Should I Choose Water or Oil based Paints? Which Is Right for Your Project

 Oil vs Water-Based Paint: Which Is Right for Your DIY Project?

Should I Choose Water or Oil based Paints?

When you're planning to paint your kitchen cabinets, walls, or furniture, choosing the right type of paint is just as important as picking the perfect colour. The decision between acrylic (or water based) and oil-based paints can impact everything from how your project looks to how long it lasts.

At Colour Supplies, we know how overwhelming the paint aisle can be — so this guide breaks down the pros, cons, and ideal uses of both paint types to help you choose confidently answer the eternal decorating question of "Should I Choose Water or Oil based Paints?".

 What’s the Difference Between Water and Oil-Based Paint?

The key difference comes down to what the paint is made from and how it behaves:

• Water-based paints use water (I know, who would've guessed) as their solvent. They're easy to work with, quick-drying, and low in odour — perfect for indoor projects.

• Oil-based paints use mineral spirits or turpentine as a solvent. They dry slowly, creating a hard, durable finish that’s excellent for surfaces that take a lot of wear and tear.

When to Use Water Based Paints

Water Based paints are the go-to for most home interiors. They’ve improved massively over the years and are now available in a wide range of finishes like matte, eggshell, satin, and gloss. They’re especially popular for walls and ceilings.

Pros:

• Fast Drying: Great if you need to finish a room quickly.
• Low Odour & Low VOCs: Safer for indoor use, even in small or poorly ventilated spaces.
• Easy Clean-Up: Just soap and water — no harsh chemicals required.

Cons:

• Less Durable Than Oil: Especially on high-contact surfaces like kitchen cabinets or bannisters.
• May Require More Coats: Especially when covering darker colours or stains.
• Finish Can Show Brush Marks: Unless applied with care or a high-quality roller.

Best used for interior walls and ceilings, furniture that won't face heavy wear (e.g., bedroom drawers. shelves), kitchens and bathrooms when using specific variants fit for that environment.

When to Use Oil-Based Paints

Oil-based paints are known for their smooth, hard finish and superior durability. Although they take longer to dry and require solvents for clean-up, they still have a place in modern decorating — particularly where toughness is key.

Pros:

• Durability: Hard-wearing and scratch-resistant, ideal for high-contact areas.
• Smoother Finish: Ideal for trim, woodwork, and furniture — less brushstroke visibility.
• Superior Adhesion: Great for painting over previously oil-based finishes

Cons:

• Strong Odour & Higher VOCs: Requires good ventilation during use.
• Longer Dry Time: Expect 6–24 hours between coats.
• Needs Solvents to Clean Up: You'll need white spirit or turpentine.

Best used for kitchen cabinets, skirting boards, doors, and outdoor woodwork such as sheds and garden furniture due to the higher strain that will be put on the paint by weather conditions. 

So, Should I Choose Water or Oil based Paints?

Here’s a simple way to answer the "Should I Choose Water or Oil based Paints?" question:

• For walls, ceilings, and most interior rooms: Go with acrylic or water-based paint. It’s easier, safer, and more versatile for DIY.

• For kitchen cupboards, doors, or anything that gets knocked around: Consider oil-based paint for its tougher finish.

• Want the best of both worlds? Look into hybrid paints like water-based alkyds — they offer oil-like durability with easier cleanup.