Bathrooms are constantly exposed to moisture. These conditions are the perfect breeding ground for pathogens. These microorganisms can proliferate on any surface of your bathroom. That includes floors and walls.
Virus, bacteria and fungi can easily grow on walls. In addition to endangering the health of your loved ones, these agents cause horrible spots that ruin the aesthetics of your bathroom. Therefore, it’s important that you choose a suitable type of paint to prevent such proliferation.
In this article you’ll know the best types of paint that you can apply on the walls of your bathrooms. In addition you’ll find several useful tips to keep your walls looking like new for longer.
What is Bathroom Paint?
Bathroom paint is a special type of paint designed to resist the typical conditions of a bathroom. That includes a high level of humidity and exposure to different pathogens. For example, some bathroom paints work as a protective layer after drying. These paints are ideal for applying on drywall, plaster walls and other delicate surfaces.
Other bathroom types are mixed with anti-fungal and anti-microbial substances that prevent the appearance of dark spots on the walls. Usually, flat or matte paints leave a porous finish on the surface. Pathogens tend to accumulate in those pores, creating spots that are very difficult to remove.
On the other hand, high-gloss, semi-gloss and satin paints leave a smooth, waterproof surface where pathogens can’t survive so easily. This fact also makes cleaning easier, because stains don’t stick to the surface.
What Type of Paint is Best for a Bathroom?
As said before, bathrooms are continually exposed to moisture. Steam from the shower and water splashing from the sink tend to accumulate on the walls. The small drops of water that form on the surface are the perfect breeding ground for pathogens.
For this reason, bathroom paint must be resistant to humidity and prevent the proliferation of pathogens. In the market there’s a great variety of different products that guarantee excellent results.
For example, anti-mold coatings prevent mold from growing under layers of paint and penetrating walls. Oil paint may be another option. However, it tends to release toxic gases and unpleasant odors that can be unbearable for certain people.
Best Paint Types for Bathroom
Here’s a list with the best types of paint to apply on bathroom walls:
- High-gloss
- Semi-gloss
- Satin
- Eggshell
- Flat
Now, we are going to describe each type. Hope it will be helpful for you to understand bathroom paint.
High-gloss
This type of paint is the brightest of all. It’s ideal for highlighting some delicate details on walls and cabinets. However, it isn’t the best type of paint to cover large surfaces.
It isn’t recommended to apply high-gloss paint on very deteriorated surfaces. It will highlight imperfections on the walls and ceilings.
Semi-gloss
It’s a less eye-catching option than high-gloss paint. It’s ideal for bathrooms because it repels water and prevents the accumulation of stubborn stains.
Satin
After drying, satin paint provides a smooth and slightly shiny surface. It isn’t as moisture resistant as high-gloss and semi-gloss paints. Therefore, it isn’t recommended to use it in bathrooms exposed to high-humidity levels.
Eggshell
Eggshell paint is slightly shinier than flat paint. It’s also easier to clean, although it’s more prone to mold stains than other bathroom paints.
Flat
It’s the cheapest option and the least resistant to moisture. Flat paint leaves a rough surface after drying and tends to stain very easily. Also, bathroom stains on flat paint tend to be much more difficult to remove.
Conclusion
As you can see, the glossiest paints on the market are also the most moisture resistant. Therefore, these types of paints are ideal for preventing stains and the proliferation of pathogens on bathroom walls.
Every time you paint your bathroom, be sure to apply at least two coats of paint to ensure optimum coverage. Before buying, also take a look at the chemical composition of the product you’re going to apply. Verify that the formula includes antifungal and antibacterial substances that keep your walls protected and in good condition.
Choose the type of paint of your preference depending on the final finish you want to obtain. Choose a glossy effect to highlight some details of the decoration. On the other hand, choose a matte effect for large areas or to cover some surface imperfections.