How to Restain Kitchen Cabinets

Table of Contents: 

• How to Choose the Right Color for Restaining Kitchen Cabinets
• Tools and Materials Needed
• Steps to Restain Kitchen Cabinets
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• FAQs

Restaining your kitchen cabinets can give them a brand-new look without buying new cabinetry. If your cabinets are made from real wood and are still in good condition, you can restain them to restore their original beauty. It also costs much less than replacing cabinets and lets you change the color to match your style.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to restain your kitchen cabinetry step-by-step. 

How to Choose the Right Color for Restaining Kitchen Cabinets?

Restaining works best on solid wood cabinets. You can restain cabinets to:

• Make dark cabinets lighter
• Make light cabinets darker
• Fix worn or faded areas
• Refresh old wood

When selecting a stain color for your kitchen, consider how it complements your kitchen decor.

Some of the most sought-after stain finishes include:

• Natural oak
• Medium brown
• Dark walnut
• Gray-stained finishes

Make sure to test the stain on a small area before applying it to the entire surface so you can know how the color looks. 

Explore: Custom Cabinets in San Diego

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, gather these tools and materials:

• Screwdriver
• Drop cloth
• Mild wood cleaner or soap
• Coarse sandpaper (80 to 100 grit)
• Fine sandpaper (180 to 220 grit)
• Wood stain
• Paintbrush 
• Microfiber cloth 
• Wood conditioner
• Clear finish (sealant or polyurethane)

Make sure you wear gloves, protective goggles, and a respirator. Keep the windows open for ventilation. 

Steps to Restain Kitchen Cabinets

It’s easier to restain your kitchen cabinets than repainting them. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Empty and Prepare the Area

Staining your kitchen cabinets can be messy. Here’s how you can protect the area: 

• Remove dishes and shelves from the cabinets
• Use a drop cloth to cover your floor and countertop 
• Use painter’s tape to protect walls

Step 2: Remove Cabinet Hardware

Take off all cabinet doors, drawers, and handles before you start staining so it’s easier to work. If possible, remove the drawer front from the drawer, but if it could damage it, stain it with the front in place.

Tips:

• Label each piece of hardware
• Put screws in a small bag
• Lay all doors flat on a clean surface

Step 3: Clean the Cabinets

Grease and dirt will make it harder for the stain to absorb. Use a mild cleaner or soap to clean the cabinets. Wipe all surfaces and allow them to dry completely. Clean cabinets stain more evenly than dirty ones.

Step 4: Sand Off the Old Finish

Sanding is how you remove the old stain or clear coat. 

• Start with coarse sandpaper (80 to 100 grit)
• Sand with the grain of the wood to avoid scratches
• Finish with fine sandpaper (180 to 220 grit) 
• Wipe dust off with a cloth

You can use a sanding block or an orbital sander for flat surfaces, but hand-sand edges and details so you don’t damage the wood.

Take your time. This step will affect your final appearance.

Step 5: Use Wood Conditioner

Wood conditioners help the stain absorb evenly and prevent blotchy stains. They are especially important when working with softwoods.

You need to: 

• Apply the conditioner with a paintbrush 
• Leave it on according to the manufacturer’s instructions 
• Wipe off any excess with a clean microfiber cloth 

Step 6: Stain Your Wood

Now it’s time to apply the stain.

• Stir your stain thoroughly before using it. Make sure to pull the solids from the bottom of the can and mix them in. 
• Use a clean, high-quality paintbrush to apply the stain. Low-quality ones can leave behind bristle marks. 
• Make sure to work with the grain of your wood when applying the stain to prevent scratches. 
• After applying the stain, you should wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. 

Step 7: Apply Second Coat

After applying the first coat of stain, let it dry for at least seven to eight hours. Check the drying times specified on the stain container. Avoid touching the surface, and keep the area as dust-free as possible while it dries. 

A second coat gives your cabinets a richer look. Follow the same steps to apply it. 

Step 8: Apply a Protective Top Coat to Your Cabinets

A protective top coat helps protect your cabinets from water damage and wear and tear.

• Use a polyurethane product or a wood sealer as a protective top coat.
• Apply several thin and even coats of the protective top coat. 
• Allow each coat to dry before applying the next coat.

For best results, use two to three coats of protective top coat.

Step 9: Reinstall the Hardware and Doors

Once all the staining and protective top coat application is complete:

• Reattach all hardware to the cabinets, including hinges, handles, and other hardware.
• Carefully hang all cabinet doors once the hardware is installed.
• Put the shelves back in the cabinets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow and careful work gives the best results. Avoid these mistakes: 

• Skipping sanding
• Not cleaning the grease
• Applying too much stain
• Rushing drying time

Read More: Different Styles of Kitchen Cabinets

Restaining Cabinets Can Breathe New Life Into Your Kitchen

It is a good idea to restain your cabinets rather than paint over them so that the natural beauty of the wood is preserved. You can make your cabinets look brand new by thoroughly cleaning, sanding, staining, and sealing them. Follow the steps outlined here and enjoy the transformation of your cabinets.

If your kitchen cabinets are old and need replacement, or you’re planning a kitchen remodel, get in touch with Family Interiors. With over 49 years of experience, we offer free in-home consultations and serve homeowners throughout San Diego County. 

Book A Free Consultation Today

FAQs