Should I use matte or satin paint in kitchen?

Author: Mitchel Emmerich  |  Last update: Thursday, May 28, 2026

A satin finish can work well in any kitchen since it resists stains, and dirt. In addition, it can be washed without risk of damage. Avoid scrubbing satin finishes as doing so can eliminate some of the sheen.

Is matte or satin better for kitchen walls?

Pros: A satin finish reflects more light than matte and stands up well to washing. You can use this finish in high-traffic areas such as a bathroom, the kitchen, and a kid's room as well as on trim and molding throughout the house.

What sheen is best for kitchen paint?

For most kitchens, a semi-gloss finish is the best choice. It strikes the perfect balance between durability, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal. Satin finishes are also a good choice if you prefer less shine, while gloss finishes are great for a more modern, high-impact look.

What is the most popular paint finish for kitchen walls?

5 Most Commonly Used Paints
  • Water based Paint. About 3/4 of the paint purchased by consumers is water based, often referred to as latex paint. ...
  • Oil based Paint. ...
  • Elastomeric Paint. ...
  • Enamel Paint. ...
  • Dual-component Paint (Epoxies and Urethanes)

Do you use flat or satin paint in a kitchen?

Satin paint has some sheen to it, and is an excellent choice for hardworking rooms, like kitchens and bathrooms.

Best Finish for Kitchen Cabinets Compared by Kitchen Infinity

What is the best finish for a kitchen?

But if your kitchen cabinet finish's durability is a high priority, there is no better option than a high gloss finish. A gloss finish will give you the durability you need in a busy kitchen where scratches, dings, and dents are likely to occur.

What paint is best for kitchens?

We recommend two of the best paints for kitchens: Dulux Trade Diamond Matt and Crown Trade Clean Extreme. Both are highly durable emulsions that provide excellent coverage and a scrubbable finish, ideal for high-traffic areas prone to wear, spills, and splashes.

What is the most popular paint for kitchen walls?

Off-whites, neutrals, blues, grays and greens are all timeless kitchen paint colors. The color palette below brings together 12 of the best kitchen paint colors—all tried-and-tested hues that homeowners love.

Should I use eggshell or satin paint in the kitchen?

Because of its durability, many people choose a satin finish for bathrooms, kitchens, and kids' rooms. Satin is also a popular choice for trim, especially if you want to emphasize the architecture of a space.

What is the best Sherwin Williams finish for kitchen?

Semi-Gloss

This moderately reflective, durable finish is perfect for areas that get cleaned frequently, such as: Kitchens.

What sheen does Joanna Gaines use on kitchen cabinets?

SEMI-GLOSS

Glossy and sleek, this sheen shines, but does not compete, allowing other colors near it to have their moment. Ideal for: Cabinets.

Is Matt or soft sheen better for kitchen?

Soft sheen paint is a perfect choice for high traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens.

What is the best paint for a greasy kitchen?

The best type of paint for kitchens is acrylic latex-based paint with grease and moisture-resistant properties.

What sheen should kitchen walls be?

Since kitchens are such a busy part of a home and often need extra cleaning, a satin or semi-gloss finish is the best options. Satin and eggshell finishes are commonly believed to be the same, but in fact, satin is a bit shinier. Satin finishes are easy to clean and good at standing up to mildew, stains and dirt.

Should I get satin or matte paint?

Without question, satin has a glossier finish versus matte. On the plus side, this makes satin paint easier to clean and more durable than a matte finish. However, matte paint is easier to apply and touch up than satin.

Is satin good for kitchen?

You won't find a more reflective wall paint finish than satin. Its increased binder content makes it more long-lasting than matte or eggshell finishes, which have lower gloss levels. Because of its durability and ease of cleaning, it is a great choice for heavily used rooms in the house, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Should I use matte or satin finish for kitchen?

Matte Finish: A non-reflective surface that absorbs light for a smooth, modern aesthetic. It's ideal for disguising fingerprints and minor flaws, making it both stylish and practical. Satin Finish: Offers a soft, pearl-like sheen that's not too matte, not too glossy.

What is the best Benjamin Moore paint for kitchen walls?

For kitchen walls and ceilings, check out 'Aura' in either an Eggshell or Matte finish. Aura is a foolproof solution for when you need outstanding durability but you also want remarkable colour too.

Is satin too shiny for walls?

Is satin paint too shiny for walls? In most cases, satin paint isn't too shiny for walls. In fact, satin is likely the glossiest sheen that will work on walls. However, if you're looking to hide imperfections on your walls, opting for a flatter finish will be better.

What paint is best for kitchen walls?

Acrylic paint has all of the fantastic qualities you need in paint for your kitchen walls that will provide longevity. Remember, always use a water-based primer with your water-based acrylic paint for the best adhesion and long-lasting paint job.

What color not to paint your kitchen?

4 Colors to Avoid When Painting Your Kitchen

Allen agrees, noting that very bright and bold colors, such as red or orange, should be avoided, as they can be overwhelming for the space. Allen also notes that homeowners are better off skipping the darker hues.

Should kitchen walls be eggshell or satin?

Eggshell paints are best for walls and low-traffic areas of the house because they are harder to clean effectively. Satin is a nice middle ground between high-gloss and eggshell finishes, and might be the best choice if you are trying to determine if the aesthetic is more important than longevity.

Is satin or flat paint better for kitchen?

For low-traffic areas like bedrooms, go for flat or eggshell finishes. They're elegant and don't shine too much. But if you're tackling high-traffic spots like hallways or kitchens, satin or semi-gloss finishes are the way to go. They're durable and easy to clean, perfect for those inevitable messes.

Is matt or silk better for the kitchen?

A well-lit, high-traffic kitchen might benefit from silk paint's durability and light-reflective qualities. In contrast, matt paint's soft, soothing appearance could enhance a cosy, dimly lit bedroom. Understanding the nuances of paint finishes is crucial in making an informed decision about interior painting.

What color is in for kitchens in 2024?

Green continues to be a favoured colour trend in 2024. Integrating this hue into your kitchen offers an opportunity to re-establish a connection with nature. It has a remarkable, uplifting effect on the home, embodying balance, wellbeing and serenity.

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