The Complete Guide to Grey Washed Kitchen Cabinets

Grey washed kitchen cabinets offer the perfect way to introduce a weathered, timeworn look into your kitchen design. This finish, achieved by watering down grey paint, lets gorgeous wood grain show through while giving cabinets a muted, subtle elegance. If you adore farmhouse style or modern rustic spaces, exploring grey washed cabinets can take your kitchen to the next level.

In this post, we'll cover everything you need to know regarding grey washing oak or maple cabinets. You'll learn how to assess if it's the right fit for your home, nail the perfect soothing shade, distress finishes like a pro, and incorporate grey washed cabinets into various decor styles gracefully. Let's get started!

Determining if Grey Wash is Right for Your Kitchen

While undeniably beautiful, grey washed cabinets aren't necessarily suitable for all kitchens aesthetics. Before committing to this finish, assess if it aligns with your current decor and the atmosphere you hope to achieve.

Evaluating Your Existing Kitchen Design

What's the present style and color palette of the space? Grey washing injects a timeworn look which fits rooms with rustic, industrial, or vintage leanings best. It introduces a textural element so rooms shouldn't already boast heavily varied textures. All-white sleek, modern kitchens can also be nicely grounded by soft grey washed cabinets.

If your kitchen features ornate detailing, intense colors, or polished sheens, grey wash may feel out of sync. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and texture which get drowned out among complex decor.

Choosing a Mood: Light or Dark?

The depth of the grey shade impacts the kitchen atmosphere extensively. Lighter grey washes feel airy and bright while darker ones lend cozy, intimate feels. Decide which direction you want to take things before getting samples.

For resale, versatile lighter grey washes suit more buyers. Dark smoky greys make bolder style statements best appreciated by those seeking dramatic flair.

Pros and Cons of Grey Wash Cabinets

Like all finishes, grey washing has advantages and disadvantages worth reviewing:

• Allows wood grain to shine through
• Muted, sophisticated look
• Levels of distressing possible for one-of-a-kind finishes
• Lower maintenance than highly polished cabinets

• Showing dirt or grime more than solid paints
• Subtler than vibrant cabinet colors
• Whitewashing process requires skill to execute well

Complementary Color Schemes

While grey washed cabinets pair beautifully with white, don't overlook bolder pairings. Deep blues, emerald greens, and even red brick backsplashes pop appealingly against whitewashed grays. Crisp black countertops also allow the weathered finish to shine.

Choosing the Right Grey Wash Color

Grey spans a vast spectrum from nearly white silver-greys to charcoal blackened variations. Pinpointing the exact shade for your kitchen comes down to personal taste, wood type, and the atmosphere desired.

Light vs Dark Grey Washes

As mentioned previously, depth of tone enormously impacts the kitchen mood. If aiming for an airy, sunlit space go for lighter driftwood or oyster grey washes. Their almost white appearance keeps things ethereal and bright.

For a cozier, richer aesthetic, try a dark slate or onyx wash. These near-black greys add striking contrast and drama while still letting wood grains show their beauty.

Undertones Matter Too

Greys also contain undertones spanning cool blues, subtle greens, to warm taupes. Analyze the grey shades in your kitchen like countertops and floors. Complementary cool or warm undertoned cabinet washes unite the space nicely.

For a harmonious feminine flair, lean into soft grey-blues. Earthier grey-browns lend a grounded, masculine edge instead. Green-greys strike an invigorating yet mellow balance.

Testing Grey Wash Samples

Viewing color swatches online rarely captures a grey's full impact within a specific kitchen. Test out whitewash combinations by hand-painting cabinets' inner surfaces. Allow to dry completely before assessing if the tone achieves your intended atmosphere.

Selecting Wood Type for Grey Washed Cabinets

While grey washing techniques work on most wood types, oaks beautifully highlight this finish. Other options like maple involve additional considerations before getting ideal results.

Oak's Natural Beauty

Of all woods, oak effortlessly absorbs grey washes, stains and glazes into its deep pores. This allows the distressed treatment to penetrate deeply and look authentically weathered.

Oak'sbeen valued in furniture-making for centuries thanks to its incredible durability. Its water-resistance also makes it perfect for the high moisture environment of kitchens.

Enhancing Wood Characteristics

Grey washing capitalizes on the natural beauty of wood grains. Oak offers incredible variety from the boldness of red oak to white oak's subdued yet intricate detailing. Even the most modern grey-washed oak cabinetry retains nature's rustic essence.

Prepping Maple Cabinetry

While suitable for grey washing, maple involves special considerations. Its tight, smooth grain doesn't easily absorb stain without extra prep sanding. Conditioners help treating solutions penetrate evenly. Test grey wash consistency on inner door surfaces first before applying throughout.

Other porous woods like pine, walnut and cherry also beautifully show off grey washed finishes.

Achieving a Grey Wash Finish Step-By-Step

With proper supplies and techniques, transforming lackluster cabinets into coastal-chic grey washed ones feels deeply fulfilling. We'll overview the process from prepping to perfectly imperfect distressing.

Gathering Grey Whitewashing Supplies

You'll need:

• Latex, chalk or milk paint in chosen grey
• Water
• Paintbrushes, rags
• Sandpaper
• orbital sander (optional)
• Clean cloths
• Tack cloth
• Protective sealer

Prepping Cabinets for Painting

Proper prep ensures finishes adhere well. Fill holes, sand surfaces gently and wipe away dust with a tack cloth. 60-80 grit removes grime without over-sanding oak's natural texture we wish to retain.

Mixing the Grey Wash Recipe

In a large container, thin down grey paint with equal parts water to achieve a milky consistency. For deeper penetration into oak, add a touch extra water. Test consistency on spare wood pieces first before applying to cabinets.

Application Tips for Flawless Finishes

Using a damp rag, apply grey wash liberally in random strokes until achieving your desired color intensity. Work in sections to avoid overlapping dried areas.

For consistency, maintain the same dampness level in your rag between coats. Uneven dryness creates blotchiness.

Distressing Cabinetry

Once fully dry, deliberately distress cabinets for an authentically timeworn appearance. Gently scrape paint off edges or rub spots lightly with sandpaper. Focus distressing randomly and around natural use areas like handles or corners.

Layer additional grey wash coats to build up an aged depth. Two to three application rounds often suffice.

Sealing for Added Protection

Although optional, we recommend sealing grey washed cabinets with polyurethane or clear wax. This shields the decorative finish from moisture damage, grease splatters and dirt without diminishing its timeworn character.

Hiring a Professional Painter

While DIY grey washing proves entirely possible, some homeowners prefer hiring professionals. Experts properly prep surfaces, possess specialized tools and can perform technique-heavy work like sandblasting.

Vetting Grey Wash Specialists

When sourcing painters, ask:

• How many similar grey washing projects have they completed?
• Will they provide customer references to view past work?
• Do they specialize in kitchen cabinet refinishing?

Verify they don't simply paint cabinets grey but employ a true hand-applied whitewashing technique for authenticity.

What to Expect: Timelines and Costs

With proper drying times factored in, professional cabinet grey washing typically requires 5-7 days. DIYers should expect double that timeline.

Cost depends on kitchen size but expect to invest $2000-4000 to achieve flawless grey washed finishes.

Protecting Counters and Floors

Quality painters mask off nearby surfaces with drop cloths and painter's tape. Discuss what precautions they'll take to safeguard existing counters, floors and walls before starting.

Design Ideas with Grey Wash Oak Kitchens

Ready to refresh your entire kitchen design around newly grey washed oak cabinets? Here are inspiring ideas to emulate.

Playing Up Rustic Farmhouse Vibes

Grey washed oak cabinets thrive within rustic spaces. Teaming them with butcher block countertops, exposed brick backsplashes and vintage-style lighting ensures cohesion. Introduce metal accents via a stainless steel sink or pendant lights to prevent seeming too countrified.

Incorporating Modern Stainless Appliances

While exuding aged elegance, don't overlook pairing grey wash cabinetry with gleaming stainless steel appliances. This combines perfect imperfection with sleek lines for harmonious balance. Crisp white quartz countertops stop the aesthetic from becoming overly earthy as well.

Spa-Like Serenity

For contemporary edge, set smoky grey washed cabinets within an ethereal white kitchen. Natural stone or concrete effect quartz counters complement the geological feel. Sleek open shelves maintain breezy simplicity. Touches of wood, woven textures and greenery enhance the organic vibe.

Dramatic Contrast

Lean into grey wash cabinets as bold focal points by choosing a dark dramatic backsplash like navy or emerald green tile. Opt for glossy cabinet hardware in brass or black metal to heighten opulent tension. Finish with glossy kitchen surfaces - dark stained wood floors, gleaming lacquered lower cabinets and sleek marble countertops.

Maintaining Grey Wash Kitchen Cabinets

Wondering how to clean and care for newly grey washed cabinets? We'll overview maintenance best practices to maximize their lifespan and beauty.

Daily Grey Wash Cabinet Cleaning

Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe away kitchen grease and grime before it accumulates. Avoid abrasive cleaners or bristled brushes which could scratch surfaces. For deeper periodic cleaning, rub down with a cloth moistened in mild dish soap and warm water.

Spot Cleaning Grey Wash Cabinets

Deal with new stains or splatters immediately using the above method. Gently rub soiled areas using minimal pressure and moisture to lift residue away cleanly. Repeat if necessary to avoid scrubbing or spreading mess wider.

Applying Maintenance Coats

Over years of use, grey wash can lose vibrancy from constant cleaning and sun exposure. Revival coats added every 2-3 years rejuvenate color depth and achieve visual uniformity if faces have faded at different rates.

Preventing Moisture Damage

While oak offers good water resistance, excessive exposure causes swelling or warping. Immediately mop up wet cabinet spills, fix plumbing leaks promptly and avoid placing appliances that produce excessive steam too nearby.

Transforming Your Kitchen with Grey Washed Cabinets

Unsure if undergoing a full kitchen remodel solely for grey washed oak cabinets seems justified? Consider the profound metamorphosis this seemingly simple change catalyzes.

Planning Your Kitchen Cabinet Renovation Timeline

To minimize kitchen downtime, first consult cabinet refinishing specialists on accurate project timeframes. For full cabinet set whitewashing, expect around 5-7 days including adequate dry times.

Once cabinets complete reinstallation, factor another 2-3 days to replace counter tops, backsplashes, rehang replaced cabinets, paint walls and install new lighting fixtures or flooring.

Incorporating New Kitchen Elements

Beyond cabinet transformations, assess if cookware, small appliances or dishware palettes feel cohesive. Introduce wooden or rattan textures for organic warmth. Use grey washed cabinets as jumping-off points for holistic kitchen rejuvenation.

Photograph for Before and After Inspiration!

Nothing visually captures the sheer impact of grey washed oak cabinets like photographs taken before and after the kitchen remodel. Referring back whenever you need inspiration or reminding why undergoing this project felt worthwhile.

Expect a Focal Point Facelift

While white kitchens remain popular, they often lack character. Grey wash kitchen cabinets become artistic statements within stark spaces. They instantly transform sterile, personality-less rooms into warmer havens brimming with cottagecore appeal.

FAQ on Grey Whitewashed Cabinet Finishes

Still have some grey washing questions? Below we tackle common queries homeowners have regarding maintenance, costs and achieving flawless finishes.

What upkeep do grey washed cabinets need?

Minimal upkeep! Their wear distressed nature means they hide dirt or imperfections well. Quick dusting keeps them looking great for years sans rewashing.

Do grey washed cabinets scratch or stain easily?

Not especially - oak's hardy properties protect the deep-set grey wash stain from surface abrasions beautifully. Just ensure to use chopping boards and buff out spills/splatters swiftly.

How can I avoid blotchiness in my DIY grey wash?

Paint and rag consistency matters hugely. Maintain the same level of dampness throughout, apply quickly avoiding overlaps and use minimal pressure rubbing in all directions.

DIY grey washing saves substantially but achieving flawless finishes requires skill and practice working with paint dilution ratios and distressing well.