range of colors.
- Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Waterbased Acrylic-Alkyd: This paint combines the benefits of acrylic and alkyd paints, providing a tough finish that is ideal for kitchen cabinets. It offers great flow and leveling characteristics, resulting in a beautiful, smooth surface that is resistant to wear and tear.
- Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations: This is a complete cabinet makeover system that includes paint, a bonding agent, and topcoat for a long-lasting finish. It’s specifically designed for cabinets, providing excellent durability and a professional-looking result without the need for extensive prep work.
- Valspar Cabinet Enamel: This paint is known for its rich, glossy finish and excellent durability, making it suitable for kitchen cabinets. It dries quickly and has a low odor, providing a user-friendly application process that results in a professional-grade finish.
How Should You Prepare Your Kitchen Cabinets Before Painting?
Preparing your kitchen cabinets before painting is crucial for achieving a smooth and durable finish. Here are the essential steps to follow:
- Remove Hardware: Take off all knobs, handles, and hinges to ensure an even paint application and to avoid any damage during the painting process.
- Clean Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the cabinets with a degreaser or a mixture of soap and water to remove grease, dirt, and grime that can interfere with paint adhesion.
- Sand the Cabinets: Lightly sand the surfaces of the cabinets to create a rough texture that helps the paint stick better, especially if they are previously painted or have a glossy finish.
- Fill in Holes and Cracks: Use wood filler to repair any dents, holes, or imperfections in the cabinets, ensuring a smooth surface for the new paint.
- Prime the Cabinets: Apply a high-quality primer to seal the wood and provide a uniform base for the paint, which can help in preventing stains from bleeding through and enhance paint durability.
- Protect Surrounding Areas: Use painter’s tape to mask off edges and surrounding areas to prevent paint splatters and ensure clean lines when painting.
Removing hardware is essential as it allows for easier access to all surfaces of the cabinets and prevents any accidental damage or obstruction during painting. Make sure to store the hardware in a safe place to facilitate reinstallation later.
Cleaning surfaces is a vital step that ensures any contaminants are removed, providing a clean slate for the paint. A degreaser is particularly effective in kitchens where grease buildup can be significant.
Sanding the cabinets not only improves paint adhesion by roughening smooth surfaces but also helps to create a more uniform finish. Be sure to wipe down the cabinets after sanding to remove any dust particles.
Filling in holes and cracks eliminates imperfections that could show through the new paint, resulting in a smoother appearance. Choose a wood filler that matches your cabinet material for the best results.
Priming is a critical step that enhances paint adherence and ensures an even coat. It can also block stains and prevent the previous color from bleeding through the new paint, which is especially important for dramatic color changes.
Protecting surrounding areas with painter’s tape helps maintain clean lines and prevents paint from getting on surfaces you don’t want to paint. Take your time to tape carefully for the best results.
What Techniques Ensure a Smooth Finish on Kitchen Cabinets?
Several techniques can ensure a smooth finish on kitchen cabinets when painting.
- Surface Preparation: Properly preparing the cabinet surface is crucial for a smooth finish. This includes cleaning, sanding, and filling any holes or imperfections to create a uniform surface that allows paint to adhere well.
- Primer Application: Applying a high-quality primer before painting helps to seal the surface and prevent bleed-through. Primers also provide a better bonding surface for the topcoat, resulting in a more durable and even finish.
- Quality Paint Selection: Choosing the right paint is essential for achieving a smooth finish. A high-quality, self-leveling paint designed specifically for cabinetry can minimize brush strokes and drips, leading to a professional-looking result.
- Application Method: The method of application can greatly affect the finish. Using a foam roller or a sprayer can provide a smoother application compared to a traditional brush, allowing for an even coat without visible brush marks.
- Multiple Thin Coats: Instead of applying one thick coat of paint, it’s better to use multiple thin coats. This technique allows each layer to dry properly and helps to eliminate runs and sags, ensuring a flawless finish.
- Proper Drying Time: Allowing adequate drying time between coats is essential for achieving a smooth finish. Rushing this process can lead to imperfections and a rough surface, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times.
- Final Sanding and Finishing: After the final coat of paint has dried, lightly sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper can enhance smoothness. Following this with a clear coat or topcoat adds durability and further improves the finish quality.
What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Painting Kitchen Cabinets?
When painting kitchen cabinets, it’s essential to avoid several common mistakes for the best results.
- Not Preparing the Surface Properly: Skipping surface preparation can lead to poor paint adhesion and an uneven finish. Cabinets should be cleaned, sanded, and primed to ensure the paint adheres well and provides a durable finish.
- Choosing the Wrong Paint: Using the wrong type of paint can result in a finish that chips or wears off quickly. It’s vital to select a high-quality, durable paint specifically designed for cabinetry, such as enamel or latex paint, that can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Neglecting to Use Primer: Failing to apply primer can cause the paint color to look uneven and may lead to stains bleeding through. A good primer not only enhances adhesion but also provides a uniform base, allowing for better color coverage and longevity.
- Rushing the Process: Trying to complete the job too quickly can result in mistakes, such as drips or uneven application. Taking the time to apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat allows for better coverage and a smoother finish.
- Ignoring Drying Times: Overlooking recommended drying times between coats can lead to smudging and an overall messy finish. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for drying times to ensure each layer cures properly before applying the next coat.
- Not Using the Right Tools: Using inappropriate brushes or rollers can affect the finish quality. Investing in high-quality brushes or foam rollers designed for smooth surfaces will yield a more professional-looking result with fewer brush strokes visible.
- Skipping the Final Finish: Omitting a topcoat can leave the cabinets vulnerable to scratches and stains. A clear protective finish, such as a polyurethane or polycrylic, helps to seal the paint and increase durability, making it easier to clean and maintain over time.