How to Refinish Bathroom Vanity Cabinets

Vanity cabinets endure more abuse than almost any other piece of furniture in the home. Between steam from the shower, accidental water splashes, and the daily wear of toiletries, the factory finish eventually gives way to peeling paint or dull, dated wood. Refinishing isn't just about changing the color; it is a systematic process of creating a durable, moisture-resistant barrier that can withstand the unique climate of a bathroom. Done well, this project is the single highest-impact change you can make in a bathroom for a modest investment. The secret lies entirely in the prep work. If you rush the cleaning or sanding, no amount of expensive paint will prevent the finish from failing within a year. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth, professional-grade cabinet upgrade that resists chips and humidity for years to come.

  1. Strip and Shield Everything. Remove all cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware. Use painter's tape to mask off the walls, floors, and the sink basin itself to ensure no accidental spills.
  2. Erase Every Hidden Residue. Wipe down all surfaces with a heavy-duty degreaser or TSP alternative. Bathroom cabinets often collect oily residue from soaps and lotions that will ruin paint adhesion if not removed.
  3. Dull the Gloss First. Lightly sand all surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper to dull the existing glossy finish. You aren't stripping the cabinet to raw wood, just creating a 'tooth' for the new primer to grip.
  4. Lock in the Bond Layer. Use a high-quality water-based bonding primer designed for cabinets. Apply it evenly using a dense foam roller for flat areas and a high-quality sash brush for corners and trim.
  5. Smooth Out Every Imperfection. Check for any deep scratches or holes in the wood, then fill them with wood filler. Once dry, sand the filled spots smooth with 220-grit paper so they vanish under the paint.
  6. Build Your Protective Shell. Apply the first coat of cabinet-grade enamel, moving in the direction of the wood grain. Allow for full cure time according to the can before applying the second coat.