Best Primer For Kitchen Cabinets: Top Picks For 2023

Kitchen cabinets are an essential part of any kitchen, and they require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. One way to achieve this is by using a high-quality primer that can help protect the cabinets from moisture, stains, and other elements that can cause damage over time. In this article, we will be discussing the best primer for kitchen cabinets and what you should consider when making a purchase.

When it comes to choosing the best primer for your kitchen cabinets, there are several factors to consider. The first is the type of material your cabinets are made of. Some primers work better on certain materials than others, so it's essential to choose a primer that is compatible with the material of your cabinets. Another factor to consider is the finish you want to achieve. Do you want a matte or glossy finish? This will affect the type of primer you choose.

Additionally, it's important to consider the level of durability you need. If you have a busy kitchen with a lot of traffic, you'll want a primer that is more durable and can withstand wear and tear. Finally, you'll want to think about the color of the primer. While most primers are white, some are tintable, which can be helpful if you're looking to achieve a specific color for your cabinets.

After researching and testing several primers, we have identified the best primer for kitchen cabinets. With its excellent adhesion, quick-drying time, and ability to block stains, it's the perfect primer for achieving a smooth and durable finish on your kitchen cabinets. In the following section, we will provide a detailed review of this product and explain why it's the best choice for your kitchen cabinets.

Best Primers for Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to painting your kitchen cabinets, using a primer is crucial for achieving a smooth and long-lasting finish. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've done the research and testing for you to bring you the best primers for kitchen cabinets. Our list includes primers that are easy to apply, provide excellent adhesion, and offer superior coverage. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional painter, our roundup has got you covered.

THE ONE Paint & Primer

THE ONE Paint & Primer

If you're looking for a durable all-in-one paint and primer solution for your kitchen cabinets, look no further than THE ONE Paint & Primer.

Pros

  • A little goes a long way, saving you time and money
  • Suitable for multiple surfaces, including wood, metal, plastic, brick, stone, and concrete
  • Non-toxic, water-based, and low odor

Cons

  • May require multiple coats for complete coverage
  • Limited color options
  • May not work as well on heavily stained or damaged surfaces

We recently used THE ONE Paint & Primer on our kitchen cabinets and were impressed with the results. The paint went on smoothly and provided great coverage with just one coat. We appreciated that it was suitable for multiple surfaces, as we were also able to use it on our laminate countertops with great results. Additionally, we were happy to find that it was non-toxic and low odor, making it a safer option for our home.

However, we did find that we needed to apply a second coat in some areas to achieve complete coverage, especially on darker surfaces. We also wished there were more color options available, as we were limited to just 12 choices. Finally, we found that it didn't work as well on heavily stained or damaged surfaces, so some prep work may be required.

Overall, if you're looking for a durable and versatile all-in-one paint and primer solution for your kitchen cabinets, we highly recommend THE ONE Paint & Primer.

INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer

INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer

If you're looking for a primer that will bond to even the most challenging surfaces, INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer is the way to go.

Pros

  • Unparalleled adhesion to challenging surfaces, including PVC, vinyl, glass, and pre-coated siding
  • Can be top coated with almost any product
  • Cures in temperatures as low as 35°F

Cons

  • Strong odor, make sure to use in a well-ventilated area
  • Can be difficult to open the jar
  • Requires proper preparation and application for best results

Our experience with INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer has been nothing short of impressive. We found that it bonds exceptionally well to surfaces that other primers struggle with, making it a great choice for kitchen cabinets. The primer also offers excellent enamel holdout, providing a great base for an even topcoat finish.

While the primer is easy to apply, it does have a strong odor, so make sure to use it in a well-ventilated area. We also found that the jar can be difficult to open, so it's best to use a can opener.

Overall, INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer is a great choice for anyone looking to paint challenging surfaces. Just make sure to review the label for proper preparation and application tips before using.

Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Paint Semi-Gloss Pure White Gal

Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Paint

If you're looking for a reliable primer for your kitchen cabinets, Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Paint Semi-Gloss Pure White Gal is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • Easy one-step application on clean cabinet surfaces
  • Pre-tinted gallon in popular Pure White color in durable semi-gloss finish
  • Fast dry time and easy clean up = a quick return to full use

Cons

  • May require multiple coats for full coverage
  • Some users reported difficulty with the paint drying too quickly
  • Not recommended for outdoor use

We recently used Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Paint Semi-Gloss Pure White Gal on our kitchen cabinets and were impressed with the results. The one-step application process was easy to follow, and the pre-tinted gallon in Pure White color gave our cabinets a fresh, modern look.

While the paint dried relatively quickly, we did notice that it required multiple coats to achieve full coverage. Additionally, some areas dried too quickly, making it difficult to achieve a smooth finish.

Overall, we would recommend Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Paint Semi-Gloss Pure White Gal to anyone looking for a reliable primer for their kitchen cabinets. It's easy to use, dries quickly, and provides a durable finish that will last for years to come.

Nuvo Titanium Infusion All-In-One Cabinet Makeover Kit

Nuvo Cabinet Paint

We highly recommend the Nuvo Titanium Infusion All-In-One Cabinet Makeover Kit for anyone looking to give their kitchen cabinets a fresh, updated look.

Pros

  • The low VOC, water-based acrylic paint and primer in one is easy to apply and dries in a soft, satin finish.
  • The kit includes simple tools, such as a roller arm, roller covers, and angled paint brush, allowing for professional-looking results with a one-day application process.
  • The modified acrylic formula bonds to wood, laminates, and metal, making it ideal for use on a variety of kitchen and bathroom cabinet styles.

Cons

  • The coverage area of 100 square feet may not be enough for larger kitchen cabinet projects.
  • The paint may require more than one coat, depending on the existing finish and color of the cabinets.
  • The color may appear slightly different in person than it does on the website or packaging.

We found the Nuvo Titanium Infusion All-In-One Cabinet Makeover Kit to be an excellent choice for a DIY cabinet makeover. The kit includes everything needed to transform outdated cabinets into a modern, fresh look. The low VOC, water-based acrylic paint and primer in one is easy to apply and dries in a soft, satin finish. The formula bonds to wood, laminates, and metal, making it ideal for use on a variety of kitchen and bathroom cabinet styles.

The kit includes simple tools, such as a roller arm, roller covers, and angled paint brush, allowing for professional-looking results with a one-day application process. While the coverage area of 100 square feet may not be enough for larger kitchen cabinet projects, the formula is formulated to cover most existing wood finishes and paint in a single coat. However, the paint may require more than one coat, depending on the existing finish and color of the cabinets.

Overall, we found the Nuvo Titanium Infusion All-In-One Cabinet Makeover Kit to be an excellent value for the price. The versatile colors are ideal for use on a variety of kitchen and bathroom cabinet styles and pair well with Gianni Countertop Paint Kits for complete kitchen or bath makeovers. The kit provides easy clean up with soap and water and requires no additional topcoat or sealer, making it an extremely durable choice for updating kitchen cabinets.

KILZ Adhesion Primer

KILZ Adhesion Primer

If you're looking for a primer that offers a strong bond on tough-to-paint surfaces, KILZ Adhesion Primer is the perfect solution.

Pros

  • Provides high adhesion on a wide range of surfaces, including PVC, vinyl, glass, and metals.
  • Advanced formula reduces or eliminates the need for sanding dense, glossy surfaces.
  • Dries to touch within 30 minutes and is ready to recoat in an hour.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the primer is too thick and difficult to spread evenly.
  • The odor can be strong, so adequate ventilation is required during application.
  • The coverage area may vary depending on the surface texture and porosity.

We recently used KILZ Adhesion Primer to paint our kitchen cabinets, and we were impressed with the results. The primer provided excellent adhesion on the slick surfaces, and we didn't have to sand the cabinets before applying it. The advanced formula also helped us save time and effort by reducing the need for sanding.

One thing to keep in mind is that the primer is quite thick, so we had to thin it with a little water to make it easier to apply. We also noticed that the odor was strong, so we opened the windows and used a fan to ventilate the room.

Overall, we highly recommend KILZ Adhesion Primer for anyone looking for a high-quality bonding primer for their kitchen cabinets or other difficult-to-paint surfaces. It's easy to apply, provides excellent adhesion, and dries quickly, making it a great choice for DIY projects.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best primer for your kitchen cabinets, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when shopping for a primer:

1. Adhesion

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a primer for kitchen cabinets is adhesion. You want a primer that will stick well to the surface of your cabinets, ensuring that the paint will adhere properly and provide a smooth, even finish. Look for a primer that is specifically designed for use on cabinets and that has good adhesion properties.

2. Stain Blocking

Kitchen cabinets are exposed to a lot of grease, oil, and other substances that can leave stains and discoloration. A good primer should be able to block these stains and prevent them from bleeding through the paint. Look for a primer that is specifically designed for stain blocking and that has a high level of opacity.

3. Drying Time

The drying time of a primer is an important consideration, especially if you are working on a tight schedule. Look for a primer that dries quickly and that can be sanded and painted over within a reasonable amount of time.

4. Ease of Application

Finally, consider the ease of application when choosing a primer for your kitchen cabinets. Look for a primer that is easy to apply, whether you are using a brush, roller, or spray gun. A primer that is easy to work with will save you time and frustration, and will help ensure a professional-looking finish.

By considering these factors when shopping for a primer for your kitchen cabinets, you can find a product that will provide excellent adhesion, stain blocking, and ease of application, helping you achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish for your cabinets.

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Customer Reviews

Overall rating: 4.7 / 5 from 185 reviews.

Customer photo review of Paint(s) replacement

Totally addictive, loved doing this photograph of my dog, it looks fabulous on my wall and everyone comments on it. Will definitely be ordering more as it is the most relaxing thing I have done. Fantastic.

Paint(s) replacement

Customer video review of Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Very good quality. I have to say I didn't expect it to take so long to complete because the sections are very small, but the final result is wonderful and the people in the photo look remarkably alike. It has a wide variety of colors, and the skin tones look very natural. It also comes with a generous amount of each paint color, with more than enough included to finish the painting.

Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

I love the idea of choosing my own pictures to paint by numbers, and I really like that the canvas comes with paint, brushes, and guides. I noticed on the canvas, there were a few duplicates of numbers beside each other, so I either needed to expand the use of one paint color, or select a different number to paint of one of the repeated numbers.

Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer video review of Custom Couple Paint by Numbers | Just Upload Your Picture!

My Custom Paint By Numbers kit IS AMAZING! The 28 color kit has VERY DETAILED numbered areas to paint with some of the areas on the canvas so small that you think you need a brush with ONE hair. But, with such small areas comes wonderful detail that I’m sure my final work will have! I highly recommend this paint by numbers kit to memorialize any happy memory!

Custom Couple Paint by Numbers | Just Upload Your Picture!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Loving my newest PBN project. We’ve had freezing and below zero temps up here in Michigan for two weeks so I was especially grateful to have this to secure my focus! As before, I had to trust that all would work out. Sitting so close, even sometimes with a magnifying glass, you find it hard to imagine that this painting will look even barely good … but I finished all the dark colors, stood back and OMG! They did it again! WOW do they do it?

Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Paint(s) replacement

Not only did I get a full set of the paints that I ordered, but I even got a set of complementary brushes, including two very fine brushes for detail work that I really needed and didn't have from the first set. Excellent and gratefully received.

Paint(s) replacement

Customer photo review of Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Two of my most recent paintings. I've enjoyed each project I've completed and have started working on my 6th Paint by Number. The paints, frame and canvas provided are all high quality and the results are now hanging in my home.

Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

This is my first. Enjoyed the fact that I'm painting one of my favorite pictures of my friend. Not yet complete have to work on the black it was a Stiff paint used blending gel which really helped tho see shrinkage I'd like to fix. Friend suggested using Gesso as mat prep. Did not order a frame. Learning. Did order another off a photo. Used the 30+ paints very satisified. Barb

Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Paint By Numbers | Pheasant - Bird On Grass

Work still in progress, but nearly there. Colours are good and make the painting more interesting to do. If you look carefully you will see I modified the colours to the right of pheasants head, felt the brown was to dark and did not show off the pheasant colours. All who have seen it are impressed with the picture. Have decided to paint the canvas prior to fixing it to the stretcher as it’s easier to turn round when working on it. Overall good quality and paints cover well and hide the numbers. Regards Keith Davies

Paint By Numbers | Pheasant - Bird On Grass

Customer photo review of Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Absolutely loved doing this, the quality was great and I will definitely be ordering again! Only downside I would say is that part of the picture I uploaded was cut off.. I assumed the photo would be sized to the canvas.

Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

This is my second Paint by Number project. I decided to paint a photograph I had taken and after finishing 3/4 of the painting, I am definitely hooked on this activity. It'e been so enjoyable and relaxing I am in the process of deciding which photo to paint next. I prefer submitting my own photos vs. painting something preset. It's very satisfying once the project is finished and for this one I can't wait to hang it on my wall.

Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

This was my first time trying a Paint by Number project after a few times painting at a local Paint and Sip facility. I might have chosen a photo with too much detail as a first project and painting people/faces is definitely a challenge. Overall I think it turned out well. The brushes and paint provided worked well. The biggest challenge was painting areas connected by narrow sections and making sure I was still using the right number/color in that section. It would be nice if the number could be repeated but guessing that might cause different confusion. Will definitely be trying this again. I found it very relaxing, especially this time of year with holiday music in the background.

Custom Paint By Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Pet Paint by Numbers | Just Upload Your Photo!

Really good brushes and quality paint. The instructions were missing so I just dove in and started painting. It was fun and the result was nice. The colors weren’t perfect but I was happy with the final canvas.

Custom Pet Paint by Numbers | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint by Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Having completed one of my three daughters, which was a Christmas present from my wife, I wanted to do a second one. It is a very relaxing activity and creates a feeling of self-satisfaction. Already planning a third!

Custom Paint by Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Pet Paint by Numbers | Just Upload Your Photo!

Easy to order. Good turn around time. Very happy with the amount of paint and brushes included. I am a little disappointed in the actual paint colors. They do not quite match the colors in the photo provided. They are off from the original photo uploaded.

Custom Pet Paint by Numbers | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint by Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Wow!! I absolutely loved doing this! I purchased as my husband's 1st wedding anniversary gift, and it didn't disappoint! It was super therapeutic, I loved it so much, even when it got to the fiddly bits!! Thank you so much! Will definitely be purchasing again in the future :D! Chloe

Custom Paint by Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint by Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Love it, getting there slowly there is a lot of detail in it so it keeps me busy. Paint and brushes are good quality. Only negative is I bought the frame and it didn't arrive with the painting, was told it on the way but 3 weeks later no sign. It's hard to paint when your relying on the frame as a base

Custom Paint by Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

Customer photo review of Custom Couple Paint by Numbers | Just Upload Your Picture!

We absolutely love it! It took me quite some time to complete as the detail was very high but extremely happy with the results overall! I wish I would have opted for the maximum colours possible (I went for 36 paints) but I know for next time. I will have to buy and complete another one for a different room now

Custom Couple Paint by Numbers | Just Upload Your Picture!

Customer photo review of Custom Paint by Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!

I’m 15 hours into my paint by numbers and loving it! It’s my second one and is a gift. It’s a hobby for me and a gift for a friend. The detail is fantastic with 36 colours and to me, worth every penny

Custom Paint by Numbers Kit | Just Upload Your Photo!