Paint comes near the end of a bathroom remodel, but is selected far in advance. Depending on the amount of square footage taking on the color, it can be the finishing touch that pulls everything together. 

Still, these can be the toughest rooms to choose a color or formula for. Keep reading as we help you decide the best color to paint a bathroom. 

What’s the best color to paint a bathroom? Tips & advice the pros swear by

The best color to paint a bathroom complements other design features and meets both your aesthetic and practical needs. Here are a few principles designers use to pick paints.

1. Select your tile first. 

Tiles are more permanent focal features of any bathroom. Accent walls, floors, showers, and half-tiled walls all send a stronger message than a can of paint. Choose your bathroom tile first and let it inspire you, making further color selection much easier.

2. Choose the right finish.

Bathrooms are moisture-resistant sanitary spaces first. Consider the benefits of different paint finishes. Mattes resist mildew, but satins and semi-glosses are easier to keep clean. The finish also impacts how the color looks, so don’t rely on sample cards.

3. Test in all types of light. 

Every color reflects a certain amount of light. The type of light in your bathroom will mute or maximize this. Natural light, layered lighting, dimmer single-sources, LED feature lighting, and more affect how a paint color will translate.

4. Match the mood.

Specific colors aren’t as strictly associated with one type of style as people think. You’ll discover this once we get into bathroom paint color ideas. Consider how colors make you feel. Earth tones can be more relaxing than whites. Pastels can be calming, not fussy or overfeminine.

5. Don’t get boxed in. 

One of the biggest mistakes people make is not choosing paint for ceilings and trim. You don’t have to color-drench your bathroom (although it is a great strategy). But you do have to plan for what happens beyond the walls. Painting molding, baseboards, and ceilings make an even more cohesive design that looks complete and custom. 

Trending and timeless neutral bathroom paint colors to swatch this season

There are many ways to add color to bathrooms. If you want paint to add charisma to your palette, here are some crowd-pleasing ideas.

Warm off-whites that feel cozy and bright. 

The sterility of stark white may not enhance the great mix of tiles you pick in a spacious master bath. Off-whites, warm whites, and creamier neutrals give you that airiness while staying comfortable. 

Pastels that are unexpectedly spa-like.

Soft washes of color are psychologically relaxing and refreshing. Carry it over to the vanity to add a little bit of whimsy and character to an otherwise resort-worthy bathroom. 

Dove gray softens the contrast of dark designs.

Black cabinetry and tilework are the basis of many very stunning high-contrast designs. Choosing a softer gray instead of white makes the transition feel less forced without losing impact. Brushed champagne brass instead of yellower golds also makes a difference.

Deep navies that elevate everything they touch.

If you’re a little shy about bolds, save the drama for an accent wall. Dark navy is the best color to paint a bathroom if you want to keep it classic without losing interest.

Earth toned everything.

Contemporary design is finding solid footing with earthier elements. Contrary to popular belief, earth tones aren’t all about browns and grays. Sage and terracotta shades add to nature’s spectrum. 

Dirty neutrals paired with crisp whites.

Adding a muddy mushroom or muted warm taupe can keep your favorite bright whites from looking clinical. Check out more dirty neutral paint ideas for baths.

 

Everything you need for your bathroom remodel, under one roof.

Paint is just one of a hundred choices you may make during a bathroom remodel. Tile, countertops, cabinets, flooring, and hardware can be even tougher to choose. Once you do decide what you want, you have to find it and install it.

The Designery makes every stage of your bathroom remodel smooth and satisfying. Our showrooms are stacked with options and experienced design pros to guide you through them. It doesn’t stop at design and materials, though. We also have the hookup to custom craftsmanship and professional installation. 

“We had an amazing experience working with The Designery. Beautiful showroom and products. Outstanding customer service. You will not be disappointed.”

Rosy, The Designery client

Drop by your local Designery showroom and get stylish, reliable solutions to all of your design challenges. 

Bathroom paint color ideas FAQ

What color not to paint a bathroom?

Naturally, you should avoid colors you don’t typically like. Outside of this, many designers find vibrant brights and fluorescents don’t have great staying power. Others find that too much stark white feels cold. Dark tile with dark paint may also drag the room down.

What colors make a bathroom look expensive?

Earth tones, warm neutrals, or a carefully selected jewel tone can make a bathroom feel very luxurious. One foolproof method for making a bathroom feel upgraded is choosing a muted neutral paint and adding color and texture through great tilework and brass hardware.

What are common bathroom painting mistakes?

The most common and easy to avoid bathroom painting mistakes include:

  • Using all flat matte paint that isn’t easy to clean

  • Going DIY when you really shouldn’t

  • Painting too early in the bathroom remodel process

  • Trying to cover water damage or mold with paint

Should bathroom paint colors be light or dark?

It depends on the type of light in your bathroom as well as its function. A small, darkly painted bathroom with no natural light can look amazing as a stylish half-bath or powder room. The full bath you use daily might be easier to love in a lighter shade.