Matte vs. Eggshell: Which Paint Finish To Choose?

There is a lot more to choosing paint than simply picking a color. The same color paint may look very different in a different finish. When it comes to selecting an interior finish, homeowners often find themselves making the choice of matte paint vs. eggshell paint.

Which paint finish you choose will ultimately determine the look of the room. Certain paint finishes are also more suitable for different types of rooms. We will walk you through the differences between the two paint finishes and help you determine which is right for your next DIY project or professional renovation.

What is the Difference Between Matte and Eggshell Paint Finishes

Although matte and eggshell stand shoulder to shoulder on the spectrum of paint finishes, there are several subtle differences between the two. Recognizing these differences will help you choose between matte and eggshell paint finishes.

Sheen

In the paint world, sheen refers to how reflective the paint will be when it's dry. In other words, how “shiny” it is. The names of matte and eggshell paint are suggestive of their sheens.

Eggshell paint is slightly more reflective than matte paint, with a texture similar to an actual eggshell once dried. Eggshell sheen can potentially give a room a greater visual depth than the flatter matte finish.

Matte sheens do not reflect light as much as an eggshell or even glossier finish. In fact, they can actually absorb light! Because of this property, matte paint is a great option for hiding minor imperfections in the wall or furniture that you're painting.

Durability

Even indoors, there is a lot that can impact a paint job over the years. Excessive moisture, dirt, and anything that may bump into a wall can potentially cause paint to chip or peel.

Although both matte and eggshell paints are durable, eggshell finishes tend to be the more durable and washable of the two options. If you're looking for paint that can withstand more frequent washing and minor stains, eggshell paint is the better choice.

Imperfections

Paint's job is to make the walls, ceiling, or floor look beautiful. That can also mean hiding its imperfections, and some paint finishes do this better than others.

Eggshell paints tend to show more cracks, divots, and other imperfections in the wall due to their slight light-reflecting sheen.

Matte paint, with its flat finish, tends to hide these blemishes due to its low light reflectance. Matte paint is a great option for any spaces in your home that are a little less than perfect.

Aesthetics

Eggshell paint finishes tend to add depth and warmth to a room. Its slight light-reflecting properties are also helpful for creating a cozy ambiance.

Matte paint finishes tend to deliver a contemporary, minimalist look. They also absorb light, making colors appear more consistent.

Planning the intended vibe of the room you're painting can be helpful when you're trying to decide between the aesthetic choice between eggshell and matte paint. In this regard, it's entirely up to you and your visual preferences!

Matte Vs. Eggshell Paint for a Bathroom

Because of their higher sheen and durability, eggshell paints are typically easier to clean. This makes them perfect for high-traffic areas that are prone to moisture, grease, and dirt.

Kitchen and bathroom walls are popular contenders for hard-wearing eggshell paint. It is also a popular choice for painting trim and crown molding because it makes it stand out while still standing up to scuffing from passing feet, bumps, and scratches.

Matte Vs. Eggshell Paint for a Living Room

Living rooms are exposed to less moisture, making the high durability of eggshell paint less necessary. The same needs apply to other rooms in your house, including bedrooms and offices.

We often spend extended periods in these rooms, giving us plenty of time to look at the walls. This makes the imperfection-hiding prowess of matte paint well-suited to these frequented spaces.

Shop Both Matte and Eggshell Paints with ECOS

Here at ECOS Paints, we want you to have the full variety of paint options at your disposal for your next home project, whether you're painting the walls or a piece of furniture.

In the debate of eggshell vs. matte paint for your next interior project, it all depends on the room and the type of project. Whether you choose our best-selling interior eggshell paint or interior matte paint, both options offer exceptional coverage and dry to a hard, durable film designed to keep your space looking fresh for years to come.