5 Expert Tips for Painting Your Kitchen Cabinets White

Is your kitchen in need of a little update? A quick and easy way to give it a makeover is by repainting your cabinets. Unsure which color to choose? White is always a safe bet—but keep in mind that white comes in many shades. Also, painting your cabinets involves more than just dipping a brush in paint. From selecting the perfect hue to prepping the cabinetry, here are five expert tips for painting your kitchen cabinets white.

Ensure Your Cabinets Are Ready for Paint

It may seem obvious, but before diving into this project, it's important to confirm that your cabinets are paintable. Cabinets made of engineered wood, stainless steel, laminate, or vinyl aren't suitable for painting. If they’re made of solid wood, you're likely in the clear.

You'll also want to check if your cabinets have a smooth surface for painting. Intricate designs, deep grooves, or textures may lead to an uneven finish when painted.

Select the Perfect Shade of White

Not all whites are created equal. With so many shades and undertones to choose from, picking the right one can be tricky. If you’re unsure, Jamie Davis, co-founder of Portola Paints, recommends considering other design elements in the room. 'Are you working with an existing trim color? Do the architectural features in the space influence your choice?'

Davis’ favorite Portola Paints colors include White Cliffs, a cool-toned gallery white, and warmer shades like Disco and Snow Leopard. 'Neither is better than the other, but they may appear differently depending on the space,' he explains.

He also suggests drawing inspiration from other features in the room, such as natural wood flooring or painted ceilings. 'For example, Kashmir will feel warmer if you have white oak floors. Similarly, with walnut flooring, consider an ivory off-white like Figueroa to avoid your walls feeling too cool and blue.'

If you’re torn between a few colors, don't hesitate to grab samples and test them out. Apply large swatches and live with them for a few days. This will give you a true sense of how the colors look with the kitchen's lighting throughout the day.

Prepare Thoroughly

Choosing the ideal color is only part of the equation; without proper prep, your cabinets won't achieve the look you're after. Begin by removing the cabinets and hardware. Once the doors are off, they’ll need to be sanded and primed. If you’re unsure how to do this, it might be worth hiring a professional to ensure everything is done right.

Think About New Hardware

A couple of coats of paint can refresh your cabinets, but if you're looking to elevate them further, consider swapping out the knobs and pulls. Will Zhang, director of design and product innovation at Emtek, always suggests using contrast when pairing hardware with white cabinets.

Zhang recommends, 'Opt for a bold finish like flat black, or incorporate gold tones such as satin brass for a more refined look. If you want something in between, try unlacquered brass or antique brass finishes that strike the balance between sophisticated and striking.'

Don’t Overlook Other Kitchen Elements

Davis advises updating the rest of your kitchen to make your white cabinets stand out even more. 'You can bring new life to your walls by using various shades of white within your trim color. I’ve seen Figueroa on the walls paired with Piano Room trim, which makes Figueroa appear even whiter. No matter how a shade of white looks on its own, it will always feel like the brightest white in the room when it’s the lightest color around.'