How to Paint a Laminate Cabinet Surface

Painting laminate cabinets can be an effective way to update the look of your home without the cost of replacing the cabinets. One of the biggest challenges of painting laminate is that its smooth plastic surface doesn't bond well with paint. Proper sanding and use of a strong bonding primer designed for use on laminate surfaces can help you achieve long-lasting and professional-looking results. Because it can take up to a week for the paint to cure completely, plan accordingly and remove items from the cabinet that you'll need to use in the meantime.


Open any windows to ventilate the area while working. Put on a respirator mask and chemical-resistant gloves.


Dampen a cloth with xylol and wipe the laminate cabinet surfaces thoroughly to remove any dirt or grease. Alternatively, you can use trisodium phosphate mixed with water in a bucket according to the instruction label, rinse and dry thoroughly.


Sand the laminate cabinet surfaces with 150-grit sandpaper to remove the sheen and roughen the surface.


Wipe the cabinets again with xylol or trisodium phosphate solution. Rinse the cleaning solution and dry the cabinets thoroughly.


Protect areas of the kitchen you don't want painted. Attach plastic with painter's tape.


Spray the cabinets with a thorough, even coat of primer designed for use on laminate surfaces. Spray from a six-inch distance using long, slightly overlapping strokes to cover the cabinets completely. Allow the primer to dry and cure for a few days according to the instruction label.


Sand the primer lightly with 220-grit sandpaper to smooth out any bumps or imperfections and improve adhesion of the paint.


Stir oil-based paint with a stirring stick and pour it into a paint tray. Dip a roller or paint pad into the tray and remove any excess. Paint the laminate cabinets smoothly and evenly, overlapping each stroke slightly. Allow the paint to dry and apply another coat if necessary. Allow the paint to dry and cure according to the instruction label before using the cabinets.