What Type of Paint Should be Used in a Bathroom?

A simple coat of paint can make all of the difference if you're searching for a quick, relatively inexpensive makeover for your bathroom. But before you get to work, figure out what kind of paint is appropriate.

Types

There are many different kinds of interior paint to choose from, including flat coat, semi gloss and gloss.

Flat Coat

Flat-coat paint and paints with a satin or eggshell finish have a matte finish and are commonly used in bedrooms, living rooms and hallways. Satin paints are slightly more durable than flat-coat paints.

Semi Gloss

Semi-gloss paint is more versatile than flat-coat paint because it can be used in rooms that sustain some moisture, such as the kitchen. It's also easier to wipe messes off walls with semi-gloss paint.

Gloss

Gloss paint is the most commonly recommended for the bathroom because it is durable, stain-resistant and handles high amounts of moisture well. It also wipes clean easily.

Colors

The color you choose for your bathroom is up to you, but decorators advise that you try to match other features of the room, such as the floor or cabinetry. If your color scheme is quite bold, you might want to choose a neutral paint color so it does not overwhelm with too much color.

Preparation

Be sure to prime your walls before you paint. This helps give the paint something to stick to for a better finish, and if you have to use more than one coat, it's less expensive to use primer than paint.

Mildew Resistant

Check your paint shop for bathroom paint that is mildew- and mold-resistant. Sherwin Williams and Lowe's offer such a product.