The 8 Best Paints for Furniture of 2024

When you are looking to make over your decor on a budget or give a fresh look to some old chairs or cabinets, the easiest and cheapest way is with a new coat of paint. But not so fast—it may not be wise to slosh your furniture with the same paint you’d put on your walls.

It’s best to opt for a paint specially formulated for furniture and cabinets. Philippa Radon, paint, color, and design specialist at C2 Paint, says, “It is important to choose a paint that has a good bonding agent for the surface of the furniture and also one that includes a hardener to protect against wear and tear.”

To determine which are the best paints for furniture, we researched lots of different brands, considering factors like can size, available finishes, and dry time. We also consulted experts for their advice on which paints are most suitable for your DIY and home decor projects.

Our Top Picks

Indoor Furniture Paint

For nightstands, dressers, tables, and other indoor furniture pieces, water-based latex paint and chalk paints are some of the best options. Latex paints are cost-effective and are safer to use indoors because they have lower VOCs. They also typically have a wide range of colors to choose from.

The downside is that they tend to peel; this can be better prevented if you use a primer and sealer. Interior designer and avid DIYer Sam Jernigan’s favorite type of paint for indoor furniture is chalk paint because it can be applied on any surface, including leather.

“Chalk paint also creates the perfect matte finish for wood furniture, and I especially love using it when rescuing period pieces that have unsightly surfaces,” Jernigan says.

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint

Annie Sloan

View On Anniesloan.com

Why You Should Get It

It is an easy paint to work with for giving furniture of most materials an updated look.

Keep in Mind

Although it doesn’t need a primer, you have to apply a sealant afterward.

Annie Sloan is known as the originator of chalk paint, which lets you paint furniture without needing to sand or apply a primer first. It’s also one of the best options for refinishing distressed vintage furniture and transforming it into a new statement piece.

Many painters and DIYers love it because of how easy it is to use. “It is beyond remarkable in its transformative qualities and goes on anything,” Jernigan says.

The paint can be used on a ton of surfaces including metals, fabrics, floors, and glass. It comes in 43 colors including soft pastels and bright hues. Also, you can blend colors from the palette to create a custom shade. The paint is available in one-liter and 120-milliliter sizes.

One liter should be enough to cover a small dresser. Just be aware that the paint needs to be sealed with wax or lacquer afterward, which can be expensive. Also, avoid using it on teak or other oily woods.

Sizes Available: 1 liter and 120 milliliters | Finishes: Chalk | Number of Colors: 43 | Dry Time: 24 hours

Key Terms to Know

Primer: Primer is the base coat that is applied to the surface before you start painting. The benefit of using a primer is that it helps paint stick better to the surface and covers up old colors.
VOCs: Volatile organic compounds are toxic chemicals used in paint formulas that evaporate at room temperature. They are potentially harmful and can irritate the eyes, throat, and skin as well as cause damage to internal organs.
Binder: A binder is an ingredient that holds or glues the color pigments together. The quality of the binder directly affects paint performance.
Finish: This refers to how paint looks like after it’s painted on the surface. Finishes are available in matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss and high-gloss.

BEHR Premium Interior/Exterior Cabinet, Door & Trim Paint

Home Depot

View On Home Depot $25

Why You Should Get It

This water-soluble acrylic paint is a breeze to clean up with soap and water.

Keep in Mind

There are no matte finishes.

Regardless of whether you’re doing cabinets, furniture, or doors, the Behr Premium Interior/Exterior, Door & Trim Paint offers a smooth finish at a wallet-friendly price. Besides wood, it also sticks to non-wood surfaces such as metal, vinyl, and drywall.

Use a paintbrush, sprayer, or roller to apply. The paint is formulated with a tack-free film that keeps painted surfaces from sticking together. However, this is not an all-in-one option—it requires you to prime and sand your surface before you start.

It covers up to 100 square feet depending on the application and how porous the surface is. Plus, it’s fast-drying and will be ready for recoating in about two hours (though darker colors or humid climates may extend the drying time).

This paint is available in satin and semi-gloss finishes (no matte options). It’s water-soluble and cleans up easily with soap and water if paint splatters on your floor. We also like that it’s formulated to resist mold and mildew. It’s only available in one-quart or one-gallon sizes.

Sizes Available: 1 quart or gallon | Finishes: Satin, Semi-Gloss | Number of Colors: 58 | Dry Time: Two hours

C2 Cabinet & Trim Satin

C2 Paint

View On C2paint.com

Why You Should Get It

The formula uses dairy whey proteins to give the paint an extra smooth look akin to that of an oil-based paint.

Keep in Mind

It is not an all-in-one paint—you’ll have to prime and sand before use.

C2 Cabinet & Trim Paint has the luxe look of an oil-based paint but it’s actually acrylic, which tends to be more versatile and quick-drying. What's cool about this paint is that, instead of harsh chemicals and VOCs, it uses recycled dairy whey proteins to give it a smooth, satin finish.

This is not an all-in-one paint, which means you’ll have to clean and prep the surface with a primer before you apply. You’ll get around 400 to 450 square feet of coverage per gallon, which should be more than enough to complete a furniture project.

Before applying a second coat, it’s recommended to wait about two to four hours. It’s great to use on all things wood including cabinets, patio chairs, and raised garden beds. But you can also use it on metal and on concrete floors.

The C2 paint is available in more than 50 colors and six finishes including satin sheen, matte, eggshell, gloss, semi-gloss, and flat. It comes in quart and gallon sizes and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Size: 1 quart or gallon | Finishes: Satin sheen, matte, eggshell, gloss, semi-gloss, and flat | Number of Colors: 50+ | Dry Time: Two to four hours

Outdoor Furniture Paint

For outdoor furniture, look for weather-resistant latex paints that won’t peel or fade from rain or sun exposure. You can also use spray paints, which also offer protection because they are rust-resistant and have long-lasting color.

Jernigan says that when using spray paint, make sure the temperature is at least 55℉ and not too humid, as this will affect how the paint cures.

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Ultra Cover

Amazon

View On Amazon $17 View On Home Depot $17 View On Menards.com

Why You Should Get It

It helps to protect outdoor furniture from the elements and is resistant to fading.

Keep in Mind

The paint is not thick—you may need a few coats to cover a surface completely.

DIYers will love the Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Paint because it features a special formula that protects outdoor patio chairs and tables from the elements. It’s also expert-approved and one of our top choices for keeping outdoor furniture in good shape.

The Rust-Oleum formula comes in satin, gloss, metallic, and clear finishes and works on metal, wood, unglazed ceramic, and plaster surfaces. However, it’s not meant to be used for countertops, showers, or floors. Each quart covers up to 120 square feet.

Before applying, sand the area with 180/200 sandpaper and clean thoroughly with a degreaser for smooth, even results. Primer is recommended, especially if you’re working on wood or metal. Keep in mind that it is not a one-coat paint; it’s pretty thin and may need multiple coats for total coverage.

That said, it dries completely in two to four hours. The paint is a water-based acrylic, which means it’s washable as long as the paint is still wet.

Sizes Available: 1 quart or pint | Finishes: Satin, Gloss, Metallic, Clear | Number of Colors: 9 | Dry Time: Two to four hours

Krylon Color Maxx Spray Paint and Primer

Amazon

View On Amazon $9

Why You Should Get It

The paint dries to the touch after only 25 minutes and completely dries after two hours.

Keep in Mind

Since it’s not water-based, you’ll need to use a solvent cleaning solution on messes.

Krylon Color Maxx Spray Paint is Jernigan’s go-to for both exterior and interior projects. In general, spray paint helps target hard-to-reach spots. “Spraying is usually the easiest and most uniform way to cover a surface with a lot of detail like, say, an Adirondack chair,” Jernigan says.

One spray of this formula covers up to 25 square feet. It also acts as a primer, so aside from sanding and cleaning, you don’t have major prep work to do. It comes in a variety of finishes including satin, gloss, matte, and semi-flat.

The formula adheres to wood, metal, wicker, glass, plaster, and plastic, making it a great pick for outdoor patio furniture. The brand claims that the formula is five times stronger than the average paint; it’s also rust-resistant and can protect your furniture piece in the long run.

After 25 minutes, the paint will be dry to the touch. It completely dries in two hours, which is faster than regular furniture paint. It’s not water-based, so you need a solvent cleaning solution if you spill it. Wear a mask when applying spray paint, and be sure to do so in a well-ventilated area.

Sizes Available: 12 ounces or 15 ounces | Finishes: Satin, floss, matte, semi-flat | Number of Colors: 100+ | Dry Time: Two hours

Cabinet Paint

Painting your kitchen or bathroom cabinets offers an instant upgrade. To get the desired results it’s important to choose paints that can stick to wood and laminate surfaces.

“Painting cabinets requires more prep work with sanding, cleaning, and priming the surface,” says Dede Bailey, a paint expert and owner of Designed Decor. “When using cabinet paint, you don’t have to use a top coat, which is helpful when needing to touch up,” she adds.

Clare Semi-Gloss Trim Paint

Clare

View On Clare.com

Why You Should Get It

The low odor formula contains zero VOCs or EPA chemicals of concern.

Keep in Mind

Swatches cost $3 a piece.

If you’re looking for a flawless finish for your cabinets, consider the Clare Semi-Gloss Trim Paint. It’s a sustainably made acrylic paint formulated without EPA chemicals of concern or VOCs. It is also mildew-resistant, so it’s a good option for humid areas like the bathroom.

The paint is also washable and scrubbable—you don’t have to worry about the paint peeling if you’re removing marks from cabinets—and specially made for high-traffic areas like the kitchen and living room. This is another reason it’s a top pick for cabinets, which tend to get a lot of use.

The fast-drying formula dries to the touch within 30 to 60 minutes, with a total dry time of two to four hours. Although it is a self-priming option, you’ll still need a primer if you’re painting over a dark color or glossy finish.

Note that although you can find gorgeous color options, you’ll have to pay $3 a pop for color swatches to see if a color is right for you before committing. The paint is available in gallon and quart sizes.

Size: 1 quart or gallon | Finishes: Semi-gloss | Number of Colors: 77 | Dry Time: 2 to 4 hours

Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint

Benjamin Moore

View On Benjaminmoore.com

Why You Should Get It

It’s available in thousands of colors, so it’s nearly impossible not to find the one you want.

Keep in Mind

This paint has long drying times.

The Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint features a water-based alkyd formula that’s ideal for cabinets because it’s durable and has excellent coverage. The formula also has fewer VOCs than other options, which means it doesn’t give off a strong smell.

It is available in over 3500 colors, so it’s going to be hard to not find a color you like. If you’re looking for a suitable color for your cabinets, Jernigan recommends Pearl due to its low-luster sheen.

After applying the primer to your surface, it’s best to sand it down again to ensure it’s absolutely smooth before the first coat. Keep in mind that drying times are long—it will be 16 hours before you can apply a second coat.

Sizes Available: 1 gallon or quart | Finishes: Satin, Semi-Gloss, High-Gloss | Number of Colors: 3500+ | Dry Time: 16 hours

Fabric Paint

Fabric paint can give your upholstery a whole new look at a cheaper price than reupholstering or buying new. It’s easier than you think, and you can get long-lasting results if you take the time to do it right.

FabriCoat Dark Fabric Paint

Amazon

View On Amazon $15

Why You Should Get It

One 17 ounce bottle is large enough to paint an entire armchair.

Keep in Mind

It takes a lot of time and effort to paint fabric thoroughly.

Furniture paint is not only for the frame—did you know that you can paint upholstery, too? The Fabricoat Dark Fabric Paint is one of the best paints for furniture because it helps give your chairs, couches, or curtains a whole new look.

The paint is formulated to restore color to faded fabrics, hide stains, or change the color of your upholstery without altering the texture. This means that your furniture’s fabric will not become stiff or hard after applying multiple paint coats.

It comes in sixteen pigments including black, dark blue, green, and dark gray. The material should be dry enough to touch after an hour, but it's better to wait overnight before you put the piece to use to ensure it won’t stain or skin or clothing.

One 17-ounce bottle is enough to paint an armchair. To achieve the best results, you must really take the time to work the paint into the fabric and make sure it is completely covered. It’s a more time-intensive process than painting other materials.

Sizes Available: 8.5 ounces or 17 ounces | Finishes: N/A | Number of Colors: 16 | Dry Time: 24 hours

What to Know About Paint for Furniture Before Shopping

Paint Type

Most furniture paints are water-based latex, acrylic, or alkyd. There are also oil-based paints, which Nicole Gibbons, founder and CEO of Clare, says are not often sold these days due to the high level of VOCs. “Oil-based paint is almost phased out of common usage, with the exception of certain specialty paints.”

Despite the name, latex paint might seem actually doesn’t contain rubber. What it refers to is the type of resin (or binder) that’s used in the formula. According to Gibbons, the two most common resins used in paint formulas are acrylic and vinyl.

For furniture, acrylic paint is the superior option because it tends to stick better and is generally more durable.“100% acrylic is the highest-quality binder that will offer the best performance, while vinyl resin is much less expensive and is often blended with acrylic to keep costs down.”

Alkyd paints are often used for cabinets because they give off a durable, enamel finish that is comparable to an oil finish. Another option is chalk paint, which is popular because it requires no primer or sanding, but you do have to make sure the surface is clean prior to painting.

Size

Paints used for furniture typically run in smaller sizes. You’ll often see them in half-pint, pint, and gallon sizes. The reason for this is that you don’t need a whole lot of paint for most DIY projects.

“A gallon of paint is more than enough to paint furniture,” Bailey says. “You typically only need a quart or less for a medium to large piece of furniture. You can even use a pint for smaller pieces of furniture,” she adds.

Finish

Typically, you’ll find the best furniture paints in flat, matte, satin semi-gloss, and gloss finishes. When choosing a finish, “think about the use of the piece being painted,” Radon says. “For table tops, consider a satin.” She also likes eggshell “because it has a highly durable finish.”

Jernigan likes using a tinted wax sealant at the end for DIY furniture projects to get a gorgeous low-luster matte sheen. “But the caveat to this is that it will be tedious to later remove [it] if you need to repaint it,” she notes.

Dry Time

Typically, you should let paint dry for two to four hours between coats, though this will differ slightly depending on the brand and your specific paint. Some formulas need up to 24 hours to fully dry before applying a second coat.

You should also factor in temperature and humidity. Warm weather causes paint to dry faster, so Jernigan advises you ensure the temperature is at least 55℉ if you want the piece to be fully cured at the appropriate time.

On the other hand, she also says that it’s not ideal to tackle DIY projects when it’s humid and to avoid very high temperatures as both factors can negatively affect the finish.

Your Questions, Answered

Does furniture paint need primer?

Depending on the paint, you may have to use primer as a base coat to help the paint adhere to the surface better. Primer is also useful if you want to change from a darker to lighter color. The exception to this chalk paint which can be used directly on any surface with no primer needed.

What paint can you use on furniture without sanding?

“Most furniture paint is formulated so that you do not have to sand prior to using,” Bailey says, though you should note that some of the formulas we recommend here do explicitly recommend sanding.

Look for “all-in-one” paints that include primer and bonding agents and allow you more flexibility and less prep work. These paints are strong enough to bond to any surface and can obscure imperfections even if you don’t sand first.

That being said, take into consideration the condition of the piece that you are painting. “Some older and neglected pieces of furniture will need some sanding if the existing finish is badly chipping or peeling,” Bailey says.

And, according to Radon, it’s still a good idea to sand after you put on a primer and before you add a top coat if you want an “optimum finish.” She says, “Proper prep is the key to a successful paint job.”

What is the best type of paint for wood?

Most common interior paints are suitable for wood. However, the key to smooth application lies in priming and cleaning before painting. “Unfinished wood is very porous so if it isn’t prepped properly you’ll have a very splotchy, uneven result,” Gibbons advises.

“Using a high-quality primer to seal the surface and create a uniform base for paint is the most important step,” she adds.

Who We Are

Nor'Adila Hepburn is a freelance writer who specializes in writing in-depth buying guides for Better Homes & Gardens. She specializes in commerce, home, and lifestyle niches.

To find the best paint for furniture she researched the top products from various paint brands. She also received tips from Dede Bailey a paint expert and owner of Designed Decor, Sam Jernigan, interior designer at Renaissance Design Consultations, Philippa Radon, a paint color and design specialist, at C2 Paint, and Nicole Gibbons, CEO and founder of Clare.