Kitchen & Bathroom FAQs

Why do kitchens and bathrooms need specialist paint?

• Kitchens and bathrooms are the most heavily used rooms in the home. They’re exposed to heat, steam, splashes and frequent cleaning every day. Over time, this combination puts extra strain on walls and woodwork, which means standard paints can soften, mark or wear much more quickly.

• Durability is about how well paint stands up to everyday life. Kitchens and bathrooms often reach the limits of standard paints quickly because of constant cleaning and moisture. Choosing a durable finish helps walls last longer, reduces the need for touch‑ups and offers better value over time.

Why are kitchens and bathrooms more prone to mould?

• Moisture is the main cause of mould, and it can linger in kitchens and bathrooms – especially where ventilation is limited. This makes these rooms particularly vulnerable compared to drier areas of the home.

Should I paint over existing mould?

• No. Any existing mould must be fully removed before decorating. Painting over mould won’t solve the problem and can allow it to return beneath the new paint.

How should mould be treated before painting?

• A specialist cleaner such as Polycell Mould Remover should be used to clean affected areas thoroughly. If staining remains afterwards, sealing the surface with Dulux Trade Aqua UniPrimer helps stop marks from showing through the finished paint.

What type of paint helps reduce the risk of mould returning?

• Moisture‑resistant paints designed for kitchens and bathrooms help manage humidity and reduce the likelihood of mould returning after proper treatment.

What makes Dulux Trade Durable Kitchen & Bathroom Eggshell suitable for these rooms?

• Dulux Trade Durable Kitchen & Bathroom Eggshell is designed specifically for demanding spaces. It combines stain resistance, mould resistance and a tough, durable surface that can cope with frequent cleaning.

What does a low‑sheen eggshell finish mean?

• This finish sits between traditional matt and standard eggshell. With a low sheen of around 10%, it reflects less light, helping to reduce the appearance of marks, unevenness and minor surface imperfections. This makes it well suited to modern kitchens and bathrooms.

What is surfactant leaching?

• In high‑humidity rooms, condensation can sometimes draw certain ingredients in paint to the surface. This appears as streaks or slightly sticky patches and is known as surfactant leaching. It’s often more noticeable on darker colours, but lighter shades can be affected too.

How should surfactant leaching be dealt with before repainting?

• Allow the surface to dry fully, then wash it down thoroughly using appropriate protective equipment. Make sure all residue is removed before applying a new coat of paint.

What are the practical details I should know?

• Coverage: Up to 17 m² per litre, depending on the surface
• Recoat time: Typically 2–4 hours
• Colours: Available in Pure Brilliant White and over 14,000 colours, including Colour Palette, NCS2, BS colours and colour alternatives
• Environmental credentials: 99.9% VOC‑free, BREEAM and LEED compliant, with a higher spread rate than typical retail paints