Paint Finishes Explained (Flat, Eggshell, Satin, Gloss)
Part of Interior & Finishes
Quick answer
Paint finishes run from flat (no shine, hides flaws, hard to clean) through eggshell and satin (the sweet spot for walls) to semi-gloss and gloss (shiny, scrubbable, for trim, doors, kitchens and baths). Eggshell or satin is best for most interior walls; semi-gloss for trim and moisture-prone rooms.
Sheen is how much light the dried paint reflects, and it's a trade-off: the flatter the finish the better it hides wall imperfections, but the harder it is to wipe clean. Glossier finishes are tougher and washable but show every bump.
The finishes, flat to glossy
| Finish | Sheen | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Flat / matte | None | Ceilings, low-traffic & adult bedrooms |
| Eggshell | Low | Living rooms, bedrooms, most walls |
| Satin | Soft | Hallways, kids' rooms, family rooms |
| Semi-gloss | Shiny | Trim, doors, kitchens, bathrooms |
| High-gloss | Very shiny | Cabinets, furniture, accents |
Eggshell vs satin vs flat
- Flat hides drywall flaws best but marks easily — great for ceilings, not for hallways.
- Eggshell has a slight glow, wipes better than flat, and suits most walls.
- Satin is a touch shinier and more scrubbable — better for high-traffic and humid rooms.
- Semi-gloss and gloss resist moisture and scrubbing, which is why they go on trim, doors and bathroom walls.
FAQs
What is the best paint finish for interior walls?
Eggshell or satin. They balance a subtle, pleasant sheen with enough washability for everyday walls. Use flat on ceilings and semi-gloss on trim, doors and bathrooms.
What's the difference between eggshell and satin?
Satin has a slightly higher sheen and is a bit more durable and scrubbable, so it suits hallways, kids' rooms and damp spaces. Eggshell is flatter and hides wall imperfections better.