Paint finishes explained
The finish, or sheen, is how shiny paint looks when it dries. More sheen means easier cleaning but shows more wall flaws. Names vary between brands, so compare samples.
| Finish | Sheen | Looks | Best for | Cleaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat | No shine. Hides wall flaws best. | Ceilings, low-traffic rooms | Hard to scrub; touch up instead | |
| Matte | Very low shine, a little tougher than flat. | Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms | Gentle wiping | |
| Eggshell | A soft glow, like an eggshell. | Living spaces, hallways | Wipes clean fairly well | |
| Satin | Smooth, pearly sheen. | Kitchens, kids' rooms, bathrooms | Washable | |
| Semi-gloss | Noticeably shiny. Shows flaws more. | Trim, doors, bathrooms, cabinets | Very washable | |
| Gloss | High shine, very durable. | Doors, trim, furniture, accents | Most washable; shows every flaw |
General information. Sheen names and levels differ by brand. Always follow the label for drying and recoat times.
Quick picks
Ceilings
Flat, to hide bumps and lap marks.
Living rooms
Matte or eggshell for a soft look.
Kitchens and baths
Satin or semi-gloss to handle moisture and wiping.
Trim and doors
Semi-gloss or gloss for durability.
Read pick the right finish and choose a paint color, or work out how much you need with the paint calculator.