Semi-gloss: As one of the most popular paint finishes for kitchen cabinets, semi-gloss has a medium shine that reflects light well, making the cabinets look brighter and more polished. Semi-gloss paint is also easy to clean, making it a good choice for busy kitchens.
Varnish Cabinet Finish
It provides a clear layer of protection that enhances the natural look of the wood. Durability: Varnish is highly durable and provides excellent protection against moisture, heat, and scratches. It's an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, such as the kitchen.
When it comes to kitchen cabinets, the most popular sheens are usually satin and semi-gloss. Here's why: Satin: Satin finishes are a favorite because they provide a soft shine that adds a touch of elegance without being too flashy.
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.
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.
They can be more difficult to clean
Wiping them with a damp cloth can also sometimes leave streaks, so extra care and attention will be needed when it's time to clean them. For best results, use a microfibre cloth to clean your matt kitchen cabinets.
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.
The most popular hardware finishes are satin or matte black, brushed or polished brass, and copper.
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.
Both finishes are durable, but gloss finishes are more susceptible to showing scratches and fingerprints. Semi-gloss finishes are more forgiving and easier to maintain.
Soft sheen paint is a perfect choice for high traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens.
The best clear coat for kitchen cabinets is typically a polyurethane finish, which is known for its durability and resistance to scratches, heat, and moisture. Both oil-based and water-based polyurethanes are popular choices, with water-based options being favored for their lower odor and faster drying time.
Semi-gloss sheen is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets as it has a moderate level of gloss and is fairly easy to maintain. It provides a subtle shine that adds depth and dimension to the cabinets, while still being relatively forgiving when it comes to scratches and cleaning.
In terms of actual upkeep and cleaning, the flat slab or 1-piece doors are easiest. It's the universal go-to choice for an easy-to-clean kitchen, whether you opt for a painted wood cabinet door or an acrylic door. Great advice, which you can learn about in-depth in our article: How to Clean Kitchen Cabinets.
If you're looking for a finish that offers superior durability and protection, polyurethane is your best bet. However, if you want a beautiful, glossy finish that is easier to repair, lacquer is the way to go.
You'll apply primer first with a brush to “cut in” those hard-to-reach crevices and edges, then go back over the surface with a roller. After your primer is dry, sand everything gently with 220-grit sandpaper. Remove dust with a tack cloth or compressed air, and get ready to paint.
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.
Alec Willard, another Purdy professional painter, recommends using a 2-inch bristle brush when painting the small, inside planes of the cabinet base, then finishing the area with a 3/8-inch mini roller.
In addition, cabinet painters choose paints with the optimal shine. High-gloss and semi-gloss paints work best on cabinets because they have a stronger finish when compared to other sheens. They are also easier to clean and maintain than a matte finish.
Matte black kitchen hardware remains a top choice for 2024, continuing to dominate as a versatile and sophisticated option for modern kitchens. This sleek finish adds a touch of elegance that pairs beautifully with various cabinet colors and styles, and offers the perfect balance of boldness and refinement.
The 1/3 rule in cabinet hardware is a design guideline that helps achieve balanced proportions when selecting drawer pulls and cabinet handles. According to this rule, the length of the pull should be approximately one-third the width of the drawer or cabinet door.
Size and space: Consider the size and space of your kitchen. 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.
In 2025, high-gloss cabinets are setting the stage for sleek, modern kitchens. With their reflective surfaces and contemporary appeal, glossy finishes are a game-changer for homeowners seeking a modern vibe. Discover how Home Decorators Collection Cabinetry can help you achieve this cutting-edge look below.
DIY TIP: Gloss, semi-gloss and satin are all perfect sheen choices because they help create a smooth finish when painting kitchen cabinets.