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Best Water Based Paint For Cabinets (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for a way to update your kitchen without breaking the bank, painting your cabinets is a great option. Choosing the right paint is crucial to the success of your project. When it comes to painting cabinets, water-based paints are a popular choice due to their low VOC content and ease of use. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which is the best water-based paint for cabinets?

Before making a purchase, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost is the finish. Do you want a matte, satin, or gloss finish? Another important consideration is the color selection. Do you want a classic white or a bold color to make a statement? Additionally, it’s important to consider durability and resistance to chipping and fading, as well as ease of application and cleanup.

Still not sure which water-based paint is best for your cabinets? Ask yourself some questions like: What is my budget for this project? Will this paint hold up with daily wear and tear? Do I want to paint my cabinets myself or hire a professional? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and make an informed decision for your kitchen cabinet painting project.

10 Best Water Based Paint For Cabinets

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for use on furniture, cabinets, walls, brick and stone with a water-based organic formula that is VOC-free.
2
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone with a matte finish. Water-based organic formula with low VOCs.
3
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick and stone with a matte finish using an organic, VOC-free water-based paint.
4
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone with a water-based organic matte finish that's VOC-free.
5
The product is ideal for painting furniture and other interior surfaces with a smooth, antique white finish using water-based milk paint.
6
Ideal for furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone. Water-based organic paint with no VOCs in earthy green.
7
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone. Water-based organic with no VOCs, in navy blue color.
8
Ideal for furniture and crafts renovation with water-based, non-toxic, eco-friendly, and odorless semi-gloss paint.
9
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone with a water-based organic, no VOC matte finish in plum color.
10
This product is ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone with a matte finish. It is water-based, organic, and VOC-free.
Ideal for use on furniture, cabinets, walls, brick and stone with a water-based organic formula that is VOC-free.
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone with a matte finish. Water-based organic formula with low VOCs.
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick and stone with a matte finish using an organic, VOC-free water-based paint.
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone with a water-based organic matte finish that's VOC-free.
The product is ideal for painting furniture and other interior surfaces with a smooth, antique white finish using water-based milk paint.
Ideal for furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone. Water-based organic paint with no VOCs in earthy green.
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone. Water-based organic with no VOCs, in navy blue color.
Ideal for furniture and crafts renovation with water-based, non-toxic, eco-friendly, and odorless semi-gloss paint.
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone with a water-based organic, no VOC matte finish in plum color.
This product is ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, walls, brick, and stone with a matte finish. It is water-based, organic, and VOC-free.

1. Organic Sage Grey Wood & Wall Paint

The Real Milk Paint Sage Grey Matte Finish Paint is a versatile and easy-to-use option for those seeking a distressed, antique look. With a medium-tone finish, this paint dries quickly in as little as 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the ambient temperature.

One of the standout features of this paint is its no-primer-needed powder formula, which can be applied directly to existing finishes for a chipped, peeled or crackled surface. For raw wood and porous surfaces, simply add the Ultra Bond to paint on latex.

This paint is suitable for use on a variety of surfaces, including raw wood, plaster, drywall, stone, unsealed brick and concrete. It is ideal for use on furniture and wooden home accessories, and can be sealed with Real Milk Paint wax, oil or finishes to complete your project.

Using this paint is a breeze – simply add water for an instant weathered paint look on your distressed DIY home furniture. The water-based formula is ultra-smooth and does not blob, making it easy to achieve the desired look.

In addition to being easy to use, this paint is also safe for children, virtually odorless, and does not contain radioactive Kaolin Clays. Its 100% organic formula makes it a great choice for those looking for a low-VOC paint option.

2. Organic Cheesecake Milk Paint: The Ultimate Furniture Finish.

This Real Milk Paint offers a stunning matte finish in Cheesecake with pale pink undertones, perfect for achieving an antique look. The paint dries quickly in as little as 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on ambient temperature.

One of the best things about this powder paint is that no primer is needed on raw wood and porous surfaces, making it an easy and convenient choice. It also works well on existing finishes for a peeled, chipped, or crackled surface. To paint on latex, simply add our Ultra Bond.

The organic paint sticks to various surfaces, including raw wood, plaster, drywall, stone, unsealed brick, and concrete. It is suitable for painting furniture and wooden home accessories. To complete your project, it is recommended to seal it with a Real Milk Paint wax, oil, or finish.

This paint is easy to use, requiring only water to achieve an instant weathered paint look for distressed DIY home furniture. The water-based formula is ultra-smooth, ensuring a hassle-free painting experience.

Additionally, this distressed paint is a safe choice for children, as it is virtually odorless and does not contain radioactive Kaolin Clays. The paint formula is 100% organic, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer eco-friendly options.

3. Organic Terra-Cotta Matte Wood Paint, 1gal.

Real Milk Paint's Matte Finish Paint in Terra Cotta with a dark red hue is the perfect product for those looking for a beautiful matte finish on their furniture and home accessories. This paint is easy to distress for an antique look and dries quickly, taking as little as 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on ambient temperature.

One of the best things about this product is that it does not require a primer. The powder paint can be used on existing finishes to create a peeled, chipped, or crackled surface. For raw wood and porous surfaces, simply add Real Milk Paint's Ultra Bond to paint on latex. This makes it a versatile option that can be used in a variety of ways.

Real Milk Paint's Matte Finish Paint is suitable for use on a range of surfaces, including raw wood, plaster, drywall, stone, unsealed brick, and concrete. The organic paint is perfect for painting furniture and wooden home accessories. It is recommended that you seal your project with a Real Milk Paint wax, oil, or finish to complete your project.

Using this paint is incredibly easy; simply add water for an instant weathered paint look for distressed DIY home furniture. The water-based formula is ultra-smooth and does not blob, making it easy to achieve a professional finish.

What makes this product even better is that it is a no VOC paint. It is a fast-drying, children-safe, virtually odorless, and does not contain radioactive Kaolin Clays. The paint formula is 100% organic, making it an environmentally friendly choice for DIY enthusiasts.

4. Organic Cocoa Paint For Woods & Walls

Real Milk Paint offers a stunning matte finish in Cocoa that is perfect for achieving a dark and chocolaty look. This paint is effortless to distress for an antique appearance and dries quickly in as little as 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on the ambient temperature.

With this powder paint, there is no need for primer when working with raw wood and porous surfaces. It works on existing finishes to create a peele, chippy, or crackled surface. For latex, simply add our Ultra Bond to the paint.

Real Milk Paint is a versatile choice that sticks to raw wood, plaster, drywall, stone, unsealed brick, and concrete. It is ideal for painting furniture and wooden home accessories. For best results, we recommend sealing your project with a Real Milk Paint wax, oil, or finish.

This organic paint is easy to use and requires only water to achieve an instant weathered paint look for distressed DIY home furniture. The ultra-smooth water-based formula does not blob, making it simple to work with.

Real Milk Paint is a no VOC paint that is safe for children, fast-drying, virtually odorless, and does not contain radioactive Kaolin Clays. Our paint formula is 100% organic, making it an excellent choice for your DIY projects.

5. General Finishes Water Based Milk Paint, 1 Quart, Antique White

Introducing a premium furniture paint that is both self-sealing and durable, perfect for interior or exterior use. This paint boasts high adhesion and is ideal for upcycling and cabinet refinishing projects. It can be applied over raw wood or prepped existing finishes with ease.

One of the best features of this paint is that it does not require a topcoat, making it a convenient option for those who want a hassle-free painting experience. However, it is important to note that applying a clear topcoat over bright white paint may cause yellowing due to a reaction with the substrate. Lighter color paints may also experience some yellowing, but it will be less noticeable.

To achieve the best results, it is recommended to apply 2-3 coats of paint using a roller, brush, or sprayer with an HVLP 2.0 tip. Clean up is also a breeze, as the paint can be easily cleaned up with water.

6. Earth Green Milk Paint For Wood And Stone

Real Milk Paint offers a stunning Earth Green paint color with a beautiful matte finish that is perfect for achieving an antique look. This powder paint dries quickly, as fast as 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the ambient temperature.

One of the best things about this product is that it does not require a primer, making application a breeze on raw wood and porous surfaces. To use on existing finishes, simply add Real Milk Paint's Ultra Bond to the paint on latex.

This organic paint can be used on a variety of surfaces, including raw wood, plaster, drywall, stone, unsealed brick, and concrete. It is especially great for painting furniture and wooden home accessories. To complete your project, it is recommended to seal it with a Real Milk Paint wax, oil, or finishes.

Using this paint is incredibly easy, as all you need to do is add water to achieve an instant weathered paint look for distressed DIY home furniture. The water-based formula is ultra-smooth and does not blob, making it even easier to use.

Real Milk Paint's formula is 100% organic and does not contain any VOCs, making it a fast-drying, children safe, virtually odorless, and non-radioactive product. This distressed paint is perfect for achieving a beautiful antique look without harming the environment.

7. Organic Navy Matte Paint For Furniture & Walls

Real Milk Paint presents an exquisite Navy Blue shade with deep purple-blue tones in their Matte Finish Paint. The paint boasts of a beautiful matte finish, which is easy to distress for an antique look. The paint dries as quick as 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on ambient temperature.

One of the best things about this paint is that it does not require a primer for a peeled, chippy, or crackled surface. It works on existing finishes and porous surfaces such as raw wood. If you are painting on latex, simply add their Ultra Bond to the paint.

This organic paint is suitable for multiple uses as it sticks to raw wood, plaster, drywall, stone, unsealed brick, and concrete. It is recommended to seal your project with a Real Milk Paint wax, oil, or finishes to complete your project.

Using this paint is effortless; all you need to do is add water for an instant weathered paint look for distressed DIY home furniture. The water-based formula is ultra-smooth and does not blob.

Real Milk Paint's Matte Finish Paint is a no-VOC paint that is fast-drying, child-safe, virtually odorless, and does not contain radioactive Kaolin Clays. The paint formula is 100% organic and is a perfect choice for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals in their home.

8. Eco-Friendly Black Wood Paint For Renovation.

Introducing the Convenient Tool Set, an all-in-one solution for furniture refinishing that comes complete with everything needed to achieve a professional-looking finish. This set includes a bucket of water-based wood paint, a specialized brush for water-based paint, two pieces of sandpaper, a pair of gloves, one roll of masking paper, and a sponge roller. Even if you're a beginner, this tool set is very easy to operate, providing you with the confidence to tackle any refinishing project.

The Dwil Furniture Refinishing Paint is specially designed to save you time and effort. With no sanding required before application, you can skip the tedious and messy prep work and move straight to painting. Our paint adheres to most surfaces, providing excellent coverage and durability for a long-lasting finish.

One of the best things about this wood furniture paint set is how quickly it dries. Your furniture will be ready to use within two hours of painting, and after one day, it will be completely dry and can be lightly used. After seven days, it will be completely hardened and ready for full use.

A single 1kg barrel of wood paint is enough to cover an area of 50 square feet with two layers. That's typically enough to paint a door twice! Our water-based paint forms a solid, durable film on the surface that's more enduring than chalk and milk paint, ensuring that your furniture will stay protected against wear and tear for years to come.

Lastly, the non-toxic formula of our paint is low in VOCs and odor, making it suitable for use in bedrooms, kitchens, and other enclosed spaces. It is also harmless to the human body, making it a safe and reliable choice for any home.

9. Organic Plum Paint For Furniture & Walls.

This Real Milk Paint product boasts a stunning Plum color with shaded undertones and a beautiful matte finish. Its unique powder paint formula is designed to distress easily, giving any project an antique look. The paint dries quickly, with a drying time of 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on the ambient temperature.

One of the standout features of this paint is that it does not require a primer on raw wood and porous surfaces. It can even be applied to existing finishes for a peeling, chipped, or crackled surface. For latex surfaces, simply add the Ultra Bond before applying the paint.

This versatile organic paint adheres to a range of surfaces, including raw wood, plaster, drywall, stone, unsealed brick, and concrete. It is perfect for painting furniture and wooden home accessories. For a professional finish, it is recommended to seal the project with a Real Milk Paint wax, oil, or finish.

Real Milk Paint's formula is incredibly easy to use, requiring only water to achieve an instant weathered paint look for distressed DIY home furniture. The water-based formula is ultra-smooth and does not blob, making it ideal for both novice and experienced painters.

Perhaps one of the most significant selling points of this product is that it is a no VOC paint, which means it is fast-drying, safe for children, virtually odorless, and does not contain any radioactive Kaolin clays. In other words, it is a safe and eco-friendly choice that will not harm the environment.

10. Organic Arabian Night Black Paint

Real Milk Paint offers a stunning matte finish paint in the color Arabian Night, which is a beautiful blue-black hue. This easy-to-use matte paint can be distressed to give your furniture an antique look. The fast-drying formula dries in as little as 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the ambient temperature.

With this powder paint, you won't need a primer for existing finishes to achieve a peeled, chipped, or crackled surface. And, for raw wood and porous surfaces, there's no need for a primer at all. Simply add Real Milk Paint's Ultra Bond to the latex paint for a smooth finish.

This organic paint is versatile and sticks to raw wood, plaster, drywall, stone, unsealed brick, and concrete. It's perfect for painting furniture and wooden home accessories. We recommend sealing your project with a Real Milk Paint wax, oil, or finishes to complete your project.

Real Milk Paint's water-based formula makes it incredibly easy to use. All you need to do is add water for an instant weathered paint look for distressed DIY home furniture. This ultra-smooth formula does not blob and offers a consistent finish every time.

For those who are environmentally conscious, Real Milk Paint's distressed paint is a no VOC paint. It's fast-drying, safe for children, virtually odorless, and does not contain radioactive Kaolin Clays. The 100% organic paint formula ensures that you're doing your part for the environment.

Best Water Based Paint For Cabinets FAQs

Can water-based paint be easily cleaned from kitchen cabinet surfaces?

Yes, water-based paint can be easily cleaned from kitchen cabinet surfaces. In fact, water-based paint is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets as it is environmentally friendly and easy to clean. To remove water-based paint from kitchen cabinet surfaces, begin by wiping the area with a clean, damp cloth. If the paint is still wet, it can be removed easily with a damp cloth. If the paint has already dried, use a mild detergent or soap to loosen it up, then wipe it away with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can damage the surface of the cabinets. With proper cleaning and maintenance, water-based paint can provide a long-lasting finish for your kitchen cabinets.

Can water-based paint be used on all types of cabinet materials?

Water-based paint is a popular choice for cabinet painting projects due to its low odor, easy cleanup, and eco-friendliness. However, it may not be suitable for all types of cabinet materials.

Water-based paint works well on materials such as MDF, plywood, and particleboard. These materials are more porous and absorbent, allowing the paint to adhere properly.

On the other hand, water-based paint may not work as well on non-porous materials such as laminate or veneer. These materials have a smooth surface that may not allow the paint to adhere properly, resulting in chipping or peeling.

It is important to note that some water-based paints are specifically formulated for use on certain materials. Always check the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations before starting any painting project to ensure the best results.

In summary, water-based paint can be used on some types of cabinet materials, but it may not be suitable for all. It is important to do your research and choose the right type of paint for your specific project.

How can a homeowner ensure a professional finish when using water-based paint for cabinets?

When using water-based paint for cabinets, it is essential to ensure a professional finish to achieve a polished and cohesive look. Here are some tips to help you achieve a professional finish:

1. Prep the Cabinets: Proper preparation is key to ensure a professional finish. Clean the cabinets thoroughly and sand them to remove any rough patches or imperfections. Remove the cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware to paint them separately.

2. Use High-Quality Paint: Invest in high-quality water-based paint specially formulated for cabinets. This will ensure that the paint adheres well to the surface and provides a smooth, durable finish.

3. Apply Primer: Apply a high-quality primer before painting to create a smooth surface and ensure that the paint adheres well. It also helps to cover any stains or wood tannins that may bleed through the paint.

4. Apply Paint in Thin Layers: Apply paint in thin layers using a high-quality brush or roller. Avoid overloading the brush or roller, as this can cause drips or uneven coverage.

5. Sand Between Coats: Sanding between coats helps to create a smooth surface and remove any imperfections. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and wipe down the surface with a damp cloth before applying the next coat.

By following these tips, homeowners can achieve a professional finish when using water-based paint for cabinets.

How do water-based paints compare to oil-based paints for cabinets?

Water-based paints and oil-based paints both have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to painting cabinets. Water-based paints are known for their low VOC content and quick drying time, which makes them a more eco-friendly and time-saving option. They also tend to have less odor and are easier to clean up with soap and water. On the other hand, oil-based paints are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like cabinets. They also tend to have a smoother finish and are less likely to leave brush marks. However, they have a longer drying time, a stronger odor, and require solvents such as mineral spirits for clean-up. Ultimately, the choice between water-based and oil-based paints for cabinets depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your project. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional painter or paint store to determine the best option for your specific situation.

How durable is water-based paint for cabinets?

Water-based paint for cabinets can be quite durable, but it ultimately depends on the specific product and how it is applied. Generally, water-based paint is more durable than traditional oil-based paint, as it tends to resist chipping, cracking, and fading better over time. Additionally, it dries faster and emits fewer fumes, making it a more environmentally-friendly option.

To ensure maximum durability, it's important to properly prepare the cabinets before painting and to use high-quality paint and supplies. This includes thoroughly cleaning and sanding the surfaces, applying a primer, and using a high-quality brush or roller to apply the paint. It's also important to allow ample time for the paint to cure before using the cabinets.

Ultimately, if done correctly, water-based paint can provide a long-lasting and durable finish for cabinets. However, it's always a good idea to do your research and consult with a professional to ensure you are using the best product and techniques for your specific project.

What are the benefits of using water-based paint for cabinets?

Water-based paint has several benefits when it comes to painting cabinets. Firstly, it dries faster than oil-based paint, which means that you can complete your project quicker. Secondly, it emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than oil-based paint, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, it is easier to clean up as it can be washed with soap and water instead of needing harsh chemicals.

Water-based paint is also more resistant to yellowing and fading over time, which means that your cabinets will look newer for longer. It also has good adhesion properties, which means that it will stick well to almost any surface, including glossy finishes. Furthermore, it has a low odor, which makes it a more pleasant option to work with.

Overall, water-based paint is a great option for those looking to paint their cabinets in a more efficient, eco-friendly, and durable way.

What are the color options for water-based paint for cabinets?

Water-based paint for cabinets is a popular choice due to its low VOC content and ease of use. When it comes to color options, water-based paint offers a wide range of choices to suit different styles and preferences. Typically, water-based paint for cabinets is available in a variety of shades, from light pastels to bold hues, and everything in between. Some of the most popular colors for water-based paint for cabinets include white, cream, gray, black, navy blue, and various shades of green, blue, and red. It's important to note that the color selection may vary depending on the brand and type of water-based paint you choose. It's always a good idea to consult with a paint specialist or a professional painter to help you choose the right color and finish for your cabinets based on your specific needs and preferences.

What are the drying times for water-based paint on cabinets?

The drying time for water-based paint on cabinets can vary depending on a few different factors. Generally, water-based paint will dry faster than oil-based paint, and it will usually be dry to the touch within a few hours. However, it's important to note that just because the paint feels dry doesn't necessarily mean that it's fully cured.

In order to ensure that the paint has fully cured and is ready for use, it's recommended to wait at least 24 hours before using or handling the cabinets. Additionally, factors such as humidity and temperature can affect drying times, so it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended drying times and conditions for best results.

If you're in a rush and need to speed up the drying process, you can use a fan or dehumidifier to help circulate air and reduce humidity in the room. Just be careful not to apply too much heat, as this can cause the paint to dry too quickly and potentially crack or peel.

What are the top water-based paints for cabinets?

Water-based paints have become increasingly popular for cabinets due to their low VOC content and quick drying time. Here are some of the top water-based paints for cabinets:

1. Benjamin Moore Advance: This paint is known for its exceptional durability, smooth finish, and easy application. It is also self-leveling, which means it will give your cabinets a professional look.

2. Sherwin Williams ProClassic: This paint is also known for its durability and ability to provide a flawless finish. It is also resistant to chipping and peeling, which makes it a great option for cabinets.

3. Behr Alkyd Semi-Gloss Enamel: This paint is a great option for cabinets as it is resistant to stains, scuffs, and fingerprints. It also has a smooth finish and dries quickly.

4. General Finishes Milk Paint: This paint is known for its ease of application and versatility. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, including cabinets, and provides a smooth, durable finish.

Overall, the top water-based paints for cabinets are those that provide a durable, smooth finish and are resistant to chipping, peeling, and stains.

Which water-based paint brands are best suited for kitchen cabinets?

The best water-based paint brand for kitchen cabinets should have excellent adhesion, durability, and resistance to stains and scratches. Based on these criteria, some of the top brands include Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin Williams Pro Classic, and Behr Alkyd Semi-Gloss Enamel.

Benjamin Moore Advance is a popular choice among professional painters and DIYers. It has a smooth finish, dries hard, and is resistant to yellowing. Sherwin Williams Pro Classic is also a great choice for kitchen cabinets as it has excellent adhesion, dries quickly, and is easy to clean. Behr Alkyd Semi-Gloss Enamel is another water-based paint that is very durable and resistant to stains and scratches. It is also very easy to apply, making it a great choice for beginners.

It is important to note that while water-based paints are popular for their low VOC content and easy cleanup, they may not be as durable as oil-based paints. Therefore, it is important to choose a high-quality water-based paint that is specifically designed for kitchen cabinets to ensure long-lasting results.

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