Choosing the perfect paint finish for your bedroom walls can make all the difference. While there are a variety of finishes to choose from, the most common are flat and matte. However, you might be wondering what is the best for bedroom walls.
Flat is the best option for bedroom walls. It gives off a subtle, inviting atmosphere that is ideal for bedrooms. The way it absorbs natural and artificial light also adds texture to your bedroom walls. Since flat paint has a minimal sheen, imperfections on the wall are less noticeable than with other finishes.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The 4 factors to consider in choosing a paint finish
- The pros and cons of flat paint
- The pros and cons of matte paint
- How to decide between flat and matte
The 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Paint Finish for Bedrooms
1. Think About Your Lighting
Another important factor to consider when choosing a paint finish for your bedroom is the amount of natural and artificial light in the room. A glossier finish bounces off the light, making a small bedroom feel more spacious.
Flat finishes absorb light and are ideal for bedrooms with abundant natural light. Selecting the right paint finish is essential in utilizing natural light and enhancing the room’s lighting capacity.
2. Consider Durability
Another factor to consider when making the decision between flat and matte is how durable you want your paint to be. Flat finishes are not as durable as higher-sheen paints.
While this may not be a concern for bedrooms that rarely experience any wear and tear, it’s something to think about for bedrooms that are used regularly. If you want a paint finish that can stand up to regular wear and tear, then it’s best to opt for matte paint.
3. Wall Condition
Another factor to consider when choosing a paint finish for your bedroom is the condition and texture of your walls. If you have smooth walls and good lighting, a flat finish may be the better option. On the other hand, if your walls are already bumpy or textured, a matte finish will be able to hide some of those imperfections.
4. Ease of Cleaning
If you are expecting to clean your walls regularly, then a matte finish is likely the better choice. Matte finishes tend to be easier to clean and also slightly more resistant to wear and tear caused by frequent cleaning. On the other hand, flat finishes may not easily wash away dirt or fingerprints, making it difficult to maintain a pristine look.
Pros and Cons of Flat Paint
Flat paint for interior walls is a type of paint that has a smooth, non-reflective finish and is commonly used on walls in residential and commercial settings. It is often interchanged with matte paint.
Pros of Using Flat Paint in Bedrooms
Hides Imperfections
Flat paint is an excellent choice for walls that have imperfections such as cracks, bumps, or rough texture. This type of paint has a smooth and non-reflective finish that helps to hide such flaws, making the walls appear uniform and spotless.
Provides a Cozy and Intimate Atmosphere
Flat paint’s subtle sheen provides a relaxing feel to the bedroom, creating a calming and cozy atmosphere perfect for rest and relaxation.
Easy to Apply
Flat paint is easy to apply without leaving unsightly brush strokes. It does not require a high skill level to achieve a neat and uniform finish.
Cons of Using Flat Paint for Bedroom Walls
Difficult to Clean
Flat paint is not ideal for having kids or pets in your home since it is tough to clean. Removing stains or marks can damage the paint’s delicate surface, making it less durable than other finishes.
Susceptible to Water Damage
Flat paint absorbs moisture more easily than other paint finishes, making it unsuitable for rooms exposed to high humidity levels. It is not recommended for bedrooms that may get damp easily due to weather conditions or the location of their windows.
Marks Easily
Flat paint marks and scuffs quickly and is not suitable for high-traffic areas. It is best for rooms such as bedrooms that do not receive much use.
Pros and Cons of Matte Paint
Matte paint is known for its velvety and non-reflective finish, creating depth in your walls. It has a low sheen level, typically falling below 10% and sometimes under 5%, making it an ideal option for homeowners who prefer a subtle and elegant look.
Pros of Using Matte Paint in Bedrooms
Hides Imperfections
One of the biggest benefits of using matte paint is its ability to hide imperfections on your walls. Matte paint has a smooth finish that doesn’t reflect light as much as other finishes like satin or gloss. This makes it ideal for walls with dents, bumps, or other flaws.
Low-Glare
Another advantage of matte paint is that it doesn’t reflect light as much as other paint finishes. It creates a low-glare surface that’s comfortable for the eyes and gives the room a cozy, relaxed vibe.
Soothing Ambience
Using matte paint can help create a soothing ambiance in your bedroom. Its low-reflectance surface gives the room an intimate feel perfect for unwinding and relaxing after a long day.
Cons of Using Matte Paint in Bedrooms
Tough to Clean
Matte paint is notoriously difficult to clean due to its porous surface. Any dirt, smudges, or scuff marks can be tough to remove without damaging the finish. This makes it less ideal for high-traffic areas of the home.
Not for Every Room
While a matte finish is ideal for creating a cozy, intimate ambiance in a bedroom, it might not work for every room in your home. If you have kids or pets, you might want to consider a tougher, more durable finish that’s easier to clean.
Flat vs. Matte: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between flat and matte paint can be a tough decision when painting your bedroom walls. Both types have their pros and cons.
Flat paint is the way to go if you want a smooth finish that hides imperfections on your wall. It is perfect for bedrooms with dry walls or uneven surfaces, as it helps to conceal the blemishes and gives a polished look. Flat paint does not reflect light, creating a soothing and calming ambiance, making it the ideal choice for bedrooms.
On the downside, flat paint is more susceptible to stains and marks, making it harder to clean and maintain. Therefore, it may not be suitable for rooms that require frequent cleaning.
Alternatively, matte paint is the best bet if you want a slightly washable finish. Matte paint has a low-reflective finish which is less prone to marking or staining, easier to maintain, and can withstand some cleaning.
However, matte paint isn’t as good at hiding surface imperfections as flat paint, so it may not be the best choice for bedrooms with textured walls.
The choice between flat and matte paint for bedroom walls is largely a preference. Both offer distinct advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when deciding. Ultimately, your choice should depend on the look and feel you want to achieve in your bedroom.