How do I go about refinishing my very dark bathroom cabinet to white?

Betty
by Betty

I was given 2 very darkly finished cabinets to be hung above the toilet. My walls are very pale gray and the actual existing cabinets are oak finish. What is the process needed to prep the cabinets and what is the best type of finish.?

I am also finishing a stained headboard. What is the best top coat to use?

  4 answers
  • Kelli L. Milligan Kelli L. Milligan on Nov 08, 2018

    Are you wanting to strip cabinets and stain white or paint? How and what are you finishing the headboard with. Need to know products. Not all finished are compatible with each other. Can crackle or peel.

  • Pamela Pamela on Nov 08, 2018

    To paint the dark cabinets , I would recommend Benjamin Moore advance paint. It is pricey at $40 , but I didn't need to sand or use a primer. I feel the price is worth it for all the time and effort it saves you. I would use a cleaner de glosser called Krud Kutter, about $6 @ home depot. Use the cleaner and 2 coats of paint.

    A cheaper way is to use chalk paint, also no sanding or primer, then seal it with a wax seal ( like paint or stain ) just not sure how it will hold up in a bathroom.

  • Paula Paula on Nov 08, 2018

    Sand, prime, paint... your home improvement store will hook you up with the right products.


    Remive the doors and drawers as well as the hardware before painting. Want to go for a real custom look?... Paint or cover the sides of the drawers so when they’re opened, they reveal hidden eye candy!!

  • Clean it well, sand lightly and use a good primer. I like Zinsser BIN. It helps the paint stick and helps take the color from dark to light. Then paint. For cabinets I like enamel paint. You'll need 2-3 coats.