Rooms6 min

Kitchen paint: walls, backsplash, and areas near work surfaces

A kitchen is a hard-working room. Color matters, but a practical finish and proper preparation are usually more important than a trend.

Published 21 August 20266 minSAY MY COLOR editorial team
01

Divide the kitchen into wear zones

Not every kitchen wall has the same demands. The dining area may behave more like a living room, while surfaces near food preparation face grease, moisture, and wiping more often. This helps avoid choosing the toughest, glossiest finish for the whole room when it is not needed.

02

Choose cleanability based on product data

A finish name alone does not guarantee the same washability across brands. Check the intended use and stated performance of the specific paint. Manufacturers offer formulas designed for more frequent cleaning in active areas.

03

Remove grease carefully before painting

Kitchen grime can reduce adhesion of the new coat. Clean the surface with a compatible method, let it dry completely, repair defects, and only then move on to primer or finish according to the chosen system.

04

Check the color next to worktops and cabinets

  • view the sample beside the backsplash;
  • compare it with cabinet doors;
  • check it in the morning and under task lighting in the evening;
  • account for large metal and stone surfaces.

Try it in practice

Choose a practical finish

Match the kitchen’s requirements to the paint type and finish.

Open tool
Sources and methodology · 2

This article is an independent SAY MY COLOR editorial guide. Sources are linked for fact checking; publisher text, illustrations and branding are not reproduced.

Same topic

Read next

Full section
RUENDE