Key FAQ Points:
- You can paint both new and existing IKEA furniture with great results, including cabinets, wardrobes and MALM pieces
- Cleaning and light sanding are essential due to IKEA’s laminated surfaces
- You’ll need a high-quality paint suitable for laminate and composite materials
- Paint in a single colour or add contrast with multiple shades
Painting IKEA furniture is a brilliant way to personalise your space or breathe new life into pieces you already own. From wardrobes and MALM furniture to kitchen cabinets and cupboard doors, IKEA items are designed with a function-first approach. But that doesn’t mean they have to stay looking standard.
The good news? Yes, you can paint IKEA furniture. With the right prep and paint, the results can look professional and long-lasting.
Can you paint new and old IKEA furniture?
You can paint both brand-new and pre-loved IKEA furniture. If your piece is new, it’s best to assemble it first before painting. This makes the job far easier and ensures an even finish across joins and edges.
Many people also choose to paint second-hand IKEA furniture, picked up from resale sites or already in their home. This is a great way to keep costs down and refresh tired-looking pieces like wardrobes, cabinets or chests of drawers without replacing them. You can find out more about the many benefits in our IKEA Furniture Upcycle Guide.
Cleaning IKEA furniture before painting
Cleaning is a must, whether the furniture is new or old. IKEA furniture often has a laminated or composite surface, which can hold onto grease, dust and factory residues.
For pre-loved pieces, wash all surfaces using Frenchic Sugar Soap. Mix with warm water then apply it with a cloth or sponge. Next, rinse with clean water and allow everything to dry fully.
For brand-new furniture, a wipe-down with fresh water is usually enough to remove any manufacturing residues or surface dust.
Sanding IKEA furniture
Light sanding is essential before painting IKEA furniture. This is because most IKEA pieces aren’t solid wood. Instead, they’re made of laminate or composite materials, which paint won’t adhere to without a key.
Once the furniture is clean and fully dry, lightly sand all surfaces using a 120-grit sandpaper. Electric sanders are great if you have them, but hand sanding is fine too. Just remember to remove any dust before moving on to painting.
What paint should you use on IKEA furniture?
Can you paint IKEA furniture with normal wall emulsion? Unfortunately not. Emulsion won’t adhere well or stand up to daily use.
Instead, you’ll need a paint designed for wood, laminate and composite surfaces. Frenchic’s Lazy Range and Al Fresco range are both great options. Expect excellent adhesion, self-priming properties and a durable matte finish.
These paints work well on:
- IKEA cabinets and cupboards
- IKEA kitchen cabinets
- IKEA wardrobes and wardrobe doors
- IKEA MALM furniture
Apply at least two coats for a smooth, long-lasting finish. For extra durability on high-use items like kitchen cabinets or wardrobe doors, Finishing Coat or Tuff Top Coat can provide added protection.
How can you paint IKEA kitchen cabinets and wardrobes?
Painting IKEA kitchen cabinets or wardrobe doors can completely transform a room at a fraction of the cost of replacing them. And when it comes to colours and designs, your options are practically limitless.
Across our Al Fresco and Lazy Range, you’ll find over 150 colours to choose from. You can keep things simple with a single colour or get creative with different sections in contrasting shades.
This kids’ wardrobe has been brought to life with Hot as Mustard on the frame and doors contrasted by Raspberry Punch on the handles.
Using a single colour is a great way to bring together different pieces of IKEA furniture, like the wardrobe and KALLAX units below in timeless, navy blue Hornblower from the Lazy Range.
