Bathrooms are tough on paint. Steam, condensation and constant humidity cause peeling, mould and mildew – which is why many "bathroom paints" have a noticeable sheen. Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa is different: it gives a true matte finish that stands up to steam.
What is Aura Bath & Spa?
It is a premium matte paint made for bathrooms, shower rooms, en-suites and other high-humidity spaces. Antimicrobial additives give a mildew-resistant coating, and Benjamin Moore's Color Lock technology means no colour rub-off when the walls are wiped. It is self-priming 100% acrylic with excellent hide, low odour and very low VOC.
Aura Bath & Spa technical specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Finish | Matte |
| Type | 100% acrylic, self-priming |
| Coverage | 9–10 m² per litre |
| Recoat | 1 hour |
| Special properties | Mildew-resistant coating; Color Lock – no colour rub-off |
| Odour and VOC | Low odour, very low VOC |
| Colours | Super White or any Benjamin Moore colour |
Why matte in a bathroom?
A matte finish looks softer and more luxurious, and hides imperfections in the wall. The problem has always been durability – ordinary matt paints can soak up moisture and mark easily. Aura Bath & Spa combines the look of a matte with a film designed for humid rooms.
How to paint a bathroom
1. Deal with existing mould
Treat any mould with a fungicidal wash, following the product instructions. Rinse and let the surface dry completely. Painting over live mould will not cure it.
2. Clean and prepare
Wash walls to remove soap residue and grease. Fill and sand any cracks. Sand glossy areas lightly to give a key.
3. Paint when the room is dry
Do not shower in the room on the day you paint. Open windows and run the extractor fan.
4. Apply two coats
Apply two coats, allowing an hour between them. Leave the room as dry as possible for the first few days while the paint cures.
5. Ventilate
Even the best paint performs better with good ventilation – use your extractor fan during and after every shower.
Bathroom paint alternatives
- Johnstone's Acrylic Durable Matt – Class 1 scrubbable and mould resistant, at a lower price. Read our Durable Matt review.
- Benjamin Moore Aura Semi-Gloss – for bathroom woodwork, doors and cabinets.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aura Bath & Spa waterproof?
No paint is waterproof. Aura Bath & Spa is designed to withstand humidity and steam, but it is not for surfaces that are regularly splashed with water, such as inside a shower enclosure.
Can I use Aura Bath & Spa on a bathroom ceiling?
Yes – ceilings in bathrooms take the most condensation, so it is a good choice there.
Does Aura Bath & Spa stop mould?
It has a mildew-resistant coating that helps resist mildew growing on the paint film. Good ventilation is still essential.
Can it be tinted?
Yes, in any Benjamin Moore colour, or Super White.
Buy Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa from Dawes
Dawes is your local decorating centre in West London. We mix Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa to order in our store at 158–160 Goldhawk Road, W12 8HJ, or you can order online for delivery anywhere in the UK. Delivery is free on orders over £50, and if you need it fast, our Priority service delivers the next working day when you order by 1pm. Trade accounts are available.
Not sure which product is right for your job? Call us on 020 8748 6711, email sales@dawespaints.co.uk or pop into the shop – we are open Monday to Friday 7am–5pm and Saturday 8am–4pm.
Browse the full Benjamin Moore range.