What can be done to lighten up stained dark kitchen cabinets?

you will have to sand them and start over

Sand or strip the current stain and start over.

Hello Cynthia; You could try something that I have done before.

Please test this first in a small place, to be sure that it will work correctly for you.

I used a light colored, water based acrylic paint on a stained cabinet door.

I watered down the paint and I lightly dabbed it on and wiped it off, until I was happy with the color.

I hope that this helps you!!! Take Care!

paint them- I have painted cabinets several times and they turned out great- it takes some time,but the results are fantastic

i know this sounds silly but the dark color is "in" right now -- cant you lighten up counter top and back splash with lighter colors and or add some light color to the trim edges-- just a thought to save you money and time-- it would look great

I would use a stripper that says it removes stain, if that doesn't get it completely lightened, use wood bleach to get them light. The use a wood conditioner and stain.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V55Qx3xHe8Q