Paint color gets the spotlight, but paint finish is what determines how your walls hold up to real life—kids, pets, cooking, showers, and daily wear. If you’ve ever wondered why one room looks smooth and another shows every bump, finish is usually the reason. Here’s a simple guide to choosing the right finish for every space.    

What “finish” actually means

Finish refers to how much light the paint reflects:

• Less sheen = softer look, hides imperfections
• More sheen = more durable and washable, but shows texture more

 

 

Matte (or flat): best for low-traffic areas or walls with visible imperfections

Pros

• Hides wall imperfections well
• Soft, modern look

Cons

• Less washable than higher-sheen finishes

Best for

• Adult bedrooms
• Formal living rooms
• Ceilings

 

Eggshell: the most popular “all-around” choice

Pros

• Subtle sheen
• More durable than matte
• Looks great in most lighting

Cons

• Can still show some wall texture if the surface isn’t prepped well

Best for

• Living rooms
• Dining rooms
• Hallways (moderate traffic)
• Guest rooms

 

Satin: durable, wipeable, and great for busy homes

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Handles moisture better
• Great for high-traffic areas

Cons

• Shows wall texture and patchwork more than eggshell

Best for

• Kids’ rooms
• Hallways and stairwells
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms (depending on ventilation)

 

Semi-gloss and gloss: tough, crisp, and made for trim

Pros

• Highly durable
• Very washable
• Great contrast on trim

Cons

• Highlights dents, brush marks, and surface flaws

    Best for

• Trim and baseboards
• Doors
• Cabinets (when paired with the right prep and product)

 

Room-by-room cheat sheet

• Ceilings: flat/matte
• Bedrooms: matte or eggshell
• Living areas: eggshell
• Hallways/kids’ rooms: eggshell or satin
• Kitchens/baths: satin (or semi-gloss in high-moisture areas)
• Trim/doors: satin or semi-gloss

 

The real secret: prep makes any finish look better

Higher-sheen paints are less forgiving. That’s why prep-first craftsmanship—cleaning, sanding, patching, caulking—matters so much. If you want help choosing the right finish (and getting a smooth, professional result), we’ve got you.