If you have melamine cabinets and are looking to give your kitchen a fresh new look, you might be wondering: Can you paint melamine cabinets? The answer is yes—but with the right preparation and materials. At Sarnia Cabinets, we often get questions about updating older melamine cabinetry, and painting is a great option for a cost-effective makeover.

What Is Melamine?

Melamine is a durable, synthetic material often used in cabinet construction. It features a plastic-like coating over a particleboard or MDF core. While it’s long-lasting and budget-friendly, the slick surface can be tricky for paint to stick to—unless you approach it properly.

How to Successfully Paint Melamine Cabinets

1. Clean Thoroughly
Start by cleaning your cabinets with a degreaser to remove years of kitchen buildup. Any residue will prevent paint from adhering properly.

2. Sand Lightly
Light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper (around 150-220 grit) helps scuff up the surface just enough to allow for better primer adhesion.

3. Use a High-Quality Bonding Primer
This is the most important step. Use a primer designed specifically for glossy surfaces like melamine or laminate. A good bonding primer will act as the base coat that paint can grip to.

4. Choose the Right Paint
Go for a durable paint with a hard finish, such as a latex enamel or acrylic urethane. These paints resist chipping and moisture—both important in kitchen environments.

5. Apply with Care
Use a foam roller or spray gun for a smooth, professional finish. Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat for the best results.

When to Consider New Cabinets

While painting is a great short-term solution, it won’t last forever. If your cabinets are damaged, warped, or you want to change the layout of your kitchen, consider upgrading to custom cabinetry from Sarnia Cabinets.

We offer modern, durable materials—including melamine—that come in a wide range of finishes and colours , installed, no painting needed.