Learn the Best Way to Paint the Inside of Kitchen Cabinets

Painting the Inside of Kitchen Cabinets

Painting the inside of your kitchen cabinets can add extra character to your kitchen. You can add contrast with a different color or make it more uniform with the same color as the exterior cabinets. Read on to learn the best way to paint the inside of kitchen cabinets.

Should you paint the inside of your kitchen cabinets?

This is a personal choice. If the cabinet doors are clear, you can add extra color by painting the inside of your cabinets. Some homeowners like the uniform color of matching the interior to the exterior. It also depends if you are refurbishing older cabinets and the inside is a different color than the outside.

How do you paint unfinished cabinets?

A lot of prep work is involved in painting your cabinets’ interior. From removing hardware, clearing the shelves, sanding, and cleaning, definitely allow yourself time for this paint project.

Can you paint the inside of the kitchen drawers?

Yes, you can paint inside your drawers! The same prep and paint method applies to interior cabinet painting, which we discuss the steps in detail later on.

What kind of paint do you use for inside kitchen cabinets?

Benjamin Moore ADVANCE Interior paint produces professional, long-lasting results. ADVANCE can be purchased at any Wallauer store or by visiting wallauer.com.

What kind of primer should you use?

Wallauer paint experts suggest Benjamin Moore STIX Waterborne Bonding Primer. It is a premium-quality bonder that adheres to the most challenging surfaces.

What color/shade combinations should you consider?

When choosing a paint color for the inside of your cabinets, there are many factors to consider. If the inside is visible, try a contrasting or complementary color to the exterior cabinet door. Or take your kitchen decor and theme into consideration and pull a color from your palette.

The steps to painting the inside of kitchen cabinets.

1. Remove all objects from drawers from cabinets.

Make sure your cabinets and drawers are clear of clutter and lay drop clothes over the floor and countertops for protection and easier cleanup.

2. Remove doors and hardware.

Place screws and handles in a safe place so you do not lose any pieces.

3. Clean and prep.

Clean the inside of your cabinets and drawers thoroughly with warm soapy water and damp rags. Use a degreaser if your cabinets are old to remove oil and grease. Let dry completely.

4. Prime inside cabinets and drawers.

There are two ways to prime the interior of your drawers and cabinets. We suggest a 4 to 6-inch roller on larger, flat areas. Use a paintbrush to cover hard-to-reach spaces like corners or crevices. You can also use a paint sprayer.

5. Paint.

After the primer is dry, you can use the same tools you used to prime (after you clean them, of course). Spraying offers a uniform finish; you do not have to worry about paint brush marks. Let dry, and apply a second coat.

6. Allow kitchen cabinets to cure.

If using Benjamin Moore’s ADVANCE, the optimal cure time is three to five days before you can put everything back on your shelves and inside drawers.

Remember to never over-paint, and keep your workspace clean and open to airflow. You can always speak to a Wallauer paint and color expert to help with your kitchen project.