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Best Paint For Trim And Cabinets (2024 Update)

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If you're looking for the best paint for trim and cabinets, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. Firstly, it is important to choose a paint that is durable and long-lasting, as trim and cabinets receive a lot of wear and tear over time. Additionally, selecting a paint that is easy to clean and maintain is crucial, as cabinets and trim are often subject to spills and stains.

When shopping for paint, it's important to consider the type of surface you will be painting on. Different paints are suitable for different materials, so make sure to choose a paint that is specifically designed for use on trim and cabinets. Additionally, look for a paint that is low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), as this will ensure that the paint is safe to use and won't emit harmful fumes into your home.

If you're new to painting cabinets and trim, you may have a lot of questions about how to choose the best paint. For example, you may be wondering whether to choose a glossy or matte finish, or whether to opt for a paint with primer included. You may also be wondering about the best application methods for achieving a smooth, professional-looking finish. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can ensure that you choose the best paint for your needs and achieve stunning results for your home.

10 Best Paint For Trim And Cabinets

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for finishing various surfaces, including furniture, kitchen cabinets, walls, and trim with low VOC, water-based properties.
2
The product is ideal for painting cabinets and doors with a durable, washable, self-priming semi-gloss finish that is low VOC.
3
This interior paint is ideal for creating a bright, cool white finish on doors and trim with a 30% sheen.
4
This product is ideal for painting the interior cabinets and doors with a warm gray-beige color that leans towards taupe.
5
Ideal for painting cabinets and furniture, with built-in primer and top coat for a durable finish without sanding.
6
Ideal for painting premium cabinets and doors in a durable, washable, semi-gloss finish with a modern taupe color.
7
This touch-up paint is versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces both inside and outside the house.
8
This product is ideal for painting cabinets and doors with a semi-gloss, 30% sheen finish in a super light gray with blue undertones.
9
The product is ideal for painting and refreshing cabinets with a durable finish that resists chipping and fading.
10
Ideal for touch-up painting on cabinets, walls, windows, doors, and furniture; matches 90% of surface colors.
It is ideal for finishing various surfaces, including furniture, kitchen cabinets, walls, and trim with low VOC, water-based properties.
The product is ideal for painting cabinets and doors with a durable, washable, self-priming semi-gloss finish that is low VOC.
This interior paint is ideal for creating a bright, cool white finish on doors and trim with a 30% sheen.
This product is ideal for painting the interior cabinets and doors with a warm gray-beige color that leans towards taupe.
Ideal for painting cabinets and furniture, with built-in primer and top coat for a durable finish without sanding.
Ideal for painting premium cabinets and doors in a durable, washable, semi-gloss finish with a modern taupe color.
This touch-up paint is versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces both inside and outside the house.
This product is ideal for painting cabinets and doors with a semi-gloss, 30% sheen finish in a super light gray with blue undertones.
The product is ideal for painting and refreshing cabinets with a durable finish that resists chipping and fading.
Ideal for touch-up painting on cabinets, walls, windows, doors, and furniture; matches 90% of surface colors.

1. Real Milk Paint Gloss Sealer: Multi-Use Magic!

The Finishing Cream is a versatile water-based topcoat, perfect for providing a protective finish to wood surfaces. Available in a range of finishes, including Gloss, Low Sheen, and Flat, it offers a variety of options for different preferences.

One of the best things about Finishing Creams is that they are water-based, making them easy to clean up with just soap and water. Additionally, using this product does not alter the color of the wood surface, which is an important aspect for many users.

With its multiple uses, Finishing Creams are suitable for various wood surfaces such as countertops, kitchen cabinets, tabletops, window sills, walls, and trim. It can also serve as a topcoat for Milk Paint and chalk paint, or as a protective coating for wall paint and wood.

The low VOC and low odor of Finishing Creams make it a great option for those seeking a washable topcoat finish. After application, the paint may appear slightly darker, but it dries within 30 to 60 minutes and is washable after 24 hours.

Applying Finishing Creams is a breeze. Users can apply the wood conditioner to wood or painted surfaces with a rag, soft cloth, brush, damp sponge, or spatula. Alternatively, they can apply it with a brush using a cross-hatch motion on walls.

2. Sentimental Reasons Cabinet & Door Paint

Introducing the Sentimental Reasons paint by Backdrop. This premium paint is a warm taupe-gray shade with earthy and lilac undertones that will add a touch of sophistication to any space.

The 30% sheen finish is semi-gloss, which has been optimized for washability and maximum durability without the shine – expect a smooth finish that is perfect for cabinetry, interior doors, and built-ins.

Backdrop's Sentimental Reasons paint offers premium coverage with a high-performing acrylic resin that is durable, easy to wash, stain resistant, professional grade, and has intense pigment. With maximum coverage, one gallon can cover up to 400 square feet, making it a cost-effective choice for any project.

The new way to paint is here with Backdrop's Sentimental Reasons paint. It has a low odor, self-priming formula that is easy to apply with the easy open & close can (no tool needed) and clean pour design. It dries quickly, with only 60 minutes to touch, and 3-4 hours to recoat.

Backdrop's Sentimental Reasons paint is also environmentally conscious. It has been tested and certified as Ultra Low VOC and is made without the use of formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances. Backdrop is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company, making it a responsible choice for your next project.

3. Cool Moon Semi-Gloss Interior Paint

Introducing Cool Moon, a premium quality paint that adds a cool, bright white touch to any room. With a laidback look, it effortlessly elevates the ambiance of your space. The 30% sheen finish is a high-pigmentation, semi-gloss interior finish that leaves a silky-smooth wall surface, making it an ideal choice for trim and doors in your home.

One gallon of Cool Moon offers premium coverage, with the high-performing acrylic resin providing durability, stain resistance, and maximum coverage. It is a professional-grade paint that can cover up to 400 square feet.

Cool Moon is the new way to paint, with its low odor, self-priming, and simple open and close can design. The award-winning clean pour design ensures that there is no mess while applying the paint. It applies easily with high durability, and dries quickly, with only 60 minutes required to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat.

Moreover, Cool Moon is GREEN WISE CERTIFIED, tested and certified as Ultra Low VOC, ensuring that it is made without the use of formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances. Backdrop, the company behind Cool Moon, is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company, making it an environmentally responsible choice.

4. Interior Motives Warm Taupe Paint – Semi-Gloss

Introducing Interior Motives, a warm gray-beige paint that exudes a cool, laidback vibe and effortlessly elevates any room. This 30% sheen finish boasts high pigmentation and a semi-gloss interior finish that leaves a silky-smooth wall surface, making it an ideal choice for your home's cabinets and doors.

Interior Motives is a premium acrylic resin paint that offers maximum coverage and is highly durable. With just one gallon, it can cover up to 400 square feet, making it a cost-effective choice for your home improvement project. This paint is easy to wash and stain-resistant, making it a professional-grade paint that can withstand the test of time.

The new way to paint has arrived with Interior Motives. This low odor, self-priming paint comes in a simple open and close can that requires no tools, thanks to its award-winning clean pour design. It applies easily with high durability and quick dry time, making it possible to touch in just 60 minutes and recoat in 3-4 hours.

Interior Motives is the first climate-neutral certified paint company, tested and verified as ultra-low VOC and made without the use of formaldehyde or any other harmful off-gassing substances. This paint is not only high-performing but also eco-friendly, making it a responsible choice for your home and the environment.

5. Cashmere White Cabinet And Furniture Paint – 32 Oz

Introducing the ultimate solution for all your painting needs – the ALL-IN-ONE paint. This revolutionary paint eliminates the need for sanding, priming, and top coating, making your painting experience hassle-free and efficient.

With its low luster, velvet sheen finish, this paint is perfect for both interior and exterior use. Whether you want to refresh your walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, or even floor and wall tiles, this paint has got you covered.

Crafted to last, this paint is incredibly durable, ensuring your painted surfaces remain fresh and new-looking for years to come. Moreover, it stretches smoothly on fabrics, vinyl, and leather, giving you the flexibility to indulge in creative painting projects.

Say goodbye to the tedious and time-consuming painting process and hello to the ALL-IN-ONE paint. With its versatility, durability, and convenience, this paint is a must-have for every DIY enthusiast and professional painter alike. So, why wait? Grab your ALL-IN-ONE paint today and transform your living spaces like never before.

6. Studio Taupe: Premium Cabinet & Door Paint

Introducing Studio Hours, a warm and modern taupe paint color that is the result of a collaboration between Backdrop and Madewell. This beautiful color is not just perfect for your wardrobe but also for your walls. It comes with a 30% sheen finish that offers a semi-gloss finish optimized for washability and durability. You can expect a smooth finish that is ideal for cabinetry, interior doors, and built-ins.

This paint offers high coverage with its premium acrylic resin, which is easy to wash, stain-resistant, and offers intense pigment. With one gallon, you can cover up to 400 square feet, making it a cost-effective option for any project.

Painting has never been easier with Backdrop's innovative design. The low odor, self-priming formula makes it easy to apply without the need for any special tools. The easy open and close can design allows for a clean pour, so you don't have to worry about any mess. It also has a quick drying time of just 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat.

Backdrop is not only committed to providing a high-quality product but also to the environment. The Studio Hours paint is Green Wise Certified as Ultra Low VOC, meaning it does not contain any harmful off-gassing substances like formaldehyde. Backdrop is also the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company, so you can feel good about choosing a product that is environmentally friendly.

7. Cocomfix Perfect White Touch-Up Paint.

Introducing the Perfect White Touch Up Paint, a reliable and convenient solution to the common problem of color matching. This product is carefully formulated based on the most commonly used shades of white found in homes, apartments, rentals, and new home constructions. It is ideal for doors, trim, and kitchen furniture, among other surfaces.

The Perfect White Touch Up Paint boasts a wide range of applications. It easily covers up scratches, stains, cracks, chips, and spots, making it the perfect tool to help you get your rental deposit back. It is suitable for walls, trim, doors, cabinets, blinds, windows, and even household appliances such as beds, tables, chairs, stoves, and refrigerators.

With its superb adhesion, this touch up paint is designed to withstand the friction of everyday life. It is waterproof and quick-drying, with a smooth surface that is easy to clean. This ensures that your walls, cabinets, trim, furniture, and other surfaces will always look their best.

Using the Perfect White Touch Up Paint is easy and hassle-free. Simply shake the bottle for one minute and apply it directly onto the surface or over existing paint to disguise defects. This simple DIY solution eliminates the need for professionals, giving you the freedom to give your living space a new look on your own.

The product's versatile design features a mess-free brush tip to ensure detailed and mess-free touch-ups on any surface. It is suitable for use on both interior and exterior surfaces and occupies a small space, making it easy to store for later use.

Safety is a top priority for the makers of Perfect White Touch Up Paint. The water-based acrylic quality formula is non-toxic and odorless, making it safe for adults, children, and pets. Additionally, the product is ultra-low emission, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

8. West Coast Ghost Cabinet Paint – Semi-Gloss Finish

Introducing West Coast Ghost, a premium paint that is perfect for giving any room a cool and laidback look effortlessly. This super light gray paint comes with blue undertones and cool undertones, making it a great choice for those looking for a unique and modern interior finish.

The 30% sheen finish of this paint offers high pigmentation and a semi-gloss finish that leaves a silky-smooth wall surface ideal for cabinets and doors in your home. This professional-grade paint is highly durable and easy to wash, making it ideal for high-traffic areas in your home. With a coverage of 1 gallon per 400 square feet, this paint offers premium coverage and is perfect for larger projects.

This paint is the new way to paint, and it comes with many benefits. It is low odor and self-priming, making it easy to apply without any harsh smells or fumes. The simple open and close can design allows for easy access without the need for tools, and the award-winning clean pour design ensures that there is no mess or spills during application. This paint applies easily with high durability and dries quickly, with a touch-dry time of just 60 minutes and a recoat time of 3-4 hours.

What sets this paint apart is that it is the first climate-neutral certified paint company. It has been tested and verified as ultra-low VOC, and it is made without the use of formaldehyde or any other harmful off-gassing substances. This makes it a safe and eco-friendly choice for your home.

9. Nuvo Plus Cabinet Paint (Quart) (Titanium Infusion)

This water-based acrylic paint and primer is a top-quality solution for hiding even the darkest of painted or stained cabinets. The product boasts a highly pigmented formula that is optimized for smooth, even coverage without leaving any drips or streaks. The kit can cover up to 100 square feet of cabinets, which is typically enough for 40 linear feet of kitchen cabinets. The product is designed for easy brush and roll-on application, and all the necessary tools are included in the kit.

Once applied, the paint dries to a soft, satin finish that doesn't require an additional protective topcoat. It's specifically formulated for durability on high-traffic surfaces that are subject to more wear and tear. This makes it an excellent choice for kitchen cabinets and cupboards, island storage, and bathroom vanities. The product is crafted with a high level of environmental standards in mind, making it ultra-low VoC and odor-free. This makes it ideal for use inside the home.

The paint is compatible with wood, laminate, MDF and particle board cabinets, as well as primed or painted metal cabinets. For the Titanium Infusion variant, it's important to note that due to the nature of bright white acrylic paints, cabinets, especially dark colors, may require several coats for complete coverage and hiding.

10. Matte Touch-Up Kit For Surfaces By Spot

This color matching kit from Spot. is a great solution for maintaining and restoring the interior and exterior of your home and home furnishings. The kit includes three shades of Matte White that are designed to match 90% of surfaces, making it easy to achieve the perfect color match without the need for color charts or returns. Simply choose one of the three white colors or mix them together to match your desired shade.

The kit is also available in a Matte Beige and White three-pack color matching kit, which is ultra-low VOC, water-based, and odor-free, making it perfect for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals. With its quick-drying, self-priming formulation, this kit allows you to achieve an instant renovation of your home furnishings or appliances, whether they have been damaged by pets, movers, or anything else that may come your way.

Using the kit is easy and simple, as everything you need is provided in an all-in-one paint and brush applicator. You don't need any other materials, tools, or pre-processes to use it. Plus, the water-based paint with ultra-low emissions and odor makes it eco-friendly and safe for adults, children and pets. With its non-toxic and eco-friendly properties, this kit is sure to provide you with the perfect solution for maintaining and restoring your home and home furnishings.

Best Paint For Trim And Cabinets FAQs

Can I use the same paint for both trim and cabinets?

Yes, you can use the same paint for both trim and cabinets. However, it is important to choose a high-quality paint that is specifically designed for these surfaces to ensure the best results.

Trim and cabinets are often made of different materials, so it is important to consider the type of paint that will work best for each surface. For example, if your cabinets are made of wood, you may want to choose a paint that is specifically formulated for wood surfaces.

Another factor to consider is the sheen of the paint. Trim and cabinets are often painted with a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish to give them a sleek, polished look. However, if you prefer a matte or eggshell finish, you can use the same paint for both surfaces as long as it is formulated for the material and sheen you choose.

In summary, while you can use the same paint for both trim and cabinets, it is important to choose a high-quality paint that is formulated for the specific surfaces and sheen you desire.

How do I choose the best paint finish for trim and cabinets?

Choosing the best paint finish for trim and cabinets can be a daunting task. The right finish can make all the difference in terms of durability, appearance, and ease of cleaning. There are several types of finish available in the market such as matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. Each has its own pros and cons.

For trim and cabinets, the best finish is semi-gloss or high-gloss. These finishes are highly durable and easy to clean. They are resistant to moisture, stains, and scratches. Semi-gloss finish is a popular choice for trim as it provides a subtle shine and highlights the details of the trim. On the other hand, high-gloss finish is perfect for cabinets as it provides a sleek, modern look.

When choosing a paint finish, consider the style of your home and the amount of natural light in the room. High-gloss finish is best suited for modern or contemporary homes while semi-gloss finish is great for traditional or classic homes. Additionally, high-gloss finish is ideal for rooms with a lot of natural light as it reflects the light and makes the space brighter.

In conclusion, choosing the right paint finish for trim and cabinets is essential for achieving the desired look and durability. Semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes are the best options for these surfaces.

How do I properly prepare the surface for painting trim and cabinets?

Proper preparation is key to achieving a smooth and long-lasting finish on trim and cabinets. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Clean the surface: Wipe down the trim and cabinets with a damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. For tougher stains, use a mild detergent and water solution.

2. Sand the surface: Sand the surface with a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots or scratches. This will also help the paint adhere better to the surface.

3. Fill any holes or gaps: Use a wood filler to fill any holes or gaps in the trim or cabinets. Allow the filler to dry completely before sanding it down to a smooth finish.

4. Prime the surface: Apply a coat of primer to the surface to ensure that the paint adheres properly. Use a brush or roller to apply the primer in thin, even coats.

5. Sand the surface again: Once the primer has dried, sand the surface again with a fine-grit sandpaper to ensure that it is smooth and even.

6. Apply the paint: Apply the paint in thin, even coats with a brush or roller. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your trim and cabinets are properly prepared for painting, resulting in a smooth and long-lasting finish.

How many coats of paint should I apply to trim and cabinets?

When it comes to painting trim and cabinets, it's important to apply the right number of coats to achieve a smooth and durable finish. In general, you should apply at least two coats of paint to trim and cabinets. The first coat serves as a base coat, which helps to seal the surface and provide a good foundation for the second coat. The second coat is the finishing coat, which gives the surface a smooth and even appearance.

However, the number of coats you should apply may vary depending on the type of paint you use, the color you choose, and the condition of the surface you're painting. For example, if you're painting over a dark color with a lighter color, you may need to apply an additional coat to cover the old color completely. Similarly, if the surface is uneven or has imperfections, you may need to apply more coats to achieve a smooth finish.

Ultimately, the key is to apply enough coats to achieve the desired look and durability. It's always better to apply an extra coat than to have to go back and touch up the surface later.

Should I use a primer before painting trim and cabinets?

Yes, using a primer before painting trim and cabinets is highly recommended. Primers are designed to provide a smooth and consistent surface for the paint to adhere to. They also help to seal the surface, preventing the paint from bleeding through and providing better adhesion.

When it comes to painting trim and cabinets, it is important to choose the right type of primer. For example, if you are painting over glossy or oil-based surfaces, you will need to use a specific type of primer that is designed to bond to those surfaces. Additionally, if you are painting over dark or stained wood, you may want to use a tinted primer to help improve the coverage of your paint.

Overall, using a primer is a crucial step in the painting process that can help ensure a professional-looking finish that will last for years to come.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when painting trim and cabinets?

When it comes to painting trim and cabinets, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid to achieve a professional-looking finish:

1. Skipping the prep work: Before painting, it's important to clean and sand the surfaces to ensure the paint adheres properly. Skipping this step can result in a blotchy and uneven finish.

2. Not using primer: A coat of primer helps the paint adhere better and prevents stains and knots from bleeding through the paint. Skipping primer can result in an uneven finish and may require more coats of paint.

3. Using the wrong type of paint: Trim and cabinets are often exposed to high traffic and moisture, so it's important to use a paint that is durable and resists stains and moisture. Using the wrong type of paint can result in chipping and peeling.

4. Rushing the drying process: Allow adequate drying time between coats and before using the cabinets or trim. Rushing the drying process can result in tacky and uneven surfaces.

5. Not using the right tools: Using the wrong brush or roller can result in brush marks and an uneven finish. Invest in high-quality brushes and rollers specifically designed for trim and cabinets.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can achieve a smooth and professional-looking finish for your trim and cabinets.

What are the pros and cons of using oil-based versus water-based paint for trim and cabinets?

When it comes to painting trim and cabinets, there are pros and cons to using both oil-based and water-based paint.

Oil-based paint offers a durable and long-lasting finish that is resistant to scratches, marks, and stains. It also provides a smooth and glossy finish that is perfect for trim and cabinets. However, it can take a long time to dry, has a strong odor, and requires solvents for cleanup.

On the other hand, water-based paint dries quickly and has a low odor, making it a more convenient option. It also has low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful chemicals that can contribute to poor indoor air quality. However, it is not as durable as oil-based paint and may require more coats to achieve a smooth finish.

Ultimately, the choice between oil-based and water-based paint for trim and cabinets depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the project. If durability and a glossy finish are the main priorities, oil-based paint may be the better option. However, if convenience and low VOC levels are important, water-based paint may be the way to go.

What are the top brands of paint for trim and cabinets?

When it comes to painting trim and cabinets, it's important to choose a high-quality paint that offers durability and a smooth finish. Here are some of the top brands of paint that are specifically designed for trim and cabinets:

1. Benjamin Moore: Benjamin Moore's Advance paint is a popular choice for cabinets and trim due to its exceptional durability and smooth finish. It's also water-based and low VOC, making it a more eco-friendly option.

2. Sherwin-Williams: Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Waterbased Acrylic-Alkyd paint is a top-rated choice for cabinets and trim, offering excellent adhesion and durability. It also dries to a hard, enamel-like finish that resists chipping and scratches.

3. Behr: Behr's Premium Plus Ultra Interior Semi-Gloss Enamel is a versatile paint that can be used on both trim and cabinets. It offers excellent coverage and a durable, washable finish.

4. Valspar: Valspar's Cabinet Enamel is a specialized paint designed specifically for cabinets and trim. It offers a hard, durable finish that resists stains and scratches.

Ultimately, the best paint brand for your trim and cabinets will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your project. Be sure to do your research and choose a high-quality paint that will provide the results you're looking for.

What is the best type of paint to use on trim and cabinets?

When it comes to painting trim and cabinets, it's important to choose the right type of paint to ensure a durable and professional-looking finish. The best type of paint to use on trim and cabinets is a high-quality enamel paint. Enamel paints are known for their hard, glossy finish, which makes them ideal for areas that receive a lot of wear and tear. They also offer excellent adhesion, making them less likely to peel or chip.

There are two types of enamel paints to consider: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based enamel paints are known for their durability and are a good choice for cabinets and trim that are subject to a lot of wear and tear. They also take longer to dry and require more ventilation, as they emit more fumes. On the other hand, water-based enamel paints are easier to clean up and dry faster, making them a good option for DIYers. Ultimately, the choice between oil-based and water-based enamel paints depends on your specific needs and preferences.

What is the drying time for paint on trim and cabinets?

The drying time for paint on trim and cabinets can vary depending on several factors such as the type of paint used, humidity levels, and temperature. Generally, oil-based paints take longer to dry than water-based paints. Water-based paints can take around 1-2 hours to dry to the touch and can be recoated after 4 hours. However, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before placing objects or using the painted surface.

Oil-based paints can take around 6-8 hours to dry to the touch and can be recoated after 24 hours. It is recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours before using the painted surface. It is important to note that high humidity levels and low temperatures can prolong the drying time for both types of paint.

In conclusion, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of paint used to ensure optimal drying time and long-lasting results. Additionally, proper ventilation and temperature control can speed up the drying process.

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