Give Your Kitchen a Stylish Makeover with Gray Wash Cabinets

Dreaming of a kitchen refresh but not ready for a full remodel? Gray washed cabinets offer an easy yet dramatic update that can transform the look of your space. This on-trend gray finish lends a coastal vibe with a hint of antique charm. Compared to stark white or inky black cabinets, soft gray washed cabinets feel fresh and light but still provide that desired pop.

In this post, we'll walk through how to give your existing cabinets a makeover with a weathered gray wash finish. With just a few supplies and some simple steps, you can give your kitchen a stylish facelift.

Sand and Clean Cabinets for a Smooth Finish

Before painting or staining, it's important to properly prep your cabinets for the best possible finish. Start by removing all hardware and doors. Give cabinet frames, doors, and drawers a light sanding to rough up the surface and remove any glossy sealant.

Next, wash cabinets with a degreaser or TSP substitute to eliminate any dirt, grease, or grime. Rinse well and let dry completely before beginning the gray wash process. Proper cleaning helps the new paint adhere evenly across the wood.

Apply Wood Conditioner for Stain Penetration

For the most uniform gray wash results, apply a wood conditioner before staining. Wood conditioner allows the stain to fully penetrate and prevents blotchiness. Use a rag to spread onto raw wood, following product directions. Let the conditioner soak in for 5-15 minutes, then wipe away any excess.

Once your cabinets are prepped, clean, and conditioned, you're ready for the fun part - mixing and applying the wash!

Create Custom Gray Wash with Paint and Stain

There are pre-mixed gray cabinet stains available, but you can easily DIY a custom wash at home. The basic mixture calls for 1 part wood stain to 4 parts paint. For the paint, use an ultra-matte latex paint in a nice neutral white or light gray.

Combine stain and paint in a bucket or tray, stirring well with a paint stick. For a lighter wash, add more paint to the mix. For more contrast, use extra stain. Test your wash on a small spot before applying to the entire cabinetry to ensure you've achieved the desired tone.

Brush On First Coat of Gray Wash

Using a high-quality angled brush, apply the first coat of gray wash. Work in smooth strokes following the direction of the wood grain. Focus on coating all surfaces - fronts, sides, frames, doors, and drawers.

Make sure to get full coverage, but be careful not to overbrush. Let the first coat dry completely, at least 8 hours. Then you can evaluate the color. From there, you'll add another layer.

Roll on Second Coat for Full Coverage

For the second coat of gray wash, switch to a small foam roller. Roll in a back-and-forth "W" pattern without overspreading. The roller allows you to quickly coat the cabinets for a cohesive look.

If desired, go back over with a dry brush or rag, lightly dragging vertical streaks through the wet paint. This adds subtle texture for a timeworn, coastal vibe. Let the cabinets dry fully for 24 hours before sealing.

Seal Gray Wash Cabinets with Polyurethane

The final step is crucial - sealing the washed cabinets with a protective clear-coat. Water-based polyurethane is ideal, providing a durable yet breathable sealant.

Apply at least 2 coats of polyurethane with a foam brush, following the manufacturer's recommended drying times in between coats. The polycrylic will prevent the gray wash from chipping or fading over time while allowing the wood grain to show through.

Once fully dry, reinstall hardware and enjoy your easy kitchen upgrade! Beyond just looks, polyurethane makes gray washed cabinets more stain- and moisture-resistant.

Maintain Gray Wash with Gentle Cleaning

Caring for your refreshed cabinets is simple. Use a soft cloth with warm water and mild soap as needed to clean. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the finish. Over time, reapply 1-2 coats of polyurethane to keep your cabinets looking like new.

Gray washed kitchen cabinets offer tons of style at a fraction of the cost of a full renovation. The weathered look provides visual interest while still feeling light and ethereal. Neutral grays complement any wall color, countertop, or decor.

Beyond versatile good looks, the matte finish also hides fingerprints and water spots better than glossy cabinets. For a quick kitchen refresh that feels clean, coastal, and charming, gray wash cabinets are the perfect DIY solution.