The Best Black Paint for Cabinets: Top Picks and Expert Recommendations

Black cabinets can add a touch of sophistication, elegance, and modern appeal to any kitchen, bathroom, or living space. Whether you’re going for a sleek contemporary look, a rustic charm, or a bold statement piece, black cabinets make a dramatic impact. However, to achieve the best results, it’s important to choose the right paint. We’ll explore the best black paint options for cabinets, providing you with a comprehensive list of recommended brands and tips for achieving a flawless finish.

Why Black Cabinets?

Before diving into the details of paint selection, let’s explore why black cabinets are a top choice for many homeowners:

• Timeless Appeal: Black is a classic color that never goes out of style. It pairs well with almost any other color and material, from light countertops to vibrant backsplash tiles.
• Modern and Sleek: Black cabinets add a sleek, modern, and high-end appearance, often making a kitchen or bathroom look more polished and sophisticated.
• Conceals Imperfections: Dark paint can help conceal imperfections in the surface of your cabinets, making it a great choice for cabinets that may have minor flaws.
• Bold Contrast: Black cabinets create striking contrast in kitchens, particularly when paired with light-colored countertops, flooring, and appliances.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Black Paint for Cabinets

When choosing the best black paint for your cabinets, there are a few essential factors to keep in mind:

1. Durability and Hardness

Cabinets endure heavy use, so durability is key. You’ll want a paint that can withstand constant opening and closing, as well as cleaning and other wear and tear. Look for paints that are labeled “high durability” or “scratch-resistant.”

2. Finish

The finish you select will influence the final look of your cabinets. A satin or semi-gloss finish is usually the best option for cabinets, as it provides a smooth, shiny surface that is easy to clean and reflects light well. Matte finishes, while trendy, are harder to maintain and can show fingerprints and smudges more easily.

3. Ease of Application

Cabinets have a lot of detail and may have intricate panels and corners, making ease of application an important factor. You may prefer paints that are self-leveling or have a smooth application process to avoid streaks and brush marks.

4. VOC Levels

Opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, especially if you’re working indoors. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) can release harmful fumes during the painting process and while the paint cures, which can be unpleasant and unhealthy.

5. Color Variety

While we’re focusing on black, it’s essential to note that there are various shades of black, ranging from deep matte blacks to glossy, charcoal blacks. Be sure to choose a shade that complements the style of your home.

Top Black Paints for Cabinets: Our Expert Recommendations

Here are some of the best black paints that will elevate the appearance of your cabinets and deliver a professional, long-lasting finish:

1. Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint

Finish: Satin or Semi-Gloss
Durability: High
VOC Content: Low

Benjamin Moore Advance is a popular choice for cabinet refinishing projects due to its smooth application and excellent durability. It’s an alkyd-based paint that provides a hard, durable finish without the yellowing that sometimes occurs with traditional oil-based paints. The self-leveling properties of this paint make it ideal for cabinetry, as it minimizes brush marks and imperfections.

Why it’s great for cabinets:

• Provides a durable, smooth finish that’s resistant to wear and tear.
• Low odor and low VOCs.
• Dries to a satin or semi-gloss finish, perfect for cabinetry.
• Offers excellent coverage and leveling, reducing the chances of streaks or brush marks.

2. Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Acrylic Latex Enamel

Finish: Satin, Semi-Gloss, or Gloss
Durability: High
VOC Content: Low

Sherwin-Williams ProClassic is a fantastic choice for cabinets because it provides a tough, smooth, and glossy finish that is easy to clean. This paint is known for its excellent leveling properties, which help to create a smooth surface on cabinets, even for DIYers without a lot of experience.

Why it’s great for cabinets:

• Available in satin, semi-gloss, and gloss finishes.
• Excellent durability, resistant to stains, scuffs, and chips.
• Low VOC and easy to clean.
• Provides a high-end, professional finish.

3. Behr Premium Plus Ultra Interior Satin Enamel

Finish: Satin
Durability: Medium
VOC Content: Low

Behr Premium Plus Ultra is a great option if you want a high-quality paint without the high price tag. It offers excellent coverage and is self-priming, making it ideal for cabinets that need a quick refresh. The satin finish is perfect for cabinets because it provides just enough sheen without being overly glossy, and it’s also durable enough for high-traffic areas.

Why it’s great for cabinets:

• Self-priming, saving you time and effort.
• Provides a durable finish resistant to fading, stains, and scratches.
• Available in a wide variety of black shades.
• Low odor and low VOC content.

4. Farrow & Ball Modern Eggshell

Finish: Eggshell
Durability: High
VOC Content: Low

Farrow & Ball is a premium brand known for its rich, deep colors and eco-friendly formulations. Modern Eggshell is a durable finish that’s perfect for cabinets, as it provides a soft sheen that’s resistant to marks and stains. This paint is ideal for those who want to achieve a luxurious, high-end look for their cabinets.

Why it’s great for cabinets:

• Creates a soft, sophisticated finish.
• High durability and low maintenance.
• Great for achieving a polished, refined look.
• Available in a range of beautiful black shades, including the popular “Blackened.”

5. Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit

Finish: Satin or Gloss
Durability: High
VOC Content: Low

If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution for your cabinets, the Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit is a fantastic choice. This kit is specifically designed for transforming cabinets, and it includes everything you need to get the job done, from cleaning and sanding supplies to the paint itself. The paint provides a durable, smooth finish that resists wear and tear.

Why it’s great for cabinets:

• Includes a bonding primer that ensures maximum adhesion.
• Self-leveling for a smooth finish.
• Available in multiple finishes, including satin and gloss.
• Provides a durable, easy-to-clean surface.

6. Valspar Cabinet Enamel

Finish: Satin or Gloss
Durability: High
VOC Content: Low

Valspar Cabinet Enamel is another great option for cabinets, offering excellent durability and an easy-to-clean finish. The paint is specially formulated to resist scuff marks and stains, making it perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens. It provides a smooth, sleek finish that enhances the beauty of black cabinets.

Why it’s great for cabinets:

• Fast-drying formula for quick project completion.
• Durable, scuff-resistant finish.
• Offers a smooth and glossy appearance, perfect for modern and contemporary kitchens.

7. General Finishes Milk Paint

Finish: Satin or Gloss
Durability: High
VOC Content: Low

General Finishes Milk Paint is a high-quality option for those who want a soft, antique look on their cabinets. It is a water-based paint that can be used for both interior and exterior projects. Though not technically a true milk paint, it offers the same aesthetic and is perfect for refinishing cabinets with a matte or satin black finish.

Why it’s great for cabinets:

• Provides a rich, smooth finish without brush marks.
• Durable enough for kitchen cabinets and high-traffic areas.
• Available in a wide range of black shades, including deep charcoal hues.
• Easy to apply and clean up.

Tips for Painting Cabinets with Black Paint

1. Preparation is Key: Before applying paint, clean your cabinets thoroughly to remove grease, dirt, and grime. Sand the surface to create a smooth, even base. A light sanding will also help the paint adhere better.
2. Prime First: If you’re painting over a dark or glossy finish, a primer will ensure better adhesion and prevent bleed-through. Some of the paints above are self-priming, but using a separate primer can still improve the finish and longevity.
3. Use a Quality Brush or Roller: For the smoothest finish, use a high-quality brush or roller. Foam rollers work well for smooth surfaces, while a synthetic-bristle brush is great for detail work.
4. Thin Coats: Apply thin, even coats to avoid streaks, drips, or uneven coverage. Multiple light coats will give you a much better finish than one heavy coat.
5. Let Each Coat Dry Fully: Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next one. This ensures that the paint doesn’t get disturbed and that you achieve the best finish possible.
6. Consider a Topcoat: While many paints provide durable finishes, adding a clear topcoat will give your cabinets extra protection from scratches and stains.

Conclusion

Choosing the best black paint for cabinets is essential for achieving a stunning, durable finish. The key is to look for high-quality paints that provide excellent durability, smooth application, and easy maintenance. Brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, Behr, Farrow & Ball, and Rust-Oleum all offer fantastic options for transforming your cabinets with a sleek black finish. Whether you prefer a satin, semi-gloss, or glossy finish, these top picks will help you achieve the professional-looking results you desire.