Wipeable vs Scrubbable Paint: Vinyl Matt, Durable Matt & Optiva Explained
Claire Morgan on 29th Sep 2025
Choosing paint isn’t just about colour – it’s also about how your walls will stand up to daily life. One of the biggest questions we get in BRWSH is: “What’s the difference between wipeable paint and scrubbable paint?”
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
Wipeable Paint (Class 2) ?
Wipeable paints are fine for gentle cleaning, but not for heavy-duty scrubbing.
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Durability Level: Class 3 on the scrub resistance scale.
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What it means: You can wipe away small marks with a damp cloth, but scrub too hard and you risk taking the paint with it.
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Best For: Bedrooms, lounges, dining rooms – calmer spaces with less wear and tear.
? Vinyl Matt paints usually fall into this category.
Examples: Johnstone’s Trade Vinyl Matt or similar Vinyl Matt options.
Scrubbable Paint (Class 1) ?
Scrubbable paints are much tougher, designed to withstand cleaning without losing their finish.
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Durability Level: Class 1 – the highest standard for washability.
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What it means: You can properly scrub away stains and marks without damaging the surface.
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Best For: Kitchens, hallways, playrooms, kids’ bedrooms – anywhere that takes the knocks of daily life.
? Durable Matt paints usually fall into this category.
Examples: Johnstone’s Trade Acrylic Durable Matt and Tikkurila Optiva, both excellent choices for scrubbable finishes.
Quick Comparison ?️
| Feature | Wipeable Paint (Class 3) | Scrubbable Paint (Class 1) |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Light cleaning only | Withstands proper scrubbing |
| Typical Finish | Vinyl Matt | Durable Matt / Optiva |
| Best For | Bedrooms, lounges | Kitchens, halls, kids’ rooms |
| Cleaning | Gentle wipe | Wipe & scrub freely |
How to Choose ?
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For calm, low-traffic rooms → Wipeable (Vinyl Matt) will do the job beautifully.
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For busy, high-traffic areas → Scrubbable (Durable Matt or Optiva) is worth the investment.
BRWSH Tip ✨
When you’re not sure, ask yourself: “Will I need to scrub this wall?”
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If yes → choose a Class 1 scrubbable paint.
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If no → a Class 3 wipeable paint will be perfect.
At BRWSH, we stock both options across trusted brands like Johnstone’s Trade and Tikkurila, and we can mix any colour in either finish. That way, you get the durability you need without sacrificing style.
Shop Wipeable & Scrubbable Paints at BRWSH ?
Pop in-store for advice or browse online to find your perfect finish. Whether you need a relaxed Vinyl Matt or a tough Durable Matt/Optiva, BRWSH has the right paint for your walls.
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