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Paint Finish & Sheen Guide

Choose the right finish for every room

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Published: · ~7 min read

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Choosing the right paint finish is the quickest way to get a room looking sharper and make it easier to live with every day. Use this guide to pick a sheen that suits traffic, moisture and cleaning needs—without guesswork.

Quick Finish Comparison

Finish Look Washability Best For
Matt Soft, non-reflective Low → Medium (wipe gently) Bedrooms, ceilings, low-traffic living areas
Eggshell Slight sheen Medium (easy wipe-down) Living rooms, hallways, general walls
Satin Noticeable sheen High (good scrub resistance) Kitchens, kids’ rooms, utility spaces
Semi-Gloss Shiny Very high Bathrooms, woodwork, doors, trims
Gloss Mirror-like Very high (shows flaws) Statement woodwork, metal radiators
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Room-by-Room Recommendations

Living Rooms

Eggshell gives a refined look and hides minor flaws better than shinier finishes. If you want a super soft, high-end feel, go matt—just keep a small pot for touch-ups.

Pro tip: Use a durable “washable matt” if you love the flat look but want easier maintenance.

Kitchens

Choose satin or a durable eggshell for wipe-clean walls. For cabinets and trims, semi-gloss resists grease and cleans up fast.

Bathrooms

Semi-gloss on woodwork and moisture-resistant satin/eggshell on walls handle steam and splashes. Ventilation is key for longevity.

Hallways & High-Traffic Areas

Finger marks happen—go eggshell or satin. They’re tougher and easier to clean than matt.

Bedrooms

For a calm, luxurious feel use matt on walls and durable eggshell on woodwork. Low-VOC options keep air fresher.

Ceilings & Woodwork

Ceilings: matt to hide imperfections. Doors, skirting, frames: semi-gloss or gloss depending on how bold you want the contrast.

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Prep & Durability Tips

  • Prep is everything: fill, sand, dust off and prime repairs for a smooth finish.
  • Pick the right roller: short nap for smooth walls, medium for light texture.
  • Let coats cure: don’t scrub freshly painted walls for at least 2 weeks.
  • Bathrooms/Kitchens: use moisture-resistant lines and good extraction.

FAQ

What’s the easiest finish to keep clean?
Satin and semi-gloss handle regular wipe-downs without burnishing. Washable matt is a good compromise if you prefer a flat look.
Will glossier paint show wall imperfections?
Yes — the higher the sheen, the more it highlights bumps and roller marks. Use matt/eggshell on imperfect walls and save gloss for woodwork.
Can I use the same finish throughout the house?
You can, but performance differs by room. Kitchens/bathrooms benefit from satin or specialty moisture-resistant lines.

Not sure which finish to pick?

Send us a photo and room details—we’ll recommend a finish and sheen that suits your space.

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