Flat Paint for Bathrooms - Not As Crazy As It Sounds

When it comes to choosing paint for a bathroom, most people default to glossy, high-sheen finishes. The logic is that the shine will help reflect light and resist moisture. Flat paint, which lacks reflectance, seems like an odd choice for a room known for steam and humidity. But flat paint brings some surprising benefits that make it worth considering for bathroom walls and ceilings.

While flat paint does have some limitations, the right products and techniques can help it work well in bathrooms. With a bit of planning, flat paint can be a budget-friendly, low-maintenance, and attractive option for bathroom painting projects.

Benefits of Using Flat Paint in Bathrooms

So why go flat in a bathroom? When chosen carefully, flat paint finishes offer these advantages:

• Moisture and humidity resistance - Quality flat paints are formulated with acrylic resins that add durability and washability. Some also contain mold-inhibiting additives.
• Easier to clean and maintain - The matte surface resists stains and is easy to spot clean.
• Minimal imperfections in application - Small flaws and brush marks blend away easily compared to glossy paint.
• Affordable and budget-friendly - Flat paints tend to cost less per gallon than higher sheens.

Flat paint provides a smooth, uniform appearance that works well with both bold and muted color palettes. The matte look helps disguise flaws in walls and creates an understated elegance. Flat finishes lack the light bounce and glare issues sometimes seen with shinier paints. This makes them ideal for ceilings and as an overall neutral background for other decorative elements.

Addressing Common Concerns with Flat Paint

Understandably, people worry that flat paint may not stand up well in a bathroom environment. But product innovations and proper prep work can overcome these potential drawbacks:

• Perception of being less durable - Quality flat paints hold up to cleaning and scrubbing. Acrylic-based formulas add washability.
• Potential for stains - Stains can be spot treated. Some paint brands add stain-blocking properties.
• Lack of sheen and shine - The matte look has its own understated appeal. Glossy accents can be added.
• Limitations for accent walls - Darker flat colors can work on small accent walls. Glossier paints are better for bold feature walls.

While flat paint does have some limitations in moisture resistance compared to higher sheens, many quality acrylic-based interior paints are specially formulated for bathrooms. Look for mold-resistant or mildew-resistant labels. Top brands like Behr Premium Plus and Benjamin Moore Regal Select offer flat bathroom paints.

Preparing and Priming Walls for Flat Paint

Proper prep work is key to success with any paint, but especially flat finishes:

• Proper cleaning and surface prep - Eliminate existing mildew and soap residue. Sand glossy surfaces.
• Choosing appropriate primer - Look for mold-resistant bathroom primers.
• Spot priming problem areas - Use primer to block stains and seal damaged drywall.
• Adequate drying time before painting - Allow primer and paint ample drying time between coats.

Priming is always recommended, but is especially important before using flat paint. The right primer helps paint adhere properly and builds a moisture-resistant base layer. Be sure to allow adequate drying time for both primer and paint according to manufacturer guidelines.

Technique and Application Tips

Follow these best practices when applying flat paint:

• Proper painting supplies - Use high-quality brushes and microfiber rollers.
• Cutting in edges and corners - Careful edge painting prevents drips.
• Maintaining wet edge - Work in sections to prevent lap marks as paint dries.
• Proper drying between coats - Allow at least 2-4 hours drying time.
• Checking for coverage - Flat paint needs multiple coats for full coverage.

Take care to apply flat paint properly. The lack of sheen shows more flaws in cutting in and lap marks. But the soft matte finish also helps hide minor imperfections. Use a high-quality microfiber roller for the smoothest finish.

Ideal Rooms and Spaces for Flat Paint

While the whole bathroom can be painted in flat, it's an especially good choice in these areas:

• High humidity areas like bathrooms and laundry rooms
• Low traffic areas and accent walls
• Kids' rooms, nurseries and playrooms
• Small spaces that need a monochromatic look

For high-moisture areas like showers, consider upgrading to an epoxy-based paint. But flat works well for walls and ceilings in standard humidity. It's also ideal for kids' rooms where scrubbability and durability are musts.

Pairing Flat Paint Finishes with Other Design Elements

Flat paint doesn't have to look boring. Liven it up with:

• Color palette and scheme - Use deeper hues for drama.
• Lighting and illumination - Add sheen with lighting.
• Texture and decorative finishes - Contrast flat areas with sheen.
• Trim, tiles, shower surrounds - Use higher gloss on accents.
• Furniture and fixtures - Wood, metal, and glass add shine.

While flat paint minimizes glare, strategic lighting and glossy accents make a bathroom glow. Paint the ceiling and upper walls in flat, then use semi-gloss on lower walls. Tile tub surrounds and backsplashes in polished finishes contrast nicely. Glass shower doors, metal fixtures, and wood vanities integrate beautifully with soft flat walls.

Look for these features when selecting bathroom flat paint:

• Comparing products across top brands - Research options.
• Differences between flat, matte, and eggshell - Flat has least sheen.
• Paint quality and price considerations - Avoid the cheapest paints.
• Tinting for custom colors - Darker colors hold up better.

Stick with premium quality paints from reputable brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, Behr, or Valspar. There are minor differences in sheen between flat, matte, and eggshell finishes. Opt for flat or matte for a true non-reflective look.

Flat paint can work well in the bathroom. The soft matte finish provides an understated backdrop that's easy to clean, economical, and chic. While glossy paints have their place, don't overlook the potential of flat paint for your next bathroom makeover.