Eggshell paint is a popular choice among interior designers and DIYers alike because of its compatibility with most rooms. It’s cost-effective and provides a beautiful, subtle finish. But what about when it comes to cleaning? Is eggshell paint washable or easy to clean?
Eggshell paint has a low-gloss finish that is highly durable and can resist staining and dirt, making it easy to clean. However, it is not as washable as gloss paint. You should be able to clean off dirt and grime with a damp cloth. A soft-bristle brush may be used to avoid damaging the paint.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The pros and cons of cleaning eggshell paint
- The factors that affect the ease of cleaning
- How eggshell compares to other paint finishes
Pros and Cons of Cleaning Eggshell Paint
While eggshell paint can withstand some amount of cleaning, it isn’t among the easiest paint finishes to clean. Here is a list of the pros and cons of cleaning eggshell.
Pros:
Low-sheen finish
Eggshell paint has a low-sheen finish, making it easy to wipe clean without leaving streaks or marks.
Durability
Because of its low-luster surface, eggshell paint can withstand scrubbing and other cleaning methods without losing color or luster.
Stain-resistant
This type of finish is not likely to be stained or damaged by water, soap, and other cleaning products. Cleaning is easier because of this.
Washable
Since the eggshell finish has a bit of a sheen, it has a protective layer that allows it to be washable. This means it can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Cons:
Not enough gloss
Eggshell paint lacks the shine of semi-gloss or high-gloss paint, so it may not be as easy to keep clean.
Higher tendency to absorb dirt and grime
The low-luster surface of eggshell paint makes it more susceptible to absorbing dirt and grime than other types, which can make cleaning more difficult.
More difficult to scrub away dirt
Since eggshell paint does not have a glossy finish, it can be more difficult to scrub away dirt or grime when cleaning.
7 Factors That Affect the Ease of Cleaning Eggshell Paint
1. Type of stain
Depending on the type of stain to be cleaned, the cleaning process may be more or less difficult. For example, water-based stains are easier to remove from eggshell paint than oil-based ones.
2. Type of cleaner used
Using the wrong type of cleaner can damage eggshell paint and make it harder to clean. Always use mild detergents and cleaners when cleaning this type of finish.
3. Age of the paint
Older eggshell paint may be harder to clean than newer paint, as the protective layer of sheen can wear away over time.
4. Paint quality
The paint quality will also affect its ability to be easily cleaned. High-quality paints are usually more durable and easier to clean.
5. Method of cleaning
The method used for cleaning eggshell paint will also affect its ease of cleaning. For example, a soft damp cloth is most effective for light dusting or wiping away spots. A more abrasive scrubbing tool may not be suitable for this paint finish.
6. Surface texture
The texture of the surface can also make a difference when it comes to cleaning eggshell paint. A smooth finish is easier to clean than a rough or textured one.
7. Environmental factors
The environment in which the eggshell paint is being cleaned can affect its ability to resist stains and ease of cleaning. Humidity, temperature, and other factors may cause dirt, grime, and other substances to be more difficult to remove from the surface.
How Does Eggshell’s Cleanability Compare to Other Paint Finishes?
High-gloss
High-gloss paint is a popular choice for its super-shiny and light-reflecting properties, which give it an almost mirror-like appearance.
One of the biggest advantages of high-gloss paint is that it is highly washable, making it a great option for high-traffic areas or rooms that are prone to stains.
Semi-gloss
Semi-gloss paint has a slightly glossy finish that offers some shine without being overly reflective. Semi-gloss is highly washable, making it easy to keep clean with just a damp cloth and mild detergent. Unlike eggshell paint, it’s able to withstand frequent cleaning without losing its shine or color.
Silk
Silk paint has a smooth and silky finish which can give a subtle shine to walls without being too glossy or reflective. While it’s not as easy to clean as the glossier finishes, it is more stain-resistant and washable than eggshell paint.
Satin
Satin paint has a slightly higher sheen than eggshell. Its mid-sheen finish makes it more durable. One of the benefits of satin paint is its washability. Unlike eggshell, it is able to withstand more frequent cleaning without losing its luster or color.
Matte
Matte paint has very little reflectivity. As such, it’s one of the least washable finishes. Compared to eggshell paint, matte is much less washable and can be more difficult to keep clean.
For this reason, it’s not a good choice for high-traffic areas or rooms that are prone to stains or moisture.
Flat
Flat paint has a matte finish with no shine. While this can be great for hiding imperfections on walls, the downside is that it’s not washable.
Flat paint is more likely to absorb dirt and grime, and attempts to clean it may result in streaks or discoloration. This makes it a better choice for low-traffic areas like bedrooms or dining rooms where walls are less likely to get dirty.
How to Clean and Maintain Eggshell Paint
Regularly clean
Regular dusting and wiping down the walls with a microfiber cloth can help keep eggshell paint looking fresh and clean.
Deep cleaning
Use a mild cleaner and warm water or a specialty commercial wall cleaning product to remove dirt and grime from the walls for deep cleaning. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish of the paint.
Paint protection
In order to protect the eggshell paint finish and ensure that it stays looking its best, consider using a protective sealer. These products can help provide an extra layer of protection from dirt and stains while also making the walls easier to clean.
Re-painting
Eggshell paint may need to be re-painted every few years to keep the finish looking fresh and clean. Use high-quality paint that is designed for use on walls, ceilings, or trim to ensure a long-lasting finish.
Touch-ups
Inspect walls regularly and touch up any imperfections. This will help keep walls looking their best and will also help to hide any damages that occur over time.
