Bathrooms tend to receive a lot of heavy use, especially those that are used by the whole family. They are usually wet and humid spaces that are notorious for attracting mould and mildew.
For this reason, our expert decorators at Scott Anson Painters and Decorators Ltd would suggest opting for paints that are specially designed to withstand these conditions and stay in tip-top condition for longer.
Best Paint for Bathroom Walls
Some paint manufacturers sell what they call ‘bathroom paints’, which contain mould-inhibiting agents and offer a surface that better resists moisture. Higher-quality paints tend to have more solids. These are the components that form a protective acrylic-latex layer when the paint dries. These paints therefore usually last longer and can be more cost effective in the long run. Using a higher gloss sheen can also help to repel moisture.
Acrylic vs Oil-Based Paints
Acrylic paint is a great choice as it doesn’t use harsh solvents. This means it should be easy to apply and clean up afterwards. Once dried, latex paint is washable, durable and moisture-resistant. Oil-based paints should be durable once they dry, too. However, they require the use of solvents and release volatile organic compounds that evaporate and can be harmful to human health. They also take longer to dry. Oil-based paint is often used for trim and cabinets due to it being extremely hard-wearing.
Use a Primer
Using an acrylic primer for woodwork and a contract emulsion for bare plaster or drywall helps to offer a base coat that should prep the surface for a coat of paint. A good primer will prevent the paint layer from peeling or bubbling. This is especially required if the bathroom is a new construction, and it will be the first-time painting on drywall.
Best Paint for Bathroom Ceilings
Ceilings are more susceptible to water spots and stains from shower steam and humidity.
We would recommend using a wipeable paint such as Diamond Matt, Eggshell, Silk or Mouldshield paint on a bathroom ceiling to try and protect your ceilings from the growth of mildew and mould
Trending Bathroom Colours
According to Elle Decor, some of the top bathroom paint colours to try in 2025 include:
- Lulworth Blue by Farrow & Ball
- Angel’s Landing by Portola Paints
- Oriental Blue by Asian Paints
- Chappell Green by Farrow & Ball
- Newburg Green by Benjamin Moore