Painting a bedroom can significantly transform the room’s overall look and feel. It enhances the aesthetics and provides a fresh, new atmosphere. However, one important consideration is the type of paint to use. So, should you use flat or eggshell paint for bedroom walls?
Eggshell paint will give your walls an elegant glow and last longer than flat paint. Although the bedroom is a low-traffic area, it still faces wear and tear from activities such as vacuuming, dusting, and even wiping it down when cleaning. Eggshell paint can withstand this type of activity better than flat paint.
In this article, you will learn the following:
- The 5 factors to consider when choosing a paint finish
- The pros and cons of flat paint
- The pros and cons of eggshell paint
- How to decide between flat and eggshell paint
The 5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Paint Finish for a Bedroom
1. Think about the lighting
The lighting in your bedroom affects how a paint finish looks. A glossy finish can reflect light and brighten the space if the room is dimly lit or has minimal natural light. However, if your bedroom receives a lot of natural light, a flat finish can help soften the glare.
2. Determine the Purpose of the Room
The purpose of your bedroom can also impact your choice of paint finish. An eggshell finish is the best option if your bedroom doubles as a workspace or if you have kids or pets.
These paint finishes are resistant to dirt and moisture, making them easy to clean. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cozy, calming atmosphere, flat paint can help create an intimate vibe.
3. Consider Durability and Maintenance
Consider durability and maintenance when choosing between flat and eggshell paint for your bedroom. An eggshell finish is more resistant to dirt and moisture than flat finishes.
However, a flat finish may be more suitable if your bedroom isn’t exposed to much wear and tear. Consider your lifestyle and the amount of time you have for regular maintenance when making your decision.
4. Consider Cleaning Needs
Another important factor to consider is cleaning requirements. Flat finishes are more difficult to clean than eggshell finishes due to their lack of sheen.
Grease, fingerprints, and other common messes may become ingrained in the paint’s surface. Eggshell finishes, on the other hand, are much easier to clean and require less maintenance.
5. Condition of the Walls
The condition of your walls is another factor to consider when deciding between flat or eggshell paint for your bedroom. If the walls are in good condition, you can opt for a glossier finish, like eggshell. On the other hand, if the walls have imperfections that need some attention, a flat finish will help hide them better.
Pros and Cons of Flat Paint
Flat paint is a popular paint finish option that offers a smooth, non-reflective finish. Flat paint acts as a great backdrop for decor and furnishings.
Pros of Using Flat Paint in a Bedroom
The pros of flat paint are that it can make any living space look sleek and modern. Flat paint looks great on walls and ceilings, giving a smooth, polished finish.
It does not reflect light, so it can hide the flaws other finishes may highlight. Another advantage of flat paint is it is cost-effective. It’s cheaper than other finishes, making it an affordable option for painting large areas or rooms.
Cons of Using Flat Paint in a Bedroom
A significant downside of flat paint is its susceptibility to dirt, scuffs, and scratches. Flat paint has no gloss, so it’s harder to clean. If you have kids or pets at home, you might want to reconsider using flat paint.
Furthermore, flat paint does not perform well in moist environments, making it inappropriate for painting in areas experiencing damp conditions, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Pros and Cons of Eggshell Paint
Eggshell paint gets its name from its subtle sheen. It derives its name from the texture of an eggshell, which has a similar look and feel.
The paint is made up of a mixture of pigment, binder, and solvent, creating a durable and washable finish. Eggshell paint is also popular for woodwork, such as skirtings and doors.
Pros of Using Eggshell Paint in a Bedroom
Eggshell paint is a popular option in the bedroom for several reasons. Firstly, it gives a sophisticated, velvety finish that adds depth and texture to walls, which works well with various decor styles.
It is also easier to clean than a flat finish, making it ideal for busy family households. Eggshell paint is more durable, so it can withstand repeated wiping and frequent wear without showing wear.
Finally, it resists moisture and can help prevent mildew and mold from developing, making it perfect for damp or humid areas within your bedroom.
Cons of Using Eggshell Paint in a Bedroom
While eggshell paint has many advantages, there are also a few drawbacks. It is more expensive than flat paints, which could be a concern if you’re on a budget.
Touching up eggshell paint can be challenging as the finish has a slight gloss, so it may not blend easily. If you need to do touch-ups, it may be noticeable.
Flat vs. Eggshell: Which Should You Choose?
As its name suggests, a flat finish has a smooth, non-reflective appearance, providing a deep, rich color on any surface. Flat paint is perfect for hiding surface blemishes and imperfections and is less susceptible to scuffs and scratches.
If you have pets or children in your home or are concerned about cleaning your walls frequently, flat paint might be the best option for you.
On the other hand, eggshell finish has a slight sheen finish that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to a room. This finish reflects just enough light, creating a subtle shine on the walls to make a bedroom feel more spacious and brighter.
Furthermore, an eggshell finish is easier to clean than a flat finish, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like bedrooms with a lot of activity.
If you’re concerned about cleaning, an eggshell finish is undoubtedly the way to go. It can withstand scrubbing and wipe without losing its finish. On the other hand, flat paint can easily be damaged if it is subject to heavy cleaning.
Ultimately, the choice of paint finish comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a classic look that is easy to clean, an eggshell finish should serve you well.
However, flat paint may be the better option if you want a more subtle and modern look. Whichever type of finish you decide on, choose high-quality paint that will last for years to come.