What is washable paint and when is it worth using?

Washable paint is paint that can be cleaned with a damp cloth without losing its colour or coming off the wall. It is worth it in areas where the wall gets very dirty: hallways, kitchens, children's bedrooms and staircases. In a living room that is little used, the difference is less noticeable.

What washable means

Almost all wall paint can put up with a little cleaning. But washable paints have a tougher film. This lets you clean off marks without pulling off the paint or leaving a duller patch.

Manufacturers usually state scrub resistance on the tin, sometimes with classes. Read the technical data sheet or the label. There is no simple rule that says one paint is good and another bad just from its name.

Where it is worth it

Think about who touches the wall and what dirties it.

On ceilings and in adult bedrooms, it is normally not necessary. A good ordinary paint is enough.

Advantages and limits

The main advantage is being able to clean without worry. A coffee stain or a fingerprint comes off with a damp cloth. The wall keeps its look better over the years.

But there are limits. Washable does not mean indestructible. Scrubbing hard, using rough sponges or very harsh products can scratch or polish the surface. Some washable matt paints also end up with shinier patches where they are scrubbed a lot.

Something else to know: if the paint is very tough, it is harder to touch up. A touched-up area may end up with a slightly different shade or sheen. The ideal is to repaint the whole wall, from corner to corner.

How to clean without damaging

  1. Wait until the paint is fully dry and cured. Follow the time given on the tin before cleaning properly.
  2. Start by removing dust with a dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner.
  3. Use a soft cloth with warm water and a little mild detergent.
  4. Rub with light movements, without pressing hard.
  5. Wipe over with a cloth and clean water only, then leave to dry.

Test first in a corner that is out of sight. That way you can see whether the colour or sheen changes.

Is the extra cost worth it?

In general, these paints cost more than ordinary ones. It can pay off in heavily used areas, because the wall lasts longer without being repainted. In quiet rooms, the money may be better spent on preparing the wall, which makes a big difference to the result.

A rule of thumb: use washable paint on walls you will clean often, and good-quality ordinary paint on the rest.

Tip: If you are painting a hallway wall, choose a washable matt or satin finish. A strong gloss shows every mark and imperfection.

See also