Flat and matte hide wall flaws best but scuff easily, so they suit ceilings and low-traffic rooms. Eggshell and satin balance a soft look with washability for living areas, hallways and bedrooms. Semi-gloss is the usual choice for trim, doors, kitchens and bathrooms because it wipes clean and resists moisture. The glossier the paint, the more it shows surface flaws, so prep matters more.
Sheen changes how a paint looks and how well it survives daily life.
Sheens compared
| Sheen | Look | Washability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat | No shine, hides flaws | Low | Ceilings, low-traffic rooms |
| Matte | Very low shine | Low to medium | Living rooms, bedrooms |
| Eggshell | Soft glow | Medium | Living areas, hallways |
| Satin | Pearl-like | Good | Kids’ rooms, kitchens, hallways |
| Semi-gloss | Shiny | Very good | Trim, doors, cabinets, baths |
| Gloss | High shine | Excellent | Trim, furniture, accents |
Names and shine levels differ between brands, so compare samples side by side.
Working out quantity
- Measure wall length × height for each wall and add them.
- Subtract large windows and doors.
- Divide by the coverage on the label, often about 350 to 400 square feet per gallon.
- Multiply by the number of coats, usually two.
Primer
Use primer on new drywall, patches, water or smoke stains, glossy surfaces and when changing from a dark to a light color. Stain-blocking primers stop marks bleeding through.
Low-VOC paint
Volatile organic compounds evaporate as paint dries. Low- and zero-VOC paints reduce odor; ventilate the room either way.
Prep
Fill holes, sand patches, wash greasy areas and tape trim. The glossier the sheen, the more flaws show.
For floors to go with fresh walls, see flooring compared. Planning a kitchen? See quartz vs granite.
Browse walls and paint.
Common questions
What paint sheen is best for walls?
Eggshell or satin for most rooms. They clean better than flat and look softer than semi-gloss.
What sheen should bathroom walls be?
Satin or semi-gloss, ideally in a paint formulated for bathrooms with mildew resistance.
Do I need primer?
On new drywall, patches, stains, glossy surfaces and big color changes, yes. Paint-and-primer products help on sound, previously painted walls.
How much paint do I need?
Most labels state coverage of roughly 350 to 400 square feet per gallon per coat. Most rooms need two coats.