Refresh Cabinets Without Paint Using Briwax For An Affordable DIY Makeover

Could your wood cabinets use a little bit of sprucing up? You don't need to spend a fortune on a makeover, as there are so many different ways to approach cabinet refinishing for a stunning refresh. For long-lasting results that are both affordable and relatively easy to achieve, Briwax may be the answer. This popular product is nothing more than a simple formula of beeswax and carnauba wax, but it will make your wood cabinets gleam like new again and give them a makeover without using paint. Cabinet makers around Europe use Briwax to preserve the condition of the wood and restore the cabinets' original luster as they age over time, without losing that beautiful antique patina. 

Though Briwax is primarily used on wood, you can also use it to breathe new life into your marble, concrete, painted, metal, and untreated leather surfaces. As with other refinishing products and paint, there are important measures you'll need to take to prepare your cabinets for a Briwax treatment. It's also possible to make mistakes if you're not careful. Let's dive into the steps to giving your cabinets an affordable makeover with Briwax.

Prepping your cabinets for a Briwax treatment requires a few key steps. Begin by removing surface dust, degreasing, and cleaning the cabinet faces. Also the most important step before painting cabinets, this ensures that the products adhere to your cabinet surfaces properly, allowing for long-lasting results. If you have shaker cabinets, use a detailing brush to remove any dirt and grime that may be trapped in the grooves and ridges. The wood polish comes in many colors, so be sure to choose a shade that is compatible with your cabinets. 

You will need a pair of gloves and two clean, lint-free microfiber cloths for application. Alternatively, you can apply the wax with a Scotch-Brite pad or extra-fine steel wool, and buff with a refinishing cloth. Dip the first cloth or pad into the wax and apply it evenly on the cabinet surface in the direction of the grain. Be generous with the amount you use, and don't be alarmed by the sight of dark goop. Allow the polish to dry for a few minutes and then wipe off the excess with your second cloth, which you will also use to buff the surface. 

Though Briwax is easy to use and has instant results, mistakes can still happen. The final result may be uneven, splotchy, or full of streaks due to improper application or damage to the existing finish. Thankfully, the damage can be reversed. Mineral spirits are commonly used to remove Briwax from cabinets. Test the Briwax and any products you use in an inconspicuous area first to see the results before you proceed.