Best Paint for Bathroom Walls: Top Choices for Moisture-Prone Areas

Painting bathroom walls is an essential task for every homeowner. It not only enhances the overall look of the bathroom but also protects the walls from moisture and mildew. However, choosing the right paint for bathroom walls can be a daunting task as it requires a specific type of paint that can withstand high humidity and frequent cleaning.

When it comes to the best paint for bathroom walls, there are several factors to consider. The first and foremost is the type of paint. The most suitable paint for bathroom walls is a semi-gloss or satin finish as it can resist moisture and mildew growth. Additionally, it is easy to clean and maintain, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like bathrooms.

Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best paint for bathroom walls is the color. Lighter shades like white, beige, and pastels can make the bathroom look more spacious and bright. On the other hand, darker shades like navy blue or black can create a dramatic effect, but they may make the bathroom look smaller.

We spent several hours researching and testing various brands of paint to identify the ones that are best suited for bathroom walls. In the following sections, we will discuss the top picks and their features in detail, helping you make an informed decision for your bathroom renovation project.

Best Paints for Bathroom Walls

When it comes to painting bathroom walls, choosing the right paint is crucial. Not only does it need to withstand moisture and humidity, but it should also resist mold and mildew growth. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to go for. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various paints to bring you the best ones for your bathroom walls. Below is our roundup of the top picks that will give your bathroom a fresh new look while also protecting it from moisture damage.

1) Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew Proof Interior Paint

If you’re looking for a paint that can withstand the humidity and moisture of a bathroom, Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew Proof Interior Paint is a great option to consider.

We recently used Zinsser PERMA-WHITE to refresh our bathroom walls and were pleased with the results. The self-priming formula saved us time and effort, and we appreciated that the paint was guaranteed to be mold and mildew-proof for up to 5 years. The finish was also washable and scrubbable, making it easy to maintain.

However, we did find that the paint required multiple coats to achieve complete coverage, and the strong chemical odor during application was a bit overwhelming. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty with achieving an even finish, so it’s important to take your time and apply the paint carefully.

Overall, we would recommend Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew Proof Interior Paint for anyone looking for a durable, moisture-resistant paint for their bathroom walls.

2) Diamond Brite Paint Kitchen & Bathroom 1 Gallon White Semi Gloss Latex Paint 40500-1 1 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a reliable paint for your bathroom walls, then Diamond Brite Paint Kitchen & Bathroom 1 Gallon White Semi Gloss Latex Paint 40500-1 1 Gallon (Pack of 1) is a great option to consider.

We found that Diamond Brite Paint Kitchen & Bathroom 1 Gallon White Semi Gloss Latex Paint 40500-1 1 Gallon (Pack of 1) is an excellent choice for those who want a paint that can withstand the moisture and humidity of bathrooms. The high hiding formula makes it easy to cover up imperfections on your walls, and the semi-gloss finish gives your bathroom a sleek and modern look.

One of the great things about this paint is that it’s made in America, so you can trust that it’s made with high-quality materials. It’s also versatile enough to be used on bathroom walls, ceilings, and cabinets, which makes it a great all-around option.

However, it’s important to note that this paint is not intended for use on bathtubs, showers, or sinks. Also, while the coverage is good, it may not be enough for larger bathroom walls. You may also need to apply multiple coats if you’re using a darker color.

Overall, we highly recommend Diamond Brite Paint Kitchen & Bathroom 1 Gallon White Semi Gloss Latex Paint 40500-1 1 Gallon (Pack of 1) for anyone who wants a reliable paint for their bathroom walls. It’s easy to apply, has a high hiding formula, and gives your bathroom a sleek and modern look.

3) Rust-Oleum Zinsser 276087 Mold Killing Primer

If you want to get rid of mold and mildew on your bathroom walls, Rust-Oleum Zinsser 276087 Mold Killing Primer is an excellent choice. It is a protective primer that is specially formulated to paint over and kill existing mold, mildew, moss, fungi, and odor-causing bacteria on non-porous interior and exterior surfaces.

We recently used Rust-Oleum Zinsser 276087 Mold Killing Primer on our bathroom walls, and we were impressed with its effectiveness. The primer went on smoothly and covered the mold stains effectively. It dried quickly, allowing us to apply a topcoat within an hour, which saved us a lot of time. The low-odor, water-based formula made it easy to clean up after the project was finished.

However, we did notice that the mold returned after a few months, albeit in a much smaller amount. We also had some difficulty mixing the paint in the can, which resulted in some lumps and uneven application. Despite these minor issues, we would recommend Rust-Oleum Zinsser 276087 Mold Killing Primer to anyone looking for an effective and easy-to-use solution to mold and mildew on their bathroom walls.

4) soto White Paint Touch Up, Multi-Surface, Satin Finish (No. 01 Perfect White) – 1.5 Ounces/45 Milliliters of Scratch Repair for Furniture, Walls, Cabinets, Trim, Doors, Indoor/Outdoor 1.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) No. 01 Perfect White

If you’re looking for a versatile touch-up paint for your bathroom walls, soto White Paint Touch Up is a great choice. It’s easy to use and can be applied to various surfaces, including walls, trim, furniture, and cabinets. Plus, it comes in a range of colors, so you can find the perfect match for your bathroom.

We recently used soto White Paint Touch Up to cover some scratches on our bathroom walls, and we were impressed with how easy it was to use. The included brush tip made it easy to apply the paint precisely, and the satin finish covered the scratches well. We also appreciated the color chart, which helped us find the closest match to our existing paint color.

One thing to keep in mind is that the bottle is small, so it might not be enough for larger touch-up jobs. Also, the price might be a bit steep for the amount of paint you get. However, if you’re looking for a versatile touch-up paint that can be used on various surfaces, including bathroom walls, soto White Paint Touch Up is definitely worth considering.

5) DWIL White Touch Up Paint

If you’re looking for a fast and easy way to touch up your bathroom walls, DWIL’s White Touch Up Paint might be just what you need.

We recently used DWIL White Touch Up Paint to cover some minor scratches and chips on our bathroom walls. The built-in brush made it easy to apply, and it dried quickly, so we were able to finish our project in no time.

One of the things we liked about this product is its versatility. It adheres to a wide range of surfaces, including walls, trim, doors, cabinets, blinds, windows, beds, tables, chairs, furniture, stoves, and refrigerators. This makes it a great option if you’re looking for a multi-purpose touch-up paint.

However, we did notice that it might not cover extensive repairs or major stains. If you have a large area that needs to be covered, you might need to use a different product. Additionally, it’s not rust-proof, so it’s not recommended for use on materials that will rust.

Overall, we think DWIL White Touch Up Paint is a great option if you’re looking for a fast and easy way to touch up your bathroom walls. Just keep in mind that it may require multiple coats to achieve optimal coverage.

6) Hemway Glitter Paint Additive

If you’re looking to add some sparkle to your bathroom walls, Hemway Glitter Paint Additive is a great option.

We recently tried Hemway Glitter Paint Additive in our bathroom, and we were pleased with the results. The glitter added a beautiful sparkle to our walls, and the color remained vibrant and fade-resistant even after several months. However, we did notice that the paint became thicker with the addition of the Glitter Paint Additive, so we had to adjust our painting technique to ensure even application. We also recommend mixing the paint well before applying to avoid any settling of the glitter at the bottom of the can. Overall, we would recommend Hemway Glitter Paint Additive for anyone looking to add some sparkle to their bathroom walls.

7) NADAMOO Dark Gray Multi Surface Touch Up Paint

We highly recommend the NADAMOO Dark Gray Multi Surface Touch Up Paint for anyone looking to touch up their bathroom walls.

This touch up paint is perfect for those looking for a quick and easy way to touch up their bathroom walls. The built-in brush makes it simple to apply, and the water-based formula ensures a low odor and VOC.

The small bottle design with cap allows for easy shaking and prevents paint splashes, making it a mess-free experience. However, it may take multiple coats to achieve the desired coverage, and the color may not be an exact match for some surfaces.

Overall, we highly recommend the NADAMOO Dark Gray Multi Surface Touch Up Paint for anyone looking to touch up their bathroom walls quickly and easily.

8) Heirloom Traditions Paint

If you’re looking for a paint that doesn’t require sanding, priming, or a top coat for your bathroom walls, then Heirloom Traditions Paint is a great option.

We recently used Heirloom Traditions Paint to update the cabinets in our bathroom, and we were impressed with the results. The paint went on smoothly and evenly, and the low luster finish was perfect for our bathroom walls. We also appreciated that we didn’t need to sand or prime the cabinets before painting, which saved us a lot of time and effort.

One thing to keep in mind is that the color may look different in person than it does on a digital screen. We recommend using the Heirloom Traditions Color Card Fan Deck to ensure that you choose the right color for your bathroom.

Overall, if you’re willing to spend a little extra money for a paint that doesn’t require sanding, priming, or a top coat, then Heirloom Traditions Paint is a great choice for your bathroom walls.

9) Heirloom Traditions Paint

If you’re looking for a paint that doesn’t require sanding, priming, or top coat, Heirloom Traditions Paint is a good choice. It is low-odor and fast-drying, which makes it ideal for painting hard surfaces, including walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, and floor and wall tile. However, the results may not be guaranteed, as digital screens may not show color accurately.

We recently used Heirloom Traditions Paint in Almond to give our bathroom cabinets a fresh look. The paint went on smoothly and dried quickly, which made the process easy and efficient. The low-luster, velvet sheen finish gave the cabinets a professional look, and we were impressed with how durable the paint was. We also appreciated that it could be used on a variety of surfaces, which made it a versatile choice.

However, we did find that the color was slightly different than what we expected based on the digital screen. It took a few coats to achieve full coverage, which was a bit time-consuming. Additionally, the color options are limited, so it may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a specific shade.

Overall, we would recommend Heirloom Traditions Paint for those looking for a low-odor, fast-drying paint that doesn’t require sanding, priming, or top coat. While the color accuracy may not be guaranteed, the paint is durable and can be used on a variety of hard surfaces.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best paint for bathroom walls, there are several factors that you should consider. The right paint can not only enhance the look of your bathroom but also provide protection against moisture and mildew. Here are some features to look for when selecting a paint for your bathroom walls.

Sheen

One of the most important factors to consider is the sheen of the paint. The sheen refers to the level of glossiness or shine that the paint has. In general, the higher the sheen, the more durable the paint will be. For bathroom walls, we recommend choosing a paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish. These finishes are easy to clean and can withstand moisture and humidity.

Mildew Resistance

Bathrooms are often damp and humid, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. To prevent this, look for a paint that is specifically designed to resist mildew. These paints contain special additives that inhibit the growth of mold and mildew, helping to keep your bathroom walls clean and healthy.

VOC Content

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can be released into the air as paint dries. These chemicals can cause health problems, especially in people with asthma or other respiratory issues. To minimize your exposure to VOCs, look for a paint with a low VOC content. Many manufacturers now offer low-VOC or no-VOC paints that are safe and environmentally friendly.

Color

Of course, the color of the paint is also an important consideration. When choosing a color for your bathroom walls, consider the overall style and decor of your bathroom. Lighter colors can make a small bathroom feel more spacious, while darker colors can add drama and sophistication. Whatever color you choose, make sure it complements your bathroom fixtures and accessories.

By considering these factors when choosing a paint for your bathroom walls, you can ensure that you select a product that looks great, provides protection against moisture and mildew, and is safe for you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of paint finish is most durable for bathroom walls?

For bathroom walls, we recommend using a semi-gloss or satin finish. These finishes are more durable and moisture-resistant than flat or eggshell finishes. They are also easier to clean and maintain.

How does humidity affect the choice of bathroom paint?

Humidity can cause paint to peel and crack over time, so it’s important to choose a paint that is specifically designed for high humidity environments. Look for paints that are labeled as moisture-resistant or mildew-resistant.

What are the benefits of using moisture-resistant paint in bathrooms?

Moisture-resistant paint is designed to resist the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a problem in bathrooms with high humidity. It also helps to prevent peeling and cracking, ensuring that your bathroom walls stay looking great for longer.

Is there a preferred brand of paint that professionals recommend for bathrooms?

There are many great brands of paint that are suitable for use in bathrooms. Some popular options include Sherwin-Williams, Behr, and Benjamin Moore. We recommend consulting with a professional painter to determine the best brand and type of paint for your specific bathroom.

Do bathroom ceilings require a different kind of paint than walls?

Bathroom ceilings are typically painted with the same type of paint as bathroom walls. However, if your bathroom has a lot of moisture or is prone to mildew, you may want to consider using a moisture-resistant paint specifically designed for ceilings.

What should be considered when choosing paint for a high humidity bathroom environment?

When choosing paint for a high humidity bathroom environment, it’s important to look for paints that are labeled as moisture-resistant or mildew-resistant. You should also consider the level of ventilation in your bathroom, as proper ventilation can help to reduce humidity levels and prolong the life of your paint.