Are you tired of the same old look in your bathroom? Do you want to add a personal touch and make your space more interesting? Painting your bathroom cabinets is a great way to achieve that! Whether you're a beginner or just looking for some inspiration, this guide will walk you through the process and give you the confidence to take on this project yourself.
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Painting Our Bathroom Cabinets Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
Our downstairs powder room is the most frequently used bathroom in our home. It had a cute, but plain, all-white cabinet that looked nice and clean. However, I wanted to add some interest and make a statement in this space. So, I decided to paint the bathroom cabinets myself!
Image: Before photo of a white bathroom cabinet
After careful consideration, I chose Benjamin Moore's Hale Navy as the color for the cabinets. It's a deep navy shade that adds a touch of sophistication and modernity to any room. I documented the entire process and wrote a detailed post about it, complete with images of homes painted in Hale Navy. If you're considering this color, it's definitely worth giving it a read!
Image: Bathroom with a Hale Navy painted vanity and bone inlay mirror
I absolutely love how the cabinets turned out! The darker Hale Navy color is on-trend for 2023, and it adds a touch of elegance to the space. To complement the new color, I also added long handles to the vanity, following a popular trend. This small change made a big impact and gave the bathroom a fresh and updated look.
The Basics of Painting Bathroom Cabinets
Painting bathroom cabinets is a cost-effective way to enhance the look of your space without the need for expensive upgrades. While there are different materials and types of paint you can use, wood is the easiest surface to paint and typically produces the best results. For this project, it's recommended to stick with similar materials, as other surfaces like melamine or thermofoil may not provide as satisfactory results.
To achieve a smooth finish, it's advantageous to remove the cabinets entirely if possible. However, if removing them is not feasible, you can still achieve good results by removing the doors or drawer fronts and treating them separately. Before you start painting, make sure to protect the surrounding areas by masking off windows, baseboards, and countertops, and using tarps to cover the floors.
The Best Primer and Paint for Bathroom Cabinets
Choosing the right primer and paint is crucial for a long-lasting and professional-looking finish. Invest in the best primer your budget allows, as it plays a vital role in the durability of your paint job. If you're painting unfinished cabinets, use a primer that blocks wood tannins from bleeding through later.
For the actual paint, opt for a high-quality brand that offers better quality tiers, especially for cabinets that are frequently used. Water-based, alkyd-based paints are the best choice for bathroom cabinets, as they provide a durable finish that can withstand high traffic areas. Satin or semi-gloss sheen works well, as it's easy to wipe down and maintain.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Bathroom Cabinets
1. Prep before Painting Bathroom Cabinets
Proper preparation is essential for a successful paint job. Start by removing all doors, drawers, and hardware. Protect the floors by laying old towels or sheets around the cabinet. Clean the cabinets thoroughly using a prepaint cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and warm water with a few drops of liquid dish soap.
2. Fill Holes and Scratches
Inspect the cabinets for any scratches, gouges, or dents. Fill these imperfections with wood filler, making sure to apply an excess amount. Allow the wood filler to dry and sand off the excess to achieve a smooth surface.
3. Sand the Cabinets
Sanding the cabinets is necessary for maximum primer adhesion. Use a fine sanding block to lightly sand the surfaces, focusing on roughing up the finish rather than removing it completely. Clean the cabinets to remove any dust or debris before moving on to the next step.
4. Apply Primer
Pour the primer into a small painting bin and use a brush to apply it to the surfaces that aren't flat. Use a foam roller for the larger, flat areas. Work on one section at a time to ensure the primer doesn't dry before applying the roller.
5. Paint the Cabinets
Once the primer is dry, lightly sand it and remove any dust. Then, apply the paint using the same brush and foam roller technique. Be sure to paint both sides of the cabinet doors for a finished look. Repeat the painting process for a second coat, if necessary.
6. Allow for Proper Drying and Curing
Although the paint may feel dry to the touch within a few hours, it's essential to allow for proper drying and curing time. Cure time can take up to a week or longer. Be careful when reattaching doors and drawers to avoid damaging the newly painted surfaces.
7. Reinstall Cabinet Doors and Drawers
After the paint has fully dried, reattach the doors and drawers to your vanity. If you've chosen new hardware, make sure to drill the necessary holes before reattaching. Take care when handling the cabinets during this step to prevent any damage to the fresh paint job.
8. Add Accessories and Enjoy!
Finish off your bathroom refresh by adding accessories like a new mirror or artwork. These small details can enhance the overall look and feel of the space.
Image: Navy painted bathroom cabinets in a white bathroom
By following these steps and using the right products, you can transform the look of your bathroom cabinets in just a few days' time. Don't be afraid to get creative and add your personal touch to the space. Painting bathroom cabinets is an affordable and rewarding DIY project that can make a significant impact on your home's overall aesthetic.
So go ahead, grab your paintbrush, and let your imagination run wild! Your bathroom will thank you for it.
Note: The original article contains additional information including product recommendations and personal anecdotes. For the full article, please refer to the source.
