If you are searching for “bathroom wall paint ideas” but cannot find an ideal one for your humid bathroom, you are at the right place! Bathrooms are basically mini-saunas, whether you see the steam, the splashes, or the humidity. It’s a moisture party in there, and if your bathroom paint isn’t up for the challenge, then you have to deal with peeling walls, moldy corners, and a smelly aura. In this article, we are here to go beyond the bathroom color ideas and tell you ways you can find not just any paint but the right kind for your high-humidity bathroom.
This guide is going to walk you through exactly what to look for when choosing the right paint finish for high-humidity bathrooms.
Understanding Bathroom Wall Paint Finishes:
First, basics! Paint finishes can range from flat to super shiny, and each has its own vibe. So, when it comes to the bathroom, we are not just chasing aesthetics; we need sustenance, durability, and good performance.
1. Matte/Flat finish
One thing that works great with matte finishes is their ability to keep it lovely, soft, and hide imperfections. However, because they tend to absorb a lot of moisture, stain easily, and cleaning them can be high-maintenance, they are generally not recommended for bathrooms.
2. Eggshell Finish
After matte, the eggshell finish is slightly more durable, but still, not an ideal one. This finish seems a bit sheen, and may give off a glossy look, but still, it does not have that protective coating that prevents moisture from seeping through. In bathrooms, especially if ventilation is not great, it’s best to avoid an eggshell bathroom paint finish for the bathroom.
3. Satin Finish
Another very famous finish is satin, and if you are planning on going with this, then that’s perfect! Satin has a soft, pearl-like glow and is also easy to clean. The best part is that it has decent moisture resistance, which can be a great option for bathrooms with decent ventilation. Satin finish i way easier to clean than eggshell and matte, as it also handles splashes well, thanks to its not-so-overly-shiny finish.
4. Semi-Gloss Finish
This one is one of the top choices for bathrooms, especially those dealing with humidity. Semi-gloss has a noticeable shine and is highly water resistant. Again, just like satin, it is also very easy to clean off as its smooth surface resists dirt as well as mildew. Bonus? Because its shiny and reflects more light, it can make a small bathroom look brighter and more spacious.
5. High-Gloss Finish
Talking of glossy finishes, you might think, “Why not go with the glossiest one, then?” But, no. Even though these highly-reflective finishes are extremely durable, repel moisture like a pro, it does bring in some problems. For example, because it’s so shiny, it tends to highlight every bump, crack, and patch on your wall.
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Specialized Paints for High-Humidity Environments
You might think of bathroom color ideas, but choosing the right paint is even more important. Here are some types of paints, and things you should know about them:
1. Acrylic Latex
- Water based
- Dries quickly
- Excellent adhesion
- Durable
- Does not trap moisture
- Prevents mold and mildew growth
2. Oil Based
- Durable
- Oil-based
- Takes longer to dry
- Strong fumes
- Tends to yellow over time
- Traps moisture
- Not good for a humid bathroom
3. Bathroom-Specific
- Formulated for high moisture areas
- Contains mildewcides or antimicrobial agents
- Resists mold growth
- Long-term protection
- Expensive, but worth it!
Surface Preparation and Application Tips
- Just because your walls look clean, does not mean they are not collecting layers and layers of soap scum, dust and greasy residue. Which is why you should clean all the surfaces thoroughly using a mild detergent before even opening a paint can.
- Before you plan all bathroom wall paint ideas, make sure to use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough patches or previous paint drips. This way, you can create a polished canvas for the new bathroom paint.
- You should never paint on a wet wall, and the best way to keep the moisture in control is to use air curtains.
- We recommend that you choose a dry day to work on your bathroom. As in days, when humidity levels are low, and if it’s raining outside, maybe skip it that day.
- Ventilation throughout the process is very important, as it will help dry everything quicker, and won’t let moisture stand a chance.
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Maintenance and Longevity
1. Regular Cleaning
One mistake that most people make is to wait for dirt or mold to build up, before they go on a cleaning spree. No! Take a cloth or a gentle cleaner, and wipe down your walls every few weeks. This practice will help you maintain both the look and integrity of the paint.
2. Watch for Peeling
Have you ever started seeing those bubbles in your bathroom walls, and ignored thinking “that’s normal?” Well, it’s not! These are warning signs. So, if you see any peeling or bubbling, you have to start investigating the root cause, as it can be because of a leak or poor ventilation. Also, before you paint, make sure it is fixed.
3. Repainting
Generally, a bathroom will need repainting every 3-5 years, depending on use, moisture levels, and the quality of your last paint job. So, if you want to keep it good for as long as it can, avoid frequent harsh scrubbing or steaming, as it can wear it down quicker.
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Additional Considerations
- Even the best bathroom paints cannot survive if your bathroom is a steam chamber! So, if you want to stay away from humid bathrooms, then you can install an exhaust fan. Using this before and after showers can help suck all the moisture out, and keep your surroundings dry, and humid-free.
- While you are busy keeping the 4 walls right, make sure you do not forget about the one right above your head. The ceiling takes a lot of heat, and may need to invest in satin finishes for extra protection.
- In fact, you can also consider setting up a tissue dispenser, instead of using random tissue boxes. This can help keep the area clean and free of moisture.
- When you are painting the walls, you can use a painter’s tape to cover edges, tiles, mirrors, light fixtures, and trims. This will make your bathroom look messy for a while, but when you see those clean edges and lines afterwards, you will thank us!
Final Thoughts
One thing is for sure: there is more to bathrooms than bathroom color ideas.
- Satin and semi-gloss finishes for walls are the best kinds. They are the perfect balance of moisture protection and appearance.
- If you want to go for high-gloss, make sure you only go for the trims, doors, and cabinets.
- When looking for a paint, then acrylic latex and bathroom specific paints can be great! They are designs to handle humidity, and won’t disappoint you with their longevity.
- Always prep like a professional: Clean, Sand, Dry, and Tape!
- DO NOT FORGET ventilation is key! No matter what paint, finish, or tiles you use, if there is no place for air to pass through, the moisture will likely build up.
- And at last, do not forget about the ceiling.
