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Yes, remove the old stain on a cabinet before applying a new coat. To do so, clean the cabinet’s exterior with soap, water, and a damp cloth. Then, use sandpaper or an electric sander to remove the old finish. This allows the new coat of stain to soak into the wood fully, lasting longer and creating a richer color.

There are many options for choosing the best paint for cabinets. In general, interior enamel paint is considered a high-quality, strong, and long-lasting choice for cabinets. However, you can also go with a high-quality oil-based or latex water-based paint. Each has its own look and sheen—with high gloss, semi-gloss, and matte styles available. So, it comes down to personal preference.

Whether it’s better to stain or paint old cabinets depends on your situation, as each option has pros and cons. Paint offers a smooth, modern look, while stain highlights the natural wood grain for a charming, rustic look. Painting cabinets may cost about 15% more than staining cabinets. While paint tends to be more durable against damage because of its thick coating, stained cabinets hide inevitable dings and scratches better than paint.

If you're looking for ways to save money on custom cabinets, there are a few ways to cut costs without sacrificing beauty. For starters, comparing door styles to choose the most cost-effective option is a great way to save money on the overall project.

In addition, choosing a common wood species versus an exotic one will lower the price. Woods like oak and hickory are often more affordable wood choices, and the same goes for knobs, pulls, and other finishes where picking a commonly available style can reduce costs.