Matt vs Silk vs Eggshell Wall Paint
Matt, silk and eggshell are the three most common interior wall paint finishes, each offering different levels of sheen, durability and appearance.
As a general rule, matt hides imperfections best, silk is easiest to clean, and eggshell offers a balance of both.
On this page:
What is matt wall paint?
Matt wall paint has a low sheen and absorbs light rather than reflecting it.
Key characteristics of matt paint:
- Soft, flat appearance
- Minimises the look of wall imperfections
- Creates a modern, understated finish
- 0-3% percentage gloss
Where matt wall paint is best used
Matt paint is commonly used in:
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining rooms
- Ceilings
It is ideal for walls that are not subject to heavy wear or frequent cleaning.
What is silk wall paint?
Silk wall paint has a higher sheen and a smooth, reflective finish.
Key characteristics of silk paint:
- Reflects light
- Easier to wipe clean
- Creates a brighter appearance
- 25-35% percentage gloss
Where silk wall paint is best used
Silk paint is often chosen for:
- Hallways
- Stairwells
- Kitchens
- Utility rooms
Because it reflects light, silk paint can highlight surface imperfections on uneven walls.
What is eggshell wall paint?
Eggshell wall paint sits between matt and silk in terms of sheen.
Key characteristics of eggshell paint:
- Subtle, low-level sheen
- More durable than matt
- Easier to clean without high shine
- 12-20% percentage gloss
Where eggshell wall paint is best used
Eggshell is suitable for:
- High-traffic living spaces
- Family homes
- Rooms needing durability with a softer finish
It offers a balance between appearance and practicality.
Matt vs silk vs eggshell: key differences
Appearance
- Matt: Flat, non-reflective
- Silk: Glossy and reflective
- Eggshell: Soft sheen
Durability
- Matt: Least durable
- Silk: Most durable
- Eggshell: Good durability without high shine
Ease of cleaning
- Matt: Limited washability
- Silk: Very easy to clean
- Eggshell: Easy to clean
Suitability for imperfect walls
- Matt: Best at hiding flaws
- Silk: Highlights imperfections
- Eggshell: Moderately forgiving
Which wall paint finish should you choose?
The best finish depends on:
- How smooth your walls are
- How much traffic the room gets
- Whether washability is important
- The look you want to achieve
In general:
- Choose matt for calm, low-traffic rooms
- Choose silk for durability and easy cleaning
- Choose eggshell for a balance of both
Frequently Asked Questions
Matt paint has a flat finish that hides imperfections, while silk paint is shinier and more durable but highlights flaws.
Eggshell is more durable and easier to clean than matt, making it better for higher-traffic areas.
Silk paint is generally the easiest to clean, followed by eggshell.
Silk can be used on most walls, but it works best on smooth surfaces due to its reflective finish.
Matt is the most popular choice for living spaces due to its soft appearance and ability to hide imperfections.