Cabinet Paint Sheen Guide | Satin vs Semi-Gloss

Cabinet paint sheen: the options

Satin. The sweet spot. Soft glow, not shiny. Hides minor flaws. Wipes clean. What we spray on most kitchens.

Semi-gloss. More shine, more durable, easier to wipe. Shows flaws more than satin. Good for busy family kitchens.

Matte. Skip it for cabinets. Beautiful for one week, marked forever after.

High-gloss. Stunning when perfect. Unforgiving when not. Reserve for showpiece kitchens with flawless prep.

Satin, for almost everyone. It looks rich, cleans well, and forgives the small flaws every real kitchen has.

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More on this topic from Fairfax Cabinet Painting Pros:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best sheen for kitchen cabinets?

Satin for most kitchens. Soft glow, hides flaws, wipes clean. Semi-gloss for maximum durability and wipeability.

Can I use matte on cabinets?

We advise against it. Matte marks easily and is hard to clean. Kitchens need some sheen.

Is high-gloss good for cabinets?

It is dramatic and durable — and it shows every flaw. Only for perfectly prepped surfaces. Most owners choose satin.

Should the island be a different sheen?

Keep one sheen throughout. Different sheens read as a mistake, not a design choice.