In modern design, warm cabinets in red or orange tones are dropping in popularity ratings. Even traditional designs are steering away from these dominantly warm tones to more soft, neutral shades. 

If you have warm kitchen cabinets but feel overwhelmed by the process or cost of replacing them, take heart! There are actually simple, affordable ways to transform existing cabinets. 

At N-Hance, that’s actually precisely what we specialize in with cabinet refinishing in Bridgewater, New Jersey. Here are a few basic tips and ideas to help say goodbye to warm cabinet tones and hello to more modern, neutral shades.

Consider The Color Wheel 

A simple understanding of the color wheel can go a long way when it comes to knowing how to best cancel out unwanted warm tones in your cabinets. 

To neutralize these tones, apply a wash, stain, or paint in its complementary color. 

Opposite of Orange: Blue 

Opposite of Red: Green 

Methods To Lighten Or Cool Down Wood Stains

  • First and foremost, apply a stain, wash, or even very light color paint that’s opposite on the color wheel. 
  • You can always sand down the wood until it’s bare, then apply an ashy, neutral stain or repaint the wood. 
  • For a weathered look, dry brush warm wood with a thin layer of white paint, a thin layer of chalk paint, then a soft wax.
  • Sand down the wood, then apply a white wash and top coat. 
  • Bleach the wood using one part bleach with ten parts water. Apply using a brush or sponge, let the bleach sit for about an hour, then rinse and dry the surface before applying a finish coat. 
  • Use a spray bottle to apply a peroxide solution containing one cup hydrogen peroxide with one gallon of water. 
  • Raw umber and sienna are also shades that can help cancel out red tones.

Cabinet Refinishing In Bridgewater, New Jersey

It’s always best to enlist the help of a pro when it comes to cabinets. 

N-Hance professionals for cabinet refinishing in Bridgewater, New Jersey know how to work with every type of paint, stain, and wood to achieve the color you’re looking for without damaging or compromising your existing cabinets. 

When cared for properly, cabinets can last a lifetime. Our goal is to help make sure you love yours for many years ahead—saving you money in the renovation process through sustainable solutions. 

Every incredible project begins with a simple step. Take yours today by requesting a free estimate from our team.