Best Primer to Paint Cabinets: Top Picks for a Smooth Finish

Painting cabinets is a great way to give your kitchen an instant facelift without breaking the bank. However, choosing the right primer is crucial to achieving a smooth and long-lasting finish. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best primer to paint cabinets.

When it comes to painting cabinets, there are a few critical things to consider. Firstly, you’ll need a primer that can adhere well to the surface and create a smooth base for the paint to stick to. Secondly, the primer should be able to block stains and prevent bleed-through, especially if you’re painting over stained or dark cabinets. Lastly, you’ll want a primer that dries quickly and sands easily, so you can move on to the painting stage without delay.

After researching and testing several primers, we’ve identified the one that meets all these requirements and more. Our top pick is the Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Primer. This versatile primer can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and plastic, and offers excellent adhesion and stain-blocking properties. Plus, it dries in just 30 minutes and can be sanded in just one hour, making it the perfect choice for a cabinet painting project.

With the right primer, painting your cabinets can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Stick with us as we delve deeper into the world of cabinet primers and help you choose the best one for your needs.

Best Primers for Painting Cabinets

When it comes to painting cabinets, using a primer is essential for achieving a smooth and long-lasting finish. A good primer will help to cover up any imperfections on the surface of your cabinets and create a strong base for the paint to adhere to. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best primers for painting cabinets on Amazon. Our team has researched and tested various products to bring you the top options that will help you achieve professional-looking results.

THE ONE Paint & Primer

THE ONE Paint & Primer

If you want a premium paint and primer that can handle all your painting needs, then THE ONE Paint & Primer is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

  • A little goes a long way, saving you time and money.
  • Strong durable 2-in-1 means less work, saving time and money.
  • Suitable for multiple surfaces such as furniture, wood and laminate cabinets, crown molding and trim, wood, metal, plastic, brick, stone, concrete and more.

Cons

  • Limited color options with only 12 stunning colors available.
  • The small container may not be enough for larger projects.
  • The paint may dry with brush marks if not applied properly.

We recently used THE ONE Paint & Primer to paint our kitchen cabinets and were amazed at the results. The paint provided great coverage with just one coat, saving us time and money. The formula is thick and luxurious, making it easy to apply without any prep work required for wood (just clean first).

The paint is suitable for multiple surfaces, so we were able to use it on our cabinets, crown molding, and trim. The rich pigments gave our cabinets a beautiful finish with a choice of 12 stunning colors available in gloss, satin, and matte finishes.

We were impressed with the advanced formula of the paint. It is non-toxic, water-based, low odor, and ultra-low VOC. It contains no harsh chemicals such as phthalates, formaldehyde, heavy metals, or solvents. The genuine quality of the paint is made in the U.K. just outside of London.

Overall, we highly recommend THE ONE Paint & Primer for all your painting needs. It’s a great quality product that is easy to use and provides long-lasting durability. Try it out and see for yourself how it can transform your cabinets, furniture, doors, and more.

IdeaPaint Primer

IdeaPaint Primer

If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable primer for your painting projects, IdeaPaint Primer is a great choice.

Pros

  • This multi-purpose primer has excellent adhesion to a wide range of surfaces, making it a perfect base coat for both IdeaPaint Dry Erase Paint and Latex Topcoats.
  • IdeaPaint Primer is safe to use in schools, workplaces, and healthcare facilities as it is UL Greenguard Gold Certified and low odor.
  • The primer is fast-drying and easy to apply, making your painting project a breeze.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the primer has a thin consistency, which may require multiple coats for full coverage.
  • If you’re painting over a dark surface, you may need to apply multiple coats of IdeaPaint Primer to achieve the desired finish.
  • The primer is only suitable for indoor use, so it may not be the best choice if you’re looking to paint outdoor surfaces.

We recently used IdeaPaint Primer for our cabinet painting project, and we were impressed with the results. The primer adhered well to our cabinets’ surfaces, and it provided a smooth and even base coat for our paint. We also appreciated that the primer was low odor and dried quickly, which allowed us to finish our project in a timely manner.

One thing to note is that the primer has a thin consistency, so we had to apply multiple coats to achieve full coverage. However, we found that the primer dried quickly between coats, which made the process more manageable. Additionally, we found that the primer worked best on lighter surfaces, as it required more coats to cover darker surfaces fully.

Overall, we would recommend IdeaPaint Primer to anyone looking for a versatile and reliable primer for their painting projects. Its excellent adhesion, low odor, and fast-drying properties make it a great choice for anyone looking to achieve a smooth and even finish on their surfaces.

ZINSSER Bulls-Eye 1-2-3 Water-Based Stain Blocking Primer/Sealer

ZINSSER Bulls-Eye 1-2-3 Water-Based Stain Blocking Primer/Sealer

If you’re looking for a high-performance primer for your cabinet painting project, we recommend the ZINSSER Bulls-Eye 1-2-3 Water-Based Stain Blocking Primer/Sealer. It creates a flat/matte bright white finish, blocks tough stains, and seals smelly odors.

Pros

  • Interior/exterior use on new or previously painted drywall, concrete, wood, masonry, metal and glossy or difficult surfaces
  • Water-based formula seals uniformly and will stick to surface without sanding
  • Has excellent stain blocking resistance and can be used with any oil or latex topcoat

Cons

  • May take longer to dry in humid conditions
  • May require multiple coats for heavily stained surfaces
  • Can be difficult to clean up if not done immediately

We recently used this primer on a cabinet painting project and were impressed with the results. The primer adhered well to the surface without sanding, which saved us time and effort. It also covered up tough stains and odors, which improved the overall appearance of the cabinets. We appreciated that it could be used on a variety of surfaces, which made it a versatile choice for our project.

One thing to note is that the primer may take longer to dry in humid conditions, so be sure to take that into account when planning your project timeline. Additionally, heavily stained surfaces may require multiple coats of primer to fully cover the stains. Finally, it’s important to clean up any spills or drips immediately, as the primer can be difficult to clean up once it dries.

Overall, we highly recommend the ZINSSER Bulls-Eye 1-2-3 Water-Based Stain Blocking Primer/Sealer for your cabinet painting project. Its versatility, stain blocking resistance, and ease of use make it a great choice for both DIYers and professionals alike.

DWIL Matte Finish Furniture Paint

DWIL Matte Finish Furniture Paint

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, all-in-one kit for painting wooden furniture, DWIL Matte Finish Furniture Paint is a great option.

Pros

  • The complete tool set included in the kit saves you time and effort in gathering supplies.
  • The paint enhances adhesion, sticks well to wood without a primer, and forms a film to protect the surface.
  • No sanding is required, making the painting process faster and easier.

Cons

  • It took five coats to completely cover the wood on one reviewer’s project.
  • The included paintbrush may not be suitable for larger projects.
  • The paint may require a primer when used on smooth substrates.

We recently used DWIL Matte Finish Furniture Paint to refinish a wooden dresser, and found it to be a great option for beginners. The kit includes everything you need to complete your project, from sandpaper to masking tape to paint roller and brush. The paint itself goes on smoothly and dries quickly, allowing you to apply multiple coats in a day. We appreciated that the paint is water-based and low odor, making it easy to work with indoors.

One downside we experienced was that the paint required multiple coats to completely cover the wood. We also found that the included paintbrush may not be suitable for larger projects, but it’s a great option for small touch-ups. Finally, if you’re using this paint on a smooth substrate, it’s recommended to apply a layer of primer first to increase adhesion.

Overall, we recommend DWIL Matte Finish Furniture Paint for anyone looking for an easy-to-use, all-in-one kit for painting wooden furniture. It’s a great option for beginners, and the complete tool set included in the kit saves you time and effort in gathering supplies.

Nuvo Cabinet Paint Kit

Nuvo Cabinet Paint Kit

If you want to give your outdated kitchen cabinets a fresh new look, then Nuvo Cabinet Paint Kit is the perfect solution for you. We highly recommend this product for its easy application and professional-looking results.

Pros

  • The low VOC, low odor, water-based acrylic paint and primer in one make it an eco-friendly option.
  • The one-day application process dries in a soft, satin finish that looks great in any kitchen.
  • The kit includes all the simple tools you need to give your cabinets a makeover, such as a roller arm, roller covers, and an angled paintbrush.

Cons

  • The coverage area of 100 square feet may not be enough for larger kitchens.
  • The paint may require a second coat in some cases, which can be time-consuming.
  • The finish may be delicate and require touch-ups if it gets scratched or chipped.

We found that the Nuvo Cabinet Paint Kit is an excellent option for those who want to update their kitchen cabinets without spending too much time or money on the project. The paint is easy to apply, and the results are professional-looking. The low VOC and low odor make it a safer option for indoor use, and the water-based formula makes it easy to clean up with soap and water.

The kit includes everything you need to complete the project, including step-by-step illustrated instructions, so you don’t have to worry about buying any additional tools or materials. The paint dries quickly, so you can use your kitchen in just a few hours after applying the final coat.

The Nuvo Cabinet Paint Kit is ideal for use on wood, laminate, and primed or painted metal cabinets. The formula is designed to cover most existing wood finishes and paint in a single coat, which saves you time and effort. The finish is durable and requires no additional topcoat or sealer, making it a low-maintenance option.

Overall, we highly recommend the Nuvo Cabinet Paint Kit for anyone who wants to give their kitchen cabinets a fresh new look. It’s easy to use, eco-friendly, and provides professional-looking results.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best primer to paint cabinets, there are a few key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the best results possible. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a primer:

Surface Type

The first thing to consider is the type of surface that you will be painting. Different primers are designed for different surfaces, so it’s important to choose a primer that is specifically formulated for the type of cabinets you have. For example, if you have wood cabinets, you’ll want to look for a primer that is designed for use on wood.

Stain Blocking

Stain blocking is an important feature to look for in a primer, especially if you are painting over cabinets that have been previously stained or painted. Stain blocking primers are designed to prevent stains from bleeding through the paint, which can be a common problem when painting over certain types of surfaces.

Adhesion

Good adhesion is essential for a successful paint job, and a high-quality primer can help ensure that the paint adheres properly to the surface. Look for a primer that is specifically designed to promote adhesion, especially if you are painting over a glossy or slick surface.

Drying Time

Drying time is an important consideration, especially if you are working on a large project. Some primers dry more quickly than others, so be sure to choose a primer that will give you enough time to work before it dries.

Ease of Application

Finally, consider the ease of application when choosing a primer. Look for a primer that is easy to apply and that provides good coverage with minimal effort. Some primers may require multiple coats, so be sure to factor this into your decision-making process.

Overall, choosing the right primer is essential for achieving a professional-looking paint job on your cabinets. By considering the surface type, stain blocking, adhesion, drying time, and ease of application, you can find a primer that will help you achieve the desired results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of primer is best for painting cabinets without sanding?

When painting cabinets without sanding, it is important to use a high-quality bonding primer. A bonding primer will adhere to the surface of the cabinets without the need for sanding, and it will create a strong bond between the surface and the paint. Our top recommendation for this is the Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Primer.

Is it necessary to use a special primer for kitchen cabinets?

Yes, it is necessary to use a special primer for kitchen cabinets. Kitchen cabinets are often exposed to moisture, heat, and grease, which can cause the paint to peel or chip. A special primer for kitchen cabinets will help to create a strong bond between the surface and the paint, and it will also provide additional protection against moisture and grease. We recommend using a primer specifically formulated for cabinets, such as the Kilz Adhesion Primer.

What are the benefits of using a cabinet paint and primer in one?

Using a cabinet paint and primer in one can save time and money, as it eliminates the need for a separate primer. It also provides a smooth and even finish, and it can be easily cleaned with soap and water. However, it is important to note that a separate primer may be necessary for certain surfaces or if the cabinets are in poor condition.

What is the difference between Zinsser cabinet primer and other primers?

Zinsser cabinet primer is specifically formulated for use on cabinets and other wood surfaces. It provides excellent adhesion, stain blocking, and sealing properties, and it dries quickly. Other primers may not be formulated for use on cabinets, and they may not provide the same level of adhesion or protection.

Can Kilz Adhesion primer be used on kitchen cabinets?

Yes, Kilz Adhesion primer can be used on kitchen cabinets. It is specifically formulated for use on difficult surfaces, and it provides excellent adhesion and durability. It also creates a smooth and even surface for painting.

What is the best primer for kitchen walls before painting cabinets?

The best primer for kitchen walls before painting cabinets depends on the condition of the walls and the type of paint being used. However, we recommend using a high-quality bonding primer, such as Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Primer, to ensure that the paint adheres properly to the walls.