Paint Finish Guide: Matte, Eggshell, Satin, or Gloss?
How to Choose the Right Sheen for Every Room
Paint color might be your first decision when planning a painting project—but don’t overlook the finish. The sheen you choose plays a major role in durability, ease of cleaning, and how the paint looks under light.
From subtle and soft to shiny and bold, each finish serves a specific purpose. In this guide, we break down the differences between matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss, so you can make the right call for every wall in your space.
1. Matte (Flat) Finish
Low-sheen | Non-reflective | Smooth feel
Best for:
Ceilings
Low-traffic areas (bedrooms, formal living rooms)
Walls with imperfections to hide
Pros:
✔ Absorbs light for a soft, velvety look
✔ Hides surface flaws well
✔ Great for large wall spaces
Cons:
✘ Not easy to clean
✘ Can scuff or mark easily
Pro Tip: Use matte when visual softness matters more than scrub-ability.
2. Eggshell Finish
Slight sheen | Soft glow | Subtle texture
Best for:
Living rooms
Dining rooms
Hallways
Adult bedrooms
Pros:
✔ More durable than flat/matte
✔ Easier to clean
✔ Gives walls a rich, low-luster look
Cons:
✘ Slightly less forgiving with wall imperfections than matte
✘ Not ideal for very high-traffic or wet areas
Pro Tip: Eggshell is the go-to for a polished, timeless look in most home interiors.
3. Satin Finish
Medium sheen | Smooth and silky
Best for:
Kitchens
Bathrooms
Kids’ rooms
Laundry rooms
Trim and doors
Pros:
✔ Durable and moisture-resistant
✔ Easy to wipe clean
✔ Adds a gentle shine
Cons:
✘ Can highlight wall flaws or uneven patches
✘ Needs proper prep for a smooth finish
Pro Tip: Satin is a solid middle ground—offering both style and durability in active areas.
4. Semi-Gloss Finish
High sheen | Reflective | Sleek
Best for:
Trim
Doors
Cabinets
Bathrooms and kitchens
Pros:
✔ Super durable and washable
✔ Great for areas that get touched or scrubbed
✔ Makes trim pop against matte or eggshell walls
Cons:
✘ Shows every flaw and brushstroke
✘ Not ideal for large walls or rough surfaces
Pro Tip: Use semi-gloss to make architectural details shine.
5. High-Gloss Finish
Very shiny | Ultra-reflective | Hard finish
Best for:
Specialty features
Accent trim
High-style cabinetry
Furniture
Pros:
✔ Extremely durable and stain-resistant
✔ Washable and long-lasting
✔ Dramatic, high-end finish
Cons:
✘ Demands flawless prep work
✘ Can look overly shiny in the wrong setting
✘ Shows every imperfection
Pro Tip: Use sparingly for impact—think statement doors or custom built-ins.
Final Thought
Paint finish isn’t just a design choice—it’s a functionality choice. The right sheen can make your walls easier to maintain, help highlight architectural details, or tone down an overly bright space.
Need help choosing the perfect paint and finish for your project? We’re happy to guide you and deliver a flawless result that fits your style and your lifestyle.