When we moved into our new home, I wanted the kitchen to feel like the centerpiece of the house—inviting, fresh, and uniquely ours. The problem? The cabinets were outdated, and sanding them down felt like way too much work. That’s when I set out to find the best paint for kitchen cabinets that didn’t require sanding.
What I discovered completely transformed our kitchen without the headache of endless prep work. The finish turned out smooth, durable, and professional-looking—all with far less effort than I expected. In this guide, I’ll break down the exact paint types, step-by-step process, and even the brands I used to pull it off.
Best Types of Paint for Cabinets Without Sanding
1. Chalk Paint
Chalk paint was the first product I tested, and honestly, it blew me away. No primer needed—just a thorough cleaning and you’re ready to roll.
The paint goes on like butter and dries into a soft matte finish that feels modern yet cozy. My family still comments on how “professional” it looks, even though I’m no pro. For DIY-ers, this is one of the simplest ways to get started.
2. Milk Paint with Bonding Agent
If you want a little creative freedom, milk paint is worth trying. It’s all-natural, safe for the kitchen, and with a bonding agent, it sticks like glue.
The coolest part is experimenting with texture—you can make it smooth or give it a vintage vibe. Our cabinets became instant conversation starters after using this.
3. Acrylic or Enamel-Based Paints
These paints are built for busy households. The glossy finish not only looks sleek but also wipes clean in seconds. With kids running around and constant cooking, durability was a must for me.
Months later, the cabinets still look brand new, even after plenty of sticky fingerprints and spaghetti sauce splatters.
4. Cabinet-Specific Paints
There are paints made specifically for cabinets, and they’re worth considering. They resist grease, stand up to heavy use, and deliver a lasting finish without complicated prep.
These paints are like the heavy-duty option for kitchens that take daily abuse.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Cabinets Without Sanding
Here’s exactly how I handled the process:
Materials You’ll Need
- Degreaser or TSP cleaner
- Liquid deglosser (liquid sandpaper)
- Bonding primer
- High-quality brushes and foam rollers
- Cabinet paint (oil-based or enamel preferred)
- Painter’s tape, drop cloths, and microfiber cloths
Prep Phase
- Deep Clean: Scrub every cabinet to remove grease and residue.
- Degloss: Apply liquid deglosser for a smooth base. Gloves recommended.
- Primer: Use a bonding primer for maximum adhesion.
- Paint: Apply multiple thin coats using a roller for flat surfaces and a brush for edges.
- Drying Time: Be patient—let each coat cure fully before the next.
The secret is thin coats. It takes longer, but the end result looks like it came straight from a professional.
Best Paint Brands for Cabinets Without Sanding
Over time, I tested several different options, from premium to budget-friendly. Here’s what worked best:
Top Recommendations
- Annie Sloan Chalk Paint – Perfect matte finish, no primer needed.
- Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations – Extremely durable and great for high-use areas.
- Benjamin Moore Advance – Self-leveling paint that makes brush strokes vanish.
Budget-Friendly Picks
- BEHR Premium Cabinet & Trim – Reliable option from Home Depot with a smooth finish.
- Valspar Cabinet Enamel – Levels beautifully, even if your brush skills aren’t perfect.
- Color Place (Walmart) – A solid budget choice with bonding primer added.
FAQs
Can you really skip sanding?
Yes! A good deglosser and bonding primer do the heavy lifting.
How long does the process take?
Plan on about four days—one for cleaning, one for priming, and two for painting and drying.
Does the paint hold up long-term?
Absolutely. With kids slamming doors daily, my cabinets still look fresh months later.
How do you avoid brush marks?
Use a foam roller for flat areas and thin coats of quality paint. Self-leveling paints also help.
Final Thoughts
Updating your kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to involve sanding, dust, and weeks of work. With the right prep, the right materials, and a little patience, you can completely transform your kitchen.
For me, using no-sand methods not only saved time but also gave me results I’m proud to show off. If you’ve been putting off a cabinet upgrade, this approach is 100% doable—and way more budget-friendly than hiring it out.