So I am fully energetic to share everything, my mind starts zonning out whenever i think about the best Sherwin-Williams paints for cabinets, literally there’s so much to you guys . After reading alot of articles , reviews and using them in my own home, i can tell you the best cabinet paint options that you have and you dont know.
Sherwin-Williams offers many premium enamels and acrylics formulated for cabinets, trim and doors that deliver the toughness of oil-based paints with waterborne ease.
For example, Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is highly regarded for its non-yellowing, ultra-smooth finish on cabinets. I ve many reasons to prove it. Keep reading if you’re finding it long ,you can use a table of contents before the first heading.
In this blog, you will find the Best Sherwin-Williams Paint for Cabinets and Trim that is ranking#1 on the internet. All the images that im showing you are unfiltered and REAL HOME IMAGES.
21 Sage Green Kitchen Cabinet Ideas Choosed by Experts for 2025
7 Popular Green Kitchen Cabinets Countertop and Hardware Ideas
1. Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel (Semi-Gloss)
Sherwin’s Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is a top-rated hybrid enamel for cabinets. I used it on my cabinets as you can see ,it flows beautifully in same level all over the cabinets without buffing the wood.
It’s a water-based urethane-modified alkyd that combines the smooth, durable finish of oil paint with easy soap-and-water cleanup.
Emerald Trim Enamel is extremely hard and wear-resistant, yet it does not yellow over time – a key advantage over traditional oil enamels.
It levels itself out beautifully, self-leveling to a factory-smooth finish that hides brush marks.
Available in satin, semi-gloss or high-gloss, most pros choose semi-gloss or satin for cabinets to balance sheen and cleanability. One imp thing that i wanna tell you is that it comes in 3 different bases(its imp to consider). I will tell you in last of this explanation.
This paint adheres well to wood and previously painted cabinets, and even to laminate if properly primed. (On slick or nonporous surfaces like laminate, use a bonding primer such as Sherwin-Williams’ Extreme Bond Primer first.)
How to Paint Furniture 5 Easy Steps Beginner
Once cured, Emerald Urethane cabinets stand up to scrubbing, moisture, and daily wear with a rock-solid finish.
So ,I painted Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel with brush it worked well and beautifully set on the cabinets, it also filled the scratches that i had cuz of my nephew. I can say that for minor scratches, it can fill them without wood filler.
And then i painted it with paint roller on other cabinet, it worked well over there too ,the finishing was the same as smooth and beautiful.
If I talk about spraying Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel ,as it’s water-based so you can spray it ,no doubt that it will look more beautiful than painting with brush and roller.
So overall my review for Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is honest and unbiased its totally what i observed on my cabinets and trim. It take some time to dry as the results will be astonishing.I think waiting for surprise is the only drawback of Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel.
If we talk about the price of Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel its little expensive than other paints of her for cabinets and trim .But your money will be worth spending.
- List Price: Approximately $120.49 per gallon Sherwin-Williams+1
- Example sale listing shows $72.29 (significantly discounted) Sherwin-Williams
- Note: These prices are for U.S. stores and may vary by location or ongoing promotions.
What Different Bases Mean
Sherwin-Williams (and most brands) sell the same paint formula in multiple bases so they can cover the full color spectrum.
- Extra White / White Base
- Pre-loaded with a lot of white pigment.
- Used for light and pastel colors (e.g., whites, creams, pale grays).
- Accessible Beige, Alabaster, Snowbound, etc., are mixed into this type.
- Deep Base
- Contains less white pigment, more room for added tints.
- Used for medium colors (e.g., mid-tone grays, beiges, greens, blues).
- Ultra Deep Base (or sometimes called “Neutral Base”)
- Almost no white pigment — looks translucent in the can.
- Used for very dark colors (e.g., Tricorn Black, Iron Ore, Naval, Urbane Bronze).
- Allows heavy doses of dark tint without being “washed out.”
- If you want Accessible Beige (SW 7036) → they’ll start with White Base or Deep Base, because it’s a mid-light neutral.
- If you want Alabaster (white) → they’ll use Extra White Base.
- If you want Iron Ore or Tricorn Black → they’ll use Ultra Deep Base.
Basically:
- Light colors = White base
- Medium colors = Deep base
- Dark colors = Ultra-deep base
QUICK SUMMARY TABLE
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s best | Sherwin-Williams’ #1 recommended paint for cabinets. |
| Finish quality | Lays down smoothly, self-levels, mimics oil-based enamel. |
| Durability | Extremely tough, resists yellowing, holds up to scrubbing. |
| Cleanup | Water-based, easy to clean brushes/rollers. |
| Finish options | Satin, Semi-Gloss, Gloss. |
| Best for | Cabinets, trim, doors, built-ins (interior/exterior). |
2. Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Acrylic-Alkyd (Satin)
Sherwin-Williams ProClassic is a waterborne acrylic-alkyd enamel designed for trim, doors and cabinetry.
It delivers a hard, durable finish much like oil-based paint, yet with a faster dry time and low odor. ProClassic is prized for its excellent flow and leveling, producing a very smooth, furniture-like surface that minimizes brush strokes.
It dries quicker than a true alkyd, so you can recoat in hours rather than days. Umm you can feel everything in my tone , as i m not that much excited to tell you about this paint for cabinets,cuz Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is the best in my opinion.Its less expensive than Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel.
The satin (eggshell) sheen is commonly used, though semi-gloss is also available. ProClassic adheres well to prepared wood or MDF and takes an undercoat readily, making it a great choice for repainting wood cabinets.
How to Paint Bathroom Cabinets Like A Pro:Step by Step Guide
Its durable finish resists chipping and cleaning wear, so it’s a smart choice for kitchen or bathroom cabinetry.
- List Price: Around $111.49 per gallon Sherwin-Williams
- Sale Price: Approximately $66.89 per gallon, reflecting a ~40% discount Sherwin-Williams
QUICK SUMMARY TABLE
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s great | Long-time favorite among pros; more budget-friendly than Emerald. |
| Finish quality | Smooth, enamel-like finish; not as hard as Emerald but still durable. |
| Durability | Resists blocking (doors/cabinets sticking), scrubbable. |
| Cleanup | Water-based (easy cleanup). |
| Finishes | Satin, Semi-Gloss, Gloss. |
| Best for | Cabinets, trim, interior woodwork. |
3. Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex (Semi-Gloss)
I painted my grandmother’s kitchen with SuperPaint in Sherwin-Williams Retreat color, which is a versatile, high-quality acrylic-latex interior paint that can be used on cabinets (especially those made of wood or particleboard). As i was trying different cabinet paints of hers so i could experience well.
It offers excellent adhesion and durability on a range of surfaces, so with proper priming it works on previously painted or laminate cabinets too.
SuperPaint provides very good coverage (often requiring fewer coats) and dries to a tough, washable finish. While it is not specifically a cabinet enamel, it’s often chosen for its balance of performance and value.
SuperPaint’s semi-gloss sheen stands up to frequent cleaning, and it is more budget-friendly than the premium lines. In short, SuperPaint is a solid general-purpose option if you want Sherwin-Williams durability at a lower cost.
- Sherwin-Williams does not publish a fixed list price for this product online; it varies by location and store. Sherwin-Williams+1
- Anecdotal and third-party pricing: around $47 per gallon based on comparisons and contractor discussions heritagepainting.info
- Another user mentions ~$41 per gallon† in a Facebook group, suggesting regional promotions or contractor pricing
QUICK SUMMARY TABLE
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why consider it | More affordable, not cabinet-specific. |
| Finish quality | Good coverage, but doesn’t resist wear like Emerald/ProClassic. |
| Durability | Moderate – not chip-resistant, best for low-use areas. |
| Cleanup | Water-based, easy cleanup. |
| Finishes | Flat, Satin, Semi-Gloss. |
| Best for | Secondary spaces (laundry, garage cabinets, utility rooms). |
4. Sherwin-Williams Emerald Interior Acrylic (Satin)
Sherwin-Williams’ Emerald Interior acrylic latex (not to be confused with Emerald Trim Enamel) is another top-tier wall paint that can be used for cabinetry. As i wanted something in matt so i used this year before on my dresser ,but the results were not that good ,it was missing something which was its gloss.
Available in satin or semi-gloss, Emerald Interior offers excellent hide and adhesion.
It dries to a durable finish that resists moisture and marring. While it lacks the urethane/alkyd component of Emerald Trim, this Emerald interior paint still performs very well: it won’t yellow on white or light cabinets and yields a smooth surface.
If you’re repainting light-colored cabinets, an Ultra White or Pure White Emerald interior can provide a clean, bright look with good long-term resistance.
However, because it is a straight acrylic latex, using multiple thin coats and sanding between them will help achieve the smoothest factory-like finish.
- A specific listing of 1 gallon is priced at $93.99, with a current sale price of $56.39 (40% off) Sherwin-Williams
- Another sale summary matches that same price reduction Sherwin-Williams
QUICK SUMMARY TABLE
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it works | Primarily for walls, but can be used on cabinets if budget is limited. |
| Finish quality | High stain-blocking, smooth washable finish. |
| Durability | Excellent stain resistance and scrub-ability; less tough than Urethane. |
| Cleanup | Water-based, easy cleanup. |
| Finishes | Matte, Satin, Semi-Gloss. |
| Best for | When you want same look across walls + cabinets. |
Other paints of Sherwin-Williams for Cabinets and Trim
5. Sherwin-Williams Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex (Satin)
Cashmere is an upscale interior acrylic-latex known for an exceptionally smooth, low-stipple finish. It’s formulated to flow out beautifully, giving a “buttery” smooth appearance that’s ideal for cabinets or furniture.
Cashmere is available in satin (low-luster) and eggshell sheens. It is self-leveling, which minimizes brush marks and rolling texture.
This paint is highly washable – spills and splatters on kitchen cabinets wipe up easily – and it maintains a clean look over time. Many designers use Cashmere for cabinets when they want a subtly elegant finish.
Like SuperPaint, Cashmere covers well and is easy to apply; it also benefits from a primer if the surface has a strong color or sheen. Overall, Cashmere delivers a soft, luxurious cabinet finish with outstanding durability.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s great | Premium interior latex with buttery smooth, elegant finish |
| Finish quality | Self-leveling, low-stipple, professional-grade smoothness |
| Durability | Highly washable, long-lasting clean look |
| Cleanup | Water-based (easy cleanup) |
| Finishes | Satin, Eggshell |
| Best for | Cabinets with designer/soft elegant look |
6. Sherwin-Williams Duration Home (Semi-Gloss)
Duration Home is Sherwin-Williams’ premium interior paint (normally used on walls). It’s not specifically a cabinet enamel, but it’s often chosen by DIYers for cabinetry because of its superb durability and stain resistance.
Duration Home has a special acrylic formula that resists scuffs and is self-priming on bare wood. In semi-gloss, it cleans easily and resists finger marks.
(Because it’s thick and quick-hardening, many pros reserve it for walls, but it can certainly be applied to cabinets with good results.) Cabinets coated in Duration will have a hard, washable finish.
Note that unlike Emerald or ProClassic, Duration is a standard acrylic, so primer and multiple coats are important for a smooth final finish.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s great | Premium interior wall paint often used for DIY cabinets |
| Finish quality | Thick, smooth coverage, self-priming on bare wood |
| Durability | Stain- and scuff-resistant, very washable |
| Cleanup | Water-based (easy cleanup) |
| Finishes | Semi-Gloss, Satin, Flat |
| Best for | DIY cabinet updates, wall + cabinet consistency |
7. Sherwin-Williams Pro Industrial Water-Based Alkyd-Urethane Enamel (Semi-Gloss)
For a professional-grade cabinet paint, Sherwin offers the Pro Industrial line. In particular, the Pro Industrial Water-Based Alkyd-Urethane Enamel (semi-gloss) is engineered for extreme durability.
It is a two-component waterborne enamel (sold as a kit) that cures exceptionally hard – on par with commercial finishes. This paint is often used on restaurant or institutional cabinets due to its high chemical and abrasion resistance.
It can be sprayed or brushed and self-levels into a glass-like finish. Note that Pro Industrial products usually require careful preparation and two components; they’re less user-friendly for the average DIYer.
But for wood or metal cabinets where you want an ultra-tough finish, this product is one of Sherwin’s best. (As with all cabinet projects, proper priming and sanding are crucial for success.)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s great | Professional-grade, extremely tough, chemical-resistant |
| Finish quality | Self-leveling, glass-like finish, best with spray |
| Durability | Ultra-hard, abrasion- and chemical-resistant |
| Cleanup | Water-based (easy cleanup) |
| Finishes | Semi-Gloss |
| Best for | Commercial, restaurant, or institutional cabinets |
8. Sherwin-Williams Pro Industrial Acrylic-Alkyd Enamel (Semi-Gloss)
Another heavy-duty option is Pro Industrial Acrylic-Alkyd Enamel (semi-gloss). Similar to Emerald Urethane but formulated for industrial use, this enamel cures very hard and bonds strongly.
It can be used on wood, metal, and laminate surfaces (with primer). The finish is similar to Emerald: smooth and durable.
Because Pro Industrial paints are designed for pro contractors, they are typically applied with spray equipment. If you have access to it, this paint yields a factory-caliber finish on cabinetry, with excellent color retention.
Otherwise, for most homeowners, sticking with Emerald or ProClassic is easier.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s great | Industrial-strength enamel similar to Emerald Urethane |
| Finish quality | Smooth, durable, spray-grade finish |
| Durability | Very hard, excellent bonding, long-lasting |
| Cleanup | Water-based (easy cleanup) |
| Finishes | Semi-Gloss |
| Best for | Professional cabinet finishing (wood, metal, laminate with primer) |
9. Sherwin-Williams ProMar 200 Interior (Semi-Gloss)
ProMar 200 is Sherwin’s high-performance contractor paint (normally for walls and trim). In semi-gloss, it can double as a cabinet paint in a pinch. It lays down fairly smoothly and has good scrubbability.
However, ProMar 200 is not custom-formulated for cabinets, so it will need more coats to look smooth, and it’s less hard than Emerald or ProIndustrial.
If you already have some on hand or want a quick refresh, it works, but expect to primer first (especially on oily or slick surfaces) and sand well between coats. For best results on cabinets, use ProMar 200 only if premium cabinet-specific paints aren’t available.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s great | Contractor-grade paint; affordable alternative |
| Finish quality | Smooth coverage, decent flow |
| Durability | Good scrubbability, but softer than enamel lines |
| Cleanup | Water-based (easy cleanup) |
| Finishes | Semi-Gloss, Satin, Flat, Eggshell |
| Best for | Budget or quick cabinet refresh |
10. Sherwin-Williams ProIndustrial Pre-Catalyzed Urethane (High Gloss)
For the ultimate cabinet finish (where permitted), Sherwin-Williams sells ProIndustrial Pre-Cat Acrylic Polyurethane Enamel (a two-component finish). This high-gloss coating provides a mirror-like, extremely hard surface.
It is often used on wood trim and furniture in high-end projects. Applied with spray, it cures quickly to a rock-hard finish that resists heat and chemicals. While high-gloss is very shiny (and will show any imperfections or fingerprints), it offers the highest durability of any sheen.
If you want super-gloss cabinets (for example on island accents or trim), this topcoat (over a primer) will deliver a truly professional result. Note: because of VOC regulations, pre-cat enamels may only be sold in certain areas by qualified applicators.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s great | Ultimate high-gloss, mirror-like professional finish |
| Finish quality | Glassy smooth, factory-grade |
| Durability | Rock-hard, chemical- and heat-resistant |
| Cleanup | Solvent or water-based depending on mix |
| Finishes | High Gloss |
| Best for | High-end accent cabinets, trim, furniture |
11. Sherwin-Williams Extreme Bond Primer (with Enamel Topcoat)
Though not a topcoat, Sherwin’s Extreme Bond Primer deserves mention as an essential part of any cabinet paint job, especially on slick or previously finished surfaces.
This primer is designed to bond to glossy laminates, thermofoil, or oily wood. Applying Extreme Bond first ensures that whatever topcoat you use (Emerald, ProClassic, etc.) will adhere and cure properly.
In practice, a builder or cabinet pro will often “sand and prime” with Extreme Bond, then apply one of the above Sherwin-Williams enamels for the finish coat. Using the right primer is just as important as the paint itself for a durable kitchen cabinet finish.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Why it’s great | Essential bonding primer for slick surfaces |
| Finish quality | Provides strong adhesion base for enamels |
| Durability | Prevents peeling, ensures long-lasting topcoat performance |
| Cleanup | Water-based (easy cleanup) |
| Finishes | Primer only (not a topcoat) |
| Best for | Laminate, thermofoil, glossy or oily cabinets before enamel finish |
FAQs
Is Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane better than Benjamin Moore Advance for cabinets?
Both are premium waterborne alkyd cabinet paints, but Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel has added urethane for extra toughness and it dries faster. Advance will cure rock-hard but requires very long dry times (often 16+ hours between coats).
In side-by-side tests, painters often favor Sherwin’s Emerald Urethane for ease of use and durability in a kitchen environment.
In short, either will produce a smooth finish, but Emerald’s quicker dry and urethane-enhanced formula give it an edge for busy cabinets (and many pros recommend it for that reason.
Should kitchen cabinets be semi-gloss or satin?
Satin and semi-gloss are both good choices. Semi-gloss is slightly shinier and very durable/easy to clean; satin is more subdued. Most experts agree that either satin or semi-gloss is ideal for cabinets, because both can handle spills and scrubbing.
(Matte/flat is not recommended in kitchens, and high-gloss will highlight every flaw or fingerprint.)
For example, one experienced DIY’er notes that “satin finish or semi-gloss finish are the best sheens for kitchen cabinets”. Choose satin if you prefer a more contemporary matte look, or semi-gloss if maximum durability and brightness is the goal.
Which is better, Sherwin-Williams Emerald or SuperPaint?
Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is the higher-end choice built specifically for trim and cabinetry; it levels to an ultra-smooth finish and is very hard-wearing.. SuperPaint is a general interior latex with good durability and coverage.
For cabinets, many pros would pick Emerald first if budget allows, because it’s formulated to minimize brush marks and resist wear. However, SuperPaint still performs well on cabinets (especially wood or primer-coated surfaces) and is more economical.
If you want the absolute best finish, Emerald wins; if you need more budget-friendly, SuperPaint is still a solid performer.
What paint roller gives the smoothest finish on cabinets?
A fine foam roller is generally considered the best for cabinets. In tests, a high-density foam roller (such as a “concave” foam cabinet roller) laid down a very thin coat with virtually no texture.
One review found that a foam roller gave the smoothest, mark-free finish on cabinet doors (though it often needed three coats). A short-nap velour roller (like Whizz Velour) also performed very well, covering evenly with minimal stipple.
In practice, painters often use a combination: foam roller on flat panels, and a fine-bristle angled brush to cut in at edges. Always de-fuzz a new roller and consider lightly wetting foam rollers to improve flow.
Is it better to paint kitchen cabinets with a brush or roller?
For best results, use both. A smooth-surface roller (foam or microfiber) is ideal for large flat cabinet faces to avoid brush marks, while a high-quality angled brush is needed for corners, panel details, and end-grain.
One homeowner reports using a 2″ angled brush and a smooth roller together to get a clean, factory-like finish. Spraying is an alternative if available, but for brush/roll jobs, roll the main surfaces and cut in with the brush.
This combo achieves an even finish that blends well between painted and pre-finished cabinet pieces.
How do I avoid brush strokes when painting cabinets?
Choose a self-leveling formula (Emerald, Cashmere, etc.) and apply multiple thin coats. Lightly sand (220 grit) between coats to knock down any raised texture.
Use a high-quality brush or roller, and apply paint slowly with a continuous stroke, then lightly finish off along the grain. This gives the paint a chance to level out as it dries.
For example, Cashmere and Emerald products are specifically engineered to “self-level” out brush marks. Also, don’t overload your brush – dip it lightly and brush out the tip to avoid blobs. Finally, sanding between coats (and wiping off dust) is crucial: as one expert notes, a fine sanding block “gently smooths down any raised texture or imperfections” after each coat.
Do you paint the back of cabinet doors?
When you remove cabinet doors for painting, it’s generally best to paint all sides if possible. Painting the backs of doors and all inside faces seals the wood and gives a finished look when doors are open.
If the doors are being rehung after, you should at least coat the edges and backs that were exposed. In practice, many DIYers prime and paint the interior side of doors with the same paint to protect the wood.
(If you leave the doors hung, you may only paint the visible faces, but note the back wood will be unprotected and will show its original color.) In summary, for maximum durability and uniformity, painting both sides of detached cabinet doors is recommended.
