Painting Bathrooms and Mould-Resistant Paint: What Works

Bathrooms are the hardest-working rooms to paint. Hot showers fill the air with water, surfaces cool again, and the moisture settles on walls and ceilings.

Normal emulsion copes badly. A few smart choices make a big difference.

Ventilation comes first

No paint can overcome a room that never dries out. If your bathroom has no extractor fan, or one that barely moves air, fix that first. Open the window after showering and keep the door closed while the room is steamy.

For the wider picture, read our guide to condensation, damp and mould.

Treat any mould before painting

Painting over mould just hides it, and it returns through the new coat. Wash affected areas with a mould-removal product or a diluted bleach solution, following the label, then rinse and let the wall dry fully. Wear gloves and ventilate.

If the mould keeps coming back, there is a moisture problem to solve.

Pick the right paint

Look for paint made for kitchens and bathrooms. These contain additives that resist mould and mildew growth on the paint film and are formulated to cope with steam and wiping.

Some are anti-condensation paints that insulate slightly and reduce surface moisture. They help, but they are not a miracle cure for a damp wall.

Choose the right finish

A mid-sheen finish, such as soft sheen or satin, wipes clean and sheds water better than flat matt. Mid-sheen can show wall flaws more, so good preparation matters. Our guide to paint finishes compares the options.

Ceilings take the worst of the steam. A bathroom or moisture-resistant ceiling paint is worth the cost.

Prepare the surface

1. Clean and degrease the walls, including around the sink and bath.
2. Fill holes and cracks, and replace failing sealant before painting.
3. Sand lightly and wipe off dust.
4. Prime stained or bare patches.
5. Apply two coats, allowing each to dry fully.

Don’t paint over tiles by accident

Tiled areas are usually best left alone, or treated with a purpose-made tile paint. Seal the edges well. Check the tin before you start, because standard wall paint will not last on a wet surface.

Allow time to cure

Paint needs time to harden before it faces steam. Avoid long, hot showers for the first few days, and keep the window open.

What a professional adds

Good lighting checks, proper caulking, careful cutting in around fittings and the right system for each surface. Our interior painting service handles bathrooms of all sizes. Ask for a quote.