Can You Paint Particleboard Kitchen Drawers?

Sand

• Particleboard is a very porous material, so it has a protective top coat of laminate, sealing the board from moisture. Without the laminate, moisture would quickly deteriorate the board. Paint does not adhere well to protective coatings such as laminate, so it must be removed from the particleboard. If the board is not sanded, you risk paint failure, with the paint peeling, cracking or bubbling off the drawers. Sand the drawer back and forth, working one section at a time, until the top layer is removed.

Wash

• Wash the drawer to remove any contaminants from the particleboard. Kitchen areas collect grease and dirt that keep new paint from sticking properly to the particleboard. Use a light amount of soap and water to wash away debris. Do not use too much water, or the particleboard might deform. Soak a rag or sponge in soapy water and wring it out so that it is only damp, then use it to clean the drawer. Allow the particleboard to fully air out before applying a primer or paint.

Primer

• Particleboard is susceptible to moisture. Repeated exposure to water breaks down the components that hold the board together, resulting in warped boards and lack of durability. Use a primer to avoid this problem, and apply it evenly to the drawers. Primer seals any porous areas and gives the new coat of paint a surface to adhere to. Wait for the board to dry completely before applying your new color.

Paint

• Drawers have tight corners that are difficult to paint with rollers, so you should use a paintbrush to apply the paint. To make the drawers easier to clean, use a semigloss or high-gloss finish. Glossy finishes repel moisture and are less vulnerable to stains and markings. Apply a coat of paint, and wait for it to dry before adding a new coat. Follow the manufacturer's directions for drying time.