This is the most complete guide on the best primers for kitchen cabinets in 2022 where our experts have tested & reviewed the top 10 primers for you.
Dull kitchen cabinets are the least expected thing in your newly remodeled kitchen. We understand that home improvement procedures require a lot of things to consider.
Nonetheless, you just cannot overlook the kitchen cabinets when you plan to give them a complete makeover.
Your kitchen is a place that quickly accumulates oil, dirt, grease, and all other sticky elements, and the cabinets are not spared too! That is why caring for those small yet precious parts is also equally essential.
Excluding kitchen cabinets from your home improvement plan is just like wearing a new dress with an old and shabby-looking pair of shoes; can you afford that?
We’ve gathered the best primers for kitchen cabinets 2022 on the market to help you improve the look of your kitchen. Your paint will cure into a smooth finish if you use them, and they prevent grease and tannins from penetrating the paint surface.
The quality of your finish depends on the primer that you use for each of your cabinets. Seal the cabinet’s surfaces and help them bond with paint by using a sealant.
Priming and painting over stained cabinets are two different things. There are so many cabinet primers on the market that it can be challenging to know which one to use in a kitchen remodel.
There is no better place to look than here! We’ve compiled a list of the best primers for kitchen cabinets in 2022 based on our expert’s experience and research. Read on to learn about the best cabinet primer for painting your cabinets colorless or going for a new color.
Best Primers For Kitchen Cabinets In 2022 — Expert Reviews
1. INSL-X CC550109A-01 Kitchen Cabinet Paint Primer
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- Highly well-suited to use with a water-soluble primer.
- Cleanup is a breeze.
- Topcoat ready in 3 hours.
- It hardens into a smooth finish that won’t flake or crack.
- To dry, they require low temperatures.
Unlike oil and shellac, INSL-X Stix Acrylic Primer has much more to compete with them. In the same way that a gloss or satin paint adheres to glossy surfaces, this product does as well.
Some of the most difficult and challenging surfaces can be coated with this product. Without a strong top coat, this formula is not recommended for use on polyethylene or polypropylene substrates.
It keeps smells and stains at bay, which is why it’s one of the best kitchen cabinet primers. Priming should begin with a thorough cleaning. Apply the primer with a 34-inch nap or foam roller.
We recommend using a brush, scrubbing pad, or strippers to remove unwanted/old paint, grease, dust, etc., from the surface of polished nickel hardware cabinets or stainless steel cabinetry.
Satin Enamel INSL-X Cabinet Coat is the best satin enamel paint finish for refinishing or refurbishing a dirty kitchen or even cabinets of your restroom as well as furniture, crown & trim molding.
Other interior applications require a long-lasting beauty without a primer that gives an exceptionally smooth finish, and it can be applied directly to polyurethane and varnished surfaces.
Superior stain resistance and a long-lasting satin finish are just a few of the benefits of this cabinet enamel. Cabinets, metal, new and earlier painted wood, furniture, woodwork, and door trim can all be painted with enamel.
If you determine to paint your kitchen cabinets, this is the best option because it can cure even in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
This primer can be used on any surface, not just wood, but the best adhesion occurs when the wood has been adequately prepared. However, if you plan to paint your cabinets’ metal appliances as well, this primer will come in handy.
It can also be applied to shiny surfaces. 7As a result of its water-based formula, this wood cabinet primer does not emit any unpleasant odors. Once it has dried, the low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) make it nontoxic and safe to handle.
The smell shouldn’t dwell on your kitchen cupboards for too long with proper ventilation. You can use water-based primers to create a flat, matte finish, which makes them ideal for use with water-based matte paint.
However, oil-based paint can still be used to achieve a glossy appearance.
- Highly well-suited to use with a water-soluble primer.
- Cleanup is a breeze.
- Topcoat ready in 3 hours.
- It hardens into a smooth finish that won’t flake or crack.
- To dry, they require low temperatures.
- You might need two coats.
- Do not use it outdoors.
2. Zinsser Rust-OLEUM 249933 Primer
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- It won’t take a long time to dry out.
- Even the most stubborn stains can be covered by it.
- You won’t be able to detect any odor.
- It’s simple to use.
- Both interior and exterior surfaces can benefit from their use.
With these Rust-Oleum Shellac Primer paints, you can get rid of any odors and stains that may be present. Designed to help anyone get rid of stubborn stains and achieve a flawless finish, the formula is easy to use.
In addition to its excellent stain-blocking properties, this synthetic shellac primer can eliminate unpleasant odors, making your work environment more pleasant.
It also has a low odor, and it dries quickly, making the process even more efficient and time-efficient. A wide range of colors means you can easily match the primer to the paint you intend to apply.
For example, the grey latex primer can be used with both glossy and satin oil-based paints. Choose a dominant color for your paint in order to get the best results. This formula needs to dry for 30 minutes.
However, you should allow up to two hours between layers before continuing. Make sure your surface is free of dirt and grease before you begin priming. When it comes to resolving everyday issues in the home or constructing commercial properties, Zinsser has the right solution for you.
It is possible to extend the lifespan of paint jobs and make them more durable by using an excellent primer which has been shown to provide superior adhesion to a wide range of paint types on various surfaces and substrates.
Most popular primers are applied with roller spray or aerosol spray. What makes this solution so great is that even the most egregious of stains can be removed.
In the case of water and fire damage restoration or remodeling, for example, this is an excellent tool. It’s a shellac primer for both exterior and interior priming.
The thick texture of the product ensures complete coverage. Go for it without any second thought, and your kitchen cabinet will look brand new.
- It won’t take a long time to dry out.
- Even the most stubborn stains can be covered by it.
- You won’t be able to detect any odor.
- It’s simple to use.
- Both interior and exterior surfaces can benefit from their use.
- A minimum of two coats of primer is required.
- It is ineffective on shiny surfaces.
3. KILZ L211101 Adhesion High-Bonding Interior Latex Primer
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- Very quickly, it dries out.
- They can be layered on top of each other.
- Cabinet primer that works best.
- As a result, it can be applied to a wide range of surfaces.
- The coverage was excellent.
For kitchen cabinet primer, KILZ Restoration Maximum (formerly KILZ MAX) is one of the best. This primer has a powerful stain-blocking ability, which makes it ideal for homes with old cabinets that have been used for a long time and have accumulated a lot of stains.
It’s a water-based primer that you may use with both oil-based and latex paint primers to create the best possible effect. You’ll save money by not having to sand as much wood.
This formula is capable of preventing smoke, grease, nicotine, tannin, and even considerable water damage from accumulating. One-gallon and five-gallon cans of this product are available.
The best results will be achieved if your cabinet surface is spotless for priming. If you want to use a high-quality water-based primer, the Kilz interior bonding primer is an excellent choice.
One gallon of this latex primer can cover up to 300 square feet of cabinet painting. This is the ideal adhesive for use on a difficult surface because of its superior adhesion properties.
As little as 30 minutes after application, it dries completely, preventing peeling. Using this primer, you can finish priming and painting your kitchen cabinets in one day. This formula can be used with any kind of painting technique.
If you prefer, you can roll it, paint it, or even spray it. This Kilz primer’s coverage is particularly impressive, given that it is water-based. Preparing a surface for paint with a good bonding primer is critical for the adhesion of subsequent coats.
Preparation with a high degree of adhesion allows for a wide range of painting options. Retains adhesion on various difficult-to-paint surfaces, such as metals and plastics (Kynar and Formica), as well as glass, tile, and glazed brick.
It also adheres to chalky paint and glossy finishes. Latex or oil-based paint can be used as a topcoat. This adhesive can be used on nearly any interior or exterior surface that necessitates a strong bond.
If you’re going to use a solvent-based epoxy or lacquer, this primer is the way to go.
- Very quickly, it dries out.
- They can be layered on top of each other.
- Cabinet primer that works best.
- As a result, it can be applied to a wide range of surfaces.
- The coverage was excellent.
- Compared to other options, it’s expensive.
- Some stains or flaws necessitate an additional coat of paint.
4. INSL-X PS800009A-01 Primer For Kitchen Cabinets
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- The drying process is fast.
- It can be applied on various wood surfaces.
- It blocks stains and molds.
- No moisture buildup.
This is the second product from INSL that we have chosen for you as one of the best primers for kitchen cabinets. This one is similar to the previous one in most of the features, but some general differentiations make this one a much better choice for the kitchen cabinets.
For kitchen cabinet remodeling, oil-based primers are preferred because they can be used on a variety of surfaces. Even the final topcoat of the paint has a high sheen. In order to get the best results from this primer, two layers must be applied.
Oil-based primers, on the other hand, are capable of quickly clogging heavy stains like smoke and grease. As a result, oil-based primers are typically used for seasoned wood, new wood, and chipped or painted wood, respectively.
The primer has the capacity of removing stains and watermarks from the cabinet flawlessly. When you use this primer on your cabinets, you can give it additional protection from moisture and mold buildup.
However, make sure you need to clean the surface before using the primer. The double coating is necessary when you use this primer, but the best part is it dries within 10 minutes.
A smooth and shiny finish gives a new look to your cabinets. Go for this Alkyd primer and block stains on your cabinets forever. If you are looking for a guide on giving a great finish to any wood items then you can read this article on it.
- The drying process is fast.
- It can be applied on various wood surfaces.
- It blocks stains and molds.
- No moisture buildup.
- Requires double or triple coating.
5. Rust-Oleum Painter Primer For Kitchen Cabinets
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- The cost is reasonable.
- Durability is outstanding.
- A clean, polished look.
- It’s a snap to put this into action.
For this primer, versatility is the name of the game. It is not only versatile but it can be applied to a wide range of surfaces. Even if you’re priming drywall, metal, or concrete, this primer will stick to any surface because of its strong adhesive properties.
Other than that, one can use any type of paint as a topcoat, whether oil-based or water-based. This primer by Rust-Oleum has a wide range of features that make it one of the best primers available.
Everything you’d want in a good primer is here. This premium contains rust inhibitors, which prevent corrosion on the surface. Stains and tannin bleed can also be prevented with this primer.
Furthermore, it is capable of protecting the surface from water damage. As a result, mildew and mold can’t grow. It is used both indoors and outdoors because of its high level of reliability.
Good quality brushes and rollers are all that are needed to apply this to the surface. An aerosol spray formula is provided for easy application. Over the primer, it’s best to use a dark paint color.
100 square feet can be coated with this primer in a quarter of a cup. You will obtain a gleaming and glossy texture when the paint is completely dry.
The primer is best for giving your kitchen cabinet strong protection from mold, moisture, and unnecessary water penetration from the walls. It will also enhance the life of the cabinets and make sure that you can use them for a prolonged period.
To sum up, it’s safe to say this primer is worth purchasing based on customer feedback. If you’re on a budget, this is your best option for long-term use. The product is therefore recommended by customers to others.
- The cost is reasonable.
- Durability is outstanding.
- A clean, polished look.
- It’s a snap to put this into action.
- Sometimes, double coats are necessary.
6. KILZ L204511 Kitchen & Bath Interior Latex Primer
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- At least 300-400 square feet can be covered by a single gallon of this formula.
- Stains of fumes, grease, and moisture are clogged up by it.
- It’s fast and efficient, and it gets the job done.
- It gives the final topcoat a glossy finish.
KILZ is such a brand that you can never ignore while choosing paints and primers for your home improvement. When looking for an inexpensive kitchen cabinet primer, this product may be worth your consideration.
It has the ability to restore worn-out cabinets to their former glory. This one works on a variety of materials, including metal, wood, glass, and many others.
For painting the cabinet’s wood, glass, and hardware, this stain blocker primer should provide excellent coverage. Mildew can grow between the primer and paint coats if it isn’t protected by an enhanced mildew-resistant film provided by KILZ Kitchen & Bath Primer.
Using Kitchen & Bath Primer helps to ensure a smooth and level surface. Because of its high hide and ability to seal porous surfaces, it’s an excellent choice for color changes as well as light to medium staining.
Outstanding adhesion to most surfaces and a solid anchor for paints are two of the benefits of KILZ Kitchen & Bath Interior Primer’s many strengths. For use in places with high levels of humidity, moisture, and temperature variation, such as the bathrooms, kitchens, and mudrooms.
The primer’s mildew-resistant film has been enhanced. The formula is fast drying, odorless, and low in VOCs. Kitchens that have been in use for an extended period are more likely to have oil stains.
Consequently, this primer is ideal for areas where staining is a problem, as it has an anti-staining effect. Because this formula is resistant to grease, smoke, and water leakage or moisture accumulation, it has proven to be a helpful tool.
It can be recoated in an hour after it has dried to the touch. Three hundred to four hundred square feet can be covered by a gallon of this primer. It has a flat finish that makes light colors appear more vibrant.
This oil-based primer may be at the bottom of the list, but it’s better than most other primers. As a sealant and stain blocker, it is an excellent choice. This primer aids in the improvement of the paint’s color accuracy, so it’s a wise choice.
- At least 300-400 square feet can be covered by a single gallon of this formula.
- Stains of fumes, grease, and moisture are clogged up by it.
- It’s fast and efficient, and it gets the job done.
- It gives the final topcoat a glossy finish.
- Only the cabinet’s interior is suitable for using this product.
- If you want to see results, you need to act quickly.
Keep Reading: Premium Wood Epoxy Resins ReviewedÂ
7. Zinsser 271009 Advanced Synthetic Shellac Primer
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- It won’t take a long time to dry out.
- With this product, even the most stubborn stains can be disguised.
- You won’t be able to detect any odor.
- It’s a simple process to implement.
- Both indoor and outdoor surfaces can benefit from their use.
These Rust-Oleum shellac primers can effectively seal off-odors and stains, making them ideal for painting. Stains can be stubborn, but the formula was designed to make it easier for anyone to get rid of them.
The stain-blocking properties of this synthetic shellac primer make it ideal for creating a pleasant working environment for you. Moreover, it has a mild scent and dries quickly, all of which contribute to the process’s accelerated pace.
This primer is all about versatility. It is not only versatile but it can be applied to a wide range of surfaces. Concrete, metal, drywall, or any other material can all be primed with this primer due to its strong adhesive nature.
In addition, any type of paint can be used as a topcoat, whether oil-based or water-based. This primer by Rust-Oleum is one of the best because of its wide range of features.
With this formula, you can use oil-based or latex paint on virtually any interior or exterior surface. It’s up to you whether you prefer the white or grey version of this product.
With a dark cooler in mind, the grey one is the best option for painting your cabinets. Before painting, you must wait for your primer to dry. It’s got all the features you’d expect from a dependable primer.
This premium contains rust inhibitors to protect the surface from corrosion. Stains and tannin bleed can also be prevented with this primer. As a bonus benefit, it protects the surface from water damage.
Thus, mildew and mold are prevented from forming. It is used both indoors and outdoors because of its high level of reliability. It also works well on both interior and exterior surfaces when applied with the primer.
According to our team of industry experts, most of the customers like this product because of its quick-drying process and long-lasting effect. This one is the best for kitchen cabinets because of its highly smooth finish and glossy appearance.
- It won’t take a long time to dry out.
- With this product, even the most stubborn stains can be disguised.
- You won’t be able to detect any odor.
- It’s a simple process to implement.
- Both indoor and outdoor surfaces can benefit from their use.
- After sanding, the surface does not have silky smooth finish.
8. INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Waterborne Bonding Primer For Kitchen Cabinets
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- High levels of adhesion.
- It adheres to everything.
- It’s a great way to keep metal cabinets from rusting.
- Sealing children’s drawings, tanning bleeds, and stains can be done with this product.
- Mold and mildew are prevented by using this product.
An excellent water-based primer that can be used all over the house is right here if you are in search of one. Light color topcoats can be applied over this white acrylic primer.
Standard dependability and excellent adhesion allow you to apply this product on a variety of surfaces, including glossy tiles, metals, or bricks. Prime surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom with moisture-sealing properties.
Despite the fact that it is a water-based primer, it has extreme adhesion. As a result, even the most difficult surfaces can be made easier to paint. Curing is a quick process. There are a number of temperature ranges in which it can be used.
Compared to other primers, this one doesn’t have a strong odor. Depending on the type of surface and the number of coats, a gallon of this primer can cover 300 to 400 square feet. After 3-4 hours, you may apply the second coat.
It’s also more challenging to remove this primer than oil-based primers. In terms of customer satisfaction, this primer’s high adhesion is the most sought-after feature. This primer can be applied to a wide range of surfaces.
This product, when applied to a clean and sanded surface, resulted in an excellent finish. In other words, you don’t need to be concerned about making a purchase of this item. Priming should begin with a thorough cleaning.
Apply the primer with a 34-inch nap or foam roller. We recommend using a brush or scrubbing pad to remove grease, dust, etc., from the surface of stainless steel or vintage metal cabinets.
Latex primers are also known as water-based primers, and INSL is one of these. A roller or paintbrush is all that is needed to apply these primers because they are fast, inexpensive, and easy to use.
Latex primers dry quickly, unlike oil-based primers. Latex primers are preferred by most paint experts when dealing with rusty or tarnished surfaces. INSL will give you a similar end result when you opt for it.
Latex primers are better suited for dry, granular walls than oil-based ones. This is due to the fact that oil-based primers have a tendency to leave a bumpy surface and because they are highly adhesive.
- High levels of adhesion.
- It adheres to everything.
- It’s a great way to keep metal cabinets from rusting.
- Sealing children’s drawings, tanning bleeds, and stains can be done with this product.
- Mold and mildew are prevented by using this product.
- Double coating is mandatory.
9. Rust-Oleum 3554 Zinsser High Hide Cover Stain Primer
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- It can be used on either the inside or outside of the cabinet.
- The final paint coat has a high sheen as a result of its use.
- For latex or oil-based paints, it is a good choice.
- It dries in a short amount of time.
Zinsser’s Cover Stain is a good option if you have a lot of discoloration on your cabinets or if you intend to cover bare wood. If you’re looking for a way to hide unsightly stains, this oil-based primer is the answer.
For kitchen cabinets, this primer has a high-hiding formula that is ideal. In addition to concealing stains and sap bleeds, it will also clean and maintain the cabinets a breeze.
Although it is an oil-based primer, it dries faster than other similar primers. Cover Stain is also one of the best primers for kitchen cabinets that don’t require sanding because it is water-based.
Before applying the oil primer, make sure to clean the peeling parts and grease with denatured alcohol. An oil-based product, the ZINSSER Cover Stain primer is used for painting. It adheres well to both the inside and outside of the cabinet.
Because of its high sealing and bonding strength, it is suitable for painting and renovation. Additionally, this formula dries quickly and has anti-nicotine, anti-smoking, and anti-water properties.
Sealers that are long-lasting and resist heavy stains should be used with this formula. If you want to consider giving the kitchen cabinets a darker color tone, this can be used as an undercoat.
The application process is also trouble-free. You just have to follow some easy tips to get the job done. Prior to applying the topcoat, allow the primer to dry for at least 24 hours.
When applying oil-based primers, a natural bristle brush, an ox hairbrush, or a china hair brush is recommended. Even though they are the most expensive, they are the easiest to use and clean materials.
A few of the products we use that are reasonably priced but of excellent quality are listed here. When using oil-based primers, it is always a good idea to have a 2 or 3-inch brush on hand. This is our go-to brush for applying oil-based primer.
- It can be used on either the inside or outside of the cabinet.
- The final paint coat has a high sheen as a result of its use.
- For latex or oil-based paints, it is a good choice.
- It dries in a short amount of time.
- It has an overpowering and repulsive odor that lingers for a few days after being used.
- VOCs make up the rest of the formula.
10. XIM, UMA Bonder & Primer For Kitchen & Interior
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- Painting Supplies and house-primers are used for.
- Made in the United States, provides excellent adhesion.
- An indoor or outdoor application.
- All topcoats are the same..
XIM’s New and Improved Technologies High-performance water-based bonder, UMA White, has both primer and adhesive qualities. Even when wet, it adheres exceptionally well to “Hard-to-Paint” surfaces.
To guarantee maximum adhesion to tiles, porcelain, and glazed block, the surface must be sanded or dulled. UMA can be used with a range of topcoats, including oil/alkyd, latex, epoxy, and lacquer for both indoor and outdoor usage.
If you want to paint or topcoat stained cabinets, this is the product to use. Using a primer that contains alcohol, such as shellac, in an unventilated area is highly recommended because of its strong fumes.
In order to avoid a buildup of gas, do not spray this primer on the surface. A primer’s price is an important consideration that should not be overlooked. Many primers are available, but you need to be very cautious while judging the quality.
However, expensive primers do not consistently deliver better results than more affordable options. Additionally, the primer must meet a number of additional requirements, such as the ability to cover more surface area per gallon.
When you choose XIM primer for your kitchen cabinet, you do not have to think about the desired result.
- Painting Supplies and house-primers are used for.
- Made in the United States, provides excellent adhesion.
- An indoor or outdoor application.
- All topcoats are the same.
- The primer is abit expensive.
Final Verdict
The value of your home can be increased by remodeling your kitchen cabinets and giving them a new and fresh look. Is this possible if the paint job is done incorrectly?
Alternatively, the cabinetry may not meet your expectations. So, if you don’t want to get into this situation, it’s best to go with the best undercoat product. We know that you have high standards and won’t accept anything less.
So, in order to save you time, we’ve compiled a list of the best primers for kitchen cabinets in 2022 currently available on the market. Investing in the products on this list will pay off handsomely for your painting endeavors. Have a great time looking around!
For kitchen cabinet surfaces, it is critical to select the best bonding primer. Because there are so many primers on the market, you need to find one that meets your needs and provides a good finish.
The final decision is yours, and we’re here to help you make it, but it’s ultimately yours to make. Make sure to find out the best from the list and go for your home improvement scheme right away. Once you get the desired result, you will be pleased!
