Color

• If you are trying to cover a dark color with a lighter color, like white, cream or pastels, a latex paint will work better if you've chosen not to use a primer. However, a good primer will ensure that oil-based paints cover these colors equally well. If you choose a latex paint, be sure to get a gloss or semi-gloss because matte latex paint is not as effective at covering and isn't very durable on kitchen cabinets.
  
  

Cleaning

• Oil-based paints generally stand up to washing better than latex paints, so if you are prone to making a mess in the kitchen or have young children, an oil-based paint is probably a better option for you. Latex paints don't hold up to humidity as well as oil-based paints either, so if you live in a humid area, this is an important point to consider.
  
  

Sticking

• If you are painting the inside of your kitchen cabinets, dishes, glasses and food items are less likely to stick to oil-based paints than latex paints, and latex paints are more likely to cause sticking on doors or drawers, too.