What Happens If You Paint Over Dirty Cabinets?

Kitchen Painting Myths Busted for Oshawa Homes! Many Oshawa homeowners believe that a fresh coat of paint can instantly fix outdated kitchen cabinets. But what if the surface isn’t clean? Can you just paint over grease and dust? The short answer: you absolutely shouldn’t. But that myth still leads many to hire painters who skip vital prep steps, causing long-term damage, peeling paint, and wasted money.

Let’s uncover the truth behind cabinet painting myths and how professional kitchen cabinet painters in Oshawa, like New Tone Interiors, are saving homes from bad makeovers.

The Dirty Truth About Skipping Cabinet Cleaning

Here’s what most people don’t realize: kitchen cabinets are exposed to cooking oils, fingerprints, steam, and dust every day. If those layers aren't properly removed before painting, the paint won't adhere correctly. It may look fine for a week or two, but soon, it starts chipping or bubbling.

Experienced house painters in Oshawa know this and follow a strict surface preparation process that includes:

• Degreasing every cabinet panel thoroughly.
• Light sanding to remove old finish and grime.
• Using primers that bond with clean surfaces.

This prep work makes the difference between a lasting transformation and a quick, regrettable fix.

Why Spray Finish Is the Secret to a Professional Look?

Another common myth? Those brush and roller finishes are "good enough" for cabinets. While that may be true for walls, your cabinets demand precision. That’s where spray finishing makes a huge difference.

Top-rated painters now use cabinet spray finish techniques to ensure:

• Smooth, streak-free surfaces.
• Better coverage in corners and edges.
• Longer-lasting finishes with fewer coats.

New Tone Interior's spray finishing service uses controlled techniques that reduce overspray, minimize VOCs, and deliver factory-grade results. This is how they turn worn kitchens into modern masterpieces without replacing cabinetry.

A Word on Paint: Not All Are Created Equal

Another misleading belief is that wall paint can be used on cabinets. But professionals know that surface-specific paints are essential.

Cabinet painting in Oshawa requires durable, high-adhesion, and moisture-resistant coatings, especially in humid kitchens. Products must be chosen with care to prevent:

• Fading under stove lights.
• Peeling due to steam or heat.
• Staining from cooking spills.

House painters in Oshawa who understand these risks choose professional-grade cabinet paints that keep kitchens looking fresh for years.

Choosing Painters Who Don’t Cut Corners

If a painting company promises to complete a kitchen job in a day or two without mentioning surface prep or spray methods, that’s a red flag.

Quality work takes time, and the team at New Tone Interiors is known across Whitby and Oshawa for doing things right. Their focus on cabinet-specific processes, material selection, and long-lasting finishes makes them a top choice for both small upgrades and full kitchen makeovers.

Final Word

Painting kitchen cabinets might sound simple, but doing it right requires knowledge, tools, and a commitment to quality.

By working with experienced kitchen cabinet painters in Oshawa like New Tone Painting, you’re not just getting a fresh coat of color—you’re getting a clean, safe, and lasting investment in your home.

Don’t fall for quick fixes or cabinet painting myths. Ask the right questions, and choose painters who understand the science behind the surface.