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Your kitchen cabinet color can significantly affect the appearance of your space. To make a good first impression, you have to choose the best finish for white kitchen cabinets that catches the eye.
It will protect them from wear and tear and make cleaning much easier. Moreover, it removes white rings and water stains. The screen does not show scuff marks or fingerprints, so you do not have to worry about them.
If you are looking for a finish, you will be stuck because there are so many options. A good choice is a product that combines different characteristics. This article will share some top-rated finishes that are effective and appealing.
Varathane Finish For Kitchen Cabinets
Rejuvenate Kitchen Cabinet Finishes
Minwax Kitchen Cabinetry Finishes
Top 6 Recommended Best Finish for White Kitchen Cabinets
White kitchen cabinets are a popular choice for many homeowners because they can match any style and décor. However, to keep them looking their best, it’s important to use the right finish.
Although there are many options available, it often helps to know what your options are so you can choose the best choice. With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most popular finishes for white kitchen wood cabinets and see which one you will like best.
1. Varathane Finish for Kitchen Cabinets
If you are looking for a reliable paint finish for your kitchen cabinets, varathane is an excellent choice. Varathane Finish is a water based formula that dries quickly and cleans up easily with soap and water.
It protects indoor wooden surfaces such as furniture, windows, cabinets, trim, and more from scratches, stains, and wear. This Varathane Finish For Kitchen Cabinets is great for both novice and experienced DIYers.
The Varathane Finish is a durable paint for kitchen cabinets that dries in 30 minutes. It is recoatable for 2 hours without losing any of its desirable finish.
With coverage up to 125 square feet, the durable formula provides protection from scratches and stains while providing outstanding clarity.
Varathane’s gloss finish creates a polished and clean look, making it perfect for interior projects like furniture, windows, doors, and trim. The clear formula allows the natural beauty of your furniture to shine through, making it the ideal choice for those who want a classic look.
It will also protect your cabinets from fading. It gives the surface a crystal-clear appearance that never yellows over time or with repeated cleanings.
Highlighted Features:
- Has a water-based formula
- Easy to clean up with soap and water
- Protects the surface from scratches, stains, and wear
- Dries in 30 minutes
- Coatable for 2 hours without losing finish
- Provides outstanding clarity
- Protects cabinets from fading and yellowing
2. Rejuvenate Kitchen Cabinet Finishes
If you’re looking for an easy way to restore the look of your kitchen cabinets, you can use this product to rejuvenate them. This product fills in scratches, seals and protects your cabinetry, and gives it a like-new appearance.
This easy wipe-on paint for kitchen cabinets is durable and only takes one fresh coat to fully brighten up the cabinets. You can use it with other Rejuvenate products to achieve great results as well.
It is a water-based stain, sealer, and protector for all finished wood, laminate, and Formica surfaces. You can hide scuffs, scuff marks, and imperfections with this product.
With its concentrated formula, these finishes can be applied easily in just one step, leaving no streaks or drips. Restoration doesn’t alter the look of the original finish, it just enhances it.
The formula is polymer-based and has UV ray protection to protect surfaces from the damaging effects of the sun. This product can also be used on furniture, wall paneling, and more.
With these paint finishes, you can give your old painted cabinets a new look. This product comes with six different colors of paint, so there’s no need to purchase multiple products for your kitchen. It’s available in 13 oz gallons and was designed in the United States!
Highlighted Features:
- An easy wipe-on application
- Can be used with other Rejuvenate products
- Hides Scuffs, Scuff Marks, and Imperfections
- One step application with concentrated formula
- Restoration does not alter the look.
- The product is polymer-based
- Has UV ray protection
3. Minwax Kitchen Cabinetry Finishes
If you’re looking for a clear varnish that will give your woodwork a sleek, shiny finish, then this product from Minwax is for you. This is a clear, polycrylic gloss, water-based protective finish that comes in a sheen.
With its non-yellowing, non-ambering, low odor properties, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a high quality finish. You can use it on all interior wooden surfaces.
Moreover, it leaves a gloss finish that will make your cabinets look great! It’s easy to apply with a low VOC formula, providing protection against stains, scratches, dirt and spills. It creates a beautiful surface for any painting project in the home.
The finishing is great for all water based and oil based paints from the Minwax brand, and all types of wooden species, including maple, birch and ash.
Minwax Kitchen Cabinetry Finishes are a clear coat that dries quickly, which allows for more coats on your project after 2 hours. It’s best to use this on a high-quality synthetic brush. It is easy to clean up.
Highlighted Features:
- Clear, polycrylic gloss, water-based protective finish
- Non-yellowing, non-ambering, low odor properties
- It can be used on all interior wooden surfaces
- Leaves a beautiful gloss finish
- Resistant to stains, scratches, and dirt
4. Minwax Cabinet Finish
Are you looking for a solution to bring out natural colors and highlights in your kitchen cabinets? If so, we have discovered Minwax 630500444 Finish that will exceed your expectations.
Minwax Cabinet Finish is a product to protect against the damaging effects of moisture and rain. It has UV blockers to reduce the sun’s graying and fading effects, which can be quite detrimental to your home’s beauty.
Additionally, the wooden finish creates a protective barrier to keep it strong. This product does this by expanding and contracting with the wood as seasons and temperatures change.
You can use it on bar tops, windows, doors, trim, kitchen countertops, and outdoor furniture. It is a crystal clear finish that is ideal for use over light-colored woods and stains.
The material dries quickly and cleans up easily with warm water. It is also a Spar urethane, which is a specially formulated protective clear finish for exterior or interior wooden surfaces.
Highlighted Features:
- Protects against moisture and rain
- Has UV blockers to reduce graying and fading effects
- Creates a protective barrier
- Expands and contracts with wood
- Crystal clear finish Ideal for light-colored woods
- Dries quickly and cleans up easily
5. HOWARD Finish for Kitchen Cabinet
If your kitchen cabinets are in bad shape, but you don’t have the time for a DIY paint job, HOWARD Finish can help. You can fix most wood surfaces in just a few minutes using a simple wipe-on/wipe-off method.
This easy-to-use product removes sun fade, smoke damage, and oxidation in just a few minutes. Plus, it leaves a beautiful finish that is strong.
Restor-A-Finish is a unique finish-penetrating formula that restores natural wood finishes while blending out minor scratches, abrasions, and blemishes. You can get it in 9 colors to match almost any wood finish.
You don’t have to remove any existing finish with Restor-A-Finish. You can get rid of white heat rings and water stains on your light-brown cabinets with HOWARD Finish For Kitchen Cabinets.
The product can be used on both dark and light-colored furniture to make the frame look new. It has been specifically designed to bring back color and luster to faded finishes. With this finish, cabinets are restored to their original beauty.
Highlighted Features:
- Can quickly and easily fix most wood surfaces
- Removes sun fade, smoke damage, oxidation
- Leaves a beautiful, durable finish
- Available in 9 colors to match any wood finish
- Designed to bring back color and luster to faded finishes
6. General Finishes Wood Kitchen Cabinet Finishes
Wood finishes for kitchen cabinets are available in a variety of colors and styles. You can choose a finish that will complement the style of your kitchen or choose a color that will stand out and make a statement.
No matter what your style or color preference, General Finishes has a finish that will suit your needs. It is a water-based topcoat that dries quickly to a hard, durable finish. It can be used over Milk Paint and Chalk Paint.
General Finishes wood kitchen cabinet finishes are easy to use. They go on smoothly and evenly, and they dry quickly. This means that you won’t have to spend hours waiting for your cabinets to dry.
Chalk paint is a special type of paint that is used to give a velvety look and powdery feel to wood. It is made with a very ingredient that works against it in the durability department.
This paint can sometimes rub off on you if you brush up against it. Chalk paint can be made more durable by applying wax, but wax must be reapplied frequently to make it last. This finish is designed to protect your cabinets while preserving their natural look, feel and color.
It dries in about 4 hours under normal conditions. You can cover about 600 square feet with one gallon and it’s easy to clean up.
Highlighted Features:
- It is a water-based topcoat
- Dries in about 2 to 4 hours to a hard, durable finish
- Can be used over Milk Paint and Chalk Paint
- Gives a velvety look and powdery feel to wood
- Works against it in the durability department.
- Covers about 600 square feet with one gallon
7. Minwax Varnish for Kitchen Cabinets
This varnish from Minwax is a one-step stain and polyurethane that enhances the natural wood grain of your cabinets. It comes in a variety of beautiful, rich colors and provides long-lasting protection against everyday wear and tear.
When you are looking to change the color of your finished wood without removing the present finish, this varnish is an excellent product to use. This product can be used over polyurethane finishes, so you can achieve the desired look without any hassle.
There are numerous advantages to using this product. It reduces finishing time and has a high resistance to moisture. In addition, it is easy to apply and can be cleaned with mineral spirits.
This clear coat varnish is designed for interior wood surfaces. It can be used on furniture, cabinets, and other wood surfaces to give them a protective finish and to enhance the appearance of the wood.
Minwax offers a variety of beautiful colors to pick from. So, you are sure to find the perfect match for your cabinets.
The product weighs 2.2 pounds and has dimensions of 4.25 x 4.25 x 4.88 inches. Consequently, if you are looking for an ideal varnish for kitchen cabinets, then you may choose this product.
Highlighted Features:
- Comes in a variety of beautiful colors.
- Provides long-lasting protection.
- Easy to clean with mineral spirits.
- Reduces finishing time.
- Can be used over polyurethane finishes.
8. Rust-Oleum High Gloss Lacquer Varnish for Kitchen Cabinets
Rust-Oleum varnish is a high-quality product that provides a crystal clear finish to your cabinets. It’s easy to use and creates a protective layer that is moisture resistant.
This clear coat product is perfect to use on furniture, cabinets, doors, and paneling. It provides a beautiful finish that is durable and long-lasting.
Furthermore, this varnish is resistant to scratches and stains, ensuring that it is an excellent choice for areas that are likely to be touched or used frequently.
Rust-Oleum’s high quality lacquer thinner varnish will make your cabinets look like they are made of glass. If you wish to preserve the wood grain on the surface, this product is formulated for a higher clarity finish than polyurethane.
It dries to the touch in just 1 hour, and it can cover an area of up to 290 square feet. So if you’re looking to give your cabinets a quick and easy makeover, this is the product for you.
This varnish can coat the rough edges of your cabinets and eliminate the need for wood filler or sanding between coats.
The product may only be used on interior surfaces. It is not recommended for use on flooring. There are 2.19 pounds of weight in this item.
Choosing this high gloss lacquer varnish for kitchen cabinets can be a great choice with all of these features.
Highlighted Features:
- Fast drying time, just 1 hour.
- Can cover an area of 290 square feet.
- Resistant to scratches and stains.
- Provides a clear, high gloss finish.
9. Environmental Technology High Gloss Varnish for Kitchen Cabinets
This glossy varnish is perfect for giving your kitchen cabinets a quick and easy makeover. It is environmentally friendly and does not contain any harmful chemicals.
The product contains a glossy 2-component polymer coating that can be used in a kitchen cabinet. Moreover, the product provides a long-lasting protective coat that is resistant to any type of stain or scratch.
This product will save you a lot of time if you are looking for an easy-to-use gloss varnish. It only takes one coat to produce the same effect as up to 50 coats of varnish.
For preserving and beautifying cabinets, this solid clear coat varnish is ideal. It dries to a clear, hard finish.
This product has a solvent-free formula that will not give off harmful fumes. So, you can rest easy knowing your family is safe from toxic chemicals. Since this varnish is waterproof, your cabinets will be protected from water damage.
Additionally, this varnish is resistant to heat and alcohol. Due to this, it will not be damaged by heat or alcohol, making it a great choice for use in the kitchen.
It provides a high level of protection and a beautiful finish that will last for a long time. The kit contains 32 ounces of varnish that covers about 8 square feet of surface area. The varnish is able to cover rough edges.
Therefore, if your cabinets are looking a little dull or need to be brightened, you may choose this glossy varnish for kitchen cabinets.
Highlighted Features:
- Contains a 2-component polymer coating for a long-lasting coat
- The solvent-free formula does not give off harmful fumes.
- Waterproof and protects cabinets from water damage.
- Heat and alcohol resistant for long-lasting protection.
10. HOPE’S Waterproof Natural Wood Varnish for Kitchen Cabinets
HOPE’S varnish not only protects your cabinets from everyday wear and tear, but the finish is also beautiful and natural-looking. The product is perfect for use on cabinets in your kitchen, but can also be applied to wood surfaces elsewhere in your home.
It is a natural oil called Tung oil that is used in this clear coat varnish to provide a beautiful, hand-rubbed finish on any type of wood. It is simply rubbed on and allowed to cure at room temperature.
You can rely on HOPE’s waterproof natural wood varnish for kitchen cabinets. This product will give your cabinets a deep and protective finish that is also flexible and non-oily, allowing them to stand up to the heat of the kitchen.
This clear coat varnish is resistant to alcohol, moisture, oil, and everyday wear, making it a better choice. Thus, you can enjoy the beauty and protection of your cabinets for a longer period of time. It weighs about 1.1 pounds.
Furthermore, this varnish is superior to mineral oil and wax. This oil based polyurethane can penetrate unfinished timber, stripped wood, weathered wood, concrete floors and countertops, stone, brick, and cast iron.
You will be amazed at how beautiful your surfaces will look after using this product. This clear coat product is non-toxic and has been made from natural materials to provide a safe, healthy way to finish your wooden surfaces.
Highlighted Features:
- Provides a beautiful and natural-looking finish.
- Resistant to moisture, alcohol, and oil.
- Waterproof that protects cabinets in the kitchen.
- Non-toxic that is safe to use.
We have ended our list with something great for you. Choosing a wood finish for cabinets from this list will ensure that your cabinets remain up to date with the modern day’s standards. We hope your search for the best paint finish for white kitchen cabinets is over.
Factors to Consider When Buying Finish for White Kitchen Cabinets
When it comes to white kitchen cabinets, the choice can be overwhelming. You want something that will look good and give you great performance and durability.
There are many different cabinet finishes available on the market. Let us take a look at some of the things that you should keep in mind when buying the best cabinet finish.
Size And Coverage:
One of the first things you need to decide is how much coverage you will get with the kitchen wood cabinet finish. Natural wood cabinetry is generally finished in standard sizes.
Usually, a gallon can cover about 400 square feet of area. If your kitchen has upper cabinets, then the amount of coverage required will be less. In the case of lower cabinets, you might need to purchase more than one gallon.
Types of Paint Sheen:
There are many different types of finishes that you can choose for your cabinets. These include a gloss finish, semi gloss finish, matte/flat finish, and satin finish. The type of finish selected will depend on your personal preference as well as the requirements of your kitchen.
Water Based or Oil Based Paint:
Kitchen wood cabinets are a prime location for water based paint as it is much easier to clean. It has all the benefits of oil-based polyurethane paint that you would look for in a kitchen cabinet paint, without the downside of being difficult to clean.
Oil based paint is more difficult to use and also takes more time to dry. Water-based paint is much better than oil paint when it comes to color retention when cleaning or scuffing occurs.
Dry Time:
Different types of finishes have different dry times. There are quick drying finishes that can be applied within 30 minutes and it can take up to two hours for your cabinets to fully dry.
Number of Coats:
When applying a kitchen cabinet paint, you will also have to determine the number of coats that you will need. Most products come with a description that tells you the coat requirement.
Some paints are thicker and require fewer layers, while others are thin and require multiple coats. It is best to go by this as it decides how long your finishing process will take.
Indoor or Outdoor:
The best finish should also be durable. You can use water based paint for your cabinets when they are in the outdoor area. This is because it takes longer to dry, which makes it perfect for high traffic areas.
Stain And Scratch Resistant:
Kitchen wood cabinets also need to be scratch resistant so that you do not have to worry about your kids damaging them by playing with their toys on the surface of your cabinets.
There are many different types of scratch resistant finishes available on the market. While some are more durable than others, it is important to choose one that you are comfortable with.
Water Resistant:
Kitchen cabinets also need to be water resistant so that they do not get damaged due to moisture or liquid spillage. Most traditional cabinet finishes have a tendency to wear off when exposed to water, but there are many new finishes available on the market.
You should choose a finish that can be easily cleaned and is also resistant to moisture and humidity. That way you do not have to worry about your cabinets getting damaged due to water damage.
UV Ray Protected:
Open cabinets are prone to damage during hot summers due to high humidity levels. That is why you need to choose a kitchen cabinet finish that protects your cabinets from the harmful rays of the sun.
The UV ray protection property means that your cabinets will not get discolored or damaged due to sunlight exposure. This property makes it especially useful during summer months when direct sunlight can damage your cabinets.
You should also look for finishes that have flexible properties allowing them to resist yellowing.
Removes White Heat Rings And Water Marks:
Over time, cabinets tend to accumulate white rings and other marks on the surface due to exposure to heat and water damage. These marks can be quite difficult to remove and require special chemicals and polishing agents that might end up damaging your cabinets.
That is why you need to choose a kitchen cabinet finish that removes white heat rings and water marks from the surface. This will save you a lot of hassle when it comes to cleaning your cabinets after use.
Odor:
Kitchen cabinets can sometimes have an unpleasant smell due to outgassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) trapped on its surface. While you can choose to ignore this property, it is better to opt for a finish that has no low VOC latex paint.
Uses:
You should go for a kitchen cabinet finish that can be applied on different surfaces like MDF cabinets, wood veneer cabinets, plywood panels, etc. This will reduce the cost of renovation as you do not have to purchase separate finishes for different material types.
Easy Clean-Up:
A kitchen cabinet finish that is easy to clean makes the process of keeping your wood veneer cabinets, and kitchen cabinet doors clean much easier. This helps you maintain your cabinets and keep them looking like new.
Benefits of Using Varnish for Kitchen Cabinets
You can get many benefits from using the best clear coat for kitchen cabinets. But make sure that the varnish you use is high-quality and matches the tone of your cabinets. Some benefits of using varnish for cabinets are:
1. Moisture Protection
The best clear coat for kitchen cabinets will provide moisture protection to your cabinets. This is crucial as kitchen cabinets are often exposed to high humidity and moisture due to the fact that they need to hold hot pots, pans, and dishes.
Using clear coat varnish for sealing painted cabinets will prevent water damage from occurring, allowing them to remain in good shape for a long time.
2. Protection from Wear and Tear
Kitchen cabinets experience a lot of damage due to things like food spills, alcohol, and strong chemicals. Over time, these chemicals can cause the painted surfaces on your cabinets to erode away.
However, using clear coat varnish for painted kitchen cabinets will prevent these substances from corroding or eroding away your cabinets. This will prevent them from looking dull and worn-out, while also keeping them in good condition for a long time.
3. Protection From Heat Damage
Kitchen cabinets are often exposed to the heat of stovetops and ovens regularly. This can be damaging over time as kitchen cabinets tend to crack when exposed to high temperatures for long periods of time.
Using clear coat varnish for painting kitchen cabinets will prevent them from being exposed to the heat, preventing them from getting damaged.
4. Longevity
Using varnish for sealing painted cabinets will make them more long-lasting. This is because clear coat varnish forms a barrier that prevents water, humidity, and other substances from penetrating the cabinet.
Therefore, you can expect your kitchen cabinets to remain in good shape for a long time.
5. Aesthetics
A clear coat varnish can also improve the overall look of your cabinets. If you choose a high-quality and clear coat varnish that matches the tone of your painted cabinets, then this will enhance their appearance to make them more vibrant and beautiful. This will give a great impression to visitors.
How to Get a Smooth Finish When Painting Kitchen Cabinets?
A DIY paint job for kitchen wood cabinets may seem daunting to a beginner. However, it will become much easier if you know what tools to use and how to work with your paint.
Here is the process that we recommend to get the best smooth finish when painting kitchen cabinets:
Step 01: Clean The Surface:
Before painting your solid wood cabinets, it is important that you clean the surface thoroughly and dry it. You will need to get rid of any loose paint particles or dust by wiping them down with a damp cloth. For best results, scrape off any flaky paint areas with a plastic putty knife.
Step 02: Apply a Thin Coat:
Now that the surface is clean and dry, you can begin applying the paint. The first coat should be a thin one. It will not cover up discolored areas or imperfections completely.
You will need to apply two or three coats to achieve full coverage. However, make sure that you do not apply too much paint as it can create bubbles and wrinkles.
Step 03: Let It Dry
After applying the first coat, you will need to let it dry for at least 2 hours before applying another coat of paint. If you notice any imperfections or bubbles in the surface, then flatten them with a wet rag or use a heat gun to remove bubbles.
Step 04: Sand It with 220 Grit Sandpaper
After you have applied a second coat, it is a good idea to sand the surface with fine grit sandpaper. This will help smooth out any unevenness and give your kitchen cabinets that perfect finish. If you want high gloss finishes, then you should not skip this step.
Step 05: Apply a Second Coat
Now that you have sanded the surface, it is time to apply another coat of paint. You need to wait for at least 2 hours before painting again.
Step 06: Let It Dry
Again you have to let it dry. The drying time may vary depending on the type of paint you are using. However, make sure that you do not touch or open the cabinet doors.
Step 07: Apply Final Coat
Apply the final coat with a brush or roller to get a smooth finish. It is important to take your time and work the paint into the corners and edges.
Step 08: Let It Dry:
When the final coat has been applied, let it dry for at least 24 hours before using your cabinets.
Safety Precautions When Applying Varnish to Kitchen Cabinets
In spite of the ease of using varnish for wood finishes, you should take safety precautions to avoid accidents. Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind:
– Always wear gloves while applying varnish to your kitchen cupboards. This will help you to avoid getting varnish on your fingers.
– Keep your kitchen windows open while applying the varnish to ensure that fumes don’t get trapped in the room. You should also ensure that there is proper ventilation while you are brushing on the varnish.
– Ensure that children and pets are kept away from your kitchen cupboards while you are applying the varnish, as it can be dangerous if they come into contact with them.
– You should wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth while you are applying the varnish. This will help to prevent inhaling any of the fumes from the product.
FAQs:
Should White Kitchen Cabinets Be Shiny?
White kitchen cabinets will look good no matter what finish you choose. However, if you want them to have a glossy or shiny look, choose gloss paint. This is because the shine will reflect the light and give your kitchen that clean, polished look.
Thus, you should stick with semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes rather than matte, satin, or eggshell finishes.
Is Gloss or Semi-Gloss Better for White Kitchen Cabinets?
When choosing the best finish for your kitchen cabinets, keep in mind that there are numerous paint options available on the market today. This includes gloss and semi-gloss finish.
The choice between them will depend on your preferences. We recommend, however, that you choose a gloss paint finish, as it is more durable, is easier to clean, and can reflect light.
Is Satin or Semi-Gloss Better for White Kitchen Cabinets?
The choice between satin or semi-gloss paint will depend on the amount of shine you want your kitchen cabinets to have. If you prefer a high gloss finish, you should go with semi-gloss paint. However, if you want a low shine or satin paint finish, then go with satin paint.
Is Satin Better Than Gloss for White Kitchen Cabinets?
While both paints will give your kitchen cabinets that perfect look, the only difference is the level of shine they provide. The glossier your paint finish, the more it will show imperfections. If you want an even finish, choose gloss paint.
Should You Put a Top Coat on White Painted Cabinets?
If your cabinets are made from wood, it is always best to put a top coat on them. The end result will be that much better, and your cabinets will stay protected for a long time.
The Final Word:
A kitchen cabinet is an expensive appliance that you would want to last for ages. It is also functional, and it houses all your kitchen utensils. Thus, the cabinet needs to be well protected.
The goal of finishing your cabinets is to make them look good and to protect them from damage. If you have been thinking about painting your kitchen cabinets, then use the best finish for white kitchen cabinets to get that perfect look.
We hope that our review and buying guide helped you choose great paint for your kitchen cabinets. Now it’s time for you to make the final decision.
