9 Best Clear Coats for Latex Paint

Latex is a water-based paint consisting of acrylic resin in its formula. It is highly flexible, making it durable and extremely resistant to chipping and cracking.

However, latex paint tends to fade with time. But sealing it with the best clear coat for latex paint can help preserve the color.

Clear coats like polyurethane usually form a hard coat that protects the painted surface from scratching and premature aging.

Finding such a product requires research you may not have the time for. So I have researched the market and compiled this detailed review to help you find the best product for your project.

Our Top Picks

Best Clear Coat for Latex Paint

1. Minwax Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish – Best Overall
2. Rust-Oleum Varathane Poly – Best scratch and stain protection
3. Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane – Best exterior clear coat over paint
4. Rust-Oleum 260165 Poly – Best clear coat over latex paint cabinets
5. General Finishes Topcoat – Best durable consumer polyurethane
6. Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane – Best oil-based clear topcoat
7. Minwax Helmsman Spar Spray – Best exterior clear coat over latex paint
8. Minwax Water-Based Polyurethane – Best water-based clear coat
9. General Finishes Flat Out Flat Topcoat – Best low-sheen clear coat

Can You Put a Clear Coat Over Latex Paint?

Absolutely. Putting a clear coat over latex paint can be an excellent way to prevent fading and protect it from scratches.

A clear coat also makes the surface more lustrous, significantly improving its aesthetics and making it easier to maintain. 

What Kind of Clear Coat to Use Over Latex Paint?

Clear coats of latex paint come in two basic types: water- and oil-based. Of all these types, Minwax’s water-based polycrylic protective finish is the best clear coat to use over latex paint. 

It does not turn yellow over time, which preserves the paint color and helps maintain it without changing. This makes it ideal for projects with light-colored paints. 

Latex paint is water-based, so a corresponding water-based option may be more compatible and provide better results than oil-based options.

Oil-based clear coats

These were originally more durable than their water-based cousins. However, advancements have seen that distinction slowly disappear as water-based clear coats become more durable. 

In any case, oil-based polyurethanes may require fewer brush strokes to achieve the desired outcome; they are water-resistant, often inexpensive, and offer more protection to the treated surface.

On the flip side, these urethanes may take longer to dry. They also tend to have a strong smell and become yellow over time. The good thing is some polyurethanes don’t yellow.

Water-based clear coats

As the name suggests, these products have water as their base. As such, they are easy to clean, dry quickly, have low odor, and are eco-friendly.

Technological advancements have made water-based polyurethanes virtually as durable as their oil-based counterparts.

On the flip side, water-based polys may cost more than oil-based options. They may also be less lustrous than their oil-based cousins and require reapplication after two to three years.

Best Clear Coat for Latex Paint Reviews

Various clear coats are available for use over latex paint. With such a variety, you can be easily spoilt for choice. So here is a detailed shortlist of the best finishes to choose from.

1. Best overall – Minwax Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish

If you are looking for a clear coat that will retain its clarity over time, Minwax’s Polycrylic is your best bet.

This water-based product is crystal clear and retains its clarity even after years of use. You can rely on it to keep your latex paint job vibrant and true to color.

The amazing thing about this product is that it dries fast, allowing you to apply multiple coats daily. It dries to form a nice satin or flat finish. The finish instantly elevates the look of any interior wood project, such as furniture, cabinets, and doors.

Plus, you can recoat within two hours of applying the protective finish. So if you’re looking for a high-quality, long-lasting finish that will not yellow over time, Polycrylic is your best bet.

What I Liked Most

• The product is non-toxic, so it is safe to use in spaces where people and pets live.
• The water-based formula is low VOC. This means you can apply it without wearing a sophisticated respirator.
• The water-based formulation makes it easy to clean with soap and water.
• This polycryl.ic offers impressive coverage. Just one quart is enough to cover more than 600 square feet.
• The ultra-fast drying formula makes getting away with thicker coats and avoiding brush marks easy.

What Could Be Improved

• Some users find that thinner coats tend to show brush marks, so you need to apply slightly thick coats.

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2. Best scratch and stain protection – Rust-Oleum Varathane Ultimate Polyurethane

I recently discovered the ultimate polyurethane, which dries to the touch in 30 minutes and allows me to recoat after 2 hours.

It offers the best scratch and stain protection of all the tested products. This urethane is highly versatile. It can work for many surfaces and create beautiful finishes with my desired look.

I can use this product on painted trims, doors, cabinets, and other wooden surfaces. This is due to its low-VOC, low-odor water-based formula.

I don’t need to buy a respirator at additional costs to use the product – it even cleans easily with soap and water! This makes it the ultimate polyurethane for all my wood finishing needs.

What I Liked Most

• The polyurethane dries to form a scratch-proof coat, making it ideal for homes with playful pets. 
• It is highly resistant to common household stains. This quality makes the surfaces easier to clean and maintain, which can be extremely helpful in homes with kids and pets. 
• It is a non-yellowing product, so it helps preserve the paint color on your projects. 
• It is easy to clean due to its water base.  

What Could Be Improved

• Since this is an indoor product, you cannot repurpose any leftover poly and use it on your exterior projects. 

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3. Best exterior clear coat over paint – Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane

If your project is outdoor-based, the Helmsman Spar Urethane by Minwax may be useful. It’s formulated for indoor and outdoor use and is a one-stop solution for sealing needs.

UV radiation can make projects change color. This product will protect your projects from the sun and bad weather.

I have used it on windows, doors, trim, bar tops, cabinets, furniture, kitchen countertops – you name it. It is a highly versatile product that works in any environment and provides superior waterproofing quality.

This makes your painted items safe from precipitation and moisture damage. You can always go right with the Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane.

What I Liked Most

• The product has a fast-drying water-based formulation
• It cleans up easily with warm water.
• The crystal clear wood finish is specially formulated to protect surfaces against the toughest conditions in nature.
• It is resilient against UV radiation, rain, and snow and offers year-round protection.
• It forms a semi-gloss finish, making your paint job look sleek and classy.
• The product is non-yellowing and does not change color with time. This means it helps preserve your latex paint color while keeping it from fading through UV protection.
• The fast-drying formula means you can recoat in less than an hour.

What Could Be Improved

• The product emits fumes during application, so you must work with it in a well-ventilated environment and wear a mask.

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4. Best clear coat over latex paint cabinets – Rust-Oleum 260165 Ultimate Polyurethane

Rust-Oleum products are the best for cabinets with latex paint. It helps protect the color from fading over time.

This product does an excellent job of protecting my wood from scratches and discoloration. Its matte finish helps minimize room for fingerprints and smudges on the finished surface. This reliable paint will help keep my cabinets looking great for years.

This clear coat for painted cabinets comes in a thick consistency that minimizes dripping. It is easy to use and forms a nice, even coat, even for someone with no professional background.

I find this ideal for new DIY enthusiasts who have yet to get the hang of it.

What I Liked Most

• This polyurethane is high-coverage. Just one quart is enough to cover up to 150 square feet.
• It dries to form a scratch-proof finish.
• The smooth finish reduces the appearance of fingerprints and smudges.
• It is highly durable, offering robust and long-lasting protection on surfaces with latex paint. 
• It cleans easily with soap and water solution due to the water-based formula.
• Each coat of this polyurethane is even and neat. 

What Could Be Improved

• This product requires multiple coats to form the desired coverage and protection. It would be best if you also sanded between coats to create a smooth finish. 

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5. Best durable consumer polyurethane – General Finishes High-Performance Topcoat

I recently tried out General Finishes’ water-based topcoat, and I must say it is one of the toughest in the market.

It forms a robust coat that resists scratches, dings, and chips to keep your projects looking pristine for years. Plus, its non-yellowing formula ensures your projects retain their aesthetic qualities over time.

I am happy that the product is low VOC and practically odorless, making it a breeze to use. I can apply it without worrying about irritating fumes or affecting my health in any way.

The smooth consistency makes application effortless, no matter what my skill level is. This type of finish has been a great find!

What I Liked Most

• This product forms a hard and highly durable topcoat. 
• It is quick-drying, allowing you to recoat within 1 to 2 hours. 
• It is easy to apply and easy to clean with water and soap.
• It dries to a low-sheen finish that is amazing if you prefer satin surfaces.

What Could Be Improved

• This polyurethane is designed for use on interior projects only. 

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6. Best oil-based clear topcoat – Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane Protective

This product is among the fastest-drying oil-based polyurethane on the market. It combines this fast-drying quality with the uncompromising durability of an oil-based formulation making it one of my favorite finishes.

I also love Minwax Topcoat for its uncompromising durability of an oil-based formulation. The robust coat saves me application time and protects my surfaces for years with excellent protection against scratches and chipping.

This makes it perfect for busy indoor spaces. I can use it on kitchen cabinets, countertops, tables, doors, etc., and it dries into a smooth, glossy finish that is easy to maintain.

It works great over latex paint, and I can even opt for a low-sheen option if I prefer. I can use this product across different surfaces, including floors, furniture, and other woodwork, so I can get the exact look I want.

What I Liked Most

• A fast-drying oil-based formula that allows you to complete the project in less time. You can recoat in 4 to 6 hours, completing your project within the same day.   
• Its manufacturer, Minwax, is an established brand with a reputation for offering quality products. 
• The durable coat provides lasting protection against moisture damage and discoloration. 
• The sleek surface is easy to maintain. 

What Could Be Improved

• The oil-based formula produces a strong smell that some people may find unpleasant. 

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7. Best exterior clear coat over latex paint – Minwax Helmsman Spar Aerosol Spray

I formulated this aerosol spray to simplify my projects. With its convenient applicator, I can ensure even coverage with each use. The protective varnish works both indoors and outdoors.

I can use it to seal outdoor furniture against UV radiation and other weather elements like rain and snow. Its UV blockers decrease the sun’s fading effects, keeping the paint radiant for longer.

The formula also expands and contracts with temperature changes for lasting protection. I can even use it to seal wooden accent pieces indoors, creating a durable coat that ensures their longevity.

This aerosol is truly a versatile tool.

What I Liked Most

• The product is effective indoors and outdoors, making it a one-stop solution.
• It is versatile; you can use it on trim, doors, bathroom cabinets, kitchen countertops, and more. 
• It dries to form a glossy finish that gives your wood projects an upscale look.  
• The product forms a coat that is highly resistant to checking, chipping, and cracking.
• The aerosol is easy to apply 

What Could Be Improved

• It is more suitable for small projects. Larger projects may be costly as they require several spray cans. 

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8. Best water-based clear coat – Minwax Water Based, Oil-Modified Polyurethane

This product looks great. It is a mix of traditional polyurethane and something else that makes it more durable. This special feature helps ensure your wood surfaces look nice for a long time.

I can use this protection on painted woodwork, furniture, floors, cabinets, doors, and more. There are wide different sheen varieties available, so I can get the exact look I want.

This product is the perfect combination of beauty and durability. It will give me the best protection for my surfaces.

What I Liked Most

• The polyurethane is ultra-fast drying, speeding up your project completion. You can recoat in 2 hours or less. 
• The water-based formulation ensures a low odor and low VOC profile.
• It is easy to clean up with warm water 
• This water-based finish is easy to apply
• The low VOC property means you do not have to spend money buying a respirator to use this product. You can use it safely without a respirator. You just need to keep the place well-ventilated to ensure good air circulation. 

What Could Be Improved

• The product is relatively expensive.  

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9. Best low-sheen clear coat – General Finishes Flat Out Flat Topcoat

Flat Out Flat is one of the latest innovations from General Finishes. As such, it comes with some essential improvements that make it stick better to finished wood surfaces, including chalk paint and milk paint. 

It is a clear, flat, water-based topcoat that dries into a beautiful matte finish. I love the low-sheen finish of this topcoat from General Finishes.

The water-based formulation makes it easy for me to apply, regardless of my skill level. Plus, its low odor means I don’t have to worry about any allergic reactions or smell sensitivities.

With this product, I can have lots of fun experimenting with different finishes.

What I Liked Most

• This clear topcoat delivers superior performance.
• It is easy to use and clean up with warm soapy water 
• It helps preserve the look of your latex-painted surface 
• It is non-yellowing 
• It makes the paint more durable by preventing scratches and dents from forming on it. 
• The product is high coverage, boasting about 600 square feet per gallon in terms of coverage. 

What Could Be Improved

• This sealant lacks sun protection, so you may not use it on exterior projects. 

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Best Clear Coat for Latex Paint Comparison Table

Education: Benefits of Using a Clear Coat Over Latex Paint 

Latex paint does not primarily require a sealer. However, applying one over it anyway has some essential benefits you need to tap into. Here are some of the reasons to use a clear coat on a painted surface.

A sealer makes the paint more durable

Latex paint may not be subject to chipping and peeling. Nonetheless, it never hurts to err on the side of caution.

The clear coat adds an additional hard-wearing layer of protection, keeping the paint coat safely underneath it. This can go a long way in prolonging the lifespan of that painted surface.

Sealing often creates a scratch-proof layer

While latex paint dries hard, it is typically not as hard as polyurethane or varnishes. Applying one of these clear coats over it creates a scratch-proof layer that acts as a protective barrier against physical objects and impacts that could mar it.

This added layer of scratch protection can help keep the painted surface looking pristine for longer. It can also help save you money and time in the long run.

By making the painted surface more resistant to physical damage, you will not have to refinish the item for a long time. 

The sealer can make the surface easier to maintain 

Varnishes and polyurethanes typically create a sleek surface that resists fingerprints and smudges better. The surface is also likely to trap less dust compared to unsealed surfaces. This means you have less cleaning work to do. 

Overall, you can remove regular stains from a varnished or polyurethane surface by simply wiping it with a damp rag. This makes maintenance a breeze, thanks to a sleek, scratch-resistant surface. 

Adding a clear coat over latex paint can make it waterproof 

Latex paint is generally water-resistant but not waterproof. This means it will not hold up too well against constant moisture, and that vulnerability can give way to water damage to your painted wood. 

In such cases, you can always mix the latex paint with a waterproof sealant before applying it to make it resilient against constant moisture exposure. 

However, after painting, your options are limited to sealing the painted surface to make it waterproof. The sealant helps create a waterproof coat over the paint, keeping water and moisture from reaching it and damaging the substrate. 

A clear coat prevents fading

Latex paint may be flexible and highly resistant t fading, but the paint latex often fades with time. It can lose its vibrant color and become unattractive over time. Faded paint can look timeworn prematurely. 

However, applying a clear coat on the painted surface often helps prevent fading and preserve the paint’s beautiful color. This can keep the surface looking fresh for many years. Your surface will have a sleek finish that accentuates the color. 

How to Apply a Clear Coat Over Latex Paint

Applying a protective clear coat over latex paint requires following a few simple steps to get the desired results. This section outlines the step-by-step procedure for sealing a coat of latex paint on a surface. 

For starters, ensure you have everything you will need for the task. These should include the following: 

• Your chosen clear coat 
• Sandpapers
• Lint-free cloth
• Drop cloth 
• Applicator (high-quality synthetic-bristled paintbrush)
• Hand gloves 
• Dust mask 

Applying a clear coat over latex paint step by step 

Step 1: Prepare the workspace 

If you are applying the sealant on a wooden paneling or wall, you should begin by removing anything hanging on the wall, such as murals, pictures, and other trappings. 

You may also need to open the windows to ensure better air circulation if you have an oil-based clear coat. Some products may not require that much air circulation, so ensure you read the label for instructions and cautions before doing anything. 

Step 2: Cover the floor and anything nearby 

Sanding produces sanding dust that may dirty the floor and any other surfaces nearby. So, use a drop cloth to cover the floor beneath your project to collect any dust and the products you will be using. 

You also need to cover any nearby surfaces, including furniture, that you do not want to ruin with the dust and the sealant. 

Step 3: Sand the painted surface 

Use fine-grit sandpaper to scuff up the painted furniture to improve adhesion. Once done, wipe the sanded surface with a damp, lint-free cloth to clean it and remove the dust.  

Step 4: Apply the sealant 

Dip a synthetic-bristled paintbrush into the can of clear coat and use it to apply an even coat over the painted surface. Using a foam brush or natural-bristled brush is not recommended with polyurethane and varnish.

But you want to ensure the synthetic bristled brush you choose is of high quality to avoid messes. Cheap bristled brushes can leave lint all over your project, messing it up. Investing in a good-quality brush will help you avoid such a mess. 

That said, ensure you read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the product label. This will help you determine how best to apply the product to achieve the desired coverage. 

Once done, let the polyurethane or varnish dry for the recommended time on the label, often one to two hours, depending on the product you chose. 

If you have an aerosol, your work is easier. You simply use the spray can to apply the product as directed in the application instructions. 

Step 5: Sand the dry surface again lightly

Proper coverage requires applying multiple coats of the product, whether it is a polyurethane, varnish, or some other clear coat. Sanding is necessary between coats to promote adhesion and a smoother finish. 

So use ultra-fine sandpaper for sanding the surface lightly after it has sufficiently dried. This should be after two hours of drying time for most water-based clear coats and four to six hours for fast-drying oil-based products. 

After sanding, do not forget to wipe it thoroughly with a clean damp rag to remove the sanding debris. 

Step 6: Recoat it

Let the surface dry for a moment after wiping, then apply a second coat following the instructions in the manual. After that, leave it to dry for another two hours before scuff sanding and adding a third, and often the final coat.

Step 7: Apply the final coat

After sanding and wiping the surface, apply the third final coat following the same procedure as before. Then leave it to dry for at least two hours or as the manual directs to ensure it cures properly. 

The complete drying process should take about 24 hours before you can use the item. 

How to Apply Polycrylic Without Bubbles?

Polycrylic is a water-based clear coat that dries pretty fast. So if you want to apply polycrylic without issues such as bubbles and brush marks, you need to avoid going back and forth with your brush strokes.

Keep the brush strokes to a minimum, in one direction along the wood grain. Overbrushing will lead to the brush starting to stick on the surface instead of gliding smoothly. This often leads to brush marks and bubbles as the coat dries.

It is best to keep moving along as you apply the product and not go back over your strokes. Then, allow the coat to dry for approximately 2 hours, and then give it a quick once-over with fine 220-grit sandpaper to smoothen it. 

Sanding also helps improve the adhesion of subsequent coats. And while at it, do not apply too many coats. Two to three coats usually provide enough coverage.

FAQs

What kind of clear coat can you put over latex paint?

You can put both water-based and oil-based polyurethane over latex paint. However, oil-based poly tends to yellow as it ages, while most water-based polyurethanes remain transparent over time. So you may want to go with a water-based poly if you want something that will not age faster.

What can I put over latex paint to protect it?

You can use water-based or oil-based polyurethane or varnish over latex paint. Both products should offer the required protection from scratches, moisture damage, and fading. 

Can you seal latex paint?

Yes. Even though latex paint does not typically require an additional sealer, you can still apply one to protect it from fading and losing its color over time. All you need to do is scuff sand the painted furniture with fine-grain sandpaper after letting the paint cure to improve adhesion before applying the sealer. 

Can Polycrylic be used over latex paint?

Yes. Polycrylic is one of the best clear-colored, heard-wearing products to use over latex paints and oil-based paints. However, you may want to spot-test the product in an inconspicuous area of your project beforehand to ensure it gives a look you want for satisfactory results.

Conclusion 

Applying the best clear coat over latex paint can have numerous benefits, especially if you choose the right product and use it correctly. 

The clear coats reviewed above are excellent, but the best among them is Miniwax’s Polycrylic water-based finish.

It offers the best protection against fading and is completely non-yellowing, so it will preserve the color of your latex or oil-based paint and keep the surface looking great for many years. 

If you are working on an outdoor project, choose Minwax’s Helmsman spar urethane instead. It is uniquely formulated for both interior and exterior projects and is the best of its kind. 

We hope this review and user guide helps make your next project a success. Share your thoughts with us in the comments section.