Sherwin-Williams vs Benjamin Moore Bathroom Paints
Painting a bathroom isn’t like painting any other room. The constant steam, moisture, and cleaning can quickly wear down the wrong paint, which is why choosing primers made for high-moisture bathroom walls is just as important as selecting the right topcoat.
That’s why many homeowners ask: Which is better for bathrooms, Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore? In this blog, I’ll break down the differences between these two trusted brands.
You’ll see how they perform against steam, daily showers, and scrubbing. I’ll also compare price, finish, and long-term value. By the end, you’ll know which brand fits your bathroom best.
Ready to choose the right paint? Let’s find out together.
Key Differences Between Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore
Both brands are trusted leaders, but their bathroom paints differ in price, finish, and long-term reliability.
Brand Reputation and Reliability
Sherwin-Williams has a strong contractor following thanks to store access and service. Benjamin Moore is praised for smooth application and lasting finishes.
Both brands are reliable, but personal preference often comes down to the painter’s experience and comfort with the product.
Price and Value for Bathroom Projects
Benjamin Moore tends to cost slightly more per gallon, but some say it gives stronger coverage. Sherwin-Williams offers frequent discounts that help balance cost.
For larger bathrooms or budget-conscious projects, Sherwin-Williams can help stretch your budget further. For smaller bathrooms, Benjamin Moore’s higher hide can reduce coats.
Availability and Discounts
Sherwin-Williams has retail stores nationwide, making it easy for contractors and DIY homeowners to purchase paint directly. Benjamin Moore products are usually sold through independent dealers.
Contractors often get better bulk discounts from Sherwin-Williams, while Benjamin Moore pricing can feel more consistent but less flexible.
Best Bathroom Paints from Each Brand
These are the top paints from both brands that homeowners and professionals often choose for bathrooms. Each product code is included.
| Paint | Code | Key Use |
|---|---|---|
| Sherwin-Williams Duration Home | – | Moisture-resistant, multiple sheens |
| Sherwin-Williams Emerald | SW 2936 | Premium line, mildew-resistant |
| Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa | K532 | Matte finish, low VOC |
| Benjamin Moore Regal Select | RSWIP | Versatile, budget-friendly |
Bathroom Performance Tests
Both brands advertise strong bathroom performance, but real results vary under steam, cleaning, and long-term wear.
Steam and Humidity Resistance
Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa is known for handling daily steam without blistering. Sherwin-Williams Duration also resists humidity but performs best in satin finishes, which add extra protection against moisture.
Cleaning and Scrubbing
The Duration Home allows for repeated scrubbing without visible wear, making it a solid choice for bathrooms shared by families. Aura Bath & Spa holds up well, though its matte finish may show subtle marks after frequent scrubbing.
Mold and Mildew Resistance
Both brands design their bathroom paints with mildew-resistant technology. Sherwin-Williams Emerald and Duration contain protective agents that help prevent mold growth.
Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa also includes additives to resist mildew, making it suitable for humid environments. Proper ventilation further improves performance in bathrooms.
Coverage, Durability, and Finish Options
Coverage, finish, and durability decide how your bathroom walls look and how long they last.
Coverage per Gallon (Emerald vs Aura)
Sherwin-Williams Emerald typically covers 350–400 sq. ft. per gallon. Benjamin Moore Aura reaches 400–450 sq. ft., which can mean fewer coats for smaller bathrooms.
Finish Guidance by Bathroom Size and Lighting
Aura Bath & Spa matte is great for smaller or darker bathrooms, cutting glare and hiding flaws while pairing well with paint colors that make a small bathroom feel larger. In larger bathrooms with natural light, satin or semi-gloss finishes from Duration or Emerald give a brighter, more polished look.
Durability in High-Moisture Environments
Aura’s matte finish resists peeling even with heavy steam. Duration offers flexibility across sheens, letting you pick durability levels based on your bathroom’s needs. Both paints hold up for years with proper prep.
DIY vs Professional Use
Choosing between DIY and hiring a pro often depends on cost, skill level, and the project size. Sherwin-Williams products are slightly easier to buy in bulk with discounts, making them popular with contractors.
Benjamin Moore paints, especially Aura Bath & Spa, appeal to DIY homeowners for their smooth application and low odor. If you’re painting one small bathroom, DIY with Benjamin Moore may save money.
For larger remodels or multiple bathrooms, pro discounts at Sherwin-Williams can keep costs down.
Maintenance and Longevity
Bathroom paint needs ongoing care to stay fresh and resist steam damage.
- Touch-ups are easier with Benjamin Moore due to better blending across coats.
- Sherwin-Williams holds up longer with satin finishes, especially under heavy cleaning.
- On average, Aura Bath & Spa lasts 5–7 years before repainting.
- Sherwin-Williams Duration typically lasts 4–6 years in bathrooms with heavy daily use.
Sherwin-Williams vs Benjamin Moore: Side-by-Side Comparison Chart
This chart makes it easy to compare Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore for bathroom projects.
| Product | Price per Gallon | Finish Options | Coverage | Mildew Resistance | VOC Levels | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW Duration Home | ~$53 | Matte, Satin, Semi-gloss | 350–400 sq. ft. | High | Low VOC | Limited |
| SW Emerald | ~$60 | Matte, Satin, Semi-gloss | 350–400 sq. ft. | High | Low VOC | Limited |
| BM Aura Bath & Spa | ~$65 | Matte only | 400–450 sq. ft. | Very High | Low VOC | Lifetime |
| BM Regal Select | ~$57 | Matte, Eggshell, Satin | 350–400 sq. ft. | Moderate | Low VOC | Limited |
Final Verdict
Both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore offer strong options for bathrooms, but the right choice depends on your needs.
If you want premium performance in a smaller bathroom with heavy steam, Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa is hard to beat. For larger bathrooms or multiple spaces where cost is a consideration, Sherwin-Williams Duration strikes a balance between value and durability.
I hope this guide helped you see the differences clearly. Take a closer look at your bathroom’s needs, then choose the paint that fits best. Want more home improvement tips? Check out my other blogs for ideas you can use right away.
