What Makes a Paint Good for Bathrooms?
Moisture resistance. Bathroom walls are exposed to steam and condensation daily. Standard wall paint absorbs moisture and eventually blisters, peels, or grows mould. Bathroom-specific paints use resins that repel moisture rather than absorbing it.
Mildew inhibitors. Bathrooms are warm, damp, and often poorly ventilated — ideal conditions for mould growth. The best bathroom paints contain antimicrobial additives that prevent mould and mildew from growing on the painted surface.
Washability. Bathroom walls need regular wiping from soap splatter, toothpaste, and fingerprints. A satin or semi-gloss finish that can be scrubbed clean is essential.
Top Bathroom Paint Picks for 2026
Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa (Matte finish). The only flat finish recommended for bathrooms — contains proprietary mildew inhibitors powerful enough to use matte sheen without moisture problems. Exceptional coverage and a luxurious velvety look. Best for high-end bathroom renovations.
Sherwin-Williams Emerald Interior (Satin). Outstanding moisture resistance, built-in primer, and mildewcide. Covers in one coat in most situations. The best all-round bathroom paint for most homeowners.
Behr Premium Plus Ultra (Satin). Excellent moisture and mould resistance at a lower price point. Available exclusively at Home Depot. Strong coverage and wide colour range.
Dulux Bathroom+ (UK). Formulated specifically for UK bathrooms with Steam Shield technology that resists condensation. Available in a wide range of colours with a soft sheen.
Zinsser Perma-White (Semi-Gloss). The most mould-resistant bathroom paint available. Carries a 5-year mould-free guarantee. Particularly good for bathrooms with serious ventilation problems or previous mould issues.
How Much Paint Does a Bathroom Need?
A small 5×8 bathroom needs about 0.75 to 1 gallon for two coats on the walls. A larger 8×10 bathroom needs 1 to 1.5 gallons. A large master bathroom needs 1.5 to 2 gallons. Use the bathroom paint calculator above for a precise estimate based on your exact dimensions.
Bathrooms are small rooms — paint costs are relatively low. Invest in a premium bathroom-specific product rather than using standard wall paint. The performance difference is significant and the extra cost is typically only $10–20 for the amount needed.
Related Paint Calculators
- Bathroom Paint Calculator →
- How Much Paint for a Bathroom? →
- Paint Finish Guide — Which Finish for Which Room? →
- Do I Need Primer Before Painting? →
- How to Paint a Room — Step by Step →
- Paint Cost Calculator →
- Free Paint Calculator →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best paint finish for a bathroom?
Satin or semi-gloss — both resist moisture, are easy to wipe clean, and do not absorb condensation. Flat paint in a bathroom will absorb moisture and peel.
Do I need special bathroom paint?
For best results yes. Bathroom-specific paints include mildew-resistant additives that significantly outperform standard wall paint in high-humidity environments.
Can I use regular wall paint in a bathroom?
You can use standard wall paint in satin or semi-gloss finish in a well-ventilated bathroom and get acceptable results. Bathroom-specific paint is better for poorly ventilated bathrooms.
How do I prevent mould on bathroom walls?
Use a paint with antimicrobial/mildewcide additives, ensure the bathroom is well ventilated (extractor fan running during and after showers), and wipe down wet walls after bathing.
How often should I repaint a bathroom?
A well-painted bathroom with quality moisture-resistant paint should last 3–5 years before repainting is needed. Poor ventilation or cheap paint may require repainting sooner.
What colours work best in a bathroom?
Light, cool tones — pale blues, soft greens, and warm whites — are the most popular bathroom colours. They make small bathrooms feel larger and cleaner. Dark tones work in larger bathrooms with good lighting.