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What’s the Best Paint for Bathrooms? Here’s What You Need to Know

July 18, 2024 / Written by: Bradco Kitchens & Baths

July 18, 2024
Written by: Bradco Kitchens & Baths

Key Takeaways:

  • Paint colors and finish options are critical when painting a bathroom due to the room's unique moisture and lighting conditions.
  • Choose semi-gloss or gloss paint finishes for exceptional durability in high-moisture areas, and matte or satin for low-moisture or well-ventilated spaces.
  • Your choice for bathrooms should also consider color psychology and how different lighting conditions affect the appearance of colors.
  • Consider using popular bathroom paint colors like cooler colors, green paint colors, or blue bathroom color ideas to create a serene atmosphere.
  • Always test a paint sample before committing to see how it reacts to natural light, soft light, and artificial lighting.

When embarking on bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles, choosing the right paint is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and beautiful finish.

Bathrooms are high-moisture areas that require special paint formulations to withstand humidity, prevent mold, and ensure durability.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the best paint for bathrooms.

Types of Paint for Bathrooms

Matte Finish

Ideal for low-moisture areas, this luxurious matte finish offers a smoother finish that hides imperfections but lacks exceptional durability in humid spaces.

Eggshell Finish

A step up in durability, this provides a gentle sheen. Works best for walls with moderate exposure and where cleaning bathroom finishes occasionally is expected.

Satin Finish

Great for paint projects in high-traffic bathrooms. It balances sheen and cleanability and suits cool colors, lighter colors, or warmer paint color schemes.

Semi-Gloss Finish

The perfect choice for most bathrooms due to its moisture resistance and easy cleaning. Best for wall colors, white trim, or cabinet accents.

High-Gloss Finish

Offers the highest durability and is perfect for cabinetry or architectural details like molding or white paint accents. A popular choice for bathroom finishes needing resilience.

Special Features to Look For

When shopping for the best paint colors for your bathroom, consider:

  • Mildew Resistance: Essential for preventing mold growth in high-moisture environments.
  • Washability: Important for maintaining clean and fresh walls.
  • Low VOC: Choose paints with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for healthier indoor air quality.
  • Compatibility with cooler paint colors or richer colors based on your palette.
  • Paints with an extra layer of protection in humid zones.

Color Considerations

  • Lighter colors like whites, creamy neutrals, and pastels help open small spaces and reflect natural light
  • Darker colors such as navy or deep green add drama but may require more gloss paint finishes to prevent damage
  • Use the color wheel to find complementary colors and avoid clashing schemes
  • Favorite paint colors may differ based on personal experiences, so always test in your space first
  • Color experts suggest choosing from one color family and adding an additional color for balance
  • Add a pop of color on one wall or through accessories for a modern feel
  • Balance cool colors with warm lighting or bathroom paint colors that bring softness

Top Paint Brands for Bathrooms

  • Benjamin Moore Aura® Bath & Spa: A top choice for beautiful bathroom paint finish with exceptional durability
  • Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Interior: Ideal for high-traffic areas; pairs well with bathroom color ideas
  • Behr Premium Plus® Interior: Known for its affordability and actual coverage performance

Tips for Painting Your Bathroom

Here are some practical tips to ensure a professional finish when painting your bathroom:

  • Prep the surface by cleaning off soap scum and patching holes
  • Use a primer compatible with gloss paint finishes for better finish options
  • Ventilate the room or use an exhaust fan to reduce moisture during the painting process
  • Consider how lighting conditions and soft light affect the appearance of colors over a period of time

Maintaining Painted Bathroom Walls

  • Wipe regularly to maintain a fresh coat look
  • Avoid using chemicals that degrade the paint’s finish
  • Touch up spots with leftover fresh paint
  • Clean with mild solutions to prevent bad experience with peeling or fading

Pros and Cons of Different Paint Types

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide the best paint for bathroom use:

Matte Finish

  • Pros: Hides imperfections.
  • Cons: Less durable.

Eggshell Finish

  • Pros: Subtle sheen, moderate durability.
  • Cons: Less washable.

Satin Finish

  • Pros: Washable, slightly shiny.
  • Cons: Shows imperfections.

Semi-Gloss Finish

  • Pros: Durable, moisture-resistant.
  • Cons: Reflective.

High-Gloss Finish

  • Pros: Most durable, easy to clean.
  • Cons: Very shiny.

Popular Bathroom Color Schemes

Selecting the right color scheme is vital for achieving the desired look and feel in your bathroom. Here are some popular color schemes to consider:

  • Classic White and Gray
    • Pros: Timeless, elegant, and creates a clean, spacious look.
    • Cons: Can feel cold if not balanced with warm accessories.
    • Best Use: Modern and contemporary bathrooms.
  • Soft Pastels
    • Pros: Adds a touch of softness and relaxation.
    • Cons: May require more maintenance to keep looking fresh.
    • Best Use: Small bathrooms and powder rooms.
  • Bold and Dramatic
    • Pros: Creates a striking and unique atmosphere.
    • Cons: Can be overwhelming in small spaces.
    • Best Use: Accent walls or large, well-lit bathrooms.
  • Earthy Tones
    • Pros: Provides a warm and inviting ambiance.
    • Cons: Can make small spaces feel even smaller.
    • Best Use: Rustic and traditional bathroom styles.

Pros and Cons of DIY Vs. Professional Painting

Deciding whether to paint your bathroom yourself or hire professionals for bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles depends on various factors. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

DIY Painting

  • Pros:
    • Cost savings.
    • Flexibility to work at your own pace.
    • Personal satisfaction from completing the project.
  • Cons:
    • Time-consuming and labor-intensive.
    • Requires skill and precision to achieve a professional finish.
    • Potential for mistakes and uneven coverage.

Professional Painting

  • Pros:
    • Expert craftsmanship and flawless finish.
    • Efficient and timely completion.
    • Access to high-quality materials and tools.
  • Cons:
    • Higher cost compared to DIY.
    • Less control over the project timeline.

Revitalize Your Bathroom with Expert Paint Choices!

Still weighing satin versus semi-gloss? Check out our expert rundown of best paint finishes for bathrooms to pick a coating that resists moisture and looks flawless for years.

From choosing the right type of paint and color scheme to deciding between DIY and professional painting, this guide provides the information you need to make informed decisions.

Contact Bradco Kitchens + Baths for expert bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles. Our team of professionals is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a stunning and durable finish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do lighting conditions affect bathroom paint color choices?

Lighting conditions—including natural light, soft light, and artificial lighting—can change the appearance of colors dramatically. Always test a paint sample on your walls under different lighting throughout the day before finalizing your decision.

What are the most popular bathroom paint colors right now?

Current color trends lean toward cooler paint colors like soft blues and greens, creamy neutrals, and darker colors such as navy and charcoal. These are favored for their calming tones and flexibility across different bathroom finishes.

Should I use semi-gloss or satin for my bathroom walls?

Semi-gloss is the perfect choice for high-humidity areas due to its exceptional durability and ease of cleaning. Satin is a good option for medium-traffic bathrooms and offers a subtler finish.

How do I choose complementary colors for a cohesive look?

Use the color wheel to identify complementary colors within the same color family. For example, pair cool colors like aqua with soft grays or warmer paint color tones like beige for a balanced look.

Can I use matte paint in a bathroom?

You can, but it’s best in well-ventilated or low-moisture areas. For general use, a luxurious matte finish may lack the moisture resistance of semi-gloss or gloss paint finishes, making it less ideal for shower-heavy bathrooms.

Bradco Kitchens & Baths
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