Paint (Or Not to Paint) MDF Drawer Boxes

Hi all,

Firstly, apologies I'm a complete DIY novice!

I've just had a set of MDF drawers built and now getting ready to paint them. After some reading around, for the drawer fronts and sides of the drawers (oak is going on top), I think I'll:

• Fill edges
• Sand (80 grit, 120 grit then, 240 grit?)
• Prime with Zinsser BIN / Sand with fine grit (+ Repeat)
• 2x Top Coat with a white oil-based satin (with light sand between coats)

I think this is broadly sensible?


My main question is around what to do with the drawer boxes and inside. There are 12 drawers, so I'd sort of rather avoid the process above for every one of those! Could anyone recommend any options that would at least seal/protect the MDF? For instance could I just:

• Sand and prime with Zinsser, but not top coat (but could look a bit naff?); or perhaps
• Sand and 'seal' with something like Rustins Clear MDF Sealer (again not painting) - I wonder if this may look a bit better

My other concern, beyond just time is how much if I painted (as above with oil-based) the yellowing on the inside over time. So, if the above isn't suitable, any advice on how I could just give the drawers a clear finish - Rustins Sealer then some kind of varnish?