What is the difference between matt, eggshell, satin and gloss paint?

They differ in sheen level — how much light the dried film reflects — and that single property determines durability, washability and how forgiving the finish is of imperfect surfaces.

The trade-off runs in one direction: more sheen means more durable and easier to clean, but far less forgiving of a flawed surface.

Matt (0–5% sheen) reflects almost no light. It hides bumps, filler marks and uneven plaster better than anything else, which is why it is the standard for ceilings and for walls in older houses. The downside is that it marks easily and many matt emulsions cannot be scrubbed without burnishing — leaving a shiny patch where you cleaned.

Eggshell (10–25%) has a very slight lustre, like the shell it is named after. It is the practical compromise for walls in hallways, kitchens and children's rooms: washable, but still hiding most surface flaws. Note that wall eggshell and wood eggshell are different products — the wood version is a harder-wearing trim paint.

Satin (25–40%) is noticeably sheened, tough, and typically used on woodwork, doors and skirting. It shows brush marks and surface defects more than eggshell.

Gloss (70%+) is the hardest and most washable, and shows absolutely everything — every dent, every sanding scratch, every drip. Traditional for skirting, architrave and exterior wood. Modern water-based glosses yellow far less than old oil-based ones but are slightly less hard.

The practical rule: sheen level should match how much abuse the surface takes, and how good the surface underneath actually is. Preparation matters more as sheen rises.