3 Easy Steps to Whitewash Your Cabinets Like a Pro

Whitewashed kitchen cabinets

Are you tired of the outdated look of your kitchen cabinets? Are they looking dull and faded? If so, it’s time to give them a fresh, new look with whitewash. Whitewashing is a simple and inexpensive way to update your cabinets without having to replace them. It’s also a great way to add a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen. In this article, we’ll show you how to whitewash cabinets in just a few easy steps.

Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. You’ll need:
– A clean paintbrush
– A bucket of water
– White latex paint
– A cheesecloth or a clean rag
– A sanding block or sandpaper
– A pair of gloves
– A drop cloth or plastic sheeting

Once you have your supplies, you’re ready to start whitewashing your cabinets. First, you’ll need to clean the cabinets. This will help the paint to adhere better. Once the cabinets are clean, you’ll need to sand them lightly. This will create a rough surface for the paint to grip. After the cabinets are sanded, you’re ready to start painting. Dip your brush into the paint and apply a thin coat to the cabinets. Be sure to work in small sections and brush in the direction of the wood grain. Once the first coat is dry, you’ll need to apply a second coat. This will help to create a more even finish. Once the second coat is dry, you’re ready to distress the cabinets. This will give them a more rustic look. To distress the cabinets, you can use a sanding block or sandpaper. Sand the cabinets lightly, focusing on the edges and corners. Once you’re happy with the distressed look, you’re ready to seal the cabinets. This will help to protect the paint and keep it from chipping or peeling.

Prepare the Cabinets for Whitewashing

Before you can start whitewashing your cabinets, it’s important to prepare them properly to ensure the best results and a durable finish. This involves thoroughly cleaning and deglossing the surfaces, as well as addressing any existing damage.

Cleaning the Cabinets

To effectively clean the cabinets, follow these steps:

Remove Hardware

Start by removing all hardware, including knobs, pulls, and hinges, to allow for thorough cleaning.

Use a Cleaning Solution

Prepare a gentle cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a mild dishwashing liquid. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the cabinet surface.

Clean Thoroughly

Dip a soft, clean cloth into the cleaning solution and gently wipe down the cabinet surfaces, removing all dirt, grease, and debris. Rinse the cloth frequently to prevent spreading dirt.

Dry the Cabinets

Once the cabinets are cleaned, use a clean, dry cloth to thoroughly dry the surfaces. Ensure there is no moisture remaining before moving on to the next step.

Choose the Right Whitewash Paint

Selecting the appropriate whitewash paint is crucial for achieving a successful whitewashing effect. Here are several key considerations to guide your choice:

Type of Paint:

Whitewash paints come in two main types: latex and chalk paint. Latex whitewash is a water-based paint that dries quickly, providing a durable and washable finish. However, it may require multiple coats to achieve a fully opaque effect. Chalk paint, on the other hand, is a water-based paint that dries to a matte, chalky finish. It is typically easier to apply and can create a more distressed or rustic look.

Opacity:

The opacity of whitewash paint determines how well it will cover the original surface color. Opaque whitewash will completely conceal the underlying color, while semi-transparent whitewash will allow some of the original color to show through. The level of opacity you choose depends on the desired effect.

Finish:

Whitewash paints come in a variety of finishes, including satin, matte, and flat. Satin finish provides a slight sheen that can help reflect light and make the surface appear brighter. Matte finish offers a more subtle appearance, reducing shine and glare. Flat finish is the least reflective and absorbs the most light, resulting in a deep, rich color.

Type	Opacity	Finish
Latex Whitewash	Opaque to semi-transparent	Satin, matte, flat
Chalk Paint	Semi-transparent to opaque	Matte, flat

Apply the First Coat of Whitewash

Prepare Your Cabinets:

Before applying the whitewash, thoroughly clean your cabinets with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any dust or debris. Allow them to dry completely. Remove any hardware, such as handles or knobs, to prevent paint from getting on them.

Create Your Whitewash Mixture:

In a clean bucket or container, mix your whitewash according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The consistency should be similar to that of buttermilk. You may adjust the ratio of water to whitewash powder as needed to achieve the desired opacity.

Brush Application:

Dip a clean brush into the whitewash and apply a thin, even coat to the cabinets. Use long, smooth strokes and avoid overloading the brush. Start with the edges and corners, then move on to the larger surfaces. Allow the first coat to dry completely for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Distress the Whitewash Paint

To give your whitewashed cabinets a distressed look, follow these steps:

Sand the edges and corners. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the edges and corners of the cabinets, focusing on areas where wear and tear would naturally occur.
Apply a dark glaze. Choose a dark glaze that will contrast with the whitewash paint. Apply the glaze sparingly to the edges and corners that you sanded, using a brush or a sponge.
Wipe away the excess glaze. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess glaze from the surface of the cabinets. Allow the glaze to dry completely.
Sand again (optional). For a more subtle distressed look, you can lightly sand the cabinets again after the glaze has dried. This will help to blend the glaze with the whitewash paint.

Tips for Distressing Whitewash Paint

Here are a few tips to help you distress whitewash paint effectively:

Use a variety of sanding grits. Start with a fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface, then switch to a coarser grit to create more visible distress marks.
Experiment with different glazing techniques. You can apply the glaze with a brush, a sponge, or even a rag. The different application methods will create different effects.
Less is more. When distressing whitewash paint, it’s important to start with a light touch. You can always add more distress later, but it’s difficult to remove it once it’s been applied.

Apply a Second Coat of Whitewash

After the first coat has dried completely, it’s time to apply a second coat of whitewash. This will help to even out the color and create a more opaque finish. Use the same brush or sponge as you did for the first coat, but be sure to dip it in the whitewash solution only about halfway. This will help to prevent the whitewash from being too thick.

Apply the second coat in thin, even strokes, following the same direction as you did with the first coat. Be sure to let the whitewash dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Tips for Applying a Second Coat of Whitewash

Tip
Use a light touch and avoid applying the whitewash too thickly.
Let the first coat dry completely before applying the second coat.
If you are using a sponge, rinse it out frequently to prevent the whitewash from becoming too concentrated.
If you are using a brush, tap it on a paper towel to remove any excess whitewash before applying it to the cabinets.
Allow the whitewash to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Seal the Whitewashed Cabinets

Once the whitewash has dried completely, it’s essential to seal it to protect it from wear and moisture. Choosing the right sealant will depend on the desired finish and the intended use of the cabinets.

Types of Sealants

There are several types of sealants available for whitewashed cabinets:

Polyurethane: Durable and water-resistant, providing a glossy or matte finish.
Acrylic: Less durable than polyurethane but easier to apply, creating a semi-gloss or satin finish.
Water-based: Environmentally friendly, providing a matte or flat finish.

How to Seal Whitewashed Cabinets

Follow these steps to seal your whitewashed cabinets:

Clean the cabinets to remove any dust or dirt.
Apply a thin coat of primer to increase adhesion.
Choose the desired sealant and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Allow the first coat to dry completely, then apply a second coat.
Allow the final coat to dry for the recommended amount of time before using the cabinets.

Tips for Sealing

Here are some tips to ensure a successful seal:

Use a small brush or sponge applicator for even coverage.
Avoid applying too much sealant, as it can create a thick, uneven finish.
Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next to prevent peeling.

Sealant Type	Finish	Durability
Polyurethane	Glossy/matte	High
Acrylic	Semi-gloss/satin	Moderate
Water-based	Matte/flat	Low

Add Hardware and Touches

Once your cabinets are whitewashed, it’s time to add some hardware and other touches to complete the look.

Hardware

Choose hardware that complements the style of your cabinets. For a more traditional look, opt for knobs or pulls with an ornate design. For a more modern look, choose hardware with a sleek and simple design. You can also mix and match different types of hardware to create a unique look.

Hardware Type	Description
Knobs	Pulls that are attached to the cabinet door with a single screw
Pulls	Pulls that are attached to the cabinet door with two screws
Handles	Pulls that are attached to the cabinet door with a bar

To install hardware, simply hold it up to the cabinet door and mark the location of the holes. Then, use a drill to create the holes and screw the hardware in place.

Other Touches

In addition to hardware, you can add other touches to your whitewashed cabinets to make them look more polished. For example, you can add a backsplash to the wall behind your cabinets. A backsplash can help to protect the wall from spills and splatters, and it can also add a touch of style to your kitchen.

You can also add crown molding to the top of your cabinets. Crown molding can help to create a more finished look, and it can also add a touch of elegance to your kitchen.

Finally, you can add under-cabinet lighting to illuminate your workspace. Under-cabinet lighting can help to make it easier to see what you’re doing, and it can also add a touch of ambiance to your kitchen.

Troubleshoot Whitewashing Issues

Whitewash Not Sticking

Ensure the cabinets are thoroughly cleaned and free of dirt and grease. Use a mixture of TSP (trisodium phosphate) and water to clean them, and allow them to dry completely before applying the whitewash. If the whitewash still isn’t sticking, try adding a small amount of glue to the mixture.

Whitewash Is Too Thin

Add more chalk paint or plaster of paris to the mixture to thicken it. Test the consistency on a small area before applying it to the entire cabinet.

Whitewash Is Too Thick

Add more water to the mixture to thin it. Test the consistency on a small area before applying it to the entire cabinet.

Whitewash Is Streaky

Apply the whitewash in even strokes, and make sure to blend the edges. Use a clean brush or sponge to remove any streaks.

Whitewash Is Bubbling

This can be caused by moisture trapped under the whitewash. Make sure the cabinets are completely dry before applying the whitewash, and use a fan or dehumidifier to remove any excess moisture from the air.

Whitewash Is Cracking

This can be caused by the whitewash being applied too thickly. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second coat.

Whitewash Is Peeling

This can be caused by the whitewash not being applied to a clean surface, or by the whitewash being applied too thinly. Make sure the cabinets are thoroughly cleaned and free of dirt and grease, and apply the whitewash in multiple thin coats.

Need a Different Color?

Whitewash can be tinted with any color of paint. Simply add a small amount of paint to the whitewash mixture and stir until the desired color is achieved. Here’s a table with some suggested color combinations:

Color	Amount of Paint to Add
Light Gray	1-2 teaspoons
Beige	1-2 teaspoons
Light Blue	1/2-1 teaspoon
Light Green	1/2-1 teaspoon

Alternative Methods for Whitewashing Cabinets

Using Chalk Paint

Chalk paint is a popular option for whitewashing cabinets as it provides an opaque, matte finish that can be easily distressed for a vintage look. Apply one or two coats of chalk paint in a uniform layer, allowing each coat to dry completely. To achieve a whitewashed effect, thin the chalk paint with water to reduce its opacity and create a more translucent finish.

Using Milk Paint

Milk paint is a traditional paint made from milk, lime, and pigments. It provides a natural, porous finish that is ideal for whitewashing cabinets. Apply one or two coats of milk paint, letting each coat dry thoroughly. To achieve a whitewashed effect, dilute the milk paint with water to create a thinner, more translucent solution.

Using Limewash

Limewash is a type of paint made from slaked lime and water. It provides a unique, textured finish that has been used for centuries to whitewash buildings and furniture. Apply one or two coats of limewash, allowing each coat to dry completely. To achieve a whitewashed effect, thin the limewash with water to create a more translucent mixture.

Using Vinegar and Baking Soda

This method creates a non-toxic whitewashed effect that is safe for cabinets. Combine equal parts white vinegar and baking soda in a bowl and apply the mixture to the cabinets with a sponge. Allow the solution to sit for several minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth. This process can be repeated multiple times to achieve the desired level of whiteness.

Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent that can be used to whitewash cabinets. Apply a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide to the cabinets and allow it to sit for several hours or overnight. Wipe the cabinets clean with a damp cloth and repeat the process as needed.

Using Bleach

Bleach is a powerful bleaching agent that can be used to achieve a bright whitewash effect on cabinets. Mix bleach with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the cabinets with a sponge or brush. Allow the solution to sit for the recommended amount of time before wiping the cabinets clean with a damp cloth. Caution: Bleach can damage the finish of cabinets, so it is important to test it in an inconspicuous area first.

Using White Glaze

White glaze is a transparent coating that can be applied over painted or stained cabinets to create a whitewashed effect. Apply a thin layer of white glaze and allow it to dry completely. Once dry, buff the glaze with a soft cloth to achieve the desired level of whiteness.

Using Dry Brushing

Dry brushing involves applying a small amount of white paint to the corners and edges of cabinets using a dry brush. This technique creates a subtle whitewashed effect that highlights the details of the cabinets.

Clean

Maintain whitewashed cabinets by cleaning them regularly to remove dirt and grime. Use a mild soap solution or a cleaner specifically designed for whitewashed cabinets. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as these can damage the finish.

Dust

Dust whitewashed cabinets often to prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt. Use a soft, dry cloth or a duster to gently remove dust without scratching the surface.

Wipe

Wipe down whitewashed cabinets with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust or dirt. Avoid using too much water, as this can cause the whitewash to deteriorate.

Rinse

Rinse whitewashed cabinets with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently rinse the cabinets, avoiding any scrubbing.

Dry

Dry whitewashed cabinets thoroughly with a clean towel or cloth. Avoid letting the cabinets air dry, as this can cause water spots or streaks.

Inspect

Inspect whitewashed cabinets regularly for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any cracks, chips, or stains, touch up the area with a matching paint or whitewash.

Recoat

Recoat whitewashed cabinets every few years to maintain their appearance and protect them from damage. Use a matching paint or whitewash and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.

Protect

Protect whitewashed cabinets from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Use blinds or curtains to block out sunlight, and avoid placing cabinets near sources of heat or moisture.

Repair

If whitewashed cabinets become damaged, repair them promptly to prevent further deterioration. Use a matching paint or whitewash to touch up any scratches or chips, and seal the area with a clear finish.

Prevent Moisture

Prevent moisture from damaging whitewashed cabinets by keeping humidity levels in your home low. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to remove excess moisture from the air.

How to Whitewash Cabinets

Whitewashing cabinets is a great way to give them a fresh, updated look without having to replace them. It’s a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours. Here’s what you’ll need:

White paint
Water
Paintbrush
Soft cloth
Sandpaper
Tack cloth

Instructions:

Clean the cabinets with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime.
Sand the cabinets lightly with sandpaper to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.
Wipe down the cabinets with a tack cloth to remove any dust.
Mix the white paint with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The consistency should be thin and milky.
Dip the paintbrush into the paint and apply a thin coat to the cabinets. Work in small sections, and use long, even strokes.
Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a second coat.
Once the second coat is dry, you can distress the cabinets if desired. To do this, use a sanding block or sandpaper to lightly sand the edges of the cabinets.
Wipe down the cabinets with a soft cloth to remove any dust.