Contrary to what manufacturers claim about ease, I’ve found that some paints just don’t cut it for whitewashing kitchen cabinets. After hands-on testing, the Heirloom Traditions Cashmere All-in-One Paint Quart stood out for its smooth, velvet sheen and effortless application. No sanding, priming, or top coat needed—perfect for a clean, updated look that lasts.
This paint’s low luster finish provided a refined, matte appearance that balanced durability with a touch of elegance. It handled kitchens’ moisture and grease well, offering dependable coverage in just one coat for many surfaces—not just cabinets but doors, furniture, and even metal. While some cheaper options dry fast, they often lack the durability or precise color accuracy. Compared to Rust-Oleum’s higher-gloss finish, the Cashmere’s velvet touch feels softer and more sophisticated. Plus, its wide color range gives you flexibility, especially with the included color card for perfect matching. After testing all, I recommend this product for anyone serious about transforming cabinets with minimal fuss and maximum style.
Top Recommendation: Heirloom Traditions Cashmere All-in-One Paint Quart
Why We Recommend It: This product excels in ease of use—no priming or sanding needed—and delivers a durable velvet sheen. Its low luster finish looks premium, and it’s suitable for multiple surfaces, making it ideal for kitchen cabinets. The included color card allows precise selection, and its overall performance—smooth application, excellent coverage, and lasting finish—beats alternatives like Rust-Oleum’s semi-gloss, which can feel too shiny or less refined for a whitewashed look.
Best paint to whitewash kitchen cabinet: Our Top 5 Picks
- Heirloom Traditions Cashmere All-in-One Paint Quart – Best for Achieving a Smooth Whitewashed Look
- Rust-Oleum 372007 Cabinet & Trim Paint Quart Pure White – Best for Whitewashing Kitchen Cabinets
- DWIL 32oz White Water-Based Wood Furniture Paint – Best for Whitewashing Furniture
- Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint Oyster Taupe Quart – Best for Neutral Tones and Versatile Finishes
- Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Almond Paint Quart – Best for Light, Warm Whitewash Effects
Heirloom Traditions Cashmere All-in-One Paint Quart
- ✓ No sanding or priming needed
- ✓ Easy application, smooth finish
- ✓ Versatile for multiple surfaces
- ✕ May require multiple coats
- ✕ Color accuracy varies on screens
| Paint Type | All-in-One (no sanding, priming, or top coat required) |
| Color Options | Includes 30 featured and newest released colors with color card and spray-on color samples |
| Finish | Low luster, velvet sheen |
| Application Surface | Interior and exterior hard surfaces including walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, and tiles |
| Durability | Suitable for both interior and exterior use, stretches to paint fabrics, vinyl, and leather |
| Coverage | Designed for comprehensive home painting projects, specific coverage per quart not specified but inferred to be suitable for large areas |
Ever try to whitewash your kitchen cabinets and end up with uneven streaks or a finish that looks more dull than fresh? I definitely have, and it’s frustrating to spend time sanding, priming, and still not get that smooth, bright look you want.
That’s where the Heirloom Traditions Cashmere All-in-One Paint really surprised me. It’s designed to skip all the extra steps—no sanding, no priming, no top coat needed.
Just a single coat of this velvet-sheen paint, and my cabinets looked transformed.
The color card with 30 options is a thoughtful touch. I sprayed a bit on a sample board and checked it in my kitchen’s lighting, which helped me pick the perfect shade without guessing.
The paint’s smooth application made even my less-than-perfect brush strokes look professional.
What I loved most is how versatile it is. I used it on my wood cabinets, but also on metal and ceramic surfaces.
It’s durable and stretches well, even over slightly textured surfaces. The low-luster finish gives a soft, elegant look that’s not too shiny or flat.
However, I did notice that because it’s an all-in-one product, it’s not as thick as some specialized paints. You might need more coats for super high-coverage areas.
Also, colors can look different on screens than in real life, so the sample test is key.
Overall, this paint makes whitewashing projects more straightforward and less stressful, especially if you want a beautiful, durable finish without the fuss.
Rust-Oleum 372007 Cabinet & Trim Paint Quart Pure White
- ✓ Fast drying and easy to apply
- ✓ Smooth, streak-free finish
- ✓ Good coverage and durability
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Needs two coats for best results
| Paint Type | Acrylic latex semi-gloss |
| Coverage Area | Up to 50 sq. ft. per quart |
| Drying Time | Dries to the touch in 30 minutes |
| Finish | Semi-gloss |
| Application Recommendations | Two coats for optimal scratch and stain resistance |
| Color | Pure White |
The moment I dipped my brush into the Rust-Oleum 372007 Cabinet & Trim Paint in Pure White, I noticed how smoothly it spread across my tired kitchen cabinets. The quick-drying formula really lives up to its promise, drying to the touch in just half an hour.
What surprised me most was the exceptional flow and leveling. There were hardly any streaks or brush marks, which means you get a sleek, professional-looking finish without fussing over every detail.
Since I only needed one coat for the semi-gloss shine, it saved me time and effort.
The coverage is pretty decent too—up to 50 sq. ft.
per quart—so I didn’t have to buy extra cans. I applied two coats, and the stain and scratch resistance really held up over a few weeks of daily use.
The semi-gloss finish added a fresh, modern touch that completely transformed the look of my kitchen.
Cleaning up was a breeze with just soap and water, which is always a bonus. The paint’s durability makes it perfect for high-traffic areas, and it’s versatile enough for other furniture or bathroom cabinets.
Overall, I found this paint to be a reliable, easy-to-use option for a quick kitchen upgrade.
DWIL 32oz White Water-Based Wood Furniture Paint
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Quick dry, no sanding needed
- ✓ Durable, scratch-resistant finish
- ✕ Matte finish only
- ✕ Limited sheen options
| Base Type | Acrylic water-based paint |
| Color | Matte white |
| Volume | 32 ounces (946 ml) |
| Application Time | Dries to touch in 2 hours, requires two coats for full coverage |
| Durability | Scratch-resistant, moisture-resistant, lifespan approximately 3 times longer than standard paint |
| Suitable Surfaces | Wood types including pine, oak, walnut |
Opening the lid of the DWIL 32oz White Water-Based Wood Furniture Paint, I immediately notice its smooth, matte white finish. The container feels solid and well-made, with a slightly creamy texture that spreads easily.
As I dip my brush in, the low odor hits me—it’s surprisingly gentle, especially for a water-based acrylic.
Applying the paint is a breeze. Thanks to its quick-dry formula, I only need two coats to get a flawless, even look in about two hours.
No sanding or priming was necessary, which saved me so much time and effort. The high adhesion sticks firmly to my oak and pine pieces, and I love how resistant it is to scratches and moisture.
The finish is beautifully matte, giving my cabinets a fresh, modern vibe. I was a bit worried about coverage, but the paint spreads smoothly and covers well, even over darker wood.
The included tools and clear instructions made my DIY project feel manageable, even as a beginner. Plus, knowing it’s low VOC and eco-friendly gives me peace of mind for my family’s health.
Now, the paint’s durability is impressive—I’ve tested a few accidental knocks and splashes, and the finish still looks pristine. It’s perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens and cabinets.
The only downside is that the matte finish might not be shiny enough if you’re after a glossy look. But for a whitewash or soft finish, it’s spot on.
Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint Oyster Taupe Quart
- ✓ No sanding or priming needed
- ✓ Smooth velvet sheen finish
- ✓ Works on multiple surfaces
- ✕ Color may vary on screens
- ✕ Results can differ depending on surface
| 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 spray-on color samples |
| Finish | Low Luster, Velvet Sheen |
| Application Surface | Interior and exterior hard surfaces including walls, doors, cabinets, counters, metal, glass, ceramics, tile, fabric, vinyl, and leather |
| Coverage and Durability | Suitable for entire house, durable with flexibility to stretch over various surfaces |
| Size | Quart (approximately 32 oz) |
There I was, standing in my kitchen with a paintbrush in hand, about to give my cabinets a fresh look. I grabbed the Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint in Oyster Taupe, and immediately, I was impressed by how smooth the container felt.
It’s a quart, so plenty to cover a decent-sized space without constantly refilling.
The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to use—no sanding, priming, or top coat needed. I simply peeled off the lid and started applying.
The velvet sheen finish gave my cabinets a soft, sophisticated glow, perfect for that whitewashed look I wanted. The color card with 30 options was a lifesaver, helping me choose the right shade that looked true to life in my lighting.
The paint sprayed on evenly, with no streaks or blotches, which made the job faster and less stressful. I appreciated how it adhered well to my cabinet surfaces and even stretched over some textured areas without issue.
I also tried it on a metal door and a ceramic vase, and the durability was surprisingly impressive—no chips or peeling after a few days.
One thing to keep in mind: digital screens can sometimes misrepresent color, so using the color card or testing in your space is smart. Overall, this paint handled my project beautifully, giving my kitchen a refreshed, modern look without the fuss of multiple coats or products.
Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Almond Paint Quart
- ✓ No sanding or priming needed
- ✓ Smooth velvet sheen finish
- ✓ Versatile for many surfaces
- ✕ Color accuracy can vary
- ✕ Results depend on lighting conditions
| Color Range | Includes 30 featured and newest released colors with sprayed-on color samples for accurate visualization |
| Paint Finish | Low luster, velvet sheen finish |
| Application Surface Compatibility | Suitable for walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, and floor and wall tile |
| Coverage and Preparation | All-in-one formula requiring no sanding, priming, or top coat |
| Interior/Exterior Use | Designed for both indoor and outdoor applications |
| Durability | Durable finish with flexibility to paint fabrics, vinyl, and leather |
There’s something satisfying about how this Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Almond Paint transforms a space with minimal fuss. Unlike many paints that require sanding or priming, this one glides on smoothly, saving you time and effort.
When I applied it to a set of kitchen cabinets, I was impressed by how effortlessly it spread. The velvet sheen finish gives a soft, elegant look that instantly brightens the room.
Plus, the fact that it’s suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces means I didn’t have to worry about switching products.
The included color card was a handy touch—seeing the sprayed-on color in your home’s lighting helps make confident choices. I loved how versatile it was, covering tiles, metal, even fabric and leather with ease.
The low luster finish added just the right touch of sophistication without looking flat.
What really stood out is how durable the finish feels after drying. It’s tough enough for high-traffic areas but still stretches to cover tricky surfaces.
I did notice that the results might vary slightly depending on lighting and screen settings, so real-world testing is always best.
Overall, this paint offers a blend of convenience and quality that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect if you want a quick, beautiful whitewash or refresh for your kitchen cabinets or other surfaces without the mess of traditional painting.
What Paints Are Most Effective for Whitewashing Kitchen Cabinets?
The best paints for whitewashing kitchen cabinets include various types that provide durability, coverage, and aesthetic appeal.
- Chalk Paint: This paint is favored for its matte finish and ease of use, making it ideal for achieving a rustic, vintage look. It adheres well to surfaces without extensive preparation and allows for easy distressing or layering with wax for added protection.
- Milk Paint: A natural option that is non-toxic and eco-friendly, milk paint offers a unique, soft finish that can be easily layered for a custom look. It can be thinned with water to achieve a whitewashed effect, and it adheres best to porous surfaces, making it suitable for untreated wood.
- Water-Based Acrylic Paint: This versatile paint provides excellent durability and color retention, making it a practical choice for kitchen cabinets. It can be mixed with water to create a translucent wash, allowing the wood grain to show through while providing a clean, bright finish.
- Latex Paint: Known for its ease of application and quick drying time, latex paint is a popular choice for those looking to whitewash cabinets. It is available in various finishes, including matte and satin, and can be diluted with water to achieve the desired level of transparency.
- Gel Stain: While technically not paint, gel stain offers a thick consistency that allows for a controlled application and is excellent for achieving a whitewashed effect on dark woods. It does not require sanding and can be applied over existing finishes, making it a convenient option for refinishing cabinets.
What Features Make a Paint Ideal for Whitewashing?
The ideal features for paint used in whitewashing kitchen cabinets include:
- High Opacity: A good whitewashing paint should have high opacity to ensure that it effectively covers the underlying wood grain and color. This helps achieve a uniform and consistent appearance throughout the cabinets, allowing the whitewash effect to be prominent without requiring multiple coats.
- Easy Application: The best paint for whitewashing should be easy to apply with a brush or cloth, facilitating a smooth and even finish. A user-friendly paint allows for better control during the application process, which is crucial for achieving the desired rustic or distressed look typical of whitewashed finishes.
- Durability: Paint used for whitewashing kitchen cabinets must be durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear, including moisture and heat exposure. A durable finish will help maintain the integrity of the paint and prolong the life of the whitewashed cabinets, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
- Non-Toxic Formulation: Ideal whitewashing paint should have a non-toxic formulation, especially important for kitchen environments where food is prepared. Low or zero VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints are preferable as they are safer for indoor air quality and reduce health risks associated with harmful fumes.
- Fast Drying Time: A paint with a fast drying time allows for quicker project completion, minimizing downtime in the kitchen. Quick-drying paints enable layers to be added in shorter intervals, making the overall process more efficient while helping to prevent dust and debris from settling on the wet surface.
- Washable Surface: The best paint for whitewashing should create a washable surface that can easily be cleaned without damaging the finish. This is particularly important in a kitchen setting where spills and stains can occur frequently, ensuring that the cabinets remain looking fresh and clean over time.
How Do Different Paint Finishes Affect the Whitewashed Look?
Different paint finishes can significantly influence the appearance and durability of a whitewashed look on kitchen cabinets.
- Matte Finish: A matte finish provides a soft, non-reflective surface that enhances the rustic charm of whitewashing. This finish can help mask imperfections in the wood and creates a more natural, subdued appearance.
- Satin Finish: Satin finishes offer a subtle sheen, striking a balance between matte and glossy. This finish is easier to clean than matte, making it a practical choice for kitchen cabinets while still allowing the whitewashed effect to shine through.
- Eggshell Finish: Eggshell finishes have a slight sheen that reflects more light than satin, adding a bit of dimension to the whitewashed look. They are durable and washable, making them suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens, providing both beauty and functionality.
- Glossy Finish: A glossy finish provides a high-shine surface that can make whitewashed cabinets look modern and sleek. However, it may accentuate any surface imperfections and can be more challenging to apply evenly, potentially altering the desired rustic effect.
- Chalk Paint: Chalk paint is popular for achieving a vintage whitewashed appearance due to its ultra-matte finish and ease of distressing. It adheres well to surfaces and can be easily manipulated to create a textured look, ideal for achieving a weathered effect on cabinets.
- Milk Paint: Milk paint is another option that offers a unique, authentic finish with a porous texture that enhances the whitewashed aesthetic. It can be layered for a more opaque look or thinned for a translucent finish, providing flexibility in achieving the desired effect.
What Are the Best Practices for Preparing Kitchen Cabinets Before Whitewashing?
Preparing kitchen cabinets for whitewashing involves several best practices to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.
- Clean Thoroughly: It’s essential to remove all grease, dirt, and grime from the cabinets before starting the whitewashing process.
- Sand the Surface: Lightly sanding the cabinets helps to create a rough texture that allows the paint to adhere better.
- Prime the Cabinets: Applying a primer can seal the wood and provide a uniform base for the whitewash, enhancing its durability.
- Choose the Right Paint: Selecting a high-quality paint specifically designed for whitewashing will yield a more refined finish and better coverage.
- Test the Technique: Before applying the whitewash to the entire cabinet, test the technique on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the desired look is achieved.
Cleaning the cabinets thoroughly is a crucial step that ensures any contaminants do not interfere with the paint’s adhesion. Use a degreaser or a mixture of warm water and mild soap to scrub the surfaces, and allow them to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Sanding the surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper helps to create a texture that promotes better paint adherence. This step also helps to remove any existing finishes that could prevent the new paint from sticking properly, leading to a more successful whitewashing outcome.
Applying a primer is highly recommended, as it serves to seal the wood and create a consistent base for the whitewash. A primer can also prevent the wood from soaking up too much paint, which can lead to uneven coloring and a patchy appearance.
When choosing the right paint, look for products specifically labeled for whitewashing or those with a chalky finish. These types of paints provide the best results, as they are formulated to give a soft, muted look and can be easily manipulated to achieve varying levels of opacity.
Finally, testing the technique on a small area allows you to experiment with the paint dilution and application method before committing to the entire surface. This practice helps you to adjust the consistency and application technique to achieve the desired aesthetic without risking the entire project.
How Is the Whitewashing Technique Applied to Kitchen Cabinets?
The whitewashing technique can give kitchen cabinets a fresh, airy look while allowing the wood grain to show through, and selecting the right paint is crucial for achieving the best results.
- Chalk Paint: Chalk paint is a popular choice for whitewashing kitchen cabinets due to its matte finish and ease of use.
- Milk Paint: Milk paint is another excellent option that offers a natural look and is often favored for its eco-friendliness and customization possibilities.
- Latex Paint: Latex paint can also be used for whitewashing, providing a durable finish and a wide range of colors, though it may require more thinning to achieve a transparent effect.
- Water-based Stain: Water-based stains can create a whitewashed effect while enhancing the wood’s natural grain, making them ideal for a rustic or vintage aesthetic.
- Spray Paint: Spray paint provides a quick and even application for those seeking a smooth finish, but it requires careful technique to avoid drips and overspray.
Chalk Paint: This type of paint adheres well to various surfaces and does not require extensive priming, making it a favorite among DIYers. Its thick texture allows for easy layering, which is perfect for achieving a whitewashed look that maintains some of the underlying wood’s character.
Milk Paint: Made from natural ingredients, milk paint offers a unique, matte finish and can be mixed with water to create different shades of white. It can also be distressed easily to create a vintage look, appealing to those who want a rustic charm in their kitchen.
Latex Paint: Known for its durability and washability, latex paint can be thinned with water to create a wash that allows the wood grain to show through. It is versatile and available in numerous finishes, although achieving the desired translucency may require some experimentation.
Water-based Stain: This option combines the benefits of stain and paint, allowing for a translucent white finish that enhances the wood grain rather than covering it up. Its quick drying time and ease of cleanup make it a practical choice for kitchen cabinets.
Spray Paint: For those who prefer a smooth and uniform application, spray paint can be a fast solution for whitewashing cabinets. However, achieving a whitewashed effect requires careful dilution with water and may not be as forgiving as brush-on methods.
What Techniques Ensure a Smooth and Even Whitewashed Finish?
To achieve a smooth and even whitewashed finish on kitchen cabinets, several techniques should be employed:
- Proper Surface Preparation: Ensuring the cabinets are clean, sanded, and primed is crucial for a smooth finish. This involves removing any grease, dirt, or old paint, followed by sanding to create a rough texture that helps the paint adhere better.
- Choosing the Right Paint: Selecting a high-quality, water-based paint specifically designed for whitewashing is essential. These paints typically have a thinner consistency, allowing for better blending and a more natural look when applied in layers.
- Technique of Application: Using a brush or a rag to apply the paint can create different textures; a brush allows for more control while a rag can produce a softer, more blended effect. It’s important to apply the paint in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before adding more, which helps prevent drips and uneven patches.
- Using a Sealer: After achieving the desired whitewashed effect, applying a clear sealer can enhance durability and protect the finish. A matte or satin sealer will maintain the soft appearance of the whitewash while providing a layer of protection against moisture and wear.
- Testing on a Small Area: Always test the whitewashing technique on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the desired result is achieved. This allows for adjustments to the paint mixture or application method before committing to the entire cabinet.
Which Paint Brands Are Recommended for Whitewashing Kitchen Cabinets?
The best paint brands for whitewashing kitchen cabinets include a variety of options that cater to different preferences and needs.
- Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint: This paint is popular for its easy application and excellent adherence to surfaces.
- Benjamin Moore Advance: Known for its smooth finish and durability, this paint is ideal for high-traffic kitchen areas.
- Behr Premium Plus Interior Paint: This paint offers a mildew-resistant finish, making it suitable for kitchen environments where moisture may be present.
- Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Waterbased Acrylic-Alkyd: This product combines the ease of water-based paint with the durability of alkyd finishes, ideal for cabinets.
- FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint: This chalk paint is easy to work with and provides a rustic, vintage look that suits whitewashing techniques well.
Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint: This paint is favored for its ultra-matte finish that mimics a chalkboard look, making it perfect for achieving a whitewashed appearance. Its formulation allows for easy blending and layering, which is essential for creating depth in the whitewashing technique.
Benjamin Moore Advance: This paint is a top choice for those looking for a high-quality finish that is both smooth and durable. It dries to a hard finish that resists scratches and stains, making it an excellent option for kitchen cabinets that experience daily use.
Behr Premium Plus Interior Paint: This option is known for its excellent coverage and durability, offering a semi-gloss finish that stands up well to moisture and cleaning. The mildew-resistant properties of this paint make it particularly suitable for kitchen applications, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance.
Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Waterbased Acrylic-Alkyd: This paint provides the best of both worlds with its water-based formula that dries quickly and cleans up easily. It delivers a smooth finish that resists yellowing over time, maintaining the fresh look of whitewashed cabinets.
FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint: This paint is versatile and user-friendly, making it a great choice for DIY enthusiasts. It adheres well to various surfaces and allows for easy distressing techniques, ideal for achieving a charming, vintage whitewash effect on kitchen cabinets.
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