Preparations for Cabinet Painting: 5 Essential Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes
Let’s be honest: preparing for cabinet painting can feel like the homework you thought you’d never have to do again. But here’s the thing—skip these steps, and it could end up costing you more time, money, and stress.
I’m Nick May from Walls by Design, and after painting thousands of kitchens (and learning from my own mistakes), I’m here to share exactly how to prep for cabinet painting the right way.
This isn’t just a simple checklist—it’s a behind-the-scenes look at why these steps are so important, along with some stories from my experience that might help you avoid making the same mistakes. Let’s save you from unnecessary headaches, and keep your kitchen looking great.
Step 1: Empty Every Cabinet & Drawer (Yes, Everything)
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Years ago, I told clients, “Just clear the front 6 inches!” Bad move. When we painted our own kitchen, my wife opened our cabinets post-project to find dust coating her favorite coffee mugs. Cue the “I told you so” glare.
What to do:
Remove all items—dishes, spices, that weird garlic press you never use.
Use labeled bins (e.g., “Utensils,” “Bowls”) and store them in another room.
Exception: Heavy, sealed items (like rice bags) can stay pushed to the back.
Pro Tip: Need temporary kitchen storage? IKEA’s folding bins are affordable and stackable.
Step 2: Protect Countertops and Give Us Space to Work
Imagine this: My team arrives, excited to start painting, but your kitchen island is covered with cereal boxes, blenders, and last night’s leftovers. It makes it tricky for us to get to work—and it could slow things down for you too.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Clear all countertops before we arrive.
- Protect surfaces with rosin paper (we’ve found it works much better than canvas drop cloths, which tend to slide around).
- Make sure there’s enough space for us to lay out doors, hardware, and tools.
Story Time: One time, a client left their Instant Pot on the counter, and we accidentally nicked it with a screwdriver. We learned the hard way that it’s best to clear everything!
Step 3: Move Appliances Yourself (Here’s Why We Can’t Help)
The Fridge Fiasco That Cost Me $2,000
Early in my career, I made the mistake of moving a client’s fridge. Unfortunately, the fridge wheels scratched their hardwood floors, and my insurance company dropped me. Now, we have a simple rule: you handle appliances.
Your Game Plan:
- Refrigerator: Buy a 4’x8’ laminate sheet from Home Depot (around $12). Pull the fridge out 3–4 feet for access.
- Dishwasher: Only remove it if you want the side panels painted (most people skip this).
- Built-in Oven: Loosen the screws, pull it forward about 1 inch, and we’ll paint behind it.
Step 4: Empty Drawers Completely (No “Halfway” Allowed)
The Junk Drawer Disaster
One time, I left a client’s “junk drawer” half-full. When we removed the drawer front, batteries, paperclips, and even a forgotten gummy bear fell out. Needless to say, I learned that we can’t leave anything behind.
Why?
We need full access to the front screws to remove the drawer faces, and dust settles everywhere—especially on loose thumbtacks or forgotten knick-knacks.
Step 5: Buy All Hardware Before We Arrive
A client ordered their knobs two days before we were scheduled to start—only to find out they were backordered. We had to come back twice to finish, and it added extra charges for both trips.
Avoid This Mistake:
- Purchase all handles, knobs, and hinges ahead of time.
- Test-fit one piece to make sure it’s the right size.
- Store your hardware in labeled bags (e.g., “Upper Right Cabinet”).
Need Help? Our hardware buying guide can make the process easier and help you choose exactly what you need.
Ready to Transform Your Kitchen?
Preparing for cabinet painting might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s a crucial step for getting the best results. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a kitchen you love.
If you need help, feel free to download our free prep checklist or book a consultation with us. And trust me—you’ll be glad you took the time to prepare properly.
And if you’re local, let’s chat! Get a quote today—we’ll help you fall back in love with your kitchen.
About the Author: Nick May is the founder of Walls by Design, a cabinet painting specialist with over a decade of transforming homes. When he’s not reviving kitchens, he’s experimenting with DIY projects or hiking with his golden retriever, Buddy.
For more tips on home improvement, check out our website & youtube video [Walls By Design Touch Up Intro]