Paint Sheen Guide: Flat to Gloss

As a rule of thumb: flat for ceilings, eggshell or satin for most walls, satin or semi-gloss for kitchens and bathrooms, and semi-gloss or gloss for trim, doors and cabinets. More shine means more durability and easier cleaning — but it also shows wall imperfections more.

SheenLookBest rooms / surfacesCleanability
Flat / matteNo shine, hides flawsCeilings, low-traffic wallsLow
EggshellSoft glowLiving rooms, bedroomsMedium
SatinPearl-likeHallways, kids’ rooms, kitchensGood
Semi-glossNoticeable shineTrim, doors, bathroomsVery good
High glossMirror-likeCabinets, furniture, accentsExcellent

Tips

  • Touch-ups blend best in flat and eggshell; glossier sheens show lap marks.
  • Sheen names aren't standardized — one brand's satin can be another's eggshell. Look at a painted sample.
  • Coverage per gallon is similar across sheens; plan quantities with the paint calculator.

Last reviewed November 1, 2026. Results are estimates — confirm with your supplier.

Calculators for this

Paint CalculatorGallons and quarts for walls and ceilings, minus doors and windows.Drywall CalculatorSheets of 4×8, 4×10 or 4×12 drywall plus screws for any room.Wallpaper CalculatorSingle and double rolls of wallpaper for a room, adjusted for pattern repeat.

Keep reading

How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House Exterior?About $1.50–$4 per sq ft of paintable area; average around $3,177.How Much Does Interior Painting Cost?Roughly $2–$6 per sq ft of floor area for pro painting.How Much Does a Gallon of Paint Cover?350–400 sq ft per coat on smooth walls — and when to expect less.How to Measure a Room (Square Feet & Wall Area)Floor area, wall area and L-shaped rooms, step by step.