Priya Kapoor
Painting the inside of dresser drawers is a great way to refresh old furniture and add a pop of colour. It can also help to eliminate musty smells and cover stains. However, it is important to consider the type of paint used, as some paints may be toxic or unsuitable for certain materials. For example, latex paint is not recommended for furniture as it can peel and leave brush strokes. Chalk-based paint, on the other hand, is a good option for dressers as it has excellent adhesion and can be further protected with a wax finish. When painting dresser drawers, it is also important to properly prepare the surface and use the correct tools, such as tape for delicate surfaces, to achieve a smooth and even finish.
Should I paint the inside of my dresser drawers?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons to paint the inside of dresser drawers | To cover a bad smell, stains, or dirt |
| To improve the appearance of the dresser | |
| To prevent clothes from absorbing odours from the drawers | |
| Reasons not to paint the inside of dresser drawers | It is unnecessary if the insides are not seen |
| Paint may cause drawers to become sticky | |
| Paint may be toxic, especially for sensitive groups such as babies and asthma/allergy sufferers | |
| It is time-consuming and wasteful | |
| Types of paint to use | Chalk-based paint |
| Shellac | |
| Amy Howard One Step Paint | |
| Behr Dynasty and Marquee Interior and Exterior One-Coat Hide Color Collection | |
| Types of paint not to use | Latex paint |
| Spray paint |
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What You'll Learn
What type of paint should I use?
Painting the inside of dresser drawers is a matter of personal preference. If the drawers will be used to store clothes, it is not necessary to paint the insides. However, if you are painting desk drawers, a topcoat is recommended to protect against stains.
If you decide to paint the inside of your dresser drawers, there are several types of paint you can use. It is important to avoid using latex paint as it will peel and will not hold up well, resulting in noticeable brush strokes. Instead, consider using chalk-based paint, which has excellent adhesion and requires minimal preparation. You can further protect chalk paint with a wax finish.
Another option is to use a water-based paint, such as General Finishes Milk Paint, which is easy to apply and durable. If you are concerned about stains, consider using a stain-blocking paint and primer, such as those offered by Behr. These paints are available in a wide range of colours and provide excellent coverage and durability.
If you prefer a spray paint option, you can use a paint sprayer with water-based paint. This is a convenient choice for smaller pieces and craft projects. However, make sure to use it in a well-ventilated area and minimise exposure for sensitive groups such as babies and asthma/allergy sufferers.
Additionally, if you are painting over a strong odour, consider using shellac, which is an effective odour destroyer. You can also use a clear acrylic finish, such as General Finishes Topcoat, for added protection and a smooth finish.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary precautions when working with paint.
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Do I need to prime the drawers?
Whether or not you need to prime your dresser drawers before painting them depends on a few factors. Firstly, consider the current state of the drawers. If they are in good condition, with no major stains or odours, priming may not be necessary. Some sources suggest that priming is only required for bare surfaces or surfaces with specific issues that a primer can fix, such as stains or odours. However, other sources recommend always using a primer when painting wood furniture to protect the wood and improve paint adhesion and colour.
The type of paint already on the drawers is another important consideration. If the drawers have been previously painted with an oil-based paint, priming with a water-based primer is recommended before repainting. On the other hand, if the drawers have been painted with latex paint, you can simply wipe the surface and repaint without priming. It is also suggested that if the previous paint job is in good condition, you can simply abrade it to provide a key for the new paint to adhere to, without the need for priming.
Additionally, the type of paint you intend to use for repainting can influence the need for priming. Chalk-based paint, for example, requires minimal prep and has good adhesion, so priming may not be necessary. However, if you are using a different type of paint, such as water-based paint, priming can help improve adhesion and the final appearance of the paint.
Finally, personal preference plays a role in the decision to prime or not. Some people choose to prime dresser drawers to ensure a smooth finish and enhance the paint colour, while others skip priming, especially for surfaces that will not be visible or subject to staining. Ultimately, the decision to prime your dresser drawers depends on the condition of the drawers, the type of paint previously used, the paint you intend to use, and your personal preferences for the final outcome.
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How do I prevent stickiness?
Painting the inside of dresser drawers is a great way to revitalise old furniture. However, it can be tricky to get it right, and sticky drawers are a common problem. Here are some tips to prevent stickiness:
Choose the right paint
Avoid using latex paint, as this can cause stickiness and peeling. Instead, opt for a paint specifically designed for furniture, such as chalk-based paint, which has excellent adhesion and requires minimal prep.
Prepare the surface
Before painting, ensure the surface is clean and free of any dirt, grease, or residue. Lightly sand the drawers to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. Remove any hardware, such as knobs and pulls, and use a Tupperware container to keep screws and other small parts organised.
Apply paint correctly
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times between coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. Avoid applying the paint too thickly, as this can lead to longer drying times and increased stickiness.
Seal the paint
Consider sealing the paint with a topcoat, especially if the drawers will be used for items other than clothing. A wax finish can protect the paint and add a decorative touch. Alternatively, a clear coat of polyurethane can add durability and eliminate stickiness. However, note that polyurethane may alter the colour of the paint, so test on a small area first.
Address stickiness
If your drawers become sticky, there are several remedies you can try. Rubbing candle wax or soap on the drawer edges and runners can help them slide more smoothly. Applying a light coat of baby powder or talcum powder can also reduce stickiness, but test in an inconspicuous area first to avoid discolouration.
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How do I prevent paint from getting on the sides of the drawers?
Painting the inside of dresser drawers is a matter of personal preference. If the insides of the drawers are stained or have a bad odour, a stain-blocking primer or shellac can be used to fix these issues. If you are planning to store fine, silky underwear in the drawers, it is recommended to paint them to prevent snagging on clothes.
If you do decide to paint the inside of your dresser drawers, there are a few steps you can take to prevent paint from getting on the sides of the drawers:
- Remove the drawers from the dresser. This will give you more control over the painting process and help you avoid accidentally getting paint on the sides of the drawers.
- Sand down the drawers slightly before applying paint. This will create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to and reduce the risk of paint buildup, which can cause sticking.
- Apply thin coats of paint rather than thick coats. This will help ensure that the paint dries evenly and reduces the risk of paint buildup or dripping.
- Use pre-taped plastic to cover the sides of the drawers. This method is especially useful if you are using a spray paint or paint sprayer. Cover the sides and top of each drawer with pre-taped plastic, creating a seal to prevent paint from overspraying onto the sides of the drawers.
- Wait for the paint to dry completely before reassembling the dresser. This will help prevent the paint from sticking or transferring to the sides of the drawers when they are inserted back into the dresser.
By following these steps, you can help prevent paint from getting on the sides of the drawers and achieve a professional-looking finish.
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Will the paint be toxic to my clothes?
Painting the inside of dresser drawers is a matter of personal preference. If you are concerned about the paint being toxic to your clothes, it is recommended to wait for the painted interior drawers to completely cure before putting your clothes back in the dresser. This will ensure that any potential toxins have dissipated, and it will also help to get rid of any paint smell.
It is also important to choose the right type of paint for your project. Latex paint, for example, tends to peel and does not hold up well over time. It also tends to leave brush strokes, which may not be aesthetically pleasing. Chalk-based paint, on the other hand, is a water-based paint with excellent adhesion and a flat finish. It is fairly durable, but you can further protect it with a wax finish.
If you are concerned about toxicity, you may want to consider using a non-toxic paint or a natural paint that is free from harmful chemicals. You can also look into using a shellac primer, which is known to be an effective odour destroyer. Another option is to line your drawers with a non-toxic material such as acid-free paper or parchment paper, which can provide an extra layer of protection between your clothes and the painted surface.
Additionally, make sure to sand the painted surface with fine sandpaper to ensure there are no rough bits that could snag on your clothes. This will help to create a smooth finish and prevent any potential damage to your clothing.
By following these steps and allowing adequate curing time, you can minimise the risk of any toxicity issues and safely store your clothes in your painted dresser drawers.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is safe to paint the inside of dresser drawers. However, it is important to use the right type of paint and ensure that it is non-toxic and has low chemical emissions. Some paints, such as latex paint, can cause peeling and brush strokes, so it is recommended to use chalk-based paint or a stain-blocking paint and primer. It is also important to wait for the paint to completely cure before using the drawers to avoid any potential health risks.
Painting the inside of dresser drawers can improve the appearance, especially if the drawers are old or stained. It can also help to eliminate musty or unpleasant odours and give the dresser a fresh look. Additionally, painting the inside of drawers can increase the durability of the furniture and protect it from stains and dirt.
There are several types of paint that can be used for painting the inside of dresser drawers. Chalk-based paint is a popular option due to its excellent adhesion and durability. Stain-blocking paints and primers are also recommended as they provide advanced burnish, scuff, and mar resistance. It is important to avoid using latex paint as it can peel and leave noticeable brush strokes. Some people also use shellac to destroy odours and create a tinted effect.
