Best Water Based Primer Paint of 2026

Zinsser 276087 Mold Killing Primer is a water-based protective primer that kills existing mold, mildew, moss, fungi and odor-causing bacteria on non-porous interior and exterior surfaces. It dries quickly, covers up to 160 sq. ft., and can be recoated within one hour. This primer is formulated to kill existing mold, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria, and to prevent future growth of these organisms. It works with any topcoat and is ideal for use with Zinsser perma-white. It binds chalky siding, masonry, and metal.

Zinsser WB Primer is a water-based low-odor formula that is perfect for priming interior surfaces such as walls, doors, trim, plaster, and concrete. Its exceptional stain-hiding ability makes it ideal for use on dark or porous surfaces. The primer dries to the touch in just 30 minutes and covers up to 100 sq. ft. per quart, creating a uniform flat-finish surface that is perfect for top coating. Additionally, this primer adheres to slick surfaces without the need for deglossing or sanding, saving you time and effort. With Zinsser WB Primer, you can easily prime and prepare your surfaces for a professional-looking finish.

Magnetize-It! Magnetic Paint is a water-based primer that can turn any surface into a magnetic board. With this product, you can attach child artwork, magnetic letters, posters, documents, and postcards using magnets. You can even create magnetic photo gallery displays. This product works on various surfaces such as wood, metal, masonry, drywall, and plaster. You can also topcoat it with any color paint or chalkboard paint. Magnetize-It! Magnetic Paint is great for kids' bedrooms, toy rooms, offices, kitchens, and more! It meets all safety standards and provides a convenient and versatile way to display your favorite items and keep important reminders in sight.

The Retique It Wood Primer offers a new and improved formula that works smoothly with almost any stain brand, making your application easier and providing a stronger hold. This means you get a beautiful, natural-looking wood finish every time you use it. Designed with over 60% real wood fibers, it creates an authentic wood texture that both looks and feels genuine. Plus, you don’t have to spend time sanding or stripping old finishes—just lightly scuff sand, and you’re ready to apply. This primer saves you time and effort while delivering a fresh wood surface that’s ready for staining.

The FolkArt Clear Paint Primer is a water-based, non-toxic, and flexible primer suitable for interior surfaces such as metal, paper, plastic, and wood. Its 8 oz bottle can cover up to 20 sq ft area. With a clear finish, this lightweight primer can be mixed with your favorite FolkArt Acrylic Paint to achieve a colored base. Using this clear primer will give all your projects a smooth base for painting and make it an essential part of your painting routine.

The Retique It Wood'n Primer is designed to give you a smooth start for any staining project. Its improved formula sticks better and works well with almost all stain brands, making your application easier and the finish more natural. This primer is perfect for prepping surfaces to achieve either light or dark wood tones, adding great depth and contrast to your project. Its unique formula mimics how raw wood absorbs stain, so you get a genuine wood look and feel after staining and sealing. With this primer, you can transform your surfaces into authentic wood finishes with less hassle.