If your kitchen worktops have started to look a bit tired or dated, you’ve probably wondered can you just paint them? The short answer is yes, you can paint kitchen worktops. And surprisingly, it can look pretty good too if you do it right.
Painting worktops has become a bit of a trend lately, especially among people who want a fresh look without spending thousands on new countertops. But before you pick up a paintbrush, there’s quite a lot to know, from preparation and the right kind of paint to how long it will actually last.
Let’s walk through everything step by step.
Why People Paint Their Kitchen Worktops
We all know replacing kitchen counters can cost a small fortune. Between materials, fitting, and the disruption, it’s no small job. That’s where painting comes in.
Painting kitchen worktops gives your kitchen a facelift without the heavy price tag. It’s also a creative project, you can completely change the look of your kitchen in a weekend.
Whether you’ve got a dated laminate surface or a worktop that’s seen better days, paint can work wonders, if you prepare it properly.
Is It Worth Painting Kitchen Worktops?
Let’s be honest, painting your kitchen worktops won’t give you the same result as brand-new stone or solid wood counters. But is it worth doing? For many people, yes, absolutely.
If you’re looking for a temporary refresh, or you simply want to experiment with a new colour scheme, painting is a great solution. It’s affordable, fast, and surprisingly effective when done with care.
But there’s a catch, painted worktops do need maintenance. They won’t handle heat, knife cuts, or constant scrubbing as well as a new worktop would. However, if you treat them gently, you can get a good few years out of them before needing a touch-up or redo.
So, in short it’s worth it if you’re practical about what to expect. It’s not a forever fix, but it can look fantastic for a fraction of the cost.
Can I Paint My Laminate Kitchen Worktop?
Yes, you can paint laminate kitchen worktops. In fact, laminate is one of the most common surfaces people paint.
Laminate has a smooth, shiny coating that doesn’t hold paint well unless it’s properly prepped. The key is to rough up the surface so the paint can grip. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Clean thoroughly. Remove all grease, dirt, and old residue. Sugar soap is great for this.
Sand the surface. Use fine sandpaper (around 180–240 grit) to lightly sand and dull the laminate finish. Don’t skip this step as it’s what helps the primer stick.
Apply a good primer. Use a high-adhesion or multi-surface primer that’s made for glossy materials like laminate or melamine. Let it dry completely.
Paint with suitable paint. You can use a durable enamel, specialist countertop paint, or even a two-part epoxy paint if you want a super-tough finish.
Seal it. Finish with a clear topcoat or polyurethane sealant to make it more resistant to water and stains.
When done properly, painted laminate worktops can look brand new. You can even use techniques like marbling or faux granite effects to get a high-end look without the cost.
Do Painted Countertops Hold Up?
This is probably the most common question people ask and it’s a fair one. Do painted countertops actually last?
Well, yes and no. It depends entirely on how well you prep and protect the surface.
If you’ve cleaned, sanded, primed, and sealed everything correctly, your painted worktops can last several years. Many DIYers report them looking great even after three to five years though some touch-ups may be needed along the way.
That said, painted worktops do have their limits:
Avoid direct heat. Don’t place hot pans or trays directly on the surface.
Use chopping boards. Never cut directly on the worktop.
Clean gently. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges as they’ll damage the finish.
With normal care, though, painted countertops can absolutely hold up. It’s not a forever solution, but it’s a brilliant stopgap or budget-friendly makeover.
What Paint Is Best for Worktops?
Choosing the right paint makes all the difference. You can’t just grab any old tin from the shed and expect professional results.
Here are your best options:
Countertop Paint Kits
These are specifically designed for worktops and often include primer, paint, and sealant. They’re easy to use and give a hard-wearing finish.Two-Part Epoxy Paint
This is the toughest option, often used in commercial or industrial settings. It gives a glossy, durable finish but can be trickier to apply.Acrylic or Enamel Paint
These are good mid-range options for laminate or wood surfaces. Make sure you use a primer and a topcoat for protection.Chalk or Mineral Paint (with a Sealer)
If you’re after a rustic or matte look, chalk paint can work beautifully, just remember to seal it well with polyurethane or wax to protect against moisture.
Whatever you choose, make sure it’s moisture-resistant and easy to clean. Kitchens are high-traffic areas, so durability matters.
Step-by-Step: How to Paint Kitchen Worktops
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Clear your work area. Remove everything from your worktops and clean thoroughly.
Repair any damage. Fill chips or scratches with filler and sand smooth.
Sand the surface. Use fine sandpaper to remove shine and create texture.
Clean again. Wipe away all dust using a damp cloth works best.
Apply primer. Roll on a thin, even coat and let it dry completely.
Paint your surface. Use a foam roller for smooth application. Apply 2–3 thin coats, letting each one dry fully.
Seal it. Apply 2 coats of clear sealant for durability.
Leave your worktops to cure for at least 2–3 days before heavy use.
Maintenance Tips for Painted Worktops
Once your counters are painted, keeping them in good shape is mostly about care and maintenance.
Always use coasters, trivets, and chopping boards.
Wipe up spills quickly to avoid water damage.
Clean with mild soap and water avoid using bleach or strong chemicals.
Re-seal every year or two if needed to keep the surface strong.
With a little effort, your painted kitchen worktops can stay beautiful and practical for years.
Final Thoughts
Painting kitchen worktops is a clever and affordable way to breathe new life into your kitchen. It’s not perfect as it takes patience, preparation, and a bit of maintenance but the results can be truly impressive.
If you’re on a budget, love a DIY project, or just want to give your kitchen a makeover before committing to a full renovation, painting your worktops is absolutely worth a try.
Just remember: the secret to long-lasting, great-looking results lies in the prep work. Take your time sanding, priming, and sealing after that you’ll be amazed at how fresh your kitchen can look.
