Dulux Easycare is often marketed as a versatile and durable paint for high-traffic and high-maintenance areas, but it has received mixed reactions from professional decorators. While some praise its durability and finish, others feel it falls short compared to trade alternatives. Let’s dive into the insights shared by professional decorators to provide a well-rounded review.
Overview of Dulux Easycare
Dulux Easycare is a retail product primarily positioned for domestic use. It’s designed to be washable and durable, making it suitable for busy areas like hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Despite its intended purpose, opinions from decorators reveal a spectrum of experiences regarding its performance, application, and suitability.
Pros of Dulux Easycare
- Ease of Application
Several decorators found Dulux Easycare easy to apply. Andy F remarked that it was better than the trade Dulux paint he used the previous day, calling it “better and a lot cheaper.” Similarly, Garry Y praised its performance, stating he had used it “for years without any issues.” - Durability in Domestic Environments
Dulux Easycare’s durability has impressed some decorators. Melissa R highlighted its suitability for families, especially with young children. She noted that it’s washable and stands up to frequent cleaning without losing its finish. - Affordability
Compared to trade paints, Dulux Easycare is seen as cost-effective. Decorators like Richard N pointed out its availability at a reasonable price in retail outlets like B&Q and Wickes, making it accessible for budget-conscious customers. - Good Coverage in Colours
Colin C noted that while the white version had poor coverage, the coloured variants performed well, providing solid finishes with fewer coats. - Satisfactory Finish for DIYers
Several decorators mentioned that Dulux Easycare is suitable for DIY projects or clients who supply their own materials. Its retail focus makes it more forgiving for non-professional use.
Cons of Dulux Easycare
- Inconsistent Coverage
Coverage issues are a recurring theme among decorators. Darryl T expressed concerns about needing multiple coats, which could increase labour costs. Similarly, Liam T noted that the product often required thinning for better application, adding to the workload. - Unsuitability for Professional Projects
Decorators like Craig K categorised Dulux Easycare as a retail product unsuitable for professional use. He noted that it didn’t match the performance of trade paints like Crown Clean Extreme or Dulux Diamond Matt. - Durability in High-Traffic Areas
While adequate for domestic use, decorators like Bernie N advised against using Dulux Easycare in commercial settings such as offices. He found it less durable than trade alternatives. - Finish Issues in White
Many decorators criticised the white variant for its poor opacity. Colin Y and Darryl T pointed out that this often led to patchy finishes or required additional coats, making it less efficient. - Retail vs Trade Debate
A major drawback highlighted by decorators is its positioning as a retail product. Decorators like Even Flow described it as (for lack of better phrasing) “utter shite,” while others recommended trade paints for better durability, coverage, and overall finish.
Comparisons with Other Paints
- Crown Clean Extreme
Crown Clean Extreme received overwhelmingly positive feedback as a superior alternative. Decorators like Roy S and David S preferred it for its durability and finish. Short noted that the matt version “never had any complaints, only praises.” - Dulux Diamond Matt
Many decorators recommended Dulux Diamond Matt over Easycare for professional projects. It was praised for its scrubbability, better opacity, and suitability for high-traffic areas. - Johnstone’s Durable Matt
Johnstone’s Durable Matt also emerged as a popular alternative, with decorators like Vicki R and Darryl T preferring its durability and finish over Dulux Easycare. - Tikkurila Optiva 5
While pricier, Tikkurila Optiva 5 was highlighted as a premium option for projects requiring a flawless finish. Decorators like Kerry D admitted that the cost shocked some customers but found it worth the investment for its performance.
Expert Recommendations
- For Domestic Use: Dulux Easycare is a viable option for households, especially in rooms with moderate traffic or where washability is essential.
- For Commercial Projects: Trade paints like Crown Clean Extreme or Dulux Diamond Matt are more durable and offer better value in the long run.
- Budget-Friendly Alternatives: Johnstone’s Durable Matt and Armstead Durable Matt were frequently recommended for cost-conscious clients without compromising on quality.
Final Thoughts
Dulux Easycare holds a middle ground between affordability and performance. It’s a good choice for DIYers or domestic environments but struggles to meet the expectations of professional decorators. While it offers a decent finish and durability in colours, its white variant often disappoints due to poor opacity and higher labour requirements.
For decorators aiming to balance cost with quality, Crown Clean Extreme or Johnstone’s Durable Matt are better options. However, Dulux Easycare remains a practical choice for budget-conscious projects or clients who insist on retail-grade materials.
