Is Satin Finish Paint Washable?

Interior Finishes

• A paint’s finish, or sheen, is defined by the amount of gloss it has. Flat finishes, also known as matte, absorb light and have the lowest amount of sheen. A flat finish is best for concealing flaws, and is typically used on ceilings, drywall and imperfect surfaces. Satin finish paint, sometimes called eggshell or low-luster, has a velvety, lustrous finish with a slight sheen. Because it’s easier to clean than flat paint, it’s often recommended for walls in high-traffic areas. Semi-gloss, gloss and high-gloss finishes are progressively more reflective than satin finish paint. These shiny finishes are most appropriate for trim, doors, and on walls and ceilings in high-moisture areas.

Washability

• The higher a paint’s gloss, the more washable its finish, according to the Utah State University Cooperative Extension. Consequently, flat finish paint is easier to touch up with fresh paint than it is to clean. Satin finishes are designed to be washable, which means they hold up to light, gentle cleansing with soap, water and a soft cloth. Semi-gloss finishes are also washable, and generally remain undamaged with more vigorous scrubbing. Gloss and high-gloss finishes are the easiest to clean. They’re formulated to hold up to scrubbing with soap, water and a soft sponge.

Recommended Use

• Satin finish paint is very versatile because it’s washable but not overly shiny. As such, you can use it just about anywhere, including doors, trim, walls and ceilings. Painting and decorating professionals most recommend satin finish paint for walls in high-traffic or high-activity areas such as foyers, hallways, family rooms, playrooms, children’s bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms. While satin finishes don’t hide imperfections as well as flat finishes, they don’t draw as much attention to flaws and inconsistencies as gloss finishes, which are sometimes recommended for kitchen and bathroom walls because they’re so easy to clean.

Considerations

• Not all satin finish paints are created equal. A low-grade satin paint contains less durable binders than medium- or high-grade satin paints, according to the book “Ortho’s All About Painting and Wallpapering,” and may degrade slightly if cleaned too vigorously. In general, low-grade satin paints are less expensive and designed for commercial use in offices, apartments and other areas that are repainted often. Medium-grade satin paint is more durable and withstands cleaning better than low-grade varieties, and isn't as expensive as high-grade satin paint. Choose medium-grade satin paint for rooms — such as a child’s bedroom — that you plan to repaint within a few years.