Are your bathroom cabinets and drawers looking dated, worn, or just not your style anymore? Instead of spending thousands on replacements, a fresh coat of paint can completely transform them—and your entire bathroom.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to repaint bathroom cabinets and drawers like a pro, even if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush before.
Supplies You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
Screwdriver or drill
Sandpaper (120- and 220-grit)
Painter’s tape
Degreaser or cleaner (like TSP)
Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
Paintbrushes and foam rollers
Primer (stain-blocking or bonding)
Cabinet-grade paint (latex or alkyd recommended)
Optional: New hardware (knobs, handles)
How to Repaint Bathroom Cabinets and Drawers: Step-by-Step
Whether you’re updating a guest bathroom or refreshing your master suite, here’s how to repaint bathroom cabinets and drawers in just a weekend:
1. Remove All Cabinet Doors and Drawers
Use a screwdriver or drill to carefully remove all the doors, drawers, and hardware (hinges, knobs, pulls). Label each piece so you know where it goes during reassembly.
2. Clean and Degrease Every Surface
Bathrooms accumulate soap residue, hairspray, and oils. Use a degreasing cleaner like TSP to scrub all surfaces thoroughly. Let dry completely.
3. Sand to Remove Gloss and Smooth the Surface
Lightly sand the cabinet frames, doors, and drawer fronts with 120-grit sandpaper to remove the glossy finish. Wipe down with a tack cloth to remove dust.
4. Apply Painter’s Tape
Tape off any areas you don’t want painted—such as walls, floors, countertops, or sink edges.
5. Prime the Cabinets and Drawers
Use a stain-blocking or bonding primer to help your paint adhere and last. Apply a thin, even coat with a brush or foam roller. Allow to dry according to the primer instructions.
6. Paint in Thin, Even Coats
Use a high-quality cabinet paint and apply it in thin coats. Foam rollers are great for flat surfaces, while angled brushes work well for edges and corners. Let each coat dry fully before applying the next (usually 4–6 hours).
Pro Tip: Two coats are uually sufficient, but darker wood or bold colors may require a third coat
7. Reattach Hardware and Reassemble
Once everything is dry and cured (typically 24–48 hours), reinstall your doors, drawers, and hardware.
Tips for a Long-Lasting Finish
Avoid oil-based paints—they tend to yellow in bathrooms over time.
Let painted surfaces cure for a few days before regular use.
Add soft-close hardware or new pulls for a quick style upgrade.
Use a polyurethane top coat if extra durability is needed.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to repaint bathroom cabinets and drawers can completely change the look of your bathroom without a major renovation. With the right tools and some patience, this DIY project can be completed over a weekend and give your space a fresh, modern feel.
Thinking About a Full Bathroom Makeover?
Repainting is just the beginning. For more bathroom remodeling tips on a budget, explore our DIY renovation guides or contact us for help with your next project.
