Revamping old kitchen cabinets is one of the most cost-effective ways to breathe new life into your kitchen—without the expense of a full remodel. Whether your cabinets are outdated, scratched, or simply dull, there are numerous DIY-friendly solutions to make them look brand new.
Here’s a complete guide on how to make old kitchen cabinets look new:
Step 1: Deep Clean and Degrease
Why it matters: Years of cooking buildup can dull cabinet surfaces and affect paint or finishes.
Supplies:
- Degreaser (e.g., TSP or vinegar + dish soap solution)
- Scrub sponge or cloth
- Bucket of warm water
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Instructions:
- Remove doors and hardware.
- Clean all surfaces thoroughly, especially around handles.
- Rinse and let dry completely.
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Step 2: Repaint the Cabinets
The most dramatic and affordable transformation.
Materials:
- Sandpaper (120–220 grit)
- Primer (especially for laminate)
- Paint (semi-gloss or satin latex, or enamel for durability)
- Paintbrush, foam roller, or spray gun
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Steps:
- Lightly sand cabinets to roughen the surface.
- Wipe away dust.
- Apply primer and let dry.
- Apply 2–3 thin coats of paint, sanding lightly between coats.
- Let cure fully before reattaching.
Colours such as white, navy, charcoal, and sage green are trending in 2025.
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Step 3: Replace the Hardware
New knobs, pulls, and hinges can instantly give cabinets a high-end feel.
Tips:
- Select modern finishes such as brushed brass, matte black, or chrome.
- Measure the hole spacing of your old hardware for an exact fit.
- Use a cabinet hardware jig for easy, level installation.
Cost: As low as $2–$6 per piece.
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Step 4: Add Trim or Molding
Add crown moulding or beadboard panels for a more upscale, built-in look.
DIY Options:
- Add decorative trim around cabinet doors.
- Install crown moulding above upper cabinets.
- Apply beadboard or shiplap panels to cabinet ends.
Use wood glue + brad nails, then paint to match your cabinets.
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Step 5: Install Glass Inserts or Open Shelves
Swap some cabinet door centres with glass or remove doors entirely for open shelving.
Popular Insert Types:
- Clear or frosted glass
- Wire mesh
- Textured/reeded glass
Use a router or jigsaw to remove the panel from solid doors.
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Step 6: Add Under-Cabinet Lighting
Lighting instantly modernizes the look and improves functionality.
Options:
- Stick-on LED light bars
- Hardwired puck lights
- Motion-sensor strips
Budget: $20–$100 depending on type
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Step 7: Apply Peel-and-Stick Veneer or Contact Paper
Great for renters or those looking for quick DIY updates.
- Wood-look vinyl for cabinet faces
- Marble-look contact paper for toe kicks or sides
- Easy to apply and remove
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Bonus: Update Cabinet Interiors
- Line shelves with adhesive shelf liner
- Add pull-out organizers or drawer dividers
- Paint the inside a contrasting colour for a designer touch
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Budget Breakdown (DIY Estimates)
UpgradeEstimated Cost
Cleaning supplies $10–$30
Paint + tools $60–$150
New hardware (10–20 pieces) $30–$120
Trim/molding $40–$100
Glass insert (per door) $20–$50
Under-cabinet lighting $25–$80
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Summary: Best Combinations for Maximum Impact
BudgetUpgrades
Under $100 Deep clean + paint or hardware change
$100–$300 Paint + hardware + under-cabinet lighting
$300–$600 Refacing, glass inserts, trim work, or partial open shelving
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Final Tip:
Be patient! Cabinet updates often take 2–4 days, including drying time. Rushing through paint or skipping sanding will hurt your final result.
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