Kitchen Paint Calculator
A galley kitchen often needs about 1 gallon for two wall coats; a larger open kitchen closer to 2 gallons — cabinets reduce wall area. Use satin or semi-gloss so grease wipes off, then confirm gallons with your dimensions.
8x12 feet with standard cabinets
~1 gallon
Less wall space due to cabinets
14x18 feet with island
~2 gallons
More open wall space
- •Use scrubbable paint: Semi-gloss or satin finish withstands grease and moisture
- •Avoid flat paint: Impossible to clean cooking splatters and grease
- •Consider backsplash area: Use high-gloss near stove for easy cleaning
- •Light colors recommended: Make small kitchens feel larger and brighter
Kitchen Painting Guide
Kitchens are high-traffic areas exposed to cooking grease, moisture, and frequent contact. The paint must be durable and easy to clean without losing its finish.
Best Paint for Kitchens
- Semi-gloss: Most durable and easiest to clean, ideal for kitchens
- Satin: Good compromise between durability and appearance
- Kitchen-specific formulas: Some brands offer kitchen & bath paint with extra durability
How Much Wall Space in a Kitchen?
Kitchens typically have less paintable wall space than other rooms due to cabinets, counters, backsplashes, and appliances. A 12x12 kitchen might only have 200-250 square feet of paintable wall area, requiring about 1-1.5 gallons for two coats.
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FAQ
How much paint for a kitchen?
Many galley kitchens need about 1 gallon for two wall coats; larger kitchens with more open wall often need 1.5–2 gallons. Cabinets and backsplashes reduce wall area — measure open walls rather than full floor size alone.
What paint finish is best for a kitchen?
Satin or semi-gloss. Both scrub clean of grease and fingerprints. Avoid flat paint — cooking splatters stain and are hard to remove.
Should kitchen cabinets use a different paint?
Yes. Cabinets and trim usually take a durable semi-gloss or cabinet enamel, separate from wall paint. Calculate wall gallons first, then buy cabinet product by the door/drawer count or brand’s coverage chart.
Kitchen related resources
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