Choosing a paint color for a child’s bedroom can seem daunting, but with some planning and consideration it can be a fun project. The color palette you select should reflect your child’s personality and interests. It’s also important to choose paint that is safe and stimulating for a young mind. Follow these tips to pick the perfect paint colors for your kid’s bedroom.
Consider your child’s age
The age of your child is an important factor when selecting bedroom paint colors. The appropriate colors will evolve as your child grows, so think about where they are developmentally.
For toddlers, opt for bright, primary colors like red, blue, yellow, and green. These bold tones stimulate visual development. Just avoid overstimulation with too many competing colors. Stick to two or three complementing hues.
As your child approaches school age around 5-8 years, they may gravitate towards brighter shades like neon oranges and limes. These fun colors encourage creativity and self-expression.
In the tween and teen years, muted tones like soft blues, greens, and purples may appeal more. Allow your maturing child to be involved in the selection process at this point.
Get input from your child
While you want the room to be stylish, it’s meant for them. So get your child’s input on the paint colors from the start. Have them help select the color chips or samples from the paint store. Many retailers also have visualizer tools online to experiment with different hues.
If your child has a favorite color, strongly consider working that in. But also guide them with complementary options so the room isn’t overwhelming. If they love red, for example, pair it with navy blues and crisp whites.
Giving your child a voice in the process promotes autonomy and pride in their personal space. Just provide some structure in your choices to keep the room aesthetically pleasing and not too chaotic!
Consider the room size
The size and natural lighting of the bedroom should inform your color choice. Darker or more saturated colors tend to make spaces feel smaller and cozier. Lighter neutrals can make a room feel more open and airy.
Here are some recommendations based on room size:
– Small bedrooms: Use light tints of colors like soft blues, minty greens, or pale yellows. White is also an excellent choice. Add splashes of color with accessories and artwork.
– Medium bedrooms: Here you have more flexibility. Play with brighter pastels or deeper shades in moderation across the walls. Neutrals like grays work well.
– Large bedrooms: Deeper, more saturated paint colors look great and don’t overwhelm the ample space. Try jewel tones like emerald or sapphire. Darker grays and chocolates work too.
Factor in the existing light sources in the room as well. North-facing rooms with less natural light can handle bolder paint colors without feeling closed in. Brighter rooms are better suited to lighter hues to enhance the luminosity.
Pick durable, washable paint
Kids generate messes, so choose high-quality paint that can withstand regular cleanings. Look for interior latex paints marked as “washable” and “scrubbable.” Flat or matte paints are prone to stains and scuffs. Opt instead for satin, eggshell, or semi-gloss finishes.
Washable paint formulations include:
– Acrylic latex paint – Made from acrylic resin, these water-based paints are very durable and easy to clean. They resist yellowing and moisture.
– Epoxy paint – Two-part epoxies create an extra protective coating that stands up well to scrubbing and wetness. Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
– Polyurethane paint – These coatings contain a protective polyurethane resin for enhanced stain resistance and durability.
Prepainted materials like wainscoting are also practical, as the factory finish is tougher than any applied paint. Just clean occasionally with mild soap and water.
Invest in quality primer too. It will help the topcoat adhere better, providing added protection.
Use low or no VOC paint
Many standard paints emit VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, that can be harmful, especially for children. VOCs contribute to indoor air pollution and some have links to serious health issues.
When possible, choose low- or zero-VOC paints like those labeled “eco-friendly” or “natural.” Here are some options with lower chemical emissions:
– Milk paint – Made from milk proteins and clay, available in natural earth tones
– Mineral-based paint – Uses minerals like clay and chalk instead of VOCs
– Natural resin paint – Employs plant-based resins as a binder
– Cement paint – Uses cement as a base, very hardwearing
– Clay paint – Natural clay creates a flat, chalky texture
If selecting regular latex or oil-based paints, ventilate the room very well during application and drying. Keep children clear until any odors have fully dissipated.
Pick stain-resistant colors
Kids generate many stains in their bedroom from food, drinks, art supplies, and more. While technique matters more, some colors do naturally hide stains better.
Medium to darker tones in matte or satin finishes disguise messes well. Blacks, grays, browns, deeper blues and greens are practical options. Red can work too.
Avoid using white or very light tints. Stains and dirt will show easily. Glossy finishes also highlight every speck.
Neutrals are best for high traffic areas, like walls. Add pops of bolder colors through bedding, artwork, and accessories that can be more easily cleaned or replaced.
Here are the most stain-resistant paint colors for kids bedrooms:
| Color | Stain Hiding Ability |
|---|---|
| Navy blue | Excellent |
| Gray | Excellent |
| Mocha | Excellent |
| Forest green | Excellent |
| Beige | Very good |
| Light brown | Very good |
So if you want a lower maintenance, stain-friendly kids room, consider a neutral gray or beige base with pops of navy, green, or brown.
Use accessories for color
Painting the full room a super vibrant color may look exciting initially, but can become overwhelming. Often a better approach is to use neutral wall paint and inject color through accessories and accents.
Some ways to creatively incorporate color:
– Paint an accent wall behind the bed or headboard in your child’s favorite hue. Try using stripes or geometric shapes.
– Add colorful artwork and wall decals. Search for fun designs featuring their interests. Repositionable stickers make it easy to change up.
– Use colorful bedding, pillows, and rugs. Switch out seasonal options to vary the look.
– Display colorful storage bins, organizers, lamps, and desk accessories. Contained pops of color keep the room cheerful but not chaotic.
– Add sheer curtains in bright, optimistic colors like yellow or pink for a subtle effect.
Accessories are much easier and more affordable to swap out as your child’s tastes evolve. It also allows you to incorporate more colors without visual overload.
Use themes and interests
Incorporating your child’s interests into the color palette adds a meaningful personal touch. Ask them about their favorite colors, TV shows, movies, books, hobbies, sports teams, and animals to inspire ideas.
Some examples:
– For a budding scientist, use blues and greens with accent colors like orange for a fun lab vibe. Add science graphics and decals.
– For a dinosaur fan, paint one wall a bold jungle green. Accent with reds and grays. Add dinosaur art, bedding, and toys.
– For an aspiring artist, opt for a neutral gallery-like backdrop and add pops of primary colors through accessories and artwork supplies.
– For a princess lover, use soft pastels and pinks paired with whimsical accessories. Paint patterns like stripes, polka dots, or damask for interest.
Work sneakily acquired intel about their latest obsessions into a personalized, creatively colored space. It shows you care about what excites them.
Create a mood
Colors can help create an intended atmosphere in your child’s bedroom. Energizing, soothing, cheerful, calm? Determine the mood you hope to foster.
Bright warm tones like orange and yellow spark energy. Cool blues and greens have a more relaxing effect. Soft neutral tans and grays provide a soothing retreat.
Here are some popular kid bedroom color moods:
– Playful – Whimsical brights like limes, sky blues, and corals
– Silly – Neons paired with neutrals. Think lime green accent wall.
– Creative – Bold primaries, like red desks and blue bookcases
– Calm – Serene greens, lavenders, light blues, and sage tones
– Cool – Chic grays and blues, almost grown up feeling
– Woodland – Earthy greens, rich browns, cream, picture-book cozy
Match this overall feeling to your child’s personality and needs. An older, studious child may appreciate a cooler, calmer environment conducive to focusing. While a high energy little one can benefit from bright, cheery colors that invite imagination and play.
Test paint samples
Never choose paint for a kids bedroom based on small color chips alone. The swatches don’t reveal enough about the undertones and how the shades interact. Purchase sample sizes and paint them directly onto the wall to properly test colors.
Paint two foot by two foot squares in your top color contenders. The large samples will showcase the undertones and sheens accurately. View them at different times of day as lighting affects color perception.
Have your child observe the samples over several days. See which colors they are consistently drawn to and make them smile. This “live testing” helps you select a hue they’ll love long term.
Coordinate with furniture
Factor in existing or planned bedroom furniture when selecting paint colors. You want the paint and wood tones to coordinate pleasingly.
Warm wood pieces, like oak and cherry, pair best with similar warm hues like tans, terra cottas, golds, and greens. Cooler wood finishes like maple suit cooler grays, blues, and mauves.
For a cohesive look, choose paint in a similar depth to the wood stain. For example, if the furniture features a deep espresso stain, select a richer chocolate or charcoal paint color. With light natural wood, use airy tints like sky blue.
If your child already has a beloved bedroom set you want to keep, bring a furniture swatch with you when paint shopping. Hold it up to potential paint colors to visualize the pairings.
Select eco-friendly options
Many conventional paints contain solvents and chemicals that can irritate kids’ lungs during application. Off-gassed VOCs can also linger for months affecting indoor air quality.
To reduce health risks, select zero or low VOC paints made from natural, non-toxic ingredients like:
– Milk protein
– Clay
– Chalk
– Minerals
– Plant-based resins
Many standard latex paints are also low in VOCs, just check the label. Consider purchasing Green Seal or EcoLogo certified options that meet strict emissions standards.
Properly ventilate the room after painting, keep kids away until odors dissipate. Sensitive kids may need to continue sleeping elsewhere a few more days.
Use painting best practices
Your paint choice is only part of the equation. Proper application and preparation boosts durability. Follow these best practices:
– Wash walls with TSP substitute to remove grease and soap. Rinse thoroughly.
– Fill holes and cracks with spackle, allow to fully dry and sand smooth.
– Apply quality primer like Zinsser over unpainted drywall or if changing colors.
– Use long-nap roller in open areas, angled brush in corners and trim. Maintain a wet edge.
– Consider purchasing a mini roller/brush kit so kids can help without making a huge mess.
– Apply two thin coats for best coverage and durability. Let first coat fully dry.
– Purchase high quality brushes and rollers. Avoid foam rollers, recommended for smooth finish only.
Following application tips enhances adhesion and durability for a longer lasting paint job kids can safely enjoy.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect paint color for your child’s bedroom may seem daunting but can also be an enjoyable, rewarding process. Make it a collaborative project, using the age, size, lighting and existing furniture in the room as a guide. Consider durability, themes, interests and mood. Test out large samples directly on the walls. Eco-friendly low VOC paints help ensure good indoor air quality. Follow best practices for prep and application. With an intentional approach, you can create a stylish, stimulating space your child will thrive in.
