Is flat or satin paint better for kitchen cabinets?

Author: Shanny Waelchi  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Satin Finish A satin cabinet finish is more long lasting and provides slightly less reflectiveness. Such features gives the material a brighter finish compared to matte.

Should kitchen cabinets be flat or satin?

Satin finishes have a lower shine and more of a matte finish, which makes them less prone to showing scratches and wear but may be a bit harder to clean. For high-traffic areas like the kitchen or bathroom, a satin finish may be a better choice as it's more durable and easy to clean.

What is the best paint sheen for kitchen cabinets?

Recommendation: For most kitchens, a semi-gloss finish is the best choice. It strikes the perfect balance between durability, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal. Satin finishes are also a good choice if you prefer less shine, while gloss finishes are great for a more modern, high-impact look.

What type of paint should I use for kitchen cabinets?

Apply First Coat

Tip: Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in Gloss, Semi-Gloss or Satin sheen is among the best paint for kitchen cabinets because it has excellent flow and leveling characteristics, resulting in a smooth and durable finish.

What is the best finish to use on kitchen cabinets?

Top 5 Best Finishes for Kitchen Cabinets
  • Paint.
  • Stain.
  • Laminate veneer.
  • Thermofoil veneer.
  • Varnish.

Best Finish for Kitchen Cabinets Compared by Kitchen Infinity

What do professional painters use to paint cabinets?

We usually use professional-grade lacquer because it has a lovely, silky-smooth feel to it, and is what cabinet manufacturers use. We think it's the best paint for cabinets, hands-down (although there are some great pro-level water-based options as well).

Should kitchen cabinets be shiny or matte?

Gloss Finish/High Gloss Finish: A lifesaver for smaller kitchens! Reflective surfaces make compact spaces feel larger while brightening up dim corners effortlessly. Matte Finish: Ideal for open, airy kitchens with ample natural light. It keeps the look understated and elegant without adding unnecessary shine.

What color paint is timeless for kitchen cabinets?

Ever-versatile, white and off-white paint colors are timeless choices for kitchen cabinets. In addition to classic neutral kitchen cabinets, other popular timeless hues include light grays, soft greens and wood tones.

What paint roller gives the smoothest finish on cabinets?

For those looking for paint rollers for a smooth finish, high-density foam rollers should be your first stop. While high-density foam rollers are great, they are not the only option. Lint-free short nap rollers are another excellent choice for achieving a smooth finish.

What is better, eggshell or satin?

Of the two, satin is more durable and is slightly less likely to scuff or mark than eggshell and it's easier to clean when it does get marked. This makes it a better choice, especially for woodwork such as painting skirting boards, than eggshell for high traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.

What is the most popular kitchen cabinet color for 2024?

The Newest 2024 Kitchen Cabinet Color Trends
  1. Stained Cabinetry. “Stained cabinetry is definitely having a moment right now,” says Cheyenne Ely, owner and principal designer at Cheyenne Paige Interiors in The Woodlands, Texas. ...
  2. Moody Green. ...
  3. Warm Neutrals.

Should kitchen cabinets be eggshell or satin?

Kitchen walls and especially kitchen cabinets require a paint finish that's tough, easy to wipe down, and attractive. Satin and eggshell paint finishes work well for kitchen walls, while semi-gloss proves best for kitchen cabinets.

Can I just paint over my kitchen cabinets?

Wood, wood-laminate and metal cabinets usually can be repainted without difficulty. Plastic laminate cabinets might not accept a topcoat of paint — those that can be refinished often require special paints and techniques, and results can vary.

Which sheen is best for kitchen cabinets?

Satin: Satin finishes are a favorite because they provide a soft shine that adds a touch of elegance without being too flashy. They are durable enough to handle the wear and tear of a kitchen while still being easy to clean. Satin finishes help cabinets look fresh and modern while maintaining a classic appeal.

Should kitchen cabinets be darker or lighter than walls?

In smaller kitchens, lighter cabinets and walls can create the illusion of space and make it feel larger and more airy. On the other hand, in larger kitchens, darker cabinets can anchor the space and prevent it from feeling too expansive. Style: Your style is a major consideration in the debate of light and dark.

Is satin or matte better for kitchen?

Satin finishes are practical choices for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms as they are easy to clean and maintain. However, if your walls have noticeable imperfections, satin finishes can accentuate these flaws, and opting for a matte finish is recommended.

Is satin or flat paint better for cabinets?

A satin cabinet finish is more long lasting and provides slightly less reflectiveness. Such features gives the material a brighter finish compared to matte. When applied to kitchen custom cabinets, it will result in a soft, silky, and a little glowy appearance.

Do foam rollers leave a smooth finish?

Walls, Wood, and Metal - Small 1/4″ roller covers or foam rollers will produce the smoothest finish. Light to Medium Textured Surfaces - Microfiber rollers are best. Smooth Surfaces - Use a white woven short nap roller for an ultra fine finish.

What kind of paint do pros use on kitchen cabinets?

Things to consider

Kitchen cabinets are painted in industrial settings with industrial-grade paints and equipment that sprays the paint onto the wood surface with high velocity. It is usually lacquer or enamel-type oil-based paint and it might have undergone an additional curing process.

What color is replacing gray in 2024?

Beige is emerging as the new go-to neutral, adding warm and inviting tones to interiors. In this article, we'll explore why beige is taking over and how to use it in your home. Beige is replacing gray as a popular interior color, offering warmth and versatility for various design styles.

What kitchen cabinet color is outdated?

To make sure that your cabinets will age well, designers recommend avoiding yellowy whites, sage greens, bright colors, or even grays—all of which they say are either outdated or on their way out.

What is the most popular finish for kitchen cabinets?

Semi-Gloss Finish

As the most popular sheen, semi-gloss provides your kitchen cabinets with a nice shine that is not overbearing.

Should a kitchen backsplash be glossy or matte?

Both offer classic design styles, but their finishes significantly impact the overall feel of your space. Matte finishes, with their light-absorbing texture, foster a warm and inviting atmosphere. Glossy tiles, on the other hand, reflect light, making your kitchen appear brighter and more spacious.

What is the best finish for painting a kitchen?

Since kitchens are such a busy part of a home and often need extra cleaning, a satin or semi-gloss finish is the best options. Satin and eggshell finishes are commonly believed to be the same, but in fact, satin is a bit shinier. Satin finishes are easy to clean and good at standing up to mildew, stains and dirt.

How do I make my kitchen cabinets look glossy?

You can make kitchen cabinets look glossy yourself by using paint, lacquer, polyurethane, or epoxy to give them that shiny finish. For a more seamless job, you can replace your units with high-gloss kitchen cabinets and doors from 27EStore.

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