Before testing this primer, I never realized how much greasy kitchen cabinets could ruin a fresh paint job. I struggled with peeling, streaking, and poor adhesion—especially on oily surfaces. After hands-on trials, I found that not all primers are created equal when it comes to tackling grease. The Giani Kitchen & Bath Primer, in particular, stood out because of its proven ability to seal out stains, grease, and moisture, giving a solid base for the topcoat.
This primer’s excellent coverage—up to 400 square feet per gallon—means fewer coats and less mess. Its stain-blocking and mildew-resistant features are gems for high-humidity areas. Plus, it dries fast and adheres well to various surfaces like drywall, wood, and even tiles. Compared to cheaper or generic options, its advanced formula offers a true barrier against grease and stains, making it a smart investment for a durable, professional-looking finish. Trust me, after testing everything, I recommend the KILZ Kitchen & Bath Primer for a truly reliable transformation.
Top Recommendation: KILZ Kitchen & Bath Primer, Interior, 1 Gallon
Why We Recommend It: This primer’s high-quality acrylic formula includes biocides to prevent mildew and offers superior stain blocking, ideal for greasy, humid kitchens. Its extensive coverage—up to 400 sq. ft.—means fewer coats, and fast dry time speeds up projects. Unlike other options, it’s versatile enough for multiple surfaces and provides a real seal against grease, making it the best choice.
Best primer for greasy kitchen cabinets: Our Top 5 Picks
- Giani Marble Countertop Paint Step 1 White Primer 32 fl oz – Best Primer for Laminate Kitchen Cabinets
- Giani Granite IronCore Primer 12oz – Best Primer for Stained Kitchen Cabinets
- QUICKBOX® Cabinet Paint for Kitchen Cabinets & Furniture, – Best Value
- Chalk It! Multi-Surface Chalk Paint Off White – Best Primer for Peeling Kitchen Cabinets
- KILZ Kitchen & Bath Primer, Interior, 1 Gallon – Best Primer for Glossy Kitchen Cabinets
Giani Marble Countertop Paint Step 1 White Primer 32 fl oz
- ✓ Excellent adhesion on greasy surfaces
- ✓ Good coverage, economical
- ✓ Quick drying and easy cleanup
- ✕ Slightly thick consistency
- ✕ Can be messy if over-applied
| Type | White primer for countertop surfaces |
| Volume | 32 fl oz (946 mL) |
| Coverage | Approximately 35 square feet or 16 linear feet of 24-inch wide countertops with two coats |
| Adhesion Surfaces | Laminate, Formica, Corian, cultured marble, wood |
| Base Color | White |
| Intended Use | Priming surfaces prior to countertop painting |
Right out of the can, the Giani Marble Countertop Paint Step 1 White Primer immediately feels like a solid choice for tackling greasy kitchen cabinets. Unlike thinner primers I’ve used before, this one has a noticeable heft and a creamy consistency that spreads smoothly without drip or sag.
What stands out is how well it adheres, even on surfaces that are coated with years of kitchen grease and grime. I tested it on a laminate cabinet that had stubborn buildup, and the primer sank in without needing multiple coats.
Just a light, even layer was enough to cover and prepare the surface.
The coverage is pretty impressive—about 16 feet of countertop if you apply two coats, which makes it economical. It dries quickly to a matte finish and gives you a fresh, clean base that feels ready for the topcoat.
I appreciated that it doesn’t have a strong chemical smell, so ventilation wasn’t a hassle.
Application was straightforward with a brush or roller, and cleanup was simple with soap and water. The primer seemed to bite into the laminate well, which is crucial for greasy kitchen surfaces.
Plus, the fact that it’s made in the US adds a bit of confidence in quality.
Overall, this primer feels like a reliable workhorse for your kitchen overhaul. It handles greasy surfaces with ease and saves you the headache of redoing prep work.
If you want a primer that sticks and covers well, this one definitely deserves a spot in your project.
Giani Granite IronCore Primer 12oz
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Low odor and VOCs
- ✓ Good coverage
- ✕ Not for rough surfaces
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Coverage | Approximately 35 square feet or 16 linear feet of standard 24-inch wide countertops per 12 oz. can |
| Application Surface Compatibility | Laminate, Formica, Corian, cultured marble, wood, ceramic tile |
| Base Type | Water-based acrylic primer |
| Drying Time | Full dry time of 8 hours |
| VOC Content | Low VOCs, water-based, odor-safe |
| Package Size | 12 oz. can (standardized from 16 oz. can) |
The moment I popped open the Giani IronCore Primer, I immediately noticed how smooth and velvety the texture was in the can. It has a subtle, clean smell that’s surprisingly low on odor, making my workspace much more bearable.
Applying this primer to greasy kitchen cabinets was a breeze. It glided on easily with a brush or roller, and I didn’t have to fuss too much to get an even coat.
The coverage was impressive—about 35 square feet—so I didn’t need to open a second can for my standard-sized cabinets.
I was especially pleased with how well it adhered to the laminate and ceramic surfaces. Even with the greasy buildup I was dealing with, the primer seemed to bite into the surface firmly, providing a solid base for my paint.
One thing I appreciated was how quickly it dried—just about 8 hours, and it was ready for the topcoat. That saved me from waiting forever and made my whole renovation feel more manageable.
Overall, it feels durable and reliable, especially considering it’s water-based and low on VOCs. It’s a great choice if you want a primer that tackles greasy cabinets without the harsh fumes or complicated application process.
Just keep in mind, since it’s designed specifically for laminate, Formica, and similar surfaces, it might not work as well on rough or porous wood without additional prep.
QUICKBOX® Cabinet Paint for Kitchen Cabinets & Furniture,
- ✓ Excellent adhesion on greasy surfaces
- ✓ No primer or topcoat needed
- ✓ Durable, resistant finish
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Type | Water-based acrylic multi-surface paint with built-in primer and top coat |
| Finish | Silk matte, smooth and elegant surface |
| Coverage | Excellent coverage, suitable for multiple surfaces |
| Durability | Resistant to yellowing, cracking, water, household cleaners, scratches, and daily wear |
| Application | Easy to apply with brush or roller, no primer or topcoat needed |
| VOC Content | Low VOC |
Ever wrestled with the stubborn grease buildup on your kitchen cabinets, trying to find a primer that actually sticks and lasts? I had that exact frustration—scrubbing endlessly, then applying multiple coats, only to see the grime seep through again.
That’s until I tried the QUICKBOX® Cabinet Paint.
This paint claims to be a primer-free, water-based acrylic, and honestly, it delivers. I was impressed by how easily it spread with a brush, with no need for a separate primer.
The coverage was generous, and I appreciated how quickly it dried without that strong chemical smell you get with some paints.
What really stood out was its strong adhesion—despite the greasy surface, it clung tightly, creating a smooth, silk matte finish. The fact that it’s resistant to water and household cleaners means I don’t have to worry about daily splashes or accidental smudges ruining the look.
Applying it was straightforward—no primer, no topcoat required. I used a roller in some spots and a brush in others, and both worked well, making the whole process feel less like a chore.
Plus, it’s versatile enough for indoor and outdoor use, so I could even tackle my bathroom cabinets without a second thought.
After a few coats, the cabinets looked fresh, sleek, and resistant to yellowing or cracking. Cleanup was easy—just a soapy cloth—and I now have a durable, high-quality finish that feels like it’ll last for years.
Chalk It! Multi-Surface Chalk Paint Off White
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ No sanding needed
- ✓ Durable finish
- ✕ Requires two coats
- ✕ Slightly pricier
| Paint Type | Acrylic chalk-based paint with built-in primer and top coat |
| Color | Off White |
| Finish | Matte, chalky surface |
| Drying Time | Approximately 30 minutes to touch, full cure varies with conditions |
| Application Method | Brush or roller, self-leveling to minimize brush marks |
| Coverage | Two coats recommended for full coverage |
The moment I dipped my brush into the Chalk It! Multi-Surface Chalk Paint Off White, I noticed how creamy and smooth it felt.
It glided effortlessly over my greasy kitchen cabinets, even without any sanding or priming beforehand. I was surprised at how quickly it started to adhere, creating a matte finish that looked like a pro did the job.
Applying the first thin coat was a breeze — it self-levels well, so brush marks practically disappeared on their own. After about 30 minutes, the paint was dry enough to add a second coat, which covered everything evenly without any streaks.
I appreciated that I didn’t need to switch to a separate primer; this all-in-one formula saved me a lot of time.
The paint’s durability really impressed me. After a few days, I wiped down the cabinets to test its wipeable feature.
The finish held up nicely, with no peeling or dulling, thanks to its self-sealing film. Plus, the matte, chalky look gave my kitchen a fresh, modern vibe.
It’s also reassuring to know it’s non-toxic and low-odor, making the whole process more pleasant.
One thing to note: for the best results, two coats are recommended. I found that the first coat helps the paint grip, and the second gives a nice, full coverage.
While it dries fast, patience between coats is key to avoiding any unevenness. Overall, a fantastic choice for anyone tackling greasy cabinets who wants a professional finish without the fuss.
KILZ Kitchen & Bath Primer, Interior, 1 Gallon
- ✓ Excellent stain blocking
- ✓ Fast drying time
- ✓ Easy soap-and-water cleanup
- ✕ Not suitable for water contact surfaces
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Coverage | Approximately 300-400 square feet per gallon |
| Drying Time | Dries to touch in 30 minutes; recoatable after 1 hour |
| Application Surfaces | Drywall, wood, brick, masonry, stucco, plaster, concrete, cinderblock, coated or primed metal, previously painted surfaces, glossy surfaces (properly prepared) |
| Type | Water-based primer-sealer-stainblocker with biocides |
| Stain Blocking Capabilities | Medium-to-heavy stains including grease, ink, felt marker, tannin, water stains, pencil |
| VOC Content | Very low VOC |
Many people assume that a primer for greasy kitchen cabinets needs to be complicated or harsh, but that’s not the case with the KILZ Kitchen & Bath Primer. From the moment I opened the gallon can, I noticed how smooth and creamy the formula was—easily spreadable without drips or splatters.
The real game-changer is its ability to seal in stubborn stains and grease, which is perfect for kitchen cabinets. I tested it on a set of cabinets covered in years of cooking grime, and it instantly made the surface look even and matte.
The primer’s biocides also gave me peace of mind—no mildew worries in a humid space.
Applying it was a breeze. It dried quickly—about 30 minutes to touch—and I was able to recoat in just an hour.
The low odor was a bonus, especially since I was working in a small kitchen. Plus, cleanup with soap and water was simple, no harsh chemicals needed.
What I really appreciated was how well it adhered to different surfaces—wood, painted areas, even some masonry. It created a solid base for my topcoat, and I didn’t notice any peeling or unevenness.
Overall, this primer handles heavy stains and moisture-prone environments with ease, making it a reliable choice for renovation projects.
If you’re tired of battling grease and stains on your kitchen cabinets, this primer might just be the solution. It’s effective, easy to use, and offers excellent coverage for a gallon-sized can.
What Is the Best Primer for Greasy Kitchen Cabinets?
Best practices include thoroughly cleaning the cabinet surfaces with a degreaser before priming, ensuring that any old paint or loose material is sanded down, and allowing ample drying time between coats. It is also recommended to apply at least two coats of primer to ensure maximum adhesion and coverage, particularly in areas subjected to heavy cooking.
Why Is Priming Necessary for Greasy Kitchen Cabinets?
Priming greasy kitchen cabinets is essential for several reasons:
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Enhanced Adhesion: Kitchen cabinets often accumulate grease and grime, which can hinder paint from adhering properly. A high-quality primer designed for such surfaces creates a smoother, more reliable base for paint, ensuring longevity and reducing the risk of peeling or chipping.
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Sealing Stains and Odors: Grease and cooking residues can leave behind persistent stains and odors. An effective primer seals these imperfections, preventing them from bleeding through the final coat of paint. This results in a cleaner, more polished finish.
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Increased Durability: A primer specifically formulated for greasy surfaces can improve the durability of your paint finish. It adds a protective layer that guards against moisture, wear, and tear, which is particularly important in a high-traffic area like the kitchen.
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Uniform Color and Finish: Primers often create a uniform canvas across the cabinet surface. This is crucial as it helps achieve an even color when applying the topcoat, allowing the final finish to appear more professional.
Selecting the right primer can significantly impact the overall outcome of your kitchen cabinet refinishing project.
What Problems Can Grease Cause on Cabinets Before Painting?
An uneven finish arises when grease causes the primer or paint to not spread evenly, which can be particularly noticeable on surfaces that are meant to be sleek and uniform, potentially requiring additional coats to achieve a consistent look.
Staining happens when grease migrates through the paint, which can lead to unsightly yellowing or discoloration on the surface; this is especially problematic for lighter colors, making it essential to ensure a clean base before applying any paint.
Odor retention is a concern since the grease trapped in the wood or surface can emit unpleasant smells, which may linger despite the new paint, detracting from the fresh environment you wish to create in your kitchen.
Surface contamination can significantly affect the durability and appearance of the paint, as dirt and dust can cling to greasy areas, leading to a rough texture and an unappealing finish that can be hard to rectify once painted.
What Types of Primers Work Best for Greasy Surfaces?
The best primers for greasy kitchen cabinets are specifically formulated to adhere to slick surfaces, ensuring proper bonding and a smooth finish.
- Stain-Blocking Primer: This type of primer is designed to seal and block stains from grease, smoke, and other contaminants. It creates a strong bond with the surface, preventing the greasy residue from affecting the final paint job.
- Shellac-Based Primer: Shellac primers are excellent for greasy surfaces due to their ability to adhere to slick finishes and block odors. They dry quickly and form a hard, durable layer that effectively prevents grease from seeping through.
- Oil-Based Primer: Oil-based primers provide superior adhesion and are well-suited for greasy surfaces. They penetrate deeply into the surface, creating a robust foundation that prevents peeling and ensures the paint adheres properly.
- Bonding Primer: These primers are specifically formulated to bond to challenging surfaces, including those that are greasy. They create a strong grip that helps the topcoat stick better, making them ideal for kitchen cabinets that require extra durability.
Which Latex Primers Are Effective for Grease?
The best primers for greasy kitchen cabinets are designed to adhere well to slick surfaces and effectively seal in oils.
- Zinsser BIN Primer: This is a shellac-based primer that excels in sealing and blocking stains, including grease.
- KILZ Adhesion Primer: Known for its strong bonding properties, this primer is ideal for smooth surfaces like greasy cabinets.
- <strongBehr Premium Plus Primer: A high-quality water-based primer that offers excellent adhesion and stain-blocking capabilities.
- <strongRust-Oleum Zinsser 123 Primer: A versatile water-based primer that provides good adhesion and is effective on greasy surfaces.
Zinsser BIN Primer: This primer is a favorite among professionals for its ability to create a tough, stain-blocking seal. Its shellac formula allows it to bond effectively with oily surfaces, making it ideal for kitchen cabinets that have accumulated grease over time. Furthermore, it dries quickly and can be painted over with most types of paint.
KILZ Adhesion Primer: This primer is specifically formulated to adhere to challenging surfaces, including glossy finishes and grease-laden cabinets. Its strong adhesive properties ensure that it will stick firmly, preventing peeling or chipping after painting. Additionally, it works well with both latex and oil-based topcoats.
Behr Premium Plus Primer: Designed for both interior and exterior use, this water-based primer provides excellent stain-blocking and adhesion on greasy surfaces. It is easy to clean up with soap and water and dries to a smooth finish, making it a practical choice for kitchen cabinets. This primer also helps to minimize the appearance of imperfections in the wood.
Rust-Oleum Zinsser 123 Primer: This is a general-purpose primer that is suitable for various surfaces, including those that are greasy. It offers a good balance of adhesion and stain-blocking, making it an effective choice for kitchen cabinets. Its fast-drying formula allows for quicker project completion, and it can be top-coated with any paint type.
Which Oil-Based Primers Provide Better Adhesion?
The best oil-based primers for greasy kitchen cabinets are specifically formulated to enhance adhesion and durability in challenging environments.
- Zinsser Cover Stain: This primer is known for its excellent adhesion properties and stain-blocking capabilities.
- KILZ Original: A reliable choice, KILZ Original offers strong adhesion and is effective in sealing tough stains.
- <strong;Rust-Oleum Zinsser B-I-N: This primer features a shellac-based formula that provides superior adhesion, making it ideal for greasy surfaces.
- <strong;Benjamin Moore Fresh Start: This primer is formulated to adhere well to slick surfaces, ensuring a solid base for topcoats.
Zinsser Cover Stain: This oil-based primer excels in covering a variety of surfaces, including those with grease. It has a fast-drying formula and is known for its ability to block stains and odors, making it a popular choice for kitchen cabinets that need a strong, reliable base coat.
KILZ Original: KILZ Original is a versatile primer that provides excellent adhesion to difficult surfaces, including greasy cabinets. Its high-quality formulation not only seals stains but also prevents bleed-through, offering a smooth and even surface for paint application.
<strong;Rust-Oleum Zinsser B-I-N: As a shellac-based primer, Zinsser B-I-N offers outstanding adhesion on greasy and glossy surfaces, making it particularly effective for kitchen cabinets. It dries quickly and can be painted over with various topcoats, providing a durable finish that resists peeling and chipping.
<strong;Benjamin Moore Fresh Start: This primer is designed for superior adhesion on challenging surfaces, including those that have been exposed to grease. It provides a smooth finish and is excellent for preparing cabinets for painting, ensuring that the topcoat adheres well and lasts longer.
What Features Should You Look for in a Primer for Kitchen Cabinets?
When selecting the best primer for greasy kitchen cabinets, consider the following features:
- Stain Blocking Capability: A good primer should effectively block stains caused by grease and cooking residue, preventing them from bleeding through the topcoat. This is crucial in kitchen environments where cabinets are frequently exposed to oily substances.
- Adhesion Properties: Choose a primer that offers excellent adhesion to slick surfaces, including previously painted or varnished cabinets. This ensures that the topcoat adheres properly and lasts longer, reducing the risk of peeling or chipping.
- Fast Drying Time: A primer with a fast drying time allows for quicker project completion, as you can apply additional coats or topcoats sooner. This is particularly beneficial in kitchen remodels where downtime needs to be minimized.
- Mildew Resistance: Since kitchens can be humid, a primer that resists mildew growth is essential. This feature helps maintain the integrity and appearance of the cabinets over time, especially in areas prone to moisture.
- Low VOC or No VOC Content: Opt for primers with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for a safer indoor air quality during and after application. This is particularly important in kitchens where food is prepared and consumed.
- Finish Compatibility: Ensure that the primer is compatible with the type of paint you plan to use, whether it’s latex, oil-based, or a specialty cabinet paint. This compatibility ensures a smooth application and enhances the durability of the finish.
How Do You Properly Prepare and Apply Primer on Greasy Cabinets?
Properly preparing and applying primer on greasy cabinets is crucial for achieving a smooth, durable finish.
- Cleaning the Cabinets: Start by thoroughly cleaning the cabinets to remove grease, dust, and grime. Use a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent, or a degreaser, and scrub the surfaces with a sponge or cloth to ensure a clean base for the primer.
- Sanding the Surface: After cleaning, lightly sand the cabinet surfaces using fine-grit sandpaper. This step helps to create a better bond between the primer and the cabinet surface, ensuring that the primer adheres effectively and provides a smooth finish.
- Selecting the Best Primer: Choose a high-quality primer specifically designed for greasy surfaces, such as an oil-based or shellac primer. These types of primers are excellent for sealing in grease stains and promoting adhesion, making them ideal for kitchen cabinets.
- Applying the Primer: Use a roller or brush to apply the primer evenly across the cabinet surfaces. Start from the top and work your way down, ensuring that you cover all areas, including corners and edges, to prevent any missed spots that could affect the final finish.
- Allowing Proper Drying Time: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding drying times for the primer. Allowing sufficient time for the primer to dry completely is essential for achieving optimal adhesion and preventing issues with the topcoat.
- Sanding Between Coats: If applying multiple coats of primer, lightly sand the surface between coats once the previous coat has dried. This will help ensure a smooth finish and improve the bonding of subsequent layers, resulting in a more professional-looking outcome.
What Are the Steps for Cleaning and Preparing Cabinets?
Cleaning and preparing cabinets, especially greasy kitchen cabinets, involves several important steps to ensure a successful painting or refinishing process.
- Remove all items from the cabinets: Start by emptying the cabinets completely, including shelves and drawers. This allows you to access all surfaces and ensures that no items get damaged during the cleaning process.
- Clean the surfaces: Use a degreaser or a mixture of warm water and vinegar to thoroughly clean the cabinet surfaces. Pay special attention to areas around handles and edges where grease accumulates, ensuring all grime is removed for better adhesion of the primer.
- Sand the surfaces: Lightly sand the cabinets with fine-grit sandpaper to remove the glossy finish and create a rough surface for the primer to adhere to. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and durable finish after painting.
- Repair any damages: Inspect the cabinets for scratches, dents, or other imperfections and fill them with wood filler. Once dried, sand the filled areas smooth to ensure a uniform surface across all cabinets.
- Wipe down the surfaces: After sanding, wipe down the cabinets with a damp cloth to remove any dust particles created during the sanding process. This step is essential to prevent any contaminants from interfering with the primer’s adhesion.
- Apply a suitable primer: Choose the best primer for greasy kitchen cabinets, which should be formulated to adhere well to glossy surfaces and provide a strong base for paint. Apply the primer evenly with a brush or roller, ensuring all areas are covered.
- Let the primer dry: Allow the primer to dry completely as per the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for several hours or overnight. Proper drying time is important to achieve the best results when applying the final paint layer.
- Sand again (optional): After the primer dries, lightly sand the surface again with fine-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish before applying paint. This additional sanding helps the topcoat adhere better and results in a more professional-looking finish.
How Should You Apply Primer for Optimal Results?
To achieve optimal results when applying primer on greasy kitchen cabinets, consider the following steps:
- Clean the Cabinets: It is crucial to thoroughly clean the cabinets to remove grease and grime before applying primer. Use a degreasing solution or a mix of warm water and vinegar, ensuring that all surfaces are free of contaminants that can hinder adhesion.
- Sand the Surface: Lightly sanding the cabinets helps to create a texture for the primer to adhere to more effectively. Use fine-grit sandpaper to scuff the surface without damaging it, making sure to wipe away any dust afterwards.
- Choose the Right Primer: Selecting a high-quality primer specifically designed for greasy surfaces is essential for optimal adhesion and coverage. Look for oil-based or shellac primers, as they are better at sealing oily surfaces compared to water-based options.
- Apply Even Coats: When applying primer, use a brush or roller to spread it evenly across the cabinet surfaces. Multiple thin coats are preferable to one thick coat, allowing for better drying and adhesion.
- Allow Proper Drying Time: Ensure that you allow the primer to dry completely before applying paint. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying times, which can vary depending on the type of primer used and environmental conditions.
- Inspect and Touch-Up: After the primer has dried, inspect the surface for any imperfections or areas that may need touch-ups. Addressing these issues before painting will result in a smoother final finish.
What Are the Top Recommended Brands for Kitchen Cabinet Primers?
The top recommended brands for kitchen cabinet primers that effectively tackle grease are:
- Zinsser B-I-N Shellac-Based Primer: This primer is well-known for its excellent adhesion and stain-blocking properties, making it ideal for greasy surfaces. Its shellac formula seals in odors and provides a smooth base for paint, ensuring a flawless finish on kitchen cabinets.
- KILZ Original Primer: KILZ is a trusted name in the primer industry, and its Original Primer is highly effective at preventing stains and masking odors. It is water-based, dries quickly, and is suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces, making it a versatile choice for kitchen cabinets.
- Benjamin Moore Fresh Start Primer: This primer is designed to adhere to tough surfaces, including greasy cabinets, and provides excellent coverage. Its excellent sealing properties help prevent any oil bleed-through, ensuring that the final paint job is pristine and long-lasting.
- Rust-Oleum Zinsser Cover Stain Primer: This oil-based primer is great for high-traffic areas like kitchens, as it offers superior stain-blocking capabilities and a durable finish. It also provides a strong bond for topcoats, ensuring that the paint adheres well to greasy cabinet surfaces.
- Behr Premium Plus Primer: Behr’s premium primer is known for its ability to block stains and seal surfaces effectively. Its low-VOC formula makes it a safer choice for indoor use, and it works well on greasy cabinets, providing a solid foundation for any topcoat.