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  1. Trade
  2. Technical Advice
  3. Professional Painter Problem Solver Guides
  4. Professional Interior Paint Problems Solver
  5. How to Fix Poor Scrub Resistance Problems
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Build: 1.2.35 - Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:29:32 GMT
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Possible Cause


  • Choosing the wrong sheen for the area

  • Use of lower quality paint

  • Use of an overly aggressive scrub medium (see also Burnishing)

  • Inadequate dry time allowed after application of the paint before washing it 

Solution

Areas that need frequent cleaning require highly washable premium quality paint formulated to provide such performance. High traffic areas may require a low sheen, semi-gloss or gloss paint rather than a flat/matt paint to provide good scrub resistance.

Allow adequate dry time, as scrub resistance will not fully develop until the paint is thoroughly cured. Typically, this will be one week. Try washing the painted surface with the least abrasive material and mildest detergent first. Dulux recommends Dulux Wash&Wear® range to maximise the scrub resistance of interior surfaces.

Poor Scrub Resistance

Wearing away or removal of the paint film when scrubbed with a brush, sponge, or cloth.


More problem solving advice

Yellowing

Yellowing describes the development of a yellow cast in ageing paint solvent-based enamels.

Find out more-->

Wrinkling

Wrinkling is a term to describe a rough, crinkled paint surface, which occurs when uncured paint forms a 'skin'.

Find out more-->

Sagging

Sagging is the downward "drooping" movement of the paint film immediately after application that results in an uneven coating.

Learn more-->
About Dulux
Dulux My Home
Dulux Specifier
Privacy Policy
Terms & Conditions
Careers
Customer Service
Contact Us
Find a Store
Sustainability
Dulux Group Corporate