Everything You Need to Know About Painting Interior Doors

Thinking about painting your interior doors? Whether you’re refreshing a dull front door or outdated bedroom panels, this simple tweak will have a surprisingly huge effect. With the perfect color and a proper finish, you can completely refresh your space without the need for a full remodel.

In this guide, we’ll talk about the best interior door paint to the latest color ideas, such as grey painted interior doors and interior doors painted black. Let’s dive in.

Why Bother Painting Interior Doors?

Doors take more abuse than most walls. Fingerprints, scuff marks, sunlight, and too many dings can make them look a mess before you know it. A fresh coat of paint doesn't just cover up those imperfections; it transforms the look of your entire room.

Plus, painted interior doors are having a major moment in home décor. From painted interior front doors to colorful pantry entries, they’re a favorite among designers looking for subtle drama. If you're wondering how color affects more than just aesthetics, check out this guide on how interior colors can affect your mood.

Best Paint for Interior Doors: What You Need to Know

Before you dip a brush, here are a few basics:

Choose the Right Paint Type: Semi-gloss or satin finishes are ideal for doors and trim. They’re easy to clean and reflect just enough light for a polished look.
Oil-based paints are durable but harder to work with and clean up.
Water-based (latex) paints are more common, dry faster, and are less toxic—great for indoor projects.

Pro Tip: Use the same finish on your doors and trim for a consistent look. Want professional help? Our expert interior house painting services are available across Bergen County.

Trendy Interior Door Paint Colors (with Ideas!)

1. Classic White (Best White Paint for Interior Doors)

If you love timeless, clean lines, white is your go-to. Try:

Sherwin-Williams Extra White (SW 7006)
Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace

White pairs beautifully with any trim, wall color, or hardware.

Pinterest Inspiration: Painted Interior Doors

2. Moody & Modern: Black Doors

Interior doors painted black bring depth and drama to neutral spaces. Use matte black for a modern farmhouse feel or satin for a more contemporary finish.

Pinterest Inspiration: Black Interior Doors

3. Soft Neutrals: Grey Painted Interior Doors

Greys offer a modern, understated look that still adds personality. Top picks include:

Repose Gray by Sherwin-Williams
Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore

These shades work well with white walls, natural wood floors, or metal hardware.

Pinterest Inspiration: Grey Internal Doors

4. Bold & Unique Hues

Don’t be afraid to go bold. If you’ve been saving interior door paint ideas on Pinterest, now’s the time:

Navy Blue for coastal homes
Sage Green for earthy vibes
Terracotta for rustic charm

Pinterest Inspiration: Painted Interior Doors Ideas

Need more door-specific insights? Check out everything you need to know about painting interior doors.

How to Paint an Interior Door (Without Regret)

Step-by-Step:

Remove the door (optional, but easier).
Clean thoroughly—wipe down dirt, oil, and dust.
Sand lightly—especially if previously painted.
Use primer—important for stain coverage and adhesion.
Paint with a brush and foam roller—brush edges, roll the flat parts.
Let dry and recoat as needed.

Tip: Don’t skip sanding if you're updating painted interior doors—glossy surfaces don’t hold paint well. For flawless finishes, our Bergen County interior house painters can handle everything from prep to cleanup.

What About Painting the Interior Front Door?

Your interior front door (the side facing indoors) is part of your room’s design. You can match the walls, go bold for contrast, or use color to subtly connect the entry to other parts of the home.

Popular interior front door colors:

Deep Blue or Charcoal (for drama)
Creamy Beige or Pale Gray (for softness)
Classic White (for clean minimalism)

Need more help? Our team at MGP Painting can help choose the right color and finish based on your room layout and lighting.

Can I Use Acrylic Paint on Vivarium Interior?

Short Answer: Yes, but only once it’s fully cured and sealed.

Acrylic paint is commonly used for vivarium interiors, especially for background walls, faux rocks, or decorations. However, not all acrylic paints are created equal, and not all are safe for animals right away.

How to Paint a Vivarium Interior Safely

1. Use Non-Toxic, Water-Based Acrylic Paints: Choose brands that are labeled non-toxic and free from harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Look for paints certified for children's toys or indoor murals.

Recommended:

FolkArt Acrylic (non-toxic, water-based)
Apple Barrel Acrylic (budget-friendly, widely available)
Liquitex BASICS (non-toxic artist grade)

2. Let It Cure Fully: Allow at least 72 hours (longer for thick applications) before sealing. Curing is different from drying—your paint might be dry to the touch in an hour, but still releasing fumes beneath.

3. Seal with Animal-Safe Sealants: Use a water-based polyurethane or acrylic sealant that’s labeled non-toxic and suitable for terrarium/vivarium environments.

Recommended:

Mod Podge Hard Coat (non-toxic)
Drylok Masonry Waterproofer (for rock backgrounds)
Zoo Med Terrarium Sealant – Specially made for wet environments—perfect if you’re setting up a bioactive or humid setup.

4. Let it fully cure: Once you've applied your sealant, don't rush to add everything back in. Let it cure for at least 5–7 days before adding any substrate, plants, or animals.

Pro Tip for Reptile & Amphibian Owners: If you're housing sensitive species (like frogs, geckos, or snakes), always err on the side of caution. Even with safe materials, a 2-week off-gassing period outside the enclosure is ideal before reintroduction.

Final Thoughts: Is Painting Interior Doors Worth It?

Absolutely. Painting interior doors is one of the easiest, most budget-friendly updates you can make, especially if you're working on a remodel or rental refresh.

It’s also a perfect DIY project that can be tackled in a weekend with the right prep.

Bergen County Homeowners—Need a Pro’s Touch?

If you're planning a full repaint or just want that flawless finish on your doors, MGP Painting is here to help. We’ve painted thousands of doors across Bergen County, Rockland County, Orange County, and Westchester, and we can help you choose colors, finishes, and deliver perfect execution.

Call us at 845.290.5284 or Contact Us Online to schedule a free estimate.

FAQs About Painting Interior Doors

Q: What’s the best paint to use on interior doors?

A: Semi-gloss or satin finish latex paint is perfect. It’s durable and easy to clean.

Q: Can I paint doors without removing them?

A: Yes, just tape off hinges and lay down a drop cloth. It might take a bit longer.

Q: Do I need to use primer?

A: If your door is bare wood or was previously painted in a dark/glossy color, yes—primer is highly recommended.

Q: How long does it take to dry?

A: Most latex paints dry to the touch in 1–2 hours; however, it is best to wait 6 - 8 hours for drying and for recoating or closing the door.