What kind of paint to use in the bathroom?

Posted on by Scott
A. Elise

I currently rent and I live in a house where all the renovations are done by someone who doesn’t know how to do them (ie halfassedly!). So this means that I don’t have to worry about my own touches being perfect… oh, if you could only see the paint jobs in my house. My bathroom is currently painted in a flat white color… I don’t know much about paint, but there’s no shine to it or anything. It’s less glossy than the paint used in my bedroom.

I have about half a can of blue flat paint that I’d like to paint the small bathroom with, but it’s not really for bathrooms. So my question is…

I know they make specific paints for bathrooms, but, can I do it anyway and expect it to be just fine for at least a year or so? Sure maybe it’s not the best choice for a bathroom, but is it really going to be that terrible? Or can I go ahead and do it anyway? The flat paint in there now is holding against moisture just fine.

Thanks for the feedback guys!

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5 Responses to What kind of paint to use in the bathroom?

  1. it is a rent house do as you like
    usually a semi gloss or satin latex enamel is used in baths

  2. I’m not sure, but I think the reason for the shiny paint is because you can wipe it easily. The flat paint is fine for a year, if your not a smoker.

  3. when decorating a kitchen or bathroom always use matt paint,
    the condensation will not run down the walls.
    try painting it magnolia, it will brighten up the room.

    and then you can put any colour with that.

  4. There are paints with very little gloss that you can use in bathrooms and kitchens, such as a satin or an eggshell finish, which are fine for the moisture associated with those areas.
    Also, there are additives you can mix in with the paint to help deter mold and mildew before you use it.
    Sure, you can use the flat paint to make your bathroom look nicer for a while.
    It sounds like your maintenance man would do the same thing.
    It will be harder to clean though.
    If it was your house, I would advise against it.
    But since you’re renting, I would ask permission first, then paint it.

  5. Fisherman is right in the sense that satin or semi-gloss is generally used.Also in the fact that it’s a rental and from your comments on the current paint job it can’t get any worse.I like to use an exterior paint in my bath,but if you don’t have moisture problems,I say go for it.It’s only for a year or so,right?