Durability depends on the finish, formula, and prep. Many options here feature paint + primer and low-odor formulas that can help deliver a smooth, professional-looking finish.

• Choose the right sheen: Semi-gloss or satin typically stands up better to frequent cleaning in hallways, kitchens, and kids’ rooms. Eggshell offers a softer look but isn’t as scrubbable.
• Prep matters: Clean walls to remove grease and dust, repair dings, and lightly scuff glossy spots for better adhesion.
• Use category filters: Narrow by Interior Paint, Paint Primers, and Paint Supplies to find options designed for busy spaces.

These steps can help improve long-term wear, but results vary by surface and usage.

Both can look great—it comes down to use and style.

• Eggshell: Low sheen with a soft glow that helps hide minor wall imperfections. It’s a popular pick for living rooms and bedrooms where gentle cleanups are typical.
• Semi-gloss: Higher sheen that reflects more light and generally resists moisture and frequent wiping better. It’s commonly used on kitchens, baths, doors, trim, and cabinets.

Tips: Consider your lighting (glossier finishes show flaws) and cleaning needs. If you’re unsure, try a small test area. You can filter by Interior Paint and finish type on the page to quickly compare options.

Check the label first—some cans are formulated for interior, exterior, or both. Picking the right type can help performance.

• Interior: Often designed for low odor and easy cleanup, with finishes suited to daily living and frequent touch-ups.
• Exterior: Built to handle sun, moisture, and temperature changes; some exterior wood finishes include UV-resistant features for added protection.

Match the product to your surface (drywall, masonry, wood) and conditions. Use the page filters for Interior Paint, Exterior Paint, and Wood Stains & Finishes to zero in on what you need. Always follow label directions for best results on your specific project.

Even with paint + primer in the can, a dedicated primer can help in certain situations:

• Bare or porous surfaces: New drywall or raw wood often benefit from sealing.
• Glossy or slick areas: A bonding primer can improve adhesion on previously coated or hard-to-paint surfaces.
• Stains or strong odors: A stain-blocking primer can help resist bleed-through.
• Big color changes: Priming can reduce the number of topcoats needed.

Clean, repair, and lightly sand first, then follow the primer’s instructions. Results can vary based on surface condition, so testing a small area is a good idea.

Bases are formulated to create specific color ranges when tinted with colorants:

• White/Pastel Base: For light and soft colors.
• Deep/Medium Base: For mid-tone shades.
• Ultra Deep Base: For rich, dark colors that need more colorant.

Match the base to the color formula listed for your chosen shade. Using the wrong base can affect coverage and final color. Avoid applying untinted bases as a finish coat. Check the label for compatible colorants and recommended use, and consider testing on a small area before committing to a full project.