You love the look of white cabinets. They’re the new classic, bright, and make your kitchen feel bigger and more inviting. But if you’re like most homeowners in Omaha considering white cabinets, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Are they going to be impossible to keep clean?” You might be picturing constant wiping, every speck of dust standing out, and stains that never seem to go away. No one wants to spend all their time scrubbing cabinets, especially in a busy household.
At Brush & Roll Painting, we’ve been painting cabinets in Omaha homes since 1996. We’ve worked on thousands of kitchen cabinets, and we know which paints hold up and which ones don’t. We’ve also heard firsthand from homeowners who have lived with white cabinets for years. Some love them, while others regret the decision—but it almost always comes down to one key factor: the quality of the paint and finish.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear answer to your question. Yes, white cabinets require maintenance, but they aren’t as bad as you might think—especially if you use the right products. By reading this article you will be able to decide if choosing a white paint shade is a good choice for you.
Do White Cabinets Show More Dirt Than Other Colors?
One of the biggest worries about white cabinets is that they show every little thing. The truth? Yes, they do show some messes more easily—but not as much as you might think, and definitely not every little thing.
What You’ll Notice:
- Spills and Splatters: Darker-colored spills will stand out more than they would on darker cabinets.
- Dust and Everyday Grime: White cabinets don’t accumulate dust any faster than other colors, but when dust settles, it’s still noticeable in direct sunlight.
On the other hand, dark cabinets have their own cleaning challenges. They tend to show dust, water spots and scratches more than white ones do. It’s just a matter of what type of cleaning you’re comfortable with.
What Makes a Durable White Cabinet Finish?
This is where most people go wrong. White cabinets that are painted with low-quality products or improper techniques will stain easily, absorb grease, and turn yellow over time. If you want white cabinets that look great for years, the finish matters more than the color itself.
- A high-quality product: Not all paints are created equal. At Brush & Roll Painting, we use a 2K polyurethane, originally created for floors and cars.
- A properly prepped surface: Cabinets need to be cleaned, sanded, and primed correctly before painting to ensure durability.
If a painter uses a basic cabinet paint or DIY kit from the hardware store or skips the proper prep, you’ll likely end up with chipping and discoloration within months.
How Often Do You Need to Clean White Cabinets?
White cabinets do need regular cleaning, but it doesn’t have to be a full-time job. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping them looking fresh.
A Simple Monthly Cleaning Routine:
- Wipe down high-touch areas (handles, edges, and near appliances) weekly with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Use a mild cleaning solution (lukewarm water with a few drops of dish soap) on a microfiber cloth once a month to remove grease and buildup.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or acetone, which can break down the finish over time.
- For stubborn spots, use baking soda and water to gently scrub without damaging the paint.
If you cook frequently, you may need to wipe down cabinets more often. But if your kitchen isn’t high-traffic, a quick monthly cleaning routine will keep them looking great.
Preventing Stains and Yellowing
One of the biggest concerns about white cabinets is whether they’ll turn yellow over time. This happens when:
- The wrong type of paint is used
- They’re exposed to excessive grease and smoke
- They’re near a heat source like an oven without proper ventilation
How to Prevent Yellowing:
- Choose a high-quality, non-yellowing paint. Professional cabinet coatings, like 2K polys, are designed to retain color for years.
- Use your range hood. Cooking fumes can cause discoloration, so running your exhaust fan while cooking helps.
- Keep cabinets dry. Water exposure can cause paint to break down and discolor.
Painting Cabinets White in Omaha
Even with the need for some upkeep, white cabinets remain one of the most popular choices in Omaha homes. They brighten up kitchens, make spaces feel larger, and pair well with almost any style.
Yes, white cabinets require maintenance, but they’re not as difficult to care for as some people fear. The biggest factor in keeping them looking great is using the right products and establishing a simple cleaning routine—not constant scrubbing.
If you’re considering white cabinets, or any finish or color, for your Omaha home and want them to last, Brush & Roll Painting is here to help. We’ve been painting cabinets for almost 30 years, and we know what it takes to create a durable, long-lasting finish. If you want expert advice on your next painting project, click the button below to get a quote.
If you’re not ready to get a quote, click the button below to discover how much it would cost to paint your kitchen cabinets white. First, you will plug in the linear measurements of your space, then enter the finish you want (paint/solid color for white cabinets), and then be on your way to getting ahead of your project by knowing the cost.
