Top 5 Best Paint Primers For Bathroom Ceilings (2023 Review)

Last Updated On May 26, 2023

Are you looking for the perfect paint primer for your bathroom ceilings?

You've come to the right place!

In this ProPaintCorner.com guide, you will learn:

  • What the different types of paints for bathroom ceilings are
  • What to look for in a primer for bathroom ceilings
  • Supplies you'll need for painting and priming bathroom ceilings

And much more!

Top 5 Best Paint Primers For Bathroom Ceilings (2020 Review)

Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose and use paint for ceilings!

Image Product

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KILZ Kitchen & Bath Interior Latex Primer/Sealer
  • Stainblocking
  • Mildew-resistant finish
  • Very low-VOC
  • Stainblocking
  • Mildew-resistant finish
  • Very low-VOC
View on Amazon

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Rust-Oleum Mold Killing Primer
  • Kills existing mold and bacteria
  • Highly adhesive
  • Inexpensive
  • Kills existing mold and bacteria
  • Highly adhesive
  • Inexpensive
View on Amazon

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Zinsser Water Tite Waterproofing Primer
  • Works on interior/exterior projects
  • 5 year mold and mildew resist guarantee
  • Ultra low odor
  • Works on interior/exterior projects
  • 5 year mold and mildew resist guarantee
  • Ultra low odor
View on Amazon

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KILZ Interior/Exterior Basement and Masonry Waterproofing Paint
  • Easy cleanup
  • Creates a waterproof barrier
  • Water resistant to 12 PSI
  • Easy cleanup
  • Creates a waterproof barrier
  • Water resistant to 12 PSI
View on Amazon

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Rust-Oleum Mold and Mildew Proof Interior Paint And Primer
  • 5 year guarantee
  • Paint & Primer in One
  • Comes in multiple finishes
  • 5 year guarantee
  • Paint & Primer in One
  • Comes in multiple finishes
View on Amazon

Our Overall #1 Rated Pick

Updated On May 26, 2023

Our top-rated pick for priming your bathroom ceiling is this amazing KILZ Interior Primer/Sealer that is specifically formulated for use in the kitchen and the bathroom.

This stuff is the best primer out there for that high moisture area in the bathroom that is going to accumulate tons of humidity over time.

Plus, this stuff dries very quickly, is low-odor, and it has incredible adhesion properties that are going to make your paint job stay like new!

What Are The Different Types of Paints For Ceilings To Choose From?

While bathroom ceiling paint is not terribly different than normal paint, there are a few key differences in paint that is specifically formulated for painting ceilings in humid areas like the bathroom.

For instance, because you're painting somewhere with a lot of moisture, you'll want to go for something that is stain-blocking and water-resistant to ensure it can handle any moisture or humidity it's exposed to.

Beyond that, there are a few different types of paints to choose from when looking for a ceiling paint.

Paint Finishes

One of the first things to decide on is what type of paint finish you're looking for.

Paint finishes determine how shiny and reflective your finished result will be. 

Below are the standard finishes most people use when painting ceilings listed from least glossy to highest gloss:

  • Matte
  • Flat
  • Eggshell
  • Semi-gloss
  • Satin

Choosing the right paint finish for your project will just depend on what overall look you're going for.

My personal suggestion is to go for higher gloss finishes in bathrooms just because I think it looks better, however you can choose whichever finish works best for your particular project.

Read More >> What Are The Ultimate Paint Roller Extension Poles For Painting Ceilings?

What Should You Look For In Paint Primer For Bathroom Ceilings?

Like I mentioned above, it's super important to use a paint specifically designed for high-moisture areas like the bathroom.

It's also very important to use a primer when painting in high moisture areas!

Why? Because you need to make sure that the paint you're using is adhering to the ceiling perfectly.

The only way to do that is to use a solid primer before you ever lay down a drop of paint. And specifically, focus on mildew-resistant primers and paints that are designed for bathroom walls and bathroom ceilings.

Trust me, if you take the extra steps to ensure you're using a quality primer under your bathroom paint, that paint job is going to last so much longer and look so much better.

Choosing something that is moisture-resistant is not an optional step when painting your bathroom.

You might also want to look for something like a mold killing primer if you're redoing your bathroom ceiling because of a mold or mildew infestation.

This will not only kill any existing mildew growth but also prevent future mildew from forming on your new top coat of paint!

Did you know: Using a primer when you paint can actually save you money! This is because it creates a much better surface for your paint to adhere to, so you'll likely use less of it.

Read More >> What Are The Best Paint Sprayers For Painting Ceilings?

Supplies You'll Need For Painting Ceilings

Before you dive into painting ceilings, I did want to mention a few key supplies to stock up on before you get started because ceilings are a bit of an undertaking compared to standard paint jobs:

  • Drop cloths - these are absolutely essential to avoid paint splatter
  • Extension pole - this is almost guaranteed to come in handy
  • A ladder - obviously, you'll need a good ladder to get the job done (especially without an extension pole)
  • Paint tray - this will come in handy, especially if you don't use a powered paint roller
  • Painter's tape - always make sure to use tape to make it easier to cut in without making messes

Now that you've got a good idea of what you'll need to get started, let's talk about the best paint primer for bathroom ceilings!

Our Reviews Of The Top Primers For Bathroom Ceilings

The epic KILZ Kitchen and Bathroom Interior Primer is ultimately the best primer that is low-voc and specifically made for use in the bathroom.

This mildew-resistant primer is not only highly affordable, but it's going to save you money in the long run by helping your paint color adhere to the bathroom ceiling that much better.

And, even if you're not a professional painter, this stuff is going to be easy to apply and DIY those bathroom ceilings!

Pros

  • Stainblocking
  • Mildew-resistant finish
  • Very low-VOC

Cons

  • Doesn't work as well with semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes
  • Doesn't go as far on fresh drywall

Our second choice if you're on a budget is this incredible Rust-Oleum Mold Killing Primer!

This stuff is top-notch for places like the bathroom ceiling because it will kill off any existing mold, mildew, fungi, or any other odor-causing bacteria.

So, even if you can't see it, this stuff will kill it!

That means your bathroom ceiling is going to get a fresh makeover and will stay moisture-resistant and beautiful for years to come.

Plus, this particular primer is inexpensive if you buy it in the quart size, however, bigger sizes will run you quite a bit more, so it helps to be precise about how much coverage you'll need before you purchase.

Pros

  • Kills existing mold and bacteria
  • Highly adhesive
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • More expensive in bigger sizes
  • Some Amazon customers received old products (but this is Amazon's fault, not Rust-Oleum's)

Our high-end choice is the epic Zinsser WaterTite Waterproofing Primer.

This stuff is like the Ferrari of bathroom primers because not only does it come with a 5-year Mold & Mildew proof guarantee, but it's also got a lifetime waterproof guarantee!

This stuff will prevent mold and mildew while also helping your topcoat of paint really pop and stay beautiful.

While it is a bit on the pricey side, in my opinion, it's very worth the price since it's such a high-quality product.

Pros

  • Works on interior/exterior projects
  • 5-year mold and mildew resist guarantee
  • Ultra-low odor

Cons

  • On the pricey sideLower coverage than some other primers
  • Oil-based (harder to dispose of than latex paints)

Our next choice is the amazing KILZ Interior/Exterior Basement and Masonry Waterproofing Paint Primer.

This stuff is a great all-around option if you want to get the most bang for your buck because you can use this on masonry, in the basement, and in the kitchen as well.

Wherever there's a high-moisture area, this stuff will help you protect your walls and your paint job from mildew and mold in the long-term!

Pros

  • Easy cleanup
  • Creates a waterproof barrier
  • Water-resistant to 12 PSI

Cons

  • Only comes in a latex paint option (not ideal for some concrete and masonry)
  • Some Amazon customers received used or old products

This amazing Mildew Proof Interior Paint and Primer is a fantastic option to use as a paint and primer combo.

While not all painters like using combos, if you're looking to make your project go a little faster, this stuff is a great option.

It comes in a satin finish, but it has a few other finishes available as well which makes it a highly versatile option!

Pros

  • 5-year guarantee
  • Paint & Primer in One
  • Comes in multiple finishes

Cons

  • A little on the pricey side
  • Really thick formula (learning curve)

Our top choice still has to be this epic Kitchen & Bath Primer/Sealer from KILZ.

This stuff is still your safest bet for priming your bathroom ceilings in the best possible fashion to prevent mildew growth while also creating a beautiful paint job.

You really can't go wrong with KILZ, and this amazing primer/sealer is no exception. 

So if you want to create a beautiful paint job on your bathroom ceiling, this is the stuff for you.

Plus, it's such a great value for the money. Find it at the lowest price on Amazon now!

Final Thoughts On Choosing A Good Ceiling Paint Primer 

Whether you're a complete novice when it comes to painting and priming ceilings or a seasoned pro, choosing the right product can go a long way to making your project turn out great!

I'm confident that any of the primers on this list, if applied properly, will help you create a beautiful look on your newly painted ceilings!

It's just a matter of choosing the best one for your unique situation and then making sure to follow some of the painting tips above to ensure you get a high-quality end result.

As always, happy painting!

Meet Your Pro Paint Corner Author

Madison Rude

Madison Rude

I’m kind of a painting nerd. My mom taught me how to paint when I was nine, and since then I’ve painted rooms, furniture...you name it. I’ve written technical advice for Wagner sprayers, and I’ve spent a lot of time DIYing my own home. I’m no expert, but I love to learn. And here at ProPaintCorner, I learn more about painting every time I work with one of our painting pros to bring you the best product reviews and How To advice available. Together, let’s make your next painting project the best it can be!

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Madison Rude

Madison Rude

I’m kind of a painting nerd. My mom taught me how to paint when I was nine, and since then I’ve painted rooms, furniture...you name it. I’ve written technical advice for Wagner sprayers, and I’ve spent a lot of time DIYing my own home. I’m no expert, but I love to learn. And here at ProPaintCorner, I learn more about painting every time I work with one of our painting pros to bring you the best product reviews and How To advice available. Together, let’s make your next painting project the best it can be!

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