Give your bathroom some splash-proof style
Painting your bathroom is an exciting project that can transform the space into a refreshing oasis. However, selecting the right paint sheen matters, ensuring durability in this high-moisture environment. This guide explores the best paint sheens for bathrooms that can resist humidity and splashes.
| Paint | Sheen |
|---|---|
| Eggshell | Low sheen |
| Satin | Subtle sheen |
| Semi-gloss | Medium sheen |
| Gloss | High sheen |
No matter which paint finish you choose, purchasing mildew-resistant paint for bathroom use is always essential because moisture from baths, showers, and everything else can damage the walls otherwise.
That said, eggshell paint is a friend if the walls in your bathroom are warped or have other irregularities, like bumps, that you can't repair easily. Because of its very low sheen, it makes bathroom walls appear smoother by reducing reflections that may highlight imperfections. You will still need to prep your walls for painting, though.
Painting professionals tend to avoid matte and eggshell paints for bathrooms because both are prone to mildew when exposed to high humidity. Eggshell paint works best in bathrooms with lower moisture levels.
The upside of eggshell finishes is that they are easier to wipe down than matte and offer more water resilience.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Moisture-resistant | Not waterproof |
| Easy to clean | Prone to staining |
| Hides flaws | Prep walls |
Best for: Powder rooms.
Satin paint is popular for bathrooms due to its durability, moisture resistance, and aesthetic. The latter is significant if you don't find higher and more reflective sheens appealing or want a more uniform finish. While imperfections in satin paint application can be more apparent due to its sheen, they are less so than on glossy painted surfaces.
Satin paint is also easy to clean, making it ideal for bathrooms where surfaces need frequent wiping. However, it may not stand up well to soap scum. Also, satin paint can develop water stains because of high humidity levels, making it less suitable for frequently used spaces—and more ideal for guest bathrooms and powder rooms.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Moisture resistant | Not humidity proof |
| Easy to clean | Prone to staining |
| Soft finish | May highlight flaws |
Best for: Guest bathrooms and powder rooms.
Semi-gloss paint has a slightly higher sheen than satin paint, providing excellent moisture resistance and durability where humidity and moisture levels are high. It's perfect for bathroom walls, trim, and cabinets, as it can withstand frequent cleaning and is resistant to mold and mildew.
The sheen is also resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for use in high-traffic areas like bathrooms where surfaces may come into frequent contact with water, toiletries, and cleaning agents.
The reflective nature of semi-gloss bounces light around the room, making any sized space feel brighter and bigger. But achieving a streak-free finish to avoid imperfections in the application is challenging, so it is always best to work with a local painting professional, especially when dealing with wall imperfections that the semi-gloss can accentuate.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Moisture resistant | May highlight flaws |
| Durable finish | May streak |
| Reflective finish | May glare |
Best for: Busy bathrooms with showers or tubs.
The glossier the paint, the better it is for high-traffic areas and busy bathrooms. It provides excellent moisture resistance, making it ideal for high-humidity bathrooms. Its smooth, glossy finish offers easy cleaning, effortlessly removing water spots, soap scum, and stains. Additionally, gloss paint boasts high durability, withstanding frequent contact with household cleaners and bathroom toiletries.
The big drawback? High-gloss coatings often emit fumes for 48 hours or longer. Furthermore, the reflective nature of gloss paint brightens spaces like no other paint but can also amplify imperfections on painted surfaces. For best results, ensure walls are smooth and imperfection-free before applying even coats for a streak-free finish.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very durable | Off-gasses |
| Water-resistant | Shows imperfections |
| Shiny finish | Reflective glare |
Best for: High-humidity bathrooms.
Whether to paint your bathroom yourself or hire a professional depends on your skill level, time, equipment required, and complexity. Remember, paints with a sheen highlight imperfections, and pros have the experience to prep walls for the best results.
Also, while plenty of low-VOC paints are available, you can still expect paint fumes. Anyone with respiratory issues shouldn't paint (even while wearing a respirator) or be in the area for at least 48 hours after the paint dries.
