The Easiest Way To Strip Outdated Kitchen Cabinets

If you've just moved into a new place or fancy a change, switching up the doors is a great way to save on kitchen cabinets. Rather than replacing the cupboards completely, which will not only take a while but also cost a lot, stripping the paint and then repainting in your preferred color is a good alternative. However, if you're not DIY-savvy, a task like this can feel daunting. Luckily, the following hack, which involves leaving paint stripper to soak in overnight and a scraper to get rid of the existing paint, doesn't require you to be a pro. 

Plus, not only does it only require a handful of products to pull off, but you may already own some of the basic products required like plastic wrap. Removing an existing paint layer from wood isn't the most difficult DIY task, but it's important to do it properly so you don't end up with paint that ends up looking flaky. The below method will leave your cabinets ready for new life to be breathed into them, no matter the condition they're in.

For this wood stripping technique, you'll need a paint stripper like Citristrip, plastic wrap, a scraping tool, 60 grit sandpaper, and 220 grit sandpaper. Depending on the cabinet area you're stripping, you might find it easier to detach the doors. Apply the paint stripper liberally across the wood to get rid of the top layer of paint. Then, cover this section in plastic wrap and leave it to sit overnight. In the morning, grab your scraper and remove the paint. If there are any straggling bits, use the 60 grit sandpaper to get rid of them. 

If you're working with particularly stubborn paint spots, a heat gun will melt the paint. Then, use nail polish remover with a cotton swab to lift the mark — this works especially well if there are only one or two stubborn areas. Finally, use the 220 grit sandpaper to smooth out the wood completely so it's prepped for a new finish. Repeat for each wood piece until done. Don't want to sand due to delicate wood? Reach for mineral spirits instead. With a paintbrush, apply the spirits onto the area you want to strip and leave for 20 minutes before grabbing your scraper to remove the paint layers. Repeat as necessary.