Painting a laundry room can definitely be done, but there are some important factors to consider first. The utility nature of a laundry room means the paint needs to be durable and moisture-resistant. You also need to think about ventilation when working with paints and solvents in a small enclosed room. With proper preparation and paint selection, you can give your laundry room a fresh new look.
Should You Paint a Laundry Room?
Here are some pros and cons to weigh when deciding whether to paint a laundry room:
Pros:
– Paint can give a dated or dingy laundry room a quick facelift. Paint is an affordable way to update the space.
– New paint can make the laundry room feel cleaner and fresher. Light colors can brighten a dark room.
– Painting provides an opportunity to correct any flaws or damage on the walls. You can cover stains, scrapes, etc.
Cons:
– Painting a laundry room requires thorough preparation of the walls and proper ventilation due to detergents, bleaches, etc.
– Laundry rooms need a durable, washable paint that can withstand moisture. This specialty paint may cost more.
– Fumes from paints and solvents used need adequate ventilation. Keeping the room closed off for days could be difficult.
– Wall imperfections like cracks or peeling paint must be repaired before painting for the best results.
What Kind of Paint to Use
When selecting paint for a laundry room, you’ll want premium paint with these key features:
– Washable – Can be cleaned multiple times without losing color or sheen
– Moisture-resistant – Repels water and humidity from laundry appliances
– Mildew-resistant – Contains biocides/antimicrobial additives to prevent mildew growth
– High-hiding – Opaque, covers old colors in fewer coats
Some good options are:
– Epoxy paint – Extremely durable 2-part paint used on concrete and metal
– Alkyd/oil-based paint – Traditional enamel paint known for hardness & gloss
– Acrylic latex paint – Water-based paint that cleans up with soap & water
– Enamel paint – Durable gloss paint used for trim, cabinets, and bathrooms
Check the product details as some “enamel” paints are not fully washable. An alkyd or 100% acrylic latex paint formulated for bathrooms works best.
Laundry Room Paint Colors
For laundry rooms, it’s smart to stick with light or medium neutrals. Some popular color choices include:
– White – Brightens the room and reflects light
– Cream – Warm off-white provides a subtle color
– Gray – Versatile neutral works with any style
– Beige – Soft neutral complements wood cabinets
– Light blue – Feels clean, soothing, and fresh
– Green – Brings in natural color in a pale sage or mint
Bolder paint colors can feel overwhelming in a small utilitarian room. Neutrals help make the space feel open. But if you do want to add color, use it sparingly on an accent wall.
How to Prepare a Laundry Room for Painting
Proper prep is crucial for getting great results when painting a laundry room. Here are the key steps:
– Remove laundry appliances or pull away from walls. Cover front-load washers.
– Clean walls thoroughly – use TSP substitute to remove grease and soap scum.
– Scuff sand glossy surfaces with 150 grit sandpaper so paint adheres.
– Fill holes, cracks, and imperfections with spackle. Sand smooth when dry.
– Wipe away dust with a tack cloth. Apply primer to any repairs and bare drywall.
– Cover floor and immovable appliances with drop cloths. Use painter’s tape on switchplates, trim.
– Open windows and use fans to ventilate the room during prep work and painting.
Proper prep removes possible contaminants, creates a uniform surface for painting, and leads to a professional finished look.
How to Paint a Laundry Room
Once your prep work is complete, you’re ready to start painting. Follow these steps:
1. If needed, apply primer to bare drywall or formerly painted surfaces after cleaning. Allow to fully dry.
2. Use an angled brush to carefully “cut in” the edges along the ceiling, corners, and trim. Avoid getting paint on adjacent surfaces.
3. Pour paint into a tray and use a roller cover with a 1/4″ – 3/8″ nap to roll on paint in approximately 3′ x 3′ sections. Work methodically around the room.
4. Apply two finish coats of paint, allowing proper drying time between coats. Lightly sand and wipe clean between coats.
5. Inspect walls and touch up any missed spots. Allow at least 2 weeks curing time before washing painted surfaces.
6. Reattach switchplates, return appliances to position against walls. Avoid rubbing paint while moving items.
Painting tip: Start cutting in the edges where two walls meet, then roll paint on one wall at a time for best results. Maintain a wet edge as you go.
Safety Tips for Painting a Laundry Room
Never underestimate safety when painting! To keep yourself and your home protected:
– Ventilate well – open windows and use fans to keep air circulating.
– Wear protective gear – goggles, mask, gloves, old clothes.
– Keep paint containers tightly sealed – away from children and pets.
– Keep ignition sources away – avoid sparks or flames in the area.
– Check for correct bulb wattage in light fixtures – heat can ignite paint fumes.
– Follow the paint manufacturer’s stated drying times. Especially for oil-based paints.
– Work carefully around electric or gas connections on appliances.
– Clean brushes and other paint supplies outside the home after use.
– Dispose of rags, drop cloths, and paint sludge properly according to local regulations.
Observing safety keeps your painting project efficient and hazard-free.
Conclusion
Although a laundry room is used frequently, with proper preparation and paint you can give it an updated, finished look that holds up over time. Choose a top-quality acrylic latex or alkyd paint in a moisture-resistant finish. Neutral colors work best in small laundry rooms. Follow good safety practices and ventilate the room during painting. With some effort you can refresh your laundry room with a durable new paint job.
