If you’re staring down outdated kitchen cabinets and thinking, “Can I just paint these and call it a makeover?”—you’re absolutely right. But the magic isn’t just in the brush—it’s in the paint you choose.
In this blog, Unique Painting of Kansas City walks you through the best types of paint for cabinets, what professionals swear by, and how to get a smooth, durable finish that’ll last for years.
What Kind of Paint Is Best for Cabinets?
When painting cabinets, durability and finish are non-negotiable. The top options are:
- Acrylic-Alkyd Hybrid Paints: Water-based, easy to clean, and strong like oil. Dries smooth with great adhesion.
- Oil-Based Paints: Super durable but harder to work with (and clean up). Mostly used in older renovations.
- Urethane-Modified Acrylics: Great adhesion, less yellowing, and perfect for high-touch areas like cabinets.
Pro Tip: At Unique Painting KC, we often use Benjamin Moore Advance or Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel. They offer that smooth-as-glass finish and hold up to kitchen life like champs.
What Do Professional Painters Use for Kitchen Cabinets?
Pros know that not all paint is created equal. Here’s what the team at Unique Painting reaches for:
- Primer First!
Zinsser BIN or Sherwin-Williams Extreme Bond primer is a must before any color touches your cabinets. - Top-Tier Enamel Paints
- Benjamin Moore Advance: Waterborne alkyd formula, self-leveling, low VOC
- Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane: Durable and designed for wood trim and cabinetry
- Cabinet Coat by INSL-X: Designed specifically for cabinets, no topcoat needed
- Finish Matters (More on that below)
Should Kitchen Cabinets Be Painted Flat or Satin?
Satin or semi-gloss—that’s your sweet spot.
- Flat or Matte? Nope. Looks chalky, stains easily, and doesn’t clean well.
- Satin? Smooth, soft sheen, hides imperfections, and wipes clean.
- Semi-gloss? More reflective, shows more detail, but super durable and easy to maintain.
Most of our clients in Kansas City choose satin for a sleek, modern vibe or semi-gloss for a crisp, classic finish.
Can I Paint Directly Over Kitchen Cabinets?
Short answer? Not if you want the paint to stick.
Cabinets—especially older or greasy ones—need proper prep:
- Degrease using TSP or a strong cleaner
- Sand lightly to scuff up the surface
- Prime with bonding primer
- Then paint with your chosen cabinet-grade enamel
Skipping prep is the fast lane to peeling paint.
What Is the Most Popular Paint Finish for Kitchen Cabinets?
In Kansas City and beyond, satin and semi-gloss rule the kitchen.
Most Popular Finish = Satin, because:
- It looks elegant
- Doesn’t show every fingerprint
- Cleans up easily
Runner-up = Semi-gloss, great for:
- Families with kids (think sticky fingers)
- High humidity areas
- A polished, glossy look
Unique Painting’s Pro Picks for Kansas City Homes
If you live in or near Kansas City, these paint combos are top performers:
| Paint Type | Brand | Finish | Why We Love It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic-Alkyd | Benjamin Moore Advance | Satin | Smooth, durable, low VOC |
| Urethane Acrylic | Sherwin-Williams Emerald | Semi-Gloss | High-traffic durability |
| Cabinet-Specific | INSL-X Cabinet Coat | Satin | Great adhesion, self-sealing |
Want to know how much it’ll cost to have your cabinets painted by professionals? Check out our cost breakdown here.
Learn more about our Kitchen Cabinet Painting Services
Ready to Paint Like a Pro?
Don’t just guess on what paint to use—get advice straight from Kansas City’s cabinet painting experts. Unique Painting crew will guide you from color to finish.
Visit Unique Painting for a FREE quote and color consultation today!
Phone: 816-500-7759
Website: UniquePaintingKC.com
