If you’re looking for the perfect foundation for your trim and baseboards, a quality primer is a must-have. Not only does it help to smooth out any imperfections on the surface, but it also helps to offer a better finish once the final coat is applied. However, with so many options available on the market, finding the best primer for your specific needs can be overwhelming.
Before making a purchase, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, make sure to choose a primer that is compatible with your paint type and has good adhesion to the surface you will be using it on. The primer should also have a good coverage and be able to block any stains from bleeding through. Additionally, look for a primer that dries quickly and has a low odor to make the process more bearable.
When it comes to selecting the right primer, there may be a lot of questions that come to mind. Should you choose a water-based or oil-based primer? Which primer is best for glossy surfaces? What is the difference between a bonding primer and a regular primer? Understanding the answers to these questions can help you make an informed decision and ensure that you get the best results possible.
Ultimately, selecting the right primer can make all the difference when it comes to achieving a smooth and professional finish on your trim and baseboards. Weighing your options and doing your research can help you choose a primer that meets all your requirements and helps you to achieve the look you desire.
11 Best Primer For Trim And Baseboards
# | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
1
|
This product is ideal for priming various surfaces, including wood, tile, and concrete, providing a clear, powerful membrane.
|
|
||
2
|
It is ideal for restoring and repairing damaged or rotted wood surfaces.
|
|
||
3
|
Interior painting projects that require a paint and primer in one gallon size, specifically for a white finish.
|
|
||
4
|
It is ideal for painting durable furniture, cabinets, front doors, walls, bathrooms, kitchens, and more.
|
|
||
5
|
The product is ideal for priming surfaces, especially those with tough stains, knots, and odors.
|
|
||
6
|
Ideal for painting walls, cabinets, wood stain, sash and trim with premium synthetic bristles and heavy-duty rubber handle.
|
|
||
7
|
Ideal for precise painting of edges, corners, baseboards, and other small areas on walls and art supplies with wooden handle.
|
|
||
8
|
This product is ideal for priming surfaces before painting with water-based paint.
|
|
||
9
|
Ideal for updating and refreshing kitchen cabinets or furniture with an off-white, bone color.
|
|
||
10
|
The product is ideal for priming surfaces before applying paint or other types of coatings.
|
|
||
11
|
Ideal for use as a bonding primer on surfaces such as metals, glossy paints, and plastics before painting.
|
|
1. Clear Membrane Wood & Tile Primer

Introducing the versatile and durable AMES Super Primer, a multi-surface acrylic primer sealer that packs a powerful punch. This product creates a strong membrane that fortifies the surface and adds to the longevity of any coating project.
Perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications, the AMES Super Primer can be applied to a variety of surfaces such as concrete, stucco, cement, tile, brick, wood, and metal. This makes it an ideal choice for any project, big or small.
What sets the AMES Super Primer apart is its ability to provide excellent adhesion to hard-to-stick surfaces, creating a flawless finish every time. This primer is packaged in a convenient 1-gallon pail, making it easy to transport and store.
The AMES Super Primer is proudly made in the USA by a woman-owned, veteran-founded business. This product is a testament to the quality and durability of American-made goods, and you can trust that it will get the job done right.
When applied, the AMES Super Primer goes on as a pearlescent white and dries clear on properly prepared surfaces. This provides a seamless and professional finish that will stand the test of time.
2. Abatron Wood Repair Kit – Total Restoration Solution.

The Abatron Wood Restoration Kit is the ultimate solution for repairing damaged wood. This kit includes a two-part system that permanently hardens, regenerates, fills, replaces, and waterproofs damaged wood, making it ideal for historical restoration projects. With this kit, users can repair windowsills, frames, doors, trim, clapboards, furniture, and more with ease.
The kit is incredibly easy to use, thanks to the included LiquidWood and WoodEpox. LiquidWood has a 30-45 minute pot life, giving users ample working time to apply it to the damaged wood. Once applied, LiquidWood hardens in just a few hours. WoodEpox can be mixed and applied by hand to wet LiquidWood and has a 20-30 minute pot life. This makes the kit a great choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Abatron's Wood Restoration Kit is also environmentally friendly. It is GreenGuard Certified, containing almost no VOCs and no water or solvents. This means it is a safe and clean wood repair solution for both the user and the environment. With a low odor, users can use this kit without worrying about any harmful fumes.
One of the standout features of this kit is its ability to create structural, shrink-free repairs that mimic the original wood. The products in this kit bond to previously damaged substrates and are resistant to further damage by water, pests, and UV. As a result, the repairs made with this kit are long-lasting and durable.
Abatron specializes in providing high-quality, easy-to-use, permanent building restoration products. The items they offer do not contain solvents and have virtually no VOCs. As a company, they are committed to offering safe products that deliver professional results. So, users can trust in the quality and effectiveness of this Wood Restoration Kit.
3. Prestige Paints P500-1 Interior Paint And Primer In One, 1 Gallon, White

Introducing the ultra-premium paint and primer in one, perfect for any home renovation project. This high-quality paint is an ideal choice for living rooms, family rooms, media rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and hallways.
Experience a smooth application with this paint, which is made with acrylic latex, ensuring easy soap and water clean-up. Not only is it durable and washable, but it is also low in VOC, making it an eco-friendly option for homeowners.
With less than 5 g/l prior to tinting, this paint is designed to be long-lasting and reliable. Whether you are a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this ultra-premium paint and primer in one will elevate the look of any room in your home.
Say goodbye to the hassle of using separate primer and paint products. This premium paint and primer in one will save you time and money, while providing a gorgeous, long-lasting finish. Don't settle for anything less than the best – choose the ultra-premium paint and primer in one for your next project.
4. Durable Matte Paint For Interiors/exteriors.

This versatile paint is the perfect solution for anyone looking to complete an interior or exterior painting project with ease. With its great coverage, you'll save both time and money while achieving a long-lasting finish. The best part? Little-to-no prep work is required for wood surfaces – simply clean first and you're good to go.
Thanks to its strong and durable 2-in-1 formula, this paint and primer will save you even more time and money by eliminating the need for additional prep work. Its luxurious, thick consistency ensures that you get full coverage with every brush stroke.
This paint is suitable for use on a variety of surfaces, making it a great choice for furniture, wood and laminate cabinets, crown molding and trim, metal, plastic, brick, stone, concrete and more. Choose from 12 stunning colors available in gloss, satin, and matte finishes – all of which feature rich pigments that will really make your project pop.
This advanced formula is non-toxic, water-based, and low odor, making it a safe and easy-to-use option for any painting project. With ultra-low VOCs and absolutely no harsh chemicals such as phthalates, formaldehyde, heavy metals, or solvents, you can feel confident that you're making a responsible choice for yourself and the environment.
And because this paint is made in the U.K., just outside of London, you can be assured of its genuine quality. So whether you're a seasoned DIY-er or just tackling your first painting project, this paint is the perfect choice for anyone looking to achieve a professional-looking finish with ease.
5. Zinsser B-I-N Shellac-Base Oil Primer, 1-Gallon, White

The Zinsser B-I-N Shellac-Base Primer in white is a premium quality painting supply that is ideal for preparing surfaces for painting. This product is manufactured in the United States and is a shellac-based primer-sealer that provides superior coverage and protection for both interior and spot exterior use.
One of the standout features of this primer is its ability to act as the greatest stain sealer on the market. It is specially designed to seal pet, smoke, and musty odors, ensuring that your surfaces are free from any unwanted smells. Additionally, it sticks to all surfaces without the need for sanding, saving you time and effort in the preparation process.
Whether you are painting a new home or renovating an existing one, the Zinsser B-I-N Shellac-Base Primer is an excellent choice for all your painting needs. Its superior quality and reliability make it a top choice for professional painters and DIY enthusiasts alike.
So if you are looking for a high-quality primer that will provide excellent protection and coverage for your surfaces, look no further than the Zinsser B-I-N Shellac-Base Primer. With its superior stain-sealing capabilities, odor-blocking properties, and easy application, you can be confident that your surfaces will be ready for painting in no time.
6. Pro Paint Set: Synthetic Bristle Brushes & Rubber Handles.

This household paint brush kit is an excellent value for those looking for a versatile set for their interior and exterior painting projects. It includes three flat brushes, one 1" (25mm), one 1.5" (35mm), and one 2" (45mm), suitable for both large and small areas.
The brushes are made with premium synthetic bristles, which means no shedding or clumping, and less brush streaks. The thicker, flagged tip holds more paint and provides greater coverage, resulting in an even application with crisp edge lines. The bristles are as soft and dense as natural bristles but are straighter, ensuring an easy and smooth glide, saving paint usage and painting time.
The brushes feature durable ergonomic rubber handles that are corrosion-resistant, ensuring long-lasting use. The thumb groove and handle are designed with multiple non-slip holes and stripes, providing more stable control and a comfortable grip, relieving hand fatigue from long tedious work. The good length and weight of the brushes make painting hard-to-reach areas easier than other lightweight and cheap brushes.
The high-quality stainless-steel ferrule is sturdy, corrosion-resistant, and rust-proof, ensuring that it can stick to the paint pail, paint bucket, paintbrush holder, and more. There are no nails, and less hiding dirt, making it easy to rinse with water and remove paint for reuse.
These brushes are easy to clean and reuse, featuring a practical hanging hole and handy holding slot for easy drying and storage, preventing brush bristles from deforming.
This all-around paint brush set is perfect for painting walls and ceilings, furniture, cabinets, doors, windows, wardrobes, touch-ups, varnishing, fence and deck staining, arts and crafts, and dust cleaning. These brushes are suitable for acrylic painting, water and oil paints, latex, stains, chalk paint, and wax, making them a versatile addition to your painting toolkit.
7. Trimease Brush Set: Precision Painting For Every Surface

Looking for a versatile and reliable paint brush set? Look no further than this set of edge paint brushes. With a range of sizes, from 3/5 inch/ 15 mm to 1 inch/ 25 mm, these synthetic filament brushes are perfect for a variety of painting tasks.
Whether you're painting walls, doors, ceilings, stair railings, or baseboards, these brushes are designed to make your job easier. Their tapered tips make it easy to get into narrow and edged areas, while their medium hardness makes them suitable for most paints.
But it's not just their performance that sets these brushes apart. They're also designed with your comfort in mind. Each brush features a wooden handle that's comfortable to grip, giving you greater control over your painting process.
And with four brushes in different sizes included in each set, you'll have everything you need to tackle any painting project. So if you're looking for a set of edge paint brushes that combines performance, comfort, and value, look no further than this set.
8. Rust-Oleum Corporation Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 02001 Water-Base Primer, 1-Gallon, White

T&S Brass is a reputable manufacturer of top-quality faucets, valves, and specialty products designed for the food service industry. Their products are widely acclaimed for their exceptional performance and reliability, and they are trusted by countless businesses worldwide.
If you are looking for a replacement part for your T&S Brass product, it is essential to choose genuine OEM parts to ensure safety, reliability, and optimal performance. Using genuine OEM parts will help you avoid any potential risks associated with using substandard or counterfeit products that may not meet the required safety standards.
The T&S Brass genuine OEM replacement part is made to exact specifications and is designed to offer maximum functionality, durability, and longevity. With this replacement part, you can be confident that your T&S Brass product will continue to perform at its best, helping you to maintain a smooth and efficient workflow in your food service business.
9. All-In-One Paint By Heirloom Traditions, 2 Quart Cabinet Paint Bundle And Kit, Bone (Off White)

Introducing the ALL-IN-ONE Paint – a revolutionary solution that simplifies your cabinet refinishing process. This cabinet refinishing kit comes with everything you need to achieve a professional-looking, low luster, velvet sheen finish without the hassle of sanding, priming, or top coat application.
With an average coverage of 2 quarts and 280 sq ft, the ALL-IN-ONE Paint is perfect for your kitchen and/or bath cabinets. This product is designed to provide smooth and even coverage, making it easy to achieve a flawless finish.
Say goodbye to the days of spending weeks on your cabinet refinishing project. With the ALL-IN-ONE Paint, you can complete your project in just one weekend. The kit includes all the necessary tools to help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.
The ALL-IN-ONE Paint is a reliable product that delivers on its promises. It is formulated to provide long-lasting durability, ensuring that your cabinets stay beautiful for years to come.
10. Rust-Oleum 249937 Primer, 1 Gallon (Pack Of 1), White, 11 Fl Oz

Introducing the Gal Int/Ext Ltx Primer, a reliable and top-performing product manufactured in the United States by Rust-Oleum. This primer is designed to provide an easy and simple application process, making it an ideal choice for both novices and professionals. With its user-friendly features, this primer is perfect for use on various surfaces, both interior and exterior.
The Gal Int/Ext Ltx Primer is formulated with high-quality ingredients that ensure a smooth and consistent finish. It has been tested and proven to be highly effective in preparing surfaces for painting, providing excellent adhesion and coverage. This primer is perfect for use on a wide range of surfaces, including wood, metal, and masonry.
One of the best things about this primer is that it is designed to dry quickly, allowing you to paint over it in as little as 30 minutes. This means that you can complete your painting project faster and with minimal downtime. Additionally, the Gal Int/Ext Ltx Primer is low odor, making it safe and comfortable to use in enclosed spaces.
11. Insl-X Sxa11099-0 Stix Bonding Primer

The Insl-X SXA110099-01 STIX Bonding Primer is a must-have for any painting project. This product is made in the United States and is specifically designed for use with paints and stains.
What sets this primer apart is its exceptional bonding capabilities. It effectively adheres to surfaces that are typically difficult to paint, such as glossy and slick surfaces, PVC, vinyl, and even glazed brick. This means that you don't have to spend hours sanding and prepping your surfaces before painting, saving you time and effort.
The Insl-X SXA110099-01 STIX Bonding Primer is also known for its quick drying time, which is perfect for those who want to finish their painting projects quickly. It dries in just 30 minutes, allowing you to apply the topcoat sooner than other primers.
In terms of coverage, this primer can cover up to 300 square feet per gallon, depending on the surface type and porosity. It is also low-VOC, which means it has a low level of volatile organic compounds that can be harmful to health and the environment.
Best Primer For Trim And Baseboards FAQs
Can I use a spray primer for my trim and baseboards?
Yes, you can use a spray primer for your trim and baseboards. However, it is important to choose the right type of primer for the surface you are painting. For example, if your trim and baseboards are made of wood, it is best to use a wood primer that will help the paint adhere properly and prevent any bleeding through.
When using a spray primer, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Make sure to mask off any areas that you do not want to be painted and work in a well-ventilated area. Apply the primer in light, even coats, and wait for each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Spray primers can be a convenient and efficient option, especially for small or hard-to-reach areas. However, if you are not experienced with spray painting, it may be best to practice on a small area first or consider hiring a professional to ensure a smooth and even finish.
Can I use a tinted primer for my trim and baseboards?
Yes, you can use a tinted primer for your trim and baseboards. In fact, using a tinted primer can have several benefits. Firstly, a tinted primer can help to hide imperfections in the surface you are painting. This is especially useful if your trim or baseboards have small scratches or dents that you want to conceal. Secondly, a tinted primer can help to ensure that your paint color goes on evenly and appears vibrant. This can be particularly important if you are using a darker paint color, as a white primer can sometimes make the color appear dull or washed out. Finally, using a tinted primer can help you to achieve better coverage with fewer coats of paint. This can save you time, effort, and money in the long run. When choosing a tinted primer, make sure to select a shade that is similar to your desired paint color, but slightly lighter.
Can I use a water-based primer on my trim and baseboards?
Yes, you can use a water-based primer on your trim and baseboards. Water-based primers are a popular choice for interior painting projects because they are easy to use, dry quickly, and have low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to the environment and human health.
When choosing a primer, it's important to consider the type of surface you will be painting. If your trim or baseboards are made of wood, a water-based primer is a good choice because it will seal the surface and prevent the wood from absorbing too much paint. This will help your topcoat adhere better and result in a smoother, more even finish.
Before applying your primer, make sure the surface is clean and dry. Sand any rough spots or imperfections to ensure a smooth finish. Apply the primer with a brush or roller, and allow it to dry completely before applying your topcoat.
Overall, using a water-based primer on your trim and baseboards is a smart choice for a professional-looking paint job.
How many coats of primer should I apply to my trim and baseboards?
The number of coats of primer you should apply to your trim and baseboards depends on the condition of the surfaces and the type of primer you are using. In general, it is recommended to apply at least one coat of primer before painting to ensure better adhesion and coverage of the topcoat. If the surfaces are in good condition and have been previously painted, one coat of primer may be sufficient. However, if the surfaces are bare wood or have stains or imperfections, it may be necessary to apply two coats of primer for better coverage and to prevent bleeding through the topcoat.
When selecting a primer, it's important to choose the right type for the surface you're painting. For example, if you're painting bare wood, use a wood primer. If you're painting over a glossy or oil-based surface, use a bonding primer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times, and sand the surfaces lightly between coats for a smoother finish. Ultimately, the number of coats of primer you need will depend on the specific project, so it's always a good idea to consult with a professional or experienced painter for guidance.
Is it necessary to use a primer on my trim and baseboards before painting?
Yes, it is recommended to use a primer on your trim and baseboards before painting. Primers create a smooth and even surface for the paint to adhere to, and they also help to seal the surface, preventing the paint from being absorbed too quickly. This can help you achieve better coverage and a more uniform finish. Additionally, primers can help to block stains and prevent tannin bleed-through, which can occur when painting over certain types of wood.
There are different types of primers available, such as oil-based or water-based, so it's important to choose the right type for your project and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Generally, you'll want to apply one or two coats of primer before painting your trim and baseboards.
While it may be tempting to skip the priming step, especially if you're short on time, doing so can lead to a less-than-perfect finished result. So, take the time to prime your trim and baseboards properly, and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful, long-lasting paint job.
Is there a primer that can help prevent tannin bleed on my trim and baseboards?
Yes, there are primers available in the market that can help prevent tannin bleed on trim and baseboards. Tannin bleed is a common problem that occurs when the natural oils and tannins in wood seep through the paint or primer, leaving unsightly brown or yellow stains. To prevent this, you can use a stain-blocking primer that is specifically designed to seal the wood and prevent tannin bleed. Look for a primer that contains a high level of solids, as this will provide better coverage and adhesion to the wood surface. It's also important to properly prepare the wood surface by cleaning it thoroughly and sanding it lightly before applying the primer. By using a high-quality primer and following proper preparation techniques, you can achieve a smooth and flawless finish on your trim and baseboards that will last for years to come.
Should I use a specific primer for painted or unpainted trim and baseboards?
Yes, it is recommended to use a specific primer for painted or unpainted trim and baseboards. A primer acts as a preparatory coat for the surface to be painted, ensuring better adhesion and a smoother finish of the final coat.
For unpainted trim and baseboards, a primer such as a high-quality latex primer is recommended. This type of primer will help to seal the porous surface of raw wood and provide a suitable surface for the paint to adhere to.
If you are painting over already painted trim or baseboards, a primer may not be necessary, but it is still recommended to use a specific primer for painted surfaces. A primer designed for painted surfaces will help to cover up any stains, marks, or imperfections on the surface and provide a more even finish for the final coat.
Overall, using a specific primer for your trim and baseboards can help to ensure a high-quality and long-lasting finish for your paint job.
What brand of primer is the best for trim and baseboards?
Selecting the best brand of primer for trim and baseboards can be a daunting task, but I can guide you in the right direction. The primary purpose of a primer is to provide a smooth and even base for the paint to adhere to. When it comes to trim and baseboards, it's crucial to choose a primer that is durable, dries quickly, and provides excellent coverage.
One of the most popular brands of primer for trim and baseboards is Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3. It is a water-based primer that provides excellent adhesion and stain-blocking properties. This primer is perfect for use on different surfaces, including wood, metal, and drywall. It dries quickly, sands smoothly, and can be top-coated in just an hour.
Another brand that is highly recommended for trim and baseboard is Kilz Premium. This oil-based primer is excellent for covering stains and providing an excellent base for paint. It also has excellent adhesion and can be used on various surfaces, including wood, metal, and masonry.
Ultimately, the best brand of primer for your trim and baseboards will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, choosing a high-quality primer from a reputable brand can help ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.
What should I look for in a primer when painting my trim and baseboards?
When painting trim and baseboards, it is important to choose the right primer to ensure that the paint adheres properly and provides a smooth finish. Here are some things to look for in a primer:
1. Adhesion: Look for a primer that is specifically designed for use on trim and baseboards and provides excellent adhesion to the surface. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and does not peel or chip over time.
2. Stain-blocking: If the trim or baseboards have stains or discoloration, choose a primer that has stain-blocking properties. This will prevent the stains from bleeding through the paint and ruining the finish.
3. Fast-drying: A fast-drying primer is ideal for trim and baseboards as it allows you to apply multiple coats quickly and complete the project in a shorter amount of time.
4. Sandability: Choose a primer that can be sanded easily to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. This will help to eliminate any imperfections in the surface and ensure a professional-looking finish.
5. Low odor: Look for a low-odor primer that is safe to use indoors and does not emit harmful fumes. This will make the painting process more comfortable and safer for you and your family.
What type of primer is best for trim and baseboards?
When it comes to choosing the best primer for trim and baseboards, there are a few options available in the market. However, the most suitable primer will depend on the type of trim and the paint you plan to use.
For wooden trim and baseboards, an oil-based primer is the most recommended as it provides excellent adhesion and durability. It also helps to prevent tannin bleed-through, which can cause discoloration on the painted surface. Oil-based primers take longer to dry but provide a smooth finish that is perfect for trim and baseboards.
If you are working with non-wooden trim, such as PVC or metal, a latex-based primer is the best option. Latex-based primers provide good adhesion and are easy to clean up with soap and water. They also dry quickly and are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making them an eco-friendly option.
In summary, an oil-based primer is best for wooden trim and baseboards, while a latex-based primer is suitable for non-wooden surfaces. Always read the label and follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.