What Kind of Paint to use in a Bathroom

painting a bathroom

If you're looking to spruce up your bathroom, painting might be one of the first things you consider. Importantly, not all types of paint are suitable for bathrooms because of the humidity and moisture often present in the space. This guide will help you determine what kind of paint to use in your bathroom.

First and foremost, it’s important to consider that the paint you use in your bathroom should be water-resistant. This will protect your walls from mould and mildew growth, which along with colour, is often the most important factor in choosing bathroom paint. 

There are two main types of paints you can opt for: oil-based and water-based. Let’s take a look at how each of these work:

1. Oil-based paints

Oil-based paints are very durable and can withstand harsh conditions, making them ideal for use in the bathroom. It’s important to note, however, that they can take longer to dry and can have a strong odour, which may not be suitable for small bathrooms. They are also more difficult to clean up if you make a mistake or spill some paint. So make sure to put tape around the skirting board and the door frame to avoid any mishaps.


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2. Water-based paints

Water-based paints are quick-drying and produce less odour compared to oil-based paints. They are easy to clean up with just soap and water, making them a great choice for beginners or those who want an easy DIY project. They are not as durable as oil-based paints, so be wary that they may require more frequent touch-ups.

Both oil-based and water-based paints come in a variety of finishes, such as satin, eggshell, and gloss. Satin and eggshell finishes are often recommended for bathrooms as they give a subtle shine, are easy to clean, and hide imperfections well. Gloss finishes are generally considered inappropriate for bathrooms because they are too shiny and highlight imperfections.

It's worth noting that if you are painting over an existing painted surface, you should use a primer first. This will ensure that the paint adheres well and lasts longer.


Here are some paints we’d recommend for painting your bathroom: 


Oil-based Paint Brands:

  1. Little Greene Oil-based Eggshell Paint

  2. Dulux Trade Oil-based Paint

  3. Leyland Trade Eggshell Oil-based Paint

  4. Johnstone's Aqua Water Based Gloss

  5. Crown Non-Drip Gloss Paint

  6. Rust-Oleum Gloss Enamel Paint

  7. Farrow & Ball Full Gloss Paint

  8. Sandtex High Gloss Paint

  9. Ronseal Weatherproof 10 Year Exterior Gloss Paint

  10. Zinsser Cover Stain Oil-based Primer

Water-based Paint Brands:

  1. Little Greene Intelligent Matt Emulsion

  2. Dulux Easycare Bathroom Paint

  3. Ronseal Anti Mould Paint

  4. Crown Bathroom Paint

  5. Johnstone's Bathroom Emulsion Paint

  6. Farrow & Ball Modern Emulsion

  7. Leyland Trade Acrylic Eggshell

  8. Sandtex Matt Masonry Paint

  9. Rust-Oleum Chalky Finish Furniture Paint

  10. Zinsser Perma-White Interior Paint

When choosing the type of paint to use in your bathroom, you should opt for a water-resistant option. Oil-based paints are more durable but can be more difficult to work with. Water-based paints are quick-drying and easy to clean up but require more frequent touch-ups. Make sure to also consider the finish of the paint and use a primer before painting over an existing painted surface. With the right choice of paint, you can transform your bathroom in no time!

How Beams chooses the right materials for you

At Beams we source the highest quality materials to ensure both the aesthetic and the environmental impact are the best they can be. This includes our choice of paint. Our contractors commit to using sustainable materials, minimising waste, and recycling what’s left. All our projects have options for making your renovation greener. We also make sure everything we make lasts for life with a 25 year guarantee.


If you’d like us to manage the project for you, from initial conception, through to design and beyond to the completion of the work by our vetted contractors, then get your quote today:

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