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Best Clear Coat For Cabinets (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to give your cabinet a new life, adding a clear coat for cabinets can be just what you need. It protects your cabinets from wear and tear, as well as water damage, making them last for years to come. However, before buying any clear coat product, you should consider a few essential factors.

First, you need to look at the type of wood your cabinets are made from. Some wood types might not take well to certain types of clear coats, leading to discolouration or other damage over time. You will want to choose a clear coat that is compatible with the wood type of your cabinets.

Secondly, you need to consider the sheen you would prefer for your cabinets. The level of glossiness, or sheen, can affect the look and feel of your cabinets. You would want to pick a sheen that complements your style choice and fits the overall aesthetic of your kitchen design.

Lastly, you must consider the durability of the clear coat. A durable clear coat should be scratch-resistant and waterproof, ensuring your cabinets stay safe from any accidental spills or scratches.

Do you want to give your cabinets a brand new look without spending too much money on a remodel? Are you tired of constantly worrying about water damage or scratches to your cabinets? A clear coat for cabinets can be the perfect solution to your problems, providing a cost-effective way of revamping your cabinets while also granting them long-term protection. In this article, we’ll guide you through the most important factors you should consider before investing in a clear coat product for your cabinets. Read on to discover the secrets to achieving a long-lasting, beautiful cabinet finish!

10 Best Clear Coat For Cabinets

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for adding a protective topcoat to various indoor surfaces such as furniture, cabinets, walls, and home decor.
2
Ideal for adding a protective gloss finish to wood surfaces with only one coat needed.
3
This product is ideal for adding a glossy finish to surfaces painted with latex paint.
4
This product is ideal for organizing entryways with its coat rack, shoe storage, cabinet space, and open shelves.
5
It is ideal for filling wood grain on cabinets and other woodworking projects during upgrades, repairs, and restorations.
6
The product is ideal for organizing and storing items in clear bins within sectional cubbie-trays.
7
Ideal for stylish and functional storage in hallways, entryways, or living rooms with a rustic fir wood finish and metal base.
8
The product is ideal for filling wood grain and improving woodworking projects with its low odor, fast drying, and stainable formula.
9
Ideal for organizing coats and accessories in classrooms or playrooms with its wall mount design and clear storage bins.
10
The product is ideal for providing a clear, high-gloss finish to painted countertops and other surfaces.
It is ideal for adding a protective topcoat to various indoor surfaces such as furniture, cabinets, walls, and home decor.
Ideal for adding a protective gloss finish to wood surfaces with only one coat needed.
This product is ideal for adding a glossy finish to surfaces painted with latex paint.
This product is ideal for organizing entryways with its coat rack, shoe storage, cabinet space, and open shelves.
It is ideal for filling wood grain on cabinets and other woodworking projects during upgrades, repairs, and restorations.
The product is ideal for organizing and storing items in clear bins within sectional cubbie-trays.
Ideal for stylish and functional storage in hallways, entryways, or living rooms with a rustic fir wood finish and metal base.
The product is ideal for filling wood grain and improving woodworking projects with its low odor, fast drying, and stainable formula.
Ideal for organizing coats and accessories in classrooms or playrooms with its wall mount design and clear storage bins.
The product is ideal for providing a clear, high-gloss finish to painted countertops and other surfaces.

1. Jolie Clear Protective Wax – Interior Decorating Essential

Upgrade your furniture with the Premium Chalk Finish Paint Wax, a versatile sealing wax available in several colors. This odorless, non-hazardous, and water-resistant wax is perfect for highlighting textures and moldings and creating custom finishes. The soft consistency of the wax makes it easy to apply, and it can be buffed to add a subtle sheen or left as it is for a durable matte finish.

This premium wax is suitable for painted surfaces or raw wood and can be applied using a Jolie Wax Brush. For the best results, always apply Clear Finishing Wax to your piece before applying colored Finishing Waxes to ensure a cohesive and long-lasting finish. Whether you want to create a vintage, shabby-chic, or modern look, the Premium Chalk Finish Paint Wax is an excellent choice for any DIY enthusiast.

Pros

  • Odorless, non-hazardous, and water-resistant sealing wax
  • Soft consistency makes it easy to apply
  • Available in a variety of colors to match any decor style
  • Creates a durable matte finish that can be buffed to add a subtle sheen
  • Suitable for painted surfaces or raw wood
  • Can be applied using a Jolie Wax Brush

Cons

  • – Requires Clear Finishing Wax for best results

2. Minwax 356100000 One Coat Polyurethane, Quart, Gloss

Minwax One Coat Polyurethane Protective Finish is the perfect solution for wood projects that require a protective coating. It dries in just two hours and is easy to clean up with soap and water. This clear top coat provides outstanding durability, equivalent to three coats of conventional polyurethane. The advanced formula ensures that wood surfaces are effectively protected and enhanced in a single coat, leaving a sleek finish with a glossy sheen.

This protective poly coating is non-ambering, meaning it won't yellow over time and maintains the natural beauty of the wood. Minwax One Coat Polyurethane Protective Finish is the ideal choice for woodworkers who want to complete their projects in a timely manner without compromising on quality. It is suitable for use on all types of wood surfaces, including floors, furniture, cabinets, and more.

Minwax is a trusted brand when it comes to wood finishing and wood care projects. For over a century, they have been providing woodworkers with high-quality products to achieve the perfect finish. With Minwax One Coat Polyurethane Protective Finish, you can trust that you are getting a top-quality product that will make your wood projects look their best.

Pros

  • Dries in just two hours, three times faster than conventional polyurethane
  • Provides durability equivalent to three coats of conventional polyurethane
  • Non-ambering, maintains the natural beauty of the wood
  • Suitable for use on all types of wood surfaces

3. Rust-Oleum 242057 Painter's Touch Latex Paint, Quart, Gloss Clear,1 Quarts (Pack Of 1)

This paint is perfect for a wide range of indoor and outdoor projects, including wood, metal, plaster, masonry, or unglazed ceramic. The water-based acrylic formula is low odor and provides long-lasting protection against chips. It covers up to 120 sq ft and dries to touch in just 30 minutes, allowing for quick project completion. The gloss finish provides a fresh new look for surfaces and goes on smoothly, providing excellent hide.

To achieve the best results, it is recommended that surfaces be sanded with 180/200 grit sandpaper and washed with a degreaser before application. Once dry, the paint can be applied for indoor/outdoor durability. The finish is tough and chip-resistant, providing excellent protection against the elements. It is also UV-resistant and non-yellowing, ensuring that surfaces retain their fresh look for a long time. This paint seals, protects, and revitalizes surfaces, making it perfect for all types of projects.

Pros

  • Suitable for a variety of indoor and outdoor project surfaces
  • Water-based acrylic formula is low odor
  • Covers up to 120 sq ft and dries to touch in 30 minutes
  • Gloss finish provides a fresh new look for surfaces
  • Tough and chip-resistant finish provides long-lasting protection against the elements
  • UV-resistant and non-yellowing
  • Seals, protects and revitalizes surfaces

Cons

  • – May require sanding and washing with a degreaser before application

4. Entryway Haven: Hall Tree And Shoe Organizer

Make a grand entrance every time you step into your home with this smart hall tree with bench and shoe storage. The wide hall tree features 7 hooks on the top, so you can hang your coat, hat, and scarf with ease. The bench is perfect for sitting down to remove your shoes, and the cabinet below can be used to store them. The black finish gives it a stylish and unique look that will invite your guests to feel at home.

This black entryway bench with coat rack can be divided into four pieces, and each piece can be used on its own or placed together to create a cohesive look. You can design different display modes according to your needs. The durable construction of the hall tree is made of high-quality particle boards and hardware, which ensures stability for long-term use. It comes with an anti-tip device for added safety.

The spacious storage space provides plenty of room for all your needs. The coat rack comes with 4 cabinets on the top and bottom to store shoes and other items. Three large open shelves on the top make it easy to display photo frames and potted plants. The three small open shelves on the wall shelf can be used to display books. The hall tree also has 7 double hooks to hang coats, scarves, hats, and a spacious bench seat that is convenient for changing your shoes. There is also a big sliding drawer to store keys, umbrellas, and other small items.

This coat rack with shoe storage is designed to be easy to assemble with numbered parts and clear instructions. The product is shipped from a US warehouse, so you can expect fast delivery. If you have any mudroom bench with storage and hooks questions, please feel free to contact the customer service team for assistance.

Pros

  • Stylish and unique design that makes a grand entrance
  • Spacious storage space with multiple shelves and cabinets
  • Easy to assemble with numbered parts and clear instructions
  • Durable construction made of high-quality particle boards and hardware
  • Comes with an anti-tip device for added safety

5. Aqua Coat Premium Wood Grain Filler

The Aqua Coat White Cabinet Grain Filler is a versatile and eco-friendly product that can be used by anyone from DIYers to contractors. It is perfect for filling the grain and sealing the pores of wood before painting, providing a smooth finish on oak, ash, mahogany, walnut, and other porous woods. It is a favorite among those who work with cabinet and vanity refinishing, millwork, and furniture refinishing. With Aqua Coat, you can achieve a glass-smooth finish on all your wood projects.

Aqua Coat's entire line of products is low VOC, non-flammable, non-combustible, low odor, fast-drying, easy to apply, and easy to sand. It has excellent adhesion and can be easily cleaned up with water. This makes it the healthier option for your employees and family. You can achieve that beautiful glass-smooth finish while keeping the environment and your health in mind.

This grain filler is compatible with oil-based and water-based primers, lacquers, and paints. It can be mixed with any water-soluble pigments or dyes, providing you with endless possibilities. Filling your wood grain before painting or lacquering not only creates a beautiful smooth finish but also seals the pores and minimizes absorption of the topcoat. This leads to fewer coats of paint or lacquer needed, saving you time and money.

The Aqua Coat White Cabinet Grain Filler is easy to use. Simply work the grain filler generously into the open wood grain and pores against the grain with a small squeegee, bond blade, old credit card, or fingers with a glove. Scrape off excess with a squeegee, bondo blade, or an old credit card with the grain. Let it dry for 45-60 minutes and very lightly sand with a 320 or higher grit sandpaper or a fine scotch brite sanding pad immediately before your next application of grain filler or your first coat of primer and paint.

This grain filler is long-lasting, and a little goes a long way. You can use one quart to do two coats on a medium-sized kitchen with 30-40 doors and drawers. It has a shelf life of over a year and passes two freeze/thaw cycles.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Eco-friendly and low VOC
  • Compatible with oil-based and water-based primers, lacquers, and paints
  • Provides a glass-smooth finish
  • Seals the pores and minimizes absorption of the topcoat
  • Long-lasting

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for non-porous woods

6. Youngtime Jonti-Craft 7032yt Sectional Cubbie-Tray Storage With Clear Bins

Looking for a versatile storage solution for your classroom, daycare, preschool, or home? Look no further than the Sectional Cubbie-Tray Storage Unit! With its ample space and variety of compartments, this storage unit is perfect for storing papers, craft supplies, toys, games, cubbies, trays, and more. It features 14 paper slots, 15 bin compartments, and 1 large shelf for maximum storage capacity, as well as 15 clear cubbie-trays.

This classroom and home organizer is also designed with kids in mind. It has rounded edges and corners to prevent injuries, while the sturdy wood construction is durable enough for daily use and easy to clean. The hardboard recessed back provides additional structural support.

Assembly is a breeze with the detailed instructions that are included. The Sectional Cubbie-Tray Storage with Clear Bins is 32.5" high x 48" wide x 15" deep, and weighs 111 lbs. Add the optional Young Time Caster Kit-C (sold separately) to make this unit mobile.

Pros

  • Ample space for storing a variety of items
  • Features 14 paper slots, 15 bin compartments, and 1 large shelf
  • Includes 15 clear cubbie-trays
  • Versatile storage solution for various settings
  • Easy to assemble with detailed instructions
  • Durable construction with hardboard recessed back for additional support
  • Designed with kids in mind with rounded edges and corners
  • Sturdy wood construction that is easy to clean

7. Enloe Rustic Accent Cabinet – White/gold

The Enloe storage cabinet is a stylish and functional addition to any home. It features a unique two-tone design with a painted white outer case and rustic fir solid wood doors that are weaved in a herringbone style. The cabinet is finished at the base with a gold metal foundation, giving it an elegant and modern look.

With removable and adjustable shelves behind each door, this accent cabinet provides ample space to organize your belongings. Whether you use it as a hallway cabinet, entryway storage cabinet, or living room accent cabinet, it is a stylish and free-standing storage solution that will add character to any room.

The Enloe storage cabinet is easy to assemble and comes with a lifetime manufacturer warranty. You can try it for 100 days and enjoy its sleek and space-saving design for years to come.

Pros

  • Two-tone design with a painted white outer case and rustic fir solid wood doors weaved in a herringbone style
  • Removable and adjustable shelves behind each door for ample storage space
  • Sleek and space-saving design that can be used as a hallway cabinet, entryway storage cabinet, or living room accent cabinet
  • Easy to assemble with a lifetime manufacturer warranty

8. Clear Gel Fills Wood Grains Quickly

Aqua Coat Clear Grain Filler is a wood grain filler designed to fill the grain and seal the pores of wood before or after staining or on raw wood, providing a smooth finish on porous woods such as oak, ash, mahogany, walnut, and more. It is perfect for a variety of projects, from tabletops, desktops, cabinets, vanities, millwork, pianos, guitars, to furniture refinishing. This product is suitable for everyone, from DIYers to contractors.

Made in the USA, Aqua Coat's entire line of products is water-based, low VOC, low-odor, non-flammable, non-combustible, fast-drying, easy to apply, easy to sand, and offers excellent adhesion. It is an eco-friendly option, making it a healthier choice for your family and employees.

Aqua Coat Clear Grain Filler is versatile and compatible with other products. Filling wood grain before staining not only creates a beautiful smooth finish, but it also seals the pores and helps to minimize absorption of the topcoat, saving you time and money. The Clear Grain Filler can be mixed with water-soluble pigments or dyes.

This product is easy to use. Simply work the Clear Grain Filler generously into the open wood grain and pores against the grain with a small squeegee, bondo blade, old credit card, or fingers with a glove. Scrape off excess with a squeegee, bondo blade, or an old credit card with the grain. Let dry for 45-60 minutes before very lightly sanding with a 320 or higher grit sandpaper or a fine scotchbrite sanding pad before the next application of grain filler. It is recommended to apply 2-3 coats for best results.

Aqua Coat Clear Grain Filler is long-lasting, and a little goes a long way. One quart can cover 2 coats on a medium-sized kitchen (30-40 drawers and doors), while one pint can cover 5-6 guitars.

Pros

  • Suitable for everyone, from DIYers to contractors
  • Water-based, low VOC, low-odor, non-flammable, non-combustible, fast-drying, easy to apply, and offers excellent adhesion
  • Eco-friendly option, making it a healthier choice for your family and employees
  • Versatile and compatible with other products
  • Easy to use
  • Long-lasting, and a little goes a long way

9. Jonti-Craft 07710jc 10 Section Wall Mount Coat Locker With Clear Bins

The Jonti-Craft product features KYDZSafe edges, which are rounded to a minimum of 1 inch radius, ensuring that children can play safely without getting hurt by sharp edges and corners. The KYDZStrong construction of the product uses the dowel-pin technique, which is stronger than the dado joints used by other companies. This construction technique prevents weakening at the joint, where most stress occurs, thereby extending the lifetime of the product by 50%. The KYDZTuff finish is an ultraviolet acrylic coating that is as tough as the finish on bowling lanes. It is also environmentally friendly. This ultra-durable finish resists yellowing and provides extra-strong resistance for daily wear.

The Jonti-Craft product is an ideal choice for parents who prioritize their children's safety while playing. The KYDZSafe edges ensure that their children will not get hurt by sharp edges and corners. The KYDZStrong construction technique ensures that the product is stronger and more durable than those offered by other companies, thereby extending the product's lifetime by 50%. The KYDZTuff finish is also a great feature as it is ultra-durable and provides extra-strong resistance for daily wear.

If you are looking for a safe and durable play product for your children, the Jonti-Craft product is the perfect choice. The KYDZSafe edges, KYDZStrong construction, and KYDZTuff finish make it a reliable and safe option for your children's playtime.

Pros

  • KYDZSafe edges provide maximum safety for children while playing
  • KYDZStrong construction technique makes the product stronger and more durable than other products offered in the market
  • KYDZTuff finish provides extra-strong resistance for daily wear and prevents yellowing

10. Giani Countertop Paint Clear Acrylic High-Gloss Topcoat- Step 3

The Giani Clear Acrylic Topcoat is the perfect finishing touch for all Giani Countertop Paint Kits. It is specifically designed to work with Giani countertops and is a non-yellowing formula that will keep your countertops looking fresh and new for years to come. Unlike standard polyurethane finishes, the Giani topcoat is highly effective and will provide the perfect finish for your countertops.

This topcoat is a water-based acrylic paint that is safe to use and low on odor and VOCs. It has a coverage of approximately 35 square feet or 16 running feet of standard 24" wide countertops. The full dry time for this topcoat is only 4 hours, so you can quickly finish your project and enjoy your beautiful new countertops.

Overall, the Giani Clear Acrylic Topcoat is the ideal finishing touch for anyone looking to upgrade their countertops. It is highly effective, easy to use, and will keep your countertops looking beautiful for years to come.

Pros

  • Non-yellowing formula keeps countertops looking fresh and new for years
  • Water-based acrylic paint is safe to use and low on odor and VOCs
  • Coverage of approximately 35 square feet or 16 running feet of standard 24" wide countertops
  • Full dry time of only 4 hours

Best Clear Coat For Cabinets FAQs

Can a clear coat be applied over painted cabinets?

Yes, a clear coat can be applied over painted cabinets to provide an additional layer of protection and enhance the durability of the finish. Clear coat products are available in a variety of formulas, such as water-based, oil-based, and polyurethane, and can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Before applying a clear coat, it is important to ensure that the painted surface is clean, dry, and free of any debris or dust. Any imperfections or rough spots in the paint should also be sanded smooth before applying the clear coat. Additionally, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific clear coat product being used, including the recommended number of coats and drying time between coats. By applying a clear coat over painted cabinets, homeowners can protect their investment and enjoy a beautiful and long-lasting finish.

How does a clear coat protect cabinets from damage and wear?

A clear coat is a protective layer applied on cabinets to protect them from damage and wear. It acts as a barrier between the surface of the cabinet and the elements that can cause damage, such as moisture, heat, and chemicals. The clear coat creates a shield that prevents the wood from absorbing moisture and prevents stains from setting in. It also prevents scratches and dents from forming on the cabinet's surface.

The clear coat is typically made of a polyurethane or acrylic formula, which is applied in multiple layers to create a smooth, durable finish. The number of layers applied depends on the type of cabinet and the level of protection required. The clear coat is also available in different finishes, including gloss, satin, and matte.

In addition to protecting the cabinet, the clear coat also enhances its appearance by bringing out the natural beauty of the wood. It adds depth and richness to the color and highlights the grain pattern of the wood.

Overall, a clear coat is an essential component of cabinet protection and maintenance. It not only adds to the cabinet's aesthetic appeal but also extends its lifespan by protecting it from damage and wear.

How long does a clear coat last on cabinets before needing to be reapplied?

The longevity of a clear coat on cabinets depends on various factors, such as the quality of the coating material used, the frequency of use, and the level of wear and tear the cabinets are subjected to. Generally, a clear coat can last up to 3-5 years before needing to be reapplied. However, this time frame may vary depending on the above-mentioned factors.

If the cabinets are exposed to direct sunlight, humidity, or high temperatures, the clear coat may deteriorate faster than usual. In such cases, it is recommended to reapply the coating every 2-3 years to maintain their shine and protection. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the cabinets also play a crucial role in prolonging the life of the clear coat.

To ensure maximum durability of the clear coat on your cabinets, it is advisable to consult a professional and choose a high-quality coating material that can withstand the elements and provide long-lasting protection.

What is the best type of clear coat to use for cabinets?

When it comes to choosing the best type of clear coat for cabinets, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to select a product that is durable and long-lasting, as cabinets are often subjected to wear and tear. Secondly, the clear coat should be able to protect the wood from moisture, which can cause warping and damage over time.

One popular option for clear coat is polyurethane, which is known for its durability and resistance to scratches and stains. It's also available in both oil-based and water-based formulations, depending on your preference. Another option is lacquer, which is more traditional but can provide a high-gloss finish.

Ultimately, the best type of clear coat for your cabinets will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to do your research and consult with a professional if you're not sure which product to choose. And remember to follow all safety precautions when applying the clear coat to ensure a smooth and even finish.

What is the process for applying a clear coat to cabinets?

The process of applying a clear coat to cabinets involves several steps that should be followed carefully to ensure a smooth and professional finish. The first step is to prepare the cabinets by cleaning them thoroughly with a degreaser and sanding them lightly to create a rough surface for the clear coat to adhere to. Next, the cabinets should be wiped down with a damp cloth and left to dry completely.

Once the cabinets are dry, it's time to apply the clear coat. This can be done with a brush, roller, or spray gun, depending on your preference and experience. When applying the clear coat, it's important to work in thin, even layers and to avoid drips or bubbles. Multiple coats may be necessary to achieve the desired level of shine and protection.

After the clear coat has been applied, it should be allowed to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once dry, any imperfections or rough spots should be sanded lightly and the cabinets should be wiped down with a clean cloth. Finally, the cabinets can be buffed with a high-quality furniture wax to achieve a glossy, professional finish.

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