Painting cabinets is a logical step in a cost-effectivebathroom revival project.
Few things can transform a space as easily as a cabinet upgrade.
Basics of Painting Bathroom Cabinets
Wood bathroom cabinets are the easiest to paint.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Moving between similar materials is usually the best path to success with this project.
If you’re free to remove the bathroom cabinets, your task will be much easier.
You will not have to worry about the paint overlapping on walls or spilling on the counter or floor.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Even if you cannot remove the cabinet, you should be able to remove the cabinet doors.
However, oil-based paint takes longer to dry, and thepaint toolsmust be cleaned up with chemical solvents.
Water-based (latex) paint dries quickly and can be cleaned up with water.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Use a semi-gloss, satin, or gloss paint; these are durable and easy to clean.
For durability and quality, look for a 100 percent acrylic enamel formula.
Warning
Oil-based paint should always be applied in an extremely well-ventilated area.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Preparation
Remove all objects from the cabinets and drawers.
Spread drop cloths around the work area to prevent getting paint on your floors.
Place a small piece of painter’s tape on the interior of each cabinet door and drawer.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Label each piece to identify which cabinet it belongs to.
Use a screwdriver or drill to remove the doors and hinges from the cabinets.
Remove the drawers, then remove the drawer fronts from the drawer boxes, if possible.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
If removal is not possible, leave the fronts attached and mask off the fronts from the boxes.
If you’re painting the cabinet interiors, clean those as well.
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is an effective, inexpensive solution.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Some communities ban TSP and other phosphate-based soaps.
Patch and Sand
Inspect the cabinet boxes, doors, and drawers for nicks and dings.
Use a putty knife and wood putty to repair any damage.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Smooth the putty with the knife and allow it to dry, then sand it smooth.
Lightly sand the outside of the cabinets as well as the doors and drawer fronts, using 220-grit sandpaper.
This will help the primer and paint adhere to the surface.
Wipe down the surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust.
For a really clean surface, wipe again with a tack cloth after the cabinets dry.
Tip
Be especially diligent in sanding the indentations in door panels and around any trim.
The goal is to roughen all surfaces to accept paint.
Don’t forget to paint the edges of the cabinet doors.
Allow the primer to dry completely, as directed by the manufacturer.
Latex paint will adhere well over oil-based primer.
If you are using water-based paint, use a synthetic paintbrush or a sprayer.
Oil-based paints require a natural bristle brush or a sprayer.
This may be one week or more.This allows the finish to hardenbefore the cabinets are returned to normal use.
Reassemble the Cabinets
Reattach the old hardware or attach new hardware.
Slide the drawers back in place.
Healthy Indoor Painting Practices.
