The modern kitchen is a testament to personal style and functionality. For millennial homeowners who value aesthetics as much as purpose, refreshing the appearance of kitchen cabinets is great for a subtle yet transformative touch. If completely remodeling your kitchen cabinets is out of the question, a simple paint job can be the game-changer you need.

Here are tips for achieving a chic and beautiful finish:

Preparation Is Everything

Before diving into painting your kitchen cabinets, clean them thoroughly. Years of cooking can lead to a build-up of grease and grime, which can hinder paint adherence. If you need to get grime out easily, try a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP) and water.

Not All Paints Are Created Equal

Kitchen cabinets endure daily use and frequent cleaning, so they’ll benefit most from paint with a semi-gloss or gloss finish. These finishes are easier to clean and more durable than other finishes. Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are great brands when looking for top-tier paint options for your kitchen cabinets.

Primer Is a Necessity

A great quality primer ensures that the paint will adhere properly and give a smooth finish to your kitchen cabinets. Using a primer is especially needed if your cabinets are currently dark and you’re going lighter or if they’re varnished.

Trending Hues

Classic whites and grays will always be a popular choice, but consider trending hues in contemporary kitchen designs. Shades like deep blues, muted greens, and terracotta are beautiful additions to kitchen cabinets. Consider the color palette of your home and choose a color that complements it.

Quality Tools

When painting kitchen cabinets, you’ll need to use high-quality brushes and foam rollers to get the best results. Brushes are great for detailed areas and edges, while foam rollers provide a smooth finish on broader surfaces.

Always Test First

Before committing to a color, test it out by painting a small section or a piece of cardboard. Observe how it looks in different lighting conditions before committing. This can save you from regrets in the future.

Patience Pays Off

Once your cabinets are painted, give them ample time to dry before reattaching hardware and putting them to use. This ensures that the paint cures well, therefore lasting longer.