Painting over stained wood

Lightly sand before painting.

If you use any good milk or chalk paint ( I like General Finishes brand ) there's nothing to do but wipe down with a sander/deglosser and paint.

You have to prime it first. We used a Kilz brand for this purpose. It's thicker but one coat guaranteed. Kilz Max

I would first remove the Pledge with ammonia, when dry I would prime it with Zinseer B-I-N, then use any paint you like, my preference is to use a satin finish cause you can keep it clean. I use a 6" smooth foam roller, and then drag a good brush to remove any texture.

I would sand it good then do whatever you want to with it.

First wash them down with TSP solution and rinse, (gets rid of any oil or grease) then paint with a primer...I prefer an oil primer and then Paint with a latex satin. If it is kitchen cupboards I would seal them will varathan. I painted mine black and I did the steps I just suggested...they are great...they have been painted for two years now and because I did the "steps" I'm not having any pealing etc.