Short answer
Use a high-quality, 100% acrylic latex "bathroom" paint with built-in mildewcides. Choose satin or semi-gloss for walls and trim, and a moisture-resistant matte/flat designed for baths on the ceiling. Prime with a stain-blocking, mildew-resistant primer—especially over existing stains, glossy surfaces, or patched areas.
Why bathroom paint is different
Bathrooms face high humidity, frequent temperature swings, and occasional water splashes. Standard interior paint can soften, peel, or let mildew grow. Paint labeled for bath and spa areas is formulated to resist moisture, inhibit mildew, and tolerate frequent cleaning.
Good options:
- Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa (matte that still resists moisture)
- Sherwin-Williams Duration Home or Emerald (satin/semi-gloss)
- Behr Premium Plus/Marquee Bathroom lines
- Zinsser Perma-White Mold & Mildew-Proof Bathroom Paint
For trim/cabinets, a waterborne urethane-alkyd enamel (semi-gloss) gives a hard, wipeable finish.
Recommended finishes by surface
- Walls: satin or semi-gloss for best moisture resistance. Eggshell can work if you use bath-specific paint and have strong ventilation.
- Ceiling: bathroom-rated matte/flat to minimize glare and hide imperfections, but still resist humidity.
- Trim/doors: semi-gloss or gloss waterborne enamel.
- Inside shower/tub enclosure: paint is not a long-term solution on surfaces hit by direct spray; use tile, acrylic surround, or other waterproof materials instead.
Primer matters
- Over mildew-stained or water-stained areas: use a stain-blocking primer (shellac or specialty stain blocker) after cleaning.
- Over glossy paint: use a bonding primer to prevent peeling.
- Bare drywall or patched spots: drywall primer or multi-surface primer.
- Persistent mildew areas: a mildew-resistant primer (e.g., Zinsser Mold Killing Primer).
Tools and materials
- Paint: 1–2 gallons bathroom-rated acrylic latex
- Primer: stain-blocking/bonding/mildew-resistant as needed
- Rollers: 3/8" nap for walls; 1/4" nap for trim/cabinets
- Brushes: 2"–2.5" angled sash brush
- Extension pole and quality roller frame
- Painter’s tape, plastic and drop cloths
- Spackle/patch compound, putty knife, sanding sponge (120–220 grit)
- Paintable caulk (siliconized acrylic) and caulk gun; 100% silicone for wet seams around tub/shower
- Cleaning: mild detergent or TSP substitute, mildew remover (bleach solution), rags, bucket
- PPE: gloves, eye protection, mask/respirator rated for sanding and vapors
- Step ladder (Type II or I rating)
Step-by-step: how to paint a bathroom
1) Inspect and ventilate
- Run the fan or set up a box fan. Ensure the room is dry on paint day.
2) Clean and treat mildew
- Remove dust/soap scum with detergent. For mildew: wipe with a 1:3 bleach-to-water solution, let sit 10 minutes, rinse, and dry fully.
- Safety: wear gloves and eye protection; never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.
3) Repair and prep
- Scrape any loose/peeling paint. Fill holes and seams with spackle, sand smooth.
- Lightly scuff glossy surfaces with 150–220 grit and vacuum dust.
- Caulk gaps at trim and corners with paintable caulk; use 100% silicone only where surfaces get wet (not paintable).
4) Prime as needed
- Spot-prime repairs and stains. For entire glossy rooms or significant stains, prime all walls.
5) Cut in and roll
- Cut in 2–3" at edges with a sash brush. Roll walls with a 3/8" nap in a “W” pattern, keeping a wet edge.
- Apply 2 coats for uniform color and protection. Follow recoat times on the can.
6) Ceilings and trim
- Use bathroom-rated matte on the ceiling; trim gets semi-gloss enamel. Paint trim last for easier wall touch-ups.
7) Cure and protect
- Avoid hot showers for 48–72 hours. Full cure for scrubbing can take 7–30 days; be gentle during that time.
Safety and ventilation
- Keep the room well ventilated during prep, priming, and painting. Use an exhaust fan or box fan blowing out a window.
- Wear a respirator if you’re sensitive to odors or using solvent-based products.
- Ladder safety: set on a stable surface; don’t overreach.
Technical specs to aim for
Humidity during painting: < 60%
Room temperature: 50–90°F (10–32°C), ideal 65–80°F
Coverage: 350–450 sq ft per gallon per coat
Dry time (typical): 1–2 hours to touch, 2–4 hours to recoat
Cure time: 7–30 days before aggressive cleaning
Cost and time estimates
- Paint: $35–$90 per gallon (bath-specific). Most small baths need 1 gallon for two coats; medium baths 1–2 gallons.
- Primer: $15–$40 per quart/gallon depending on type.
- Supplies: $20–$60 if you already own basic tools; $60–$120 if starting from scratch.
- Time: Prep 2–4 hours; painting 3–5 hours plus dry time between coats.
Tips for best results
- Run a dehumidifier or wait for a drier day. Turn off showers the day you paint.
- Use quality tape and remove it while paint is slightly tacky to avoid tearing.
- Maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks; don’t overwork semi-dry paint.
- Consider a mildewcide additive only if your paint isn’t already mildew-resistant.
- Upgrade the bath fan (80–110 CFM minimum for most small baths) to protect your new finish.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using standard flat/eggshell paint in a steamy bathroom.
- Painting over active mildew without cleaning and priming.
- Skipping primer on glossy or patched areas—leads to peeling or flashing.
- Painting over 100% silicone caulk—paint won’t stick. Use paintable caulk where you need to paint.
- Taking steamy showers before paint fully cures.
When to call a pro
- Recurring or widespread mold that returns after cleaning—may indicate hidden leaks.
- Severe peeling from moisture infiltration—might require drywall repairs or vapor barrier evaluation.
- Lead paint concerns in homes built before 1978 (use an EPA-certified contractor).
- High, vaulted, or tight spaces where safe access is difficult.
- If you plan to add or upgrade an exhaust fan and aren’t comfortable with electrical/venting work.
With the right prep, primer, and bath-rated paint, you’ll get a durable, washable finish that looks great and stands up to steam and splashes.