Top 10 Best Bathroom Paints That Resist Steam, Moisture and Mould in the UK (2026)

Bathrooms are tough places for paint.

Hot showers fill the room with steam. Cold walls trap moisture. Even with a window open, damp air lingers longer than you’d like. And when the wrong paint is on the wall, it shows quickly.

A patch near the ceiling never dries. A corner starts to darken. Paint that once looked fresh begins to bubble or flake.

That’s not bad decorating. It’s paint that wasn’t meant for this space.

Bathroom paint must withstand moisture in the air, frequent temperature fluctuations, and regular cleaning. Ordinary wall paint struggles with that. Some last a few months. Others barely survive winter.

This review covers the top 10 bathroom paints available in the UK for 2026. These picks are based on real-world use in homes, including small bathrooms, family houses, flats with limited ventilation, and busy mornings with back-to-back showers.

Some paints work best on ceilings. Some handle full walls better. A few cope well with both.

If you want paint that still looks clean long after the new-paint smell has gone, you’re in the right place.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links in this article may be Amazon affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. We only feature products suitable for UK bathrooms and real-life conditions. Prices and availability are correct at the time of writing but may change.

Top 10 Best Bathroom Paints in the UK Compared

1. Johnstone’s – Bathroom Paint – Brilliant White – Mid Sheen Finish – 2.5L

Best for: Stopping the cycle of peeling and repainting in bathrooms that suffer from heavy condensation.

If you’ve ever seen your paint flake off in strips after a hot shower, you know why a standard emulsion fails. This Johnstone’s formula is the answer because it’s engineered as a functional barrier, not just a colour. It tackles the two biggest bathroom headaches: moisture penetration and stubborn stains.

Instead of letting steam soak into your plaster, the mid-sheen finish forces water to bead up and roll off. It’s the fix for anyone tired of seeing damp patches or “sweating” walls, providing a durable skin that actually stays put when things get steamy.

Key Features

• Moisture Defence: A dedicated formula that survives heavy condensation without bubbling or lifting.
• Stain Blocking: Actively prevents watermarks and grease from soaking into the wall surface.
• Quick-Dry Tech: Sets in just 1-2 hours, allowing you to finish the job between morning and evening showers.
• High-Yield Coverage: 2.5 litres covers a significant area, roughly 30m² per tin for a single coat.
• Low VOC Formula: Very little smell, which is vital for decorating small, windowless bathrooms safely.

Pros

• Creates a tough, wipeable surface that makes cleaning soap scum and splashes easy.
• The mid-sheen finish bounces light, making cramped UK bathrooms feel a bit brighter.
• Excellent thickness that hides old marks and minor wall defects in fewer coats.
• Does not require a separate primer on most previously painted interior walls.

Cons

• Glossier than a matte finish, it may accentuate bumps in poorly plastered walls.
• Needs a clean, grease-free surface to start with, as moisture protection is compromised otherwise.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Bathroom Paint – 2.5L

It solves the humidity problem without breaking the bank. It’s a straightforward, hardworking paint that turns a damp room into a clean, protected space quickly.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s – Bathroom Paint – Brilliant White – Mid Sheen Finish – 2.5L

2. SIRAMICO COATINGS Paint for Bathrooms – 1 Litre

Best for: Long-term prevention of stubborn black mould and fungi in damp, poorly ventilated spaces.

While the Johnstone’s paint we looked at is a great all-rounder for daily splashes, this SIRAMICO version is what you grab when you need a specialist. It’s a heavy-duty fix for those corners that always seem to turn grey. If your bathroom lacks a window or has poor airflow, standard moisture resistance isn’t enough.

You need something that actively fights back. This paint acts as a ten-year shield, stopping spores from ever getting a foothold. It swaps that shiny mid-sheen look for a flat, modern matte that hides wall wonkiness while keeping your air much cleaner.

Key Features

• 10-Year Resistance: Specifically engineered to block mould and fungal growth for a full decade.
• Multi-Surface Use: Works on interior walls, ceilings, brickwork, concrete, and cement.
• Flexible Application: Can be applied using a standard brush, roller, or even an airless sprayer.
• Matte Finish: Provides a flat, modern look that helps hide surface unevenness and bumps.
• Non-Toxic & Low Odour: Safe for indoor use with a formula that blocks smells while drying quickly.

Pros

• Extremely effective at preventing mildew in high-humidity zones like kitchens and showers.
• Touch dry in as little as one hour, making it great for quick home maintenance.
• High coverage rate of 10 square metres per single litre.
• Provides a much more hygienic environment by stopping deep fungal penetration.

Cons

• Requires thorough cleaning with bleach or mould spray before you can start painting.
• Needs a longer wait time of 3-4 hours before you can safely apply a second coat.

Why we recommend SIRAMICO COATINGS Paint for Bathrooms – 1 Litre

It offers incredible peace of mind with its ten-year guarantee. This is the go-to choice for tackling damp issues once and for all.

Check prices on Amazon: SIRAMICO COATINGS Paint for Bathrooms – 1 Litre

3. Dulux 500001 Easycare Bathroom Soft Sheen Emulsion Paint – 1L

Best for: Busy family bathrooms that need a tough, scrubbable finish to survive daily wear.

While the Siramico bathroom paint we just covered is great for smaller spots, Dulux offers a solid all-rounder for a busy bathroom. The brand made the formula significantly tougher than standard emulsion, and you can actually feel that thickness as soon as the roller hits the wall. A dedicated barrier keeps everything looking fresh for five long years.

Plus, the soft sheen finish is a massive help if you have people splashing in the tub or a s

hower that never seems to stop running. It is just shiny enough to bead away water, but it still looks modern and stylish once the room dries.

Key Features

• Dedicated technology offers 5-year protection for bathroom surfaces.
• Ten times more durable than standard Dulux matt or silk paints.
• Specifically formulated bathroom paint to resist heavy moisture and steam.
• Washable surface that handles scrubbing without fading.
• Soft sheen finish provides a gentle, light-reflecting glow.

Pros

• The paint creates an extremely tough film that won’t peel under heavy steam.
• You can choose from a huge variety of trending colours like Mineral Mist.
• This formula works perfectly for both bathroom ceilings and walls.
• It comes with massive brand reliability and over 11,000 positive reviews.

Cons

• You will need to apply two full coats for the moisture barrier to work properly.
• The price point per litre is slightly higher compared to basic trade brands.

Why we recommend Dulux 500001 Easycare Bathroom Paint

We love how it provides a beautiful finish that can actually handle a scrub brush without losing its colour.

Check prices on Amazon: Dulux 500001 Easycare Bathroom Soft Sheen Emulsion Paint – 1L

4. Dulux Easycare bathroom Soft Sheen Paint – Guild Green – 2.5L

Best for: Adding a designer touch to high-moisture bathrooms without sacrificing durability.

Since we just discussed the Pure Brilliant White version, this 2.5L tin of Guild Green shows how the Dulux bathroom paint range can really transform a space. It moves away from the clinical look of standard white and brings in a sophisticated, natural tone that makes a bathroom feel more like a spa.

Just like the previous option, it features a specialised formula that handles steam and moisture with ease, ensuring the finish stays intact for up to five years. The soft sheen finish is particularly effective here because it highlights the depth of the green while remaining easy to wipe down after a hot shower.

Key Features

• Specifically formulated bathroom paint that protects surfaces for 5 years.
• Moisture-resistant technology prevents the finish from peeling or bubbling.
• Water-based acrylic formula allows for an easy application and quick cleanup.
• Soft sheen finish provides a subtle glow that reflects light beautifully.
• High-quality pigments ensure a deep, consistent colour across walls and ceilings.

Pros

• The sophisticated Guild Green shade offers a modern alternative to traditional white.
• A larger 2.5L size provides enough coverage for an entire medium-sized bathroom.
• This paint is exceptionally durable and stands up well to daily humidity.
• It works seamlessly on both interior walls and ceilings for a cohesive look.

Cons

• Darker tones like this may require more careful cutting-in to look professional.
• The price per litre is higher than some budget brands, but the quality justifies it.

Why we recommend Dulux Easycare bathroom Soft Sheen Paint – Guild Green – 2.5L

We think this is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a bathroom paint that balances a high-end designer look with the practical toughness needed for a wet environment.

Check prices on Amazon: Dulux Easycare bathroom Soft Sheen Paint – Guild Green – 2.5L

5. Dulux Easycare Bathroom Soft Sheen – Dewy Lawn 2.5L

Best for: Refreshing a bathroom with a bright, airy feel while maintaining heavy-duty moisture protection.

If the Guild Green we just reviewed is a bit too dark for your taste, this “Dewy Lawn” bathroom paint offers a much lighter and more uplifting alternative. It is a soft, fresh green that really opens up smaller rooms, yet it still packs the same punch when it comes to durability.

Because this is a dedicated bathroom paint, it creates a resilient surface that keeps everything looking sharp for up to five years. The formula is also designed with odour-blocking technology, which is a massive plus if you are painting a small, enclosed space with limited ventilation.

Key Features

• Five-year guaranteed protection designed specifically for bathroom environments.
• Moisture-resistant technology keeps the paint from bubbling or peeling over time.
• Unique odour-blocking feature helps keep the room smelling fresh during and after application.
• Water-based acrylic formula makes the cleanup process quick and painless.
• Soft sheen finish adds a subtle, light-reflecting glow to interior walls and ceilings.

Pros

• The Dewy Lawn shade is perfect for making a cramped bathroom feel more spacious and bright.
• A 2.5L tin provides plenty of coverage for multiple coats in an average-sized room.
• The paint is incredibly easy to apply and dries quickly between coats.
• It is highly rated by users, boasting an impressive 4.8-star average.

Cons

• Like other soft sheen paints, it may reveal imperfections on walls that haven’t been sanded smooth.
• The premium price reflects the specialised colour and added odour-blocking features.

Why we recommend Dulux Easycare Dewy Lawn 2.5L

We recommend this bathroom paint for anyone who wants to bring a sense of calm and light into their home while ensuring their walls can handle the steam of a daily shower.

Check prices on Amazon: Dulux Easycare Dewy Lawn 2.5L

6. Dulux Easycare bathroom Soft Sheen Paint – Sapphire Salute – 2.5L

Best for: Creating a dramatic, high-end look in bathrooms that need maximum protection against heavy steam.

While the “Dewy Lawn” we just looked at focuses on a light and airy feel, this “Sapphire Salute” bathroom paint takes things in a much bolder direction. It is a deep, luxurious navy that can completely transform a tired bathroom into a sophisticated space.

Just like the other options in this range, you still get that vital five-year guarantee against the typical wear and tear of a damp environment. Plus, its soft sheen finish is a smart choice for such a dark colour because the slight gloss helps to bounce light around the room, which prevents the deep blue from feeling too heavy or closed-in.

Key Features

• Robust moisture-resistant formula ensures the paint stays bonded to the wall despite high humidity.
• Advanced technology provides a five-year protective barrier for all bathroom surfaces.
• Integrated odour-blocking properties make the painting process much more pleasant in tight spaces.
• Water-based composition allows for a smooth application and very easy tool cleanup.
• Soft sheen finish adds a touch of elegance while remaining incredibly easy to wipe clean.

Pros

• The rich Sapphire Salute shade provides a stunning, modern contrast to white bathroom fixtures.
• This paint is exceptionally durable, making it perfect for high-traffic family bathrooms.
• A 2.5L tin offers enough volume to cover a large feature wall or a small room entirely.
• It works just as well on ceilings as it does on walls for those wanting a seamless “colour drench” look.

Cons

• Darker pigments usually require at least two solid coats to achieve a perfectly even and deep finish.
• Extra care with painter’s tape is needed to ensure the dark lines against the ceiling are perfectly sharp.

Why we recommend Dulux Easycare Sapphire Salute – 2.5L

We recommend this bathroom paint for anyone looking to make a style statement, as it proves you don’t have to choose between a trendy aesthetic and the practical needs of a steamy bathroom.

Check prices on Amazon: Dulux Easycare bathroom Soft Sheen Paint – Sapphire Salute – 2.5L

7. Dulux Easycare Bathroom Soft Sheen – Teal Voyage – 2.5L

Best for: Bringing a calming, ocean-inspired atmosphere to your bathroom while ensuring the walls stay protected.

While the “Sapphire Salute” we previously discussed offers a very dark navy, this “Teal Voyage” bathroom paint provides a slightly softer but equally sophisticated alternative. It is a beautiful mid-tone blue-green that manages to feel both cozy and refreshing at the same time.

Being part of the Easycare line, it delivers a durable finish that is specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of a bathroom. You will find that it stands up remarkably well to constant steam and humidity, ensuring that your chosen colour remains vibrant for years without peeling.

Key Features

• High-performance moisture-resistant technology protects your walls from the effects of heavy steam.
• Dedicated bathroom formula provides a reliable five-year guarantee for a long-lasting finish.
• Water-based acrylic composition makes the application smooth and allows for easy cleanup with just water.
• Soft sheen finish offers a delicate glow that helps to reflect light in smaller or darker bathrooms.
• Specifically designed for interior walls and ceilings to create a seamless and professional look.

Pros

• The Teal Voyage shade is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with both light wood and white tiles.
• This paint is very hardy, meaning you can wipe down the surfaces without worrying about the colour fading.
• A 2.5L tin offers generous coverage, making it a cost-effective choice for standard bathroom projects.
• The product has earned “Amazon’s Choice” status, reflecting its popularity and reliable performance among users.

Cons

• You may find that two coats are necessary to get the full, rich depth of the teal pigment.
• It is slightly more expensive per litre than basic emulsions, though the specialised protection is worth the investment.

Why we recommend Dulux Easycare Teal Voyage -2.5L

We recommend this bathroom paint because it strikes the perfect balance between a trendy, stylish colour and the heavy-duty protection required to keep a bathroom looking its best.

Check prices on Amazon: Dulux Easycare Bathroom – Teal Voyage – 2.5L

8. Crown Easyclean Bathroom Mid-Sheen – Soft Duck Egg -2.5L

Best for: A versatile, all-in-one solution for bathrooms where you want to paint walls, woodwork, and metal with a single tin.

While the previous Dulux options are fantastic for walls, this Crown Easyclean bathroom paint stands out because it is a true multi-surface performer. It is specifically formulated to work on walls, ceilings, wood, and even metal, which means you can use it to refresh your skirting boards or a radiator to match your walls perfectly.

The mid-sheen finish is slightly more reflective than a soft sheen, making it excellent at bouncing light around a dim bathroom while providing a tough, wipeable surface. Furthermore, the “Soft Duck Egg” shade is a classic choice that brings a calm, spa-like feel to the room without being overbearing.

Key Features

• The advanced multi-surface formula is suitable for walls, ceilings, primed wood, and metal.
• Mid-sheen finish offers a stylish lustre that is both scrub-resistant and easy to clean.
• Specialised technology helps the paint film resist the effects of heavy steam and condensation.
• Features a 99% solvent-free “Breatheasy” formula for a virtually odourless decorating experience.
• Durable enough for high-traffic family bathrooms that require frequent wiping.

Pros

• You can achieve a unified look by painting your radiator and skirting in the exact same colour as the walls.
• The paint is significantly tougher than standard emulsions and handles scrubbing without losing its finish.
• It is a great value option that often comes in at a lower price point than other premium brands.
• This product is “Mumsnet Rated,” with high scores for its overall toughness and ease of use.

Cons

• The mid-sheen finish is slightly shinier than a soft sheen, which might show up more bumps on uneven walls.
• You may need to prime bare wood or metal surfaces first to ensure the best possible adhesion.

Why we recommend Crown Easyclean Soft Duck Egg – 2.5L

We recommend this paint for those who want a simple, high-quality project. It’s incredibly convenient to have one tin that handles almost every surface in the bathroom while providing a beautiful, light-reflecting colour.

Check prices on Amazon: Crown Easyclean Bathroom – Soft Duck Egg – 2.5L

9. Rust-Oleum Bathroom Wall & Ceiling Paint – Little Light – 2.5L

Best for: Achieving a modern, flat matte look without compromising on steam resistance or durability.

While many bathroom paints rely on a shiny finish to repel water, this Rust-Oleum option is a fantastic choice if you prefer a sophisticated matte appearance. The “Little Light” shade is a very subtle, pale pink that adds a warm glow to the room without feeling overwhelming.

This paint is specifically engineered to resist cracking, peeling, and blistering for up to six years, which gives it a slight edge in longevity over some other leading brands. Furthermore, the formula is incredibly tough, boasting a Class 1 wet scrub rating that allows you to wipe away marks and splashes easily.

Key Features

• High-performance water-resistant formula prevents blistering and peeling for up to 6 years.
• Elegant matte finish provides a smooth, non-reflective surface that hides minor wall imperfections.
• Class 1 Wet Scrub rating ensures the paint can be scrubbed clean without damage.
• Fast-drying, water-based acrylic is virtually odourless and safe for indoor use.
• Highly versatile application works perfectly on plaster, brick, concrete, and ceilings.

Pros

• You get a trendy, flat finish that is rarely found in moisture-resistant bathroom paints.
• The coverage is impressive at 12m² per litre, meaning a 2.5L tin goes a long way.
• It is touch-dry very quickly, which helps you finish your decorating project in a single day.
• The “Little Light” colour offers a beautiful, modern alternative to standard neutrals or whites.

Cons

• This paint is not suitable for shower enclosures or areas that are in constant, direct contact with water.
• You will definitely need two coats to ensure the full level of water resistance is achieved.

Why we recommend Rust-Oleum Little Light

We love this paint because it proves you can have a stylish matte finish in a bathroom. It is a reliable, high-quality product for anyone who wants a designer look that is still tough enough to handle daily humidity.

Check prices on Amazon: Rust-Oleum Bathroom Wall & Ceiling Paint – Little Light – 2.5L

10. Rust-Oleum Bathroom Paint – Natural Charcoal – 7.5ml

Best for: Modernising tired bathroom cabinets, vanity units, and skirting boards with a moisture-proof, high-contrast finish.

When people think of bathroom paint, they often forget about the furniture. Standard wood paint often fails in a bathroom because the constant heat and humidity cause it to crack and peel. This Rust-Oleum formula is the answer for your woodwork.

It is a dedicated bathroom paint specifically for wood and melamine, designed to resist condensation for up to 10 years. In Natural Charcoal,” it provides a deep, sophisticated black that can transform a dated vanity into a focal point. It’s the perfect way to ensure your cabinets stay as protected as your walls.

Key Features

• 10-Year Durability: Specifically engineered to resist cracking, peeling, and blistering in steamy bathroom environments.
• Mould & Mildew Resistant: A specialised bathroom paint formula that keeps fungi from taking hold on wooden surfaces.
• No Primer Required: Can be applied directly to most wood and melamine surfaces, saving you a significant amount of time.
• Satin Sheen Finish: Provides a lustrous, smooth finish that is both stylish and incredibly easy to wipe clean.
• Highly Pigmented: Offers exceptional depth of colour and coverage (14m² per litre) for a professional-looking result.

Pros

• The Natural Charcoal colour adds a modern, high-end “industrial” feel to the bathroom.
• It is a much cheaper alternative to replacing a bathroom vanity or cupboard unit.
• Fast-drying and virtually odourless, so you don’t have to worry about fumes in a small room.
• The satin finish helps the woodwork resist water stains and soap splashes effectively.

Cons

• The 750ml tin is a smaller size, specifically meant for detail work rather than full walls.
• You may still need to prime bare knots or resinous timber to prevent stain bleed.

Why we recommend Rust-Oleum Cabinet Paint

It is the ultimate bathroom paint for a “mini-renovation.” It allows you to bring moisture-resistant protection to your furniture, ensuring your entire bathroom—not just the walls—is shielded from steam damage.

Check prices on Amazon: Rust-Oleum Bathroom Wood and Cabinet Paint – 750ml

Bathroom Paint Buyer’s Guide: 5 Things You Must Know

Choosing bathroom paint isn’t like picking paint for your living room. Because bathrooms are the most “extreme” environment in your home, the wrong choice leads to peeling, bubbling, and black mould within months.

Before you grab a tin, here are the vital considerations to ensure your hard work actually lasts.

1. Steam Resistance vs. Water Resistance

Don’t be fooled by the labels. There is a big difference between paint that handles a few splashes and paint that handles steam.

• The Issue: Steam is a gas that can get behind standard paint, causing it to lift off the wall in sheets.
• The Solution: Look for dedicated bathroom paint labelled as “Steam Resistant” or “Moisture Resistant.” These formulas (like Dulux Easycare or Rust-Oleum) create a non-porous barrier that prevents gas from penetrating the surface.

2. The “Mould Guarantee” Period

Almost every bathroom paint claims to be “mould resistant,” but you need to check the fine print for the guarantee.

• The Difference: Budget paints might only last 12 months before spores appear. Premium brands like Siramico or Dulux offer 5 to 10-year guarantees.
• Consideration: If your bathroom has no windows or poor ventilation, investing more upfront for a 10-year mould-block is cheaper than repainting every two years.

3. Scrub Ratings: Can You Actually Clean It?

Bathrooms are high-contact areas. Toothpaste, soap scum, and hairspray will end up on your walls.

• The Test: Look for Class 1 Scrub Ratings. This means the paint is tough enough to be scrubbed with a sponge without the colour fading or the finish turning “shiny” in patches.
• The Pro-Tip: “Soft Sheen” is traditionally the easiest to clean, but modern “Matte” bathroom paints (like Rust-Oleum) now offer the same durability without the gloss.

4. Surface Compatibility (Don’t Paint Wood with Wall Paint!)

A common DIY mistake is using the same emulsion on the walls and the wooden vanity or skirting boards.

• Walls & Ceilings: Use a breathable, moisture-repelling emulsion.
• Cabinets & Wood: You need a Bathroom Wood & Cabinet Paint. Wood expands and contracts when it gets hot; regular wall paint will crack immediately. A dedicated wood enamel (like the Rust-Oleum 750ml tin) is flexible and waterproof.

5. Finish & Light Reflection

The “Sheen” of your bathroom paint affects how the room feels:

• Matte: Absorbs light. Best for hiding “wonky” walls or uneven plaster in older homes.
• Soft Sheen / Mid-Sheen: Reflects light. If you have a small, dark en-suite, a sheen finish will make the space feel significantly larger and brighter.

Summary Checklist for Homeowners

• Does the tin specifically say “Bathroom”? (Kitchen paint is not the same!)
• Is there a 5-year+ mould guarantee?
• Is it scrubbable for cleaning sink splashes?
• Do you have the right paint for the right surface (Walls vs. Wood)?
• Is it water-based? (This ensures it’s low-odour and fast-drying for small rooms).

The Final Verdict: Refresh Your Bathroom with Confidence

Don’t let steam and mildew dictate the look of your home. Whether you’re tackling persistent mould with Siramico, adding a designer pop of Teal Voyage, or upcycling cabinets with Rust-Oleum, the right bathroom paint is the ultimate insurance policy for your renovation. By choosing a specialised moisture-resistant formula, you’re not just painting—you’re protecting your investment for years to come.

Ready to transform your space? Click the links above to grab your perfect shade on Amazon and start your “weekend makeover” today. Need help calculating how many tins you’ll need for your project? Just ask!

Answering Your Common Questions About Bathroom Paint