Nothing transforms a space like freshly painted kitchen or bathroom cabinets. If you’re looking to update your home without going full-on renovation mode, painting your cabinets is a total game-changer.
You might be thinking, “Paint is paint, right? What’s the big deal?” Well, if you’re aiming for a smooth, long-lasting finish that stands up to grease, water, and daily wear, the type of paint you use matters big time.
In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between cabinet paint and regular paint, and give you the inside scoop on what will work best for your dream kitchen or fresh bathroom remodel.
What Makes Cabinet Paint Special?
When you’re painting your cabinets, you need a paint that can stand up to heavy use. Cabinet paint is specifically designed to handle the wear and tear that cabinets go through on a daily basis.
Your cabinets are opened and closed countless times, they’re exposed to moisture, grease, and fingerprints, and they need to look good while standing up to the hustle.
Here’s why cabinet paint should be your first choice:
Durability
Cabinet paint is formulated with resins and binders that are designed to resist scratches, chipping, and moisture. Unlike regular wall paint, cabinet paint is made for high-traffic areas that get a lot of action.
Smooth, Professional Finish
Cabinet paint is known for its smooth, glossy finish that’s easy to clean. This is a big deal, especially for kitchen cabinets paint or bathroom cabinets paint, since you don’t want them looking dull and uneven. With cabinet paint, you’ll get a professional-quality result that’s as close to flawless as you can get.
Self-Leveling
One of the best features of cabinet paint is its self-leveling properties. This means it spreads out evenly, reducing brush marks and leaving a smooth finish even if you’re not a pro painter.
The Lowdown on Regular Paint for Cabinets
Sometimes regular paint seems like an easy option. It’s cheaper, it’s widely available, and you probably have some leftover paint from your living room project. So, can you use it for cabinets?
Well, you can, but there are some trade-offs.
Here’s what you need to know about using regular paint for cabinets:
- Not Built for Heavy Use: Regular paint doesn’t have the same durability as cabinet paint. While it might look nice at first, it can chip, scratch, or peel much faster, especially in high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
- Finish Issues: Regular paint often doesn’t provide the smooth, glossy finish that you want on cabinets. Instead, it can look uneven or chalky, especially after a few months of use.
- Not Ideal for Cleaning: Over time, regular paint tends to show fingerprints and stains more easily, making it harder to keep your cabinets looking fresh. If you’re looking for something that stands up to daily wear and tear, regular paint probably won’t do the trick.
Also Read: How Much Does Painting A House Cost
Key Differences Between Cabinet Paint and Regular Paint
Here’s a quick look at how cabinet paint stacks up against regular paint in terms of key features:
| Feature | Cabinet Paint | Regular Paint |
| Durability | High, designed for heavy use | Lower, can chip and scratch easily |
| Finish | Smooth, glossy, and easy to clean | It may look uneven, harder to clean |
| Self-Leveling | Yes, creates a flawless finish | No, it can leave visible brush strokes |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Best For | Kitchen & bathroom cabinets | Walls, ceilings, or low-traffic areas |
How to Choose the Right Cabinet Paint for Your Project
Let’s talk about choosing the right kind for your project.
- Finish: Most cabinet paints come in a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish. These finishes are ideal because they offer a shiny, durable surface that’s easy to wipe clean. If you want a less glossy look, some paints offer a satin finish that’s still durable but not as shiny.
- Type of Paint: You’ll find both oil-based and water-based (latex) cabinet paints. Water-based paints are generally easier to work with, dry faster, and are easier to clean up, but oil-based paints tend to provide a smoother, harder finish.
- Color Options: When it comes to color, the sky’s the limit. Whether you want a bold pop of color or a more neutral, classic look, there’s a wide range of shades and tones available. Make sure to test a sample color on a small area of your cabinet before committing to the full job.
Are You Ready to Give Your Cabinets a Fresh Look?
Choosing between cabinet paint and regular paint is an easy decision when you consider the durability and finish of cabinet-specific paint. It’s the best option for anyone looking to achieve a professional and long-lasting look for their kitchen or bathroom cabinets.
If you’re ready to update your cabinets and want a high-quality, smooth finish, get in touch with Lian Painting. We’re here to bring your vision to life and make sure your cabinets stand the test of time.
Contact today for a free consultation and let’s start your project off on the right foot!
