Types of Washable Paint
Both eggshell semi-gloss and satin acrylic latex paint are washable. However, a high-gloss oil-based paint produces the hardest finish, which is why we often use it for cabinet painting and doors, trim, and floors.
Semigloss Paint
Semigloss paints have more durability and sheen than satin finishes. This paint type won't wear down from cleaning, so it works best in kitchens and bathrooms. It's also great for wall trims. If you paint your cabinets, wipe them down before painting—the gloss makes imperfections stand out.
Satin is easier to wipe clean while eggshell typically needs a little more effect to clean. Ideally use a cloth and warm soapy water to wipe clean both. But eggshell's slightly rougher surface means it will typically take longer to get it clean.
That means that Satin, semi-gloss, and High Gloss will be the easiest to wipe away blemishes without harming the surfaces. That being said, not many homeowners want their interior walls to shine at that level. Usually, Satin, Semi-Gloss, and High Gloss are left to cabinets, trim, and doors.
Eggshell- and satin-finish paint types tend to be easier to clean than flat finishes but require a gentler touch than semi- or high-gloss paint. Use a mild cleaning solution and a soft, warm cloth. Test a small area first. If the spot doesn't come out, it may be best to cover it with some of the original paint.
Arteza Fabric Paint
These paints are designed to last. They are washing machine and dryer-friendly, so you can wash your new jeans or denim jacket again and again without fading or wear.
Satin paint has some sheen to it, and is an excellent choice for hardworking rooms, like kitchens and bathrooms. It stands up exceptionally well to scrubbing and regular cleaning.
From the perspective of a Color Designer/Consultant, I typically specify eggshell on walls for multiple reasons that benefit the people who are dwelling in the home. Eggshell paint cleans easier, covers better, wears better, and lasts longer than flat paint.
For paint that will provide decent durability without the reflectivity of high-gloss finishes, choose a satin finish. Cost: Eggshell paint is more cost-effective than satin paint. Homeowners looking to save at the paint store or repaint large areas are better off going with an eggshell finish.
“We advise a satin or semi-gloss finish,” says Consumer Reports' paint expert, Rico de Paz. “They're less likely to trap mold and are easier to clean than flat or eggshell finishes.” For information on all the paints we test, see CR's paint ratings.
Eggshell paints are more washable and scrubbable than a flat or matte option. They have a slightly lower sheen than satin, but offer a similar level of durability. Eggshell paints are ideal for living rooms, bedrooms and family rooms with more traffic and fingerprints since they can be wiped clean more easily.
Black is the hardest car color to keep clean.
This makes them more susceptible to damage from road debris, bird droppings and bug splatters than other colors (and also means they're more expensive to repair).
Semi-gloss paint is also very durable and more stain-resistant. Semi-gloss paint is more washable than satin finishes. It is also graceful and looks good on kid's room or bedroom. These types of paint endure moisture and grease and can be scrubbed without damaging the paint sheen.
Warm water, mild dish detergent, a soft cloth, and an even softer touch can clean your walls without removing paint. Dusting beforehand is essential. Spot-test any new cleaner if you're unsure how the paint will respond.
Use a Bucket
Pros prefer 5-gallon buckets with a roller grid to roller pans. They hold more paint than pans and, says Doherty, “It's tougher to tip over a bucket.” A bucket also lets you box, or mix, two or three cans of paint to avoid color discrepancies.
Professional painters use mild detergent and warm water when washing walls prior to painting for the best results.
Walls – Flat or eggshell. The eggshell sheen is generally our go-to for families since it is easier to wipe clean, but doesn't look shiny.
Even the most careful painters can find their hard work marred by drips on the countertop, linoleum, or carpeting. Fortunately, most paint splotches can be cleaned up with a few handy household cleansers and tools—rags, alcohol, nail polish remover, and sometimes just plain water—along with a bit of elbow grease.
Eggshell Finish
The Cons: It is very hard to touch up. Because it has the slight sheen to it, it's almost impossible to only add a new layer in small areas without it being visible. Usually a “touch-up” of eggshell means re-doing a full wall. Best For: Walls in any room where you want a little more sheen.
Use warm water and an all-purpose cleaner for walls with latex paint. Wash this type of paint with a soft sponge and a safe, all-purpose cleaning solution like water, dish soap, and distilled white vinegar. Dip a clean sponge in your wall cleaner, wring it dry, and gently clean your wall.
Semi-gloss is more durable and easier to clean.
Because the surface is slicker, it's more resistant to moisture and easier to go over with a damp cloth or special sprays designed for minor household disasters. (Either semi-gloss or satin finish, though, beats out their eggshell and flat/matte finishes for durability.)
Matte Paint
Regal® Select Interior Matte (N548) is a professional painter favorite for its ease of application and smooth feel after drying. Matte finish paint also withstands frequent washing, even when applied in busier areas like hallways and family rooms.