8 Best Paint for Stairs: How to Choose?

Other than the functionality, stairwells are often the most ignored part of a building. Afterall, its main use is to connect different parts of a home together so what is the fuss about? The spine of a home, a well thought out staircase can blend functionality and aesthetics together. These two components when merged well can transform your home and add a breath of fresh air.

This is where your paint colour really matters and can make the difference between a boring staircase or a delightful one. Depending on your choice of paint, you can transform an overlooked part of the house to a delightful one that would keep guests and family members happy.

For a lot of homeowners, painting their stairs can be very daunting. A major feature of any multi-level home, the stairs might be the first thing you see when you step into the entryway. Thus, the trouble becomes striking a balance. Choosing paint colours that complement your space without being too distracting or unfit for your home.

If you are looking for the best paints for stairs, these are some options worth considering

Sherwin Williams Pure White (SW 7005)

If you are thinking of a paint colour for your stairs, you cannot go wrong with this classic colour. There is a reason white has stood the test of time despite the ever-going trends. Add a breath of fresh air with this beautiful, crisp colour.

As a focal point, your staircase is one of the most visible features in your home and only the best will do. A warm white that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, this colour will liven up any space and make it appear brighter and bigger. Sherwin Williams Pure White is especially suitable for staircases that receive a lot of light or feature large windows.

Often considered one of the best-painted colours for indoor décor, it’s a gorgeous shade of white that is not too sterile or too creamy. Also, a great bonus is its incredible versatility and great pairing with other colours.

So, if you are looking for a soft white colour to paint your stairs, this is one shade of white you should consider.

Paint Color	LRV	RGB Value	Undertone(s)	Reading
Sherwin Williams Pure White	84	238/ 236/ 229	Subtle Yellow and tiny black	Warm

Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray (SW 7029)

Neutrals are a great option when it comes to your stairwells. Adding a touch of elegance without being too overpowering, this subtle shade can enhance your home décor. For some homeowners, white might be too bright and obvious for a staircase. If you are not sold out on a bright white colour, a gentle grey would also work well.

A warm, soft grey, this shade works with many colours without being too selective and can coordinate your space. One of the most popular choices for many homeowners, this colour is a great people pleaser as it combines grey and beige.

Also, if you have a busy colour scheme, this shade can act as the perfect backdrop giving your space this Zen, peaceful look. You may choose to paint the entire stairs grey, or the railings and spindle. Both options are a great choice for your home.

Paint Color	LRV	RGB Value	Undertone(s)	Reading
Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray	60	209 / 203 / 193	Green	Warm

Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy (HC -154)

A great way to make your staircase stand out is to use a bright and contrasting colour. When it comes to painting the stairs, a lot of people like to keep it traditional. The typical and most popular colours include black, white and grey. These are great colours, especially if you are not going for a bold look.

If you want a pop of colour this shade of navy brings together beauty, elegance and stylishness everyone loves. This maritime colour is incredibly versatile and goes with many other colours such as grey, white, taupe and light brown.

Pairing it with other coordinating colours is a great way to use this colour so that it does not become overpowering. For example, you may choose to paint the wall on the side of the stairs this colour, the landing or use it as an accent wall colour.

A great tip is to pair Hale Navy Blue with Chantilly lace. This colour is especially perfect if you live in a coastal or maritime area.

Paint Color	LRV	RGB Value	Undertone(s)	Reading
Benjamin Moore Hale Navy	8.36	67 / 75 / 86	Green	Warm

Sherwin Williams Frosted Emerald (SW 9035)

Even if your stairs are not the first thing people see when they come into your home, it is important to pay attention to them. There is nothing that can liven up any uninspiring space than this beautiful shade of green.

 A bright, minty green that reminds you of walking on a lovely forest trail and adds a pop of colour and airiness to your home with this shade.

This colour stands out from the traditional shades most homeowners use, and it makes for a really interesting focal point. Your children would love it, and your guest would be in for a nice surprise when they enter your home.

Sherwin Williams Frost Emerald is also great if your stairs are old, not in the best of condition, and need some livening up. A great way to use this colour is to paint the walls close to the stairs or use it as an accent wall. Either way, it is a colour worth considering next time your stairs need a fresh coat.

Paint Color	LRV	RGB Value	Undertone(s)	Reading
Sherwin Williams Frosted Emerald	37	120 / 177 / 133	Yellow	Cool

Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal (HC 166)

Another stunning colour in the grey family, this is a great, bold and versatile colour to paint your staircase and even the areas surrounding it. Another popular grey colour, this shade is cool, and luxurious and pairs greatly with many other colours such as Classic White and Mascarpone.

Although a great colour, it can be a bit moody and dark thus not suitable for painting whole rooms except you are going for a moody look. However, it is a great colour to use for your stairs, accent walls or surrounding areas around your stairs.

Furthermore, because it is such a great and versatile colour, it pairs well with most design styles you may have chosen for your home.  This shade of grey pops out more when it is used as an accent feature and paired with coordinating colours. A great option worth considering, give your stairs an uplift with this luxurious shade.

Paint Color	LRV	RGB Value	Undertone(s)	Reading
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal	14.61	103 / 102 / 98	Gray and Green	Warm

Benjamin Moore Black (2132-10)

Painting your stairs in black is as old as time, and black remains one of the most popular colours for staircases. Even better is this deluxe shade of black from Benjamin Moore. Bold, daring, edgy and oozing sophistication, this colour will stop everyone in its tracks when they step into your house.

Nothing calls your attention more than an entire staircase painted in black. If you want an elegant and edgy look, Benjamin Moore’s Black 2132-10 is a paint to consider. Granted, this style is not for everyone, as such a dark shade might be too moody and intense for some homeowners.

However, if you think you can pull it off and are tired of the regular shades everyone is used to, this is one stunning colour no one will see coming.

There are various ways to use this shade. Since it is a very dark colour, you may choose to paint only the railings and then choose a separate colour for the baluster (such as white for that deep contrast).

If you are not feeling too daring but want a touch of black, you can also paint just the nosing. Or, you could go big by simply painting the entire stairs black. This works if your surrounding areas have bright and airy colours. Remember, it does not get more classic than black.

Paint Color	LRV	RGB Value	Undertone(s)	Reading
Benjamin Moore Black	4.56	50 / 51 / 51	None	Neither Warm nor Cool

Benjamin Moore Ocean Air (2123-50)

A stunning soothing blue green colour that calls to mind beautiful seas and the ocean, this is a stunning shade to use in your space. A popular colour loved by many owners, this shade pulls at the heartstrings and reminds one of home and sunny beach side days.

A mix of blue and green, using this colour instantly adds a touch of lightness and airiness in any space. It is the ultimate feel good colour that can lighten moods and transform a dreary space to a bright and cheerful one.

If you have a small staircase, you should definitely be thinking about this colour. You would be surprised how a fresh coat of BM Ocean Air would transform your space. This shade is particularly good for small, cramped spaces as it gives the illusion of being bigger than it really is.

A paint that adds a pop of colour, makes your space bigger, and is a crowd pleaser with all, it does not get better than that. The next time you are thinking of a way to liven up your stairs, think about a fresh coat of Benjamin Moore’s Ocean Air.

Paint Color	LRV	RGB Value	Undertone(s)	Reading
Benjamin Moore Ocean Air	71.84	50 / 51 / 51	None	Neither Warm nor Cool

Sherwin Williams Mega Greige (SW 7031)

Warm, dark gray paint colors also work well on stairs. In this case, Sherwin Williams Mega Greige is a medium to dark greige that gives a cozy and welcoming vibe. The best way to pull off this look on your stairs is to pair it with clean, crisp white paint colors.

Although it is more popular in exterior spaces, Sherwin Williams Mega Greige can do a phenomenal job in interior spaces. Areas like accent walls, cabinets, and stairs are all excellent places to use the lovely greige.

Paint Color	LRV	RGB Value	Undertone(s)	Reading
Sherwin Williams Mega Greige	37	173 / 162 / 149	Gray and Beige	Warm

FAQs

What is the Best Paint Finish for Stairs?

Semi-gloss remains the best and most popular paint finish for stairs. Satin is another popular and effective alternative. Fortunately, you can get any of the paint colors on this list in satin or semi-gloss.

Is Painting My Stairs a Good Idea?

Yes, painting your stairs adds beauty, charm and shows your creativity and style as a homeowner. Painted stairs can also hide imperfections that come with age, wear and tear and frequent use. Similarly, the right paint can give an elegant finish with good looks you will love.

Will Painted Stairs Last?

Contrary to what you may think, painted stairs can last for a good amount of years. This is why it is very essential to use good quality paints from reputable companies that would not rub off after some months.

How Do I Keep My Painted Stairs Clean?

You can keep your stairs clean with daily care, dusting and sweeping. Also, remember to clean up any spills and foot imprints immediately so they do not leave a permanent stain.  

How Can I Test My Paint Colours?

These days, the options are numerous, from traditional methods to those who want to keep it simple to more digitally savvy methods. You can paint small patches and experiment with lighting, take a picture, upload it and try out the paint digitally or use easy peel-off patches.

Conclusion

Stairs are a functional part of every home, especially in multi-level homes thus, it is easy to forget about them when decorating your home. However, who says you cannot have a functional and aesthetically pleasing home? No one. Over the years, stairs painting has become really popular as homeowners show their creativity.

If you are thinking of painting your stairs and are feeling unsure or confused about what paint and shade to use, these 8 colours above are worth considering. From classical colours such as black and whites, to greys and neutrals and even the occasional pop of colour, there is something for everyone.