Can I just paint over my kitchen cabinets without sanding?

Author: Prof. Dejuan Blanda  |  Last update: Monday, February 16, 2026

You will also need to use a primer that is designed for this purpose. Secondly, while it is possible to paint kitchen cabinets without stripping or sanding them, you may notice that the paint does not adhere well to the cabinets. This can result in a less than perfect finish.

What happens if you paint cabinets without sanding?

Proper cleaning, deglossing, and using good-quality cabinet paint are key to painting cabinets without sanding. What happens if you don't sand cabinets before painting? If you don't sand cabinets before painting, at worst the paint will chip or peel. At best, the paint will remain solid and durable for years.

Can I paint directly over kitchen cabinets?

Yes, you can paint your kitchen cabinets the same color as the walls. However, it is important to consider the overall aesthetic of your kitchen and ensure that the color scheme complements the space.

Do I need to sand kitchen cabinets before painting?

Sanding Also Removes the Previous Paint Sheen

Finally, sanding your cabinets before repainting them removes some of the previous paint sheen. This creates a surface that is best prepped for primer and paint. It will also improve the evenness and color of your newly painted cabinets.

What happens if you don't prime cabinets before painting?

Along with sanding, priming is essential for painting over any surface with a sheen. Without proper preparation, paint on glossy surfaces tends to peel and flake away, making your project look sloppy. Primer sticks and helps the paint bond better, ensuring an even finish that won't chip off with the slightest scratch.

It’s WORTH THE HYPE how to refinish wood without sanding

What happens if I don't sand before painting?

Sanding is often a crucial step for ensuring that your surface is ready to be painted. If you don't have a properly sanded surface, paint may not adhere to certain items properly. You can oversand, undersand and often people underestimate its importance. But, you don't have to be a pro to sand a surface.

What's the best way to paint unfinished cabinets?

Here's what you'll need to do to achieve a professional finish:
  1. Prep For Painting. ...
  2. Prep-Sand and Clean Your Cabinet Doors. ...
  3. Start The Painting Process. ...
  4. Invest in a Quality Paint Brush. ...
  5. Apply Your Primer. ...
  6. Remove Excess Fibers With Sandpaper. ...
  7. Wait For The Primer to Dry. ...
  8. Repeat The Same Steps For The Paint.

What is the best thing to clean cabinets with before painting?

Another fantastic alternative is mixing an equal quantity of vinegar with hot water. Apply for 3 to 4 minutes to work it. And clean with a damp soft microfiber towel. One of the best degreasers to clean the kitchen cabinets before painting.

Do deglossers really work?

Liquid sandpaper, a.k.a. deglosser, is a chemical that can be used to rough up existing paint on walls and other surfaces by removing the gloss, making it possible to paint over what's left on the wall after use. This is good for hard to reach places or an object that you may feel would be awkward to sand.

What is the best primer to use on kitchen cabinets?

Shellac-Based Primers: Shellac-based primers are known for their superior adhesion, which makes them an excellent option for surfaces that are challenging to paint, such as lacquered or oil-based finishes.

What kind of kitchen cabinets cannot be painted?

Cabinets that aren't solid wood—those made of stainless steel, vinyl, laminate, engineered wood, or any other non-solid wood material—are a much bigger task to undertake as they aren't as easy to paint. Paint will not adhere to the finished cabinet surface easily and will often peel off or chip.

Does liquid sandpaper work on cabinets?

So you don't like sanding Have you heard of liquid sandpaper? It cleans and deglosses the surface without all the mess. I've used it on cabinets and now I'm using it on my molding. It can be used on several different types of finishes.

Can you paint over old paint on kitchen cabinets?

While it's possible to paint over old paint on cabinets, there are better options than priming painted cabinets to paint over them. In many cases, remove the old paint by sanding the surface, then apply a primer before painting.

Will paint stick to laminate cabinets?

The answer to this question is yes, the paint will stick to laminate cabinets. However, there are a few things you should do to make sure the paint adheres to the surface and doesn't peel off over time. First, make sure the surface is clean and free of dust or dirt.

Does Beyond paint really work?

This paint is amazing! I didn't sand or prime, and the old oak cabinets look beautiful. This is a lot thicker than regular paint. I used it on a 1950ish cedar dresser that had old varnish on it and I didn't want to sand it all.

How to restore kitchen cabinets without sanding and varnishing?

Easily Renew Wood Cabinets Without Actually Refinishing
  1. Step 1: Supplies. Ugly Cabinets. ...
  2. Step 2: Clean Cabinets. First clean the cabinets. ...
  3. Step 3: Go to Home Depot. Buy Restor-A-Finish, Super Fine (0000) Steel Wool and Howard Feed-N-Wax. ...
  4. Step 4: Apply Restor-A-Finish. ...
  5. Step 5: Apply Howard Feed-N-Wax. ...
  6. Step 6: You Are Done!

Is it better to sand or degloss cabinets?

If you're worried about using chemicals when refurbishing your item, use sandpaper. Liquid sandpaper/deglosser, unfortunately, uses chemicals to remove the glossy surface from wood furniture and other home accents.

Can I use rubbing alcohol as a deglosser?

Soap can repel paint off the surface, he explained, noting that water followed by a water-based paint doesn't allow the paint to stick. Use 91 percent rubbing alcohol, a degreaser/deglosser that evaporates and won't leave a residue behind.

What I wish I knew before painting cabinets?

What to Know Before Starting a Kitchen Cabinet Painting Project
  • Not Testing Your Paint Color. ...
  • Skipping Painting Prep. ...
  • Not Prepping Correctly. ...
  • Insufficient Area Prep. ...
  • Leaving the Doors and Hardware On. ...
  • Painting Over Grease. ...
  • Over-Sanding, or Not Sanding. ...
  • Using the Wrong Paint Applicator.

Can I use Dawn to clean cabinets before painting?

Apply a few drops of Dawn® Platinum to a bowl of warm water, then dip the sponge in. Squeeze the sponge until suds form. The cleaning agents in Dawn® absorb grease similarly on kitchen surfaces as they do on dishes.

What is sugar soaping?

Sugar soap is a powerful cleaning agent for walls that removes all dirt and uneven spots for even and smooth paint application. Think of it as a necessary touch to your wall before putting on makeup. You can't put on makeup before first cleaning your face and removing all the sweat, dirt, and sunscreen.

Can I repaint over my kitchen cabinets without sanding?

Time-efficient: Skipping the sanding step means you can get your cabinets painted quicker and enjoy the fresh new look in less time. Beginner-friendly: Sanding requires some skill and experience, but painting without sanding is a more accessible option for DIY beginners.

What brands of kitchen cabinets does Lowes carry?

Lowe's offers a variety of custom cabinets and semi-custom cabinets from several different manufacturers to meet your style and construction preferences and exceed your every expectation. Shop KraftMaid cabinets, Shenandoah cabinets, Diamond cabinets and Schuler Cabinetry cabinets.

What is the easiest way to paint kitchen cabinets?

Start by using an angled brush for each cabinet door's recessed or detailed areas while avoiding brush marks on the flatter, smoother areas. Next, immediately paint the remaining flat areas with a mini roller while smoothing any overlapping brush marks or paint drips to create a uniform look.

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