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Best Home Paint Additives of 2026

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Howard Chester

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Home paint additives are a popular way to enhance the performance and appearance of your paint. These products are designed to be added directly to your paint mixture and can help to improve coverage, durability, and color retention. Some additives can also help to reduce drying time, prevent mildew growth, and improve the overall finish of your painted surfaces. With a wide range of options available, including texture additives, anti-slip agents, and even glow-in-the-dark additives, there is something to suit every painting project. Home paint additives are a simple and effective way to take your painting projects to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Home Paint Additives

#TOP 1

Flood Latex Paint Conditioner

  • Flood
  • PPG/FLOETROL - FLD6-01 - 1 GALLON #2
  • Clear
Flood Latex Paint Conditioner Cover

Flood 1 Gal. Floetrol Latex Paint Additive

This Flood 1 gal FLD6 Floetrol Latex Oil Acrylic Paint Additive is a latex paint conditioner that enhances the properties of latex paint, improving coverage and value. Unlike water, it doesn't dilute the paint's quality. It extends the wet edge of the paint, giving users the time to correct mistakes or achieve specific looks. This product is suitable for both interior and exterior latex paint, and it helps paint adjust to extreme weather conditions, such as high humidity or hot and cold temperatures.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Enhances paint flow
  • Keeps colors vibrant
  • Reduces brush and roller marks
  • Easy to mix and use
  • Cost-effective for large projects

What We Don't Like

  • Slightly thick consistency
  • Minor gloss reduction

What Customers Say

"I started using this to mix with my acrylic paints for pouring projects, and I'm thrilled with the results. The colors stay bright and true, and it's so affordable for the quantity. I follow a 3:1 ratio for colors and 4:1 for backgrounds, and it dries quickly. This jug is lasting me ages, and I'm excited to try it with house paints too. I'll definitely buy it again!"

"As a longtime DIYer, I can't believe I only just discovered this product. It made painting my large built-in cabinets so much easier—no brush or roller marks at all, and the finish looks like it was sprayed. Cleanup is a breeze, and I didn't have to use my paint sprayer, which is a huge time-saver. Floetrol is now my go-to for big painting projects."

"This is my favorite medium for paint pours. It mixes smoothly, improves the flow, and the value is unbeatable. I haven't found a better price anywhere, and the quality keeps me coming back every time."

#TOP 2

Sunnyside 79205M Waste Paint Hardener 4.7 oz

Sunnyside 79205M Waste Paint Hardener 4.7 oz Cover

Sunnyside 79205M M-1 Waste Paint Hardener, 4.7 oz

The Sunnyside Paint Hardener is designed to help you easily manage leftover paint. It quickly turns extra oil-based or latex paint into a solid form, making disposal simple and mess-free. This product uses a special blend of acrylic acid, polymer, and sodium salt to transform your paint waste. With a convenient 4.7-ounce size, it’s perfect for home use, helping you keep your workspace clean and organized while reducing hazardous liquid waste. Whether you’re a DIYer or a professional, this hardener offers a practical solution to dealing with paint leftovers safely and efficiently.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effective latex paint hardening
  • Easy to mix and use
  • Consistent curing results
  • Reliable for large quantities
  • Fast drying time

What We Don't Like

  • Limited effectiveness on oil-based paint
  • Requires thorough stirring

What Customers Say

"I had to deal with a huge amount of old paint after buying my neighbor’s house, and this product made it manageable. Mixed it into every can, and by the next morning, even the full pails were completely hardened. It’s an excellent solution for getting rid of leftover latex paint."

"I found that this paint hardener works exactly as described—mixes in easily, cures evenly, and solidifies latex paint within hours. The results are always consistent, so I’d definitely purchase it again and recommend it to others."

"This product is great for water-based paints and is more economical in bulk compared to what I can get locally. I just wish it worked as well on oil-based paints, but for latex, it’s reliable every time."

#TOP 3

Zinsser Roll-A-Tex Sand Texture Additive 22616

  • Zinsser
  • 22616
  • White
  • 1 Pound (Pack of 1)
Zinsser Roll-A-Tex Sand Texture Additive 22616 Cover

Zinsser 22616 Roll-A-Tex Sand Texture Additive, 1 Pound

The Zinsser Roll-A-Tex Additive is a handy product that lets you easily add a stylish sand texture to your walls and ceilings. If you want to update your space with a modern look, this additive helps you achieve that with minimal effort. Made in the United States, it provides reliable quality you can trust. Plus, it’s designed for simple use, so even if you’re not a pro, you can still get great results. This product also works well for hiding imperfections like tape and joints, making your surfaces look smooth and flawless.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Covers wall imperfections
  • Easy to mix
  • Creates sandy texture
  • Consistent sand size
  • Good value

What We Don't Like

  • Reduced paint coverage
  • Very rough finish

What Customers Say

"After using this product, my garage walls looked fantastic with a subtle sandy effect. It really helped hide uneven spots where the paint had peeled. Mixing was simple and the results were impressive."

"I needed to match the texture on my older home's walls and this additive did the trick. It hid all the differences and blended patched areas perfectly. Just be aware that it makes the surface rough, so I recommend using it for the first coat and smoothing it out with a plain paint second coat."

"I added a full box of this to some Kilz primer and used it to prep a wall where a built-in had been removed. All the blemishes disappeared and the finished wall matched the rest of the room perfectly. Highly recommend it for hiding imperfections and getting great texture!"

#TOP 4

Glitter for Paint [5.3oz] – Holographic Silver with 2 x Buffing Pads – Glitter for Painting Walls for Luminous Paint Finish on Interior or Exterior Walls, Ceilings, and Wood - Glitter Paint Additive

  • FBGC
  • awfpoji-458345
  • Silver
  • 5.3oz
Glitter for Paint [5.3oz] – Holographic Silver with 2 x Buffing Pads – Glitter for Painting Walls for Luminous Paint Finish on Interior or Exterior Walls, Ceilings, and Wood - Glitter Paint Additive Cover

Glitter for Paint [5.3oz] – Holographic Silver with 2 x Buffing Pads – Glitter for Painting Walls for Luminous Paint Finish on Interior or Exterior Walls, Ceilings, and Wood - Glitter Paint Additive

Get ready to add a touch of sparkle to your walls with the FBGC Glitter Paint Additive. This easy-to-use paint additive allows anyone to create a luminous paint finish on interior or exterior walls, ceilings, and wood. Simply mix the glitter additive with your preferred paint and start painting. The non-toxic and child-safe glitter crystals are temperature-resistant and waterproof, making them perfect for any room in your home. Plus, with the included buffing pads, you can enhance the holographic paint effect even more. The advanced glitter crystal technology provides a dazzling effect and can be used indoors or outdoors. So, why settle for plain walls when you can add a little sparkle with the FBGC Glitter Paint Additive?

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Beautiful shimmer effect
  • Easy mixing and application
  • Long-lasting sparkle
  • Customizable intensity
  • No mess or flaking

What We Don't Like

  • Buffing can be difficult
  • Sparkle fades slightly over time

What Customers Say

"I have to say, this wall glitter is absolutely stunning in person! Mixing it was a breeze—just a few minutes with a drill attachment did the trick. Even my husband, who isn’t a fan of glitter, admitted the wall looks incredible and brightens the room. It holds up through buffing and doesn’t come off on hands or pads. I’ll definitely be recommending and using it again!"

"I’m now on my third bag of this product because it’s simply perfect. My walls have a subtle, elegant shimmer—not at all tacky—and a little goes a long way. The real magic happens after buffing with the included pads. If you’re looking for something that’s both unique and mesmerizing, look no further!"

"I used this additive in my bathroom’s lime paint and the result was amazing texture and sparkle. It was easy to mix in, and the effect turned out exactly as I hoped—elegant and eye-catching. I’ll definitely use it again, maybe on a feature wall next time!"

#TOP 5

HOMESPHERE Waste Away Paint Hardener

HOMESPHERE Waste Away Paint Hardener Cover

HOMESPHERE Homax Waste Away Paint Hardener, 12 Packs, 3.5oz - Fast Acting Solidifier for Disposal - Drying Powder for Acrylic & Latex With 25 Pcs. of 14 Inch Wooden Stir Sticks

The HOMESPHERE Paint Hardener makes cleaning up leftover paint a breeze. You can easily transform messy liquid paint into a solid form without needing kitty litter or newspapers, keeping your workspace tidy. This product acts quickly—just mix it into your leftover latex paint and watch it thicken in minutes. For best results, let it sit for a couple of hours. Plus, it works well with water-based acrylic and latex paints, ensuring your disposal process is efficient and effective.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Fast paint hardening
  • Easy paint disposal
  • Low odor formula
  • Minimal product required
  • Included stir sticks

What We Don't Like

  • May not fully dry large cans
  • Possible sticky residue

What Customers Say

"I had several gallons of old paint to get rid of, and this product made the process incredibly quick and simple. After mixing in the powder, the paint was solid in just a couple of hours, and I could easily throw it away. Definitely worth the cost and fast shipping!"

"I was cleaning out my basement and needed an efficient way to deal with old paint cans. The paint hardener was a huge time saver—the powder mixed in smoothly, and the paint turned solid fast. Disposal became hassle-free, and the included stir sticks were a thoughtful touch."

"I tried this on a partial quart of separated paint. After stirring, the mixture quickly thickened with barely any odor. I did notice a bit of sticky residue, but it was easy to clean up. Overall, a very good product, and I’ve already reordered!"

#TOP 6

Rust-Oleum Anti-Skid Additive 279847

Rust-Oleum Anti-Skid Additive 279847 Cover

Rust-Oleum 279847 Anti-Skid Additive, 3.4 oz

The Rust-Oleum Anti-Skid Additive is designed to help you improve safety by adding a non-slip surface to your floors. You can mix this aluminum oxide-based additive with various types of paints and stains, including epoxy, latex, and oil-based, making it versatile for different projects. It works well on concrete, wood, metal, or fiberglass, so you can use it on many surfaces around your home or workspace. Plus, it meets ADA standards for slip resistance, ensuring your coated surfaces are safer for everyone. One small 3.4 oz package is enough to treat up to a gallon of coating, offering convenience and value.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy mixing and application
  • Effective slip resistance
  • No noticeable color change
  • Works with various paint types
  • Good for multiple surfaces

What We Don't Like

  • May require more for stronger texture

What Customers Say

"I used this additive when painting my boat floor with epoxy paint, and I was impressed with how well it mixed and how effectively it created a skid-proof surface. There was no change to the off-white color of the paint, and the instructions were clear. I do think that one pack per gallon might be a little light for very slippery areas, but overall, it worked great."

"I added this to a gallon of latex acrylic paint for my porch, and now it's non-slip but still maintains a nice semi-gloss finish. It was exactly what I needed for extra safety without sacrificing the appearance."

"Blending this into my epoxy coating for a commercial floor was straightforward, and it added just the right amount of texture to prevent slipping. It's holding up nicely even in a high-traffic setting."

#TOP 7

Homax Roll On Paint Additive, Sand Texture, 6 oz

  • Homax
  • 041072084741
  • Sand
  • 6 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Homax Roll On Paint Additive, Sand Texture, 6 oz Cover

Homax Roll On Paint Additive, Sand Texture, 6 oz

Homax Sand Texture Additive is a versatile home paint additive that allows you to easily add texture and paint in one step. With its fine aggregate, it creates a subtle sand finish, making it perfect for hiding imperfections or damaged areas in drywall. Whether you need to hide nail holes, rips, dents, or dings, this additive has got you covered. Simply mix it with one gallon of paint and you're ready to go. Say goodbye to time-consuming and complicated texture application methods. With Homax Sand Texture Additive, achieving a professional-looking textured finish has never been easier.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy to mix
  • Blends well with existing walls
  • Customizable texture thickness
  • Effective for patching repairs
  • Quick delivery

What We Don't Like

  • Texture can be rough
  • Potential for messy application

What Customers Say

"I found this product very simple to mix and it blended seamlessly into my walls after repiping. The delivery was much faster than big box stores, and I appreciated the ability to control how thick the texture was. It made patching several rooms a breeze. I’d definitely recommend it."

"I used this additive to match a sand texture ceiling from the 1970s. By mixing it thoroughly with primer paint, I got an even, authentic finish—the sand stayed suspended and didn’t settle. I patched a large crack, and now you can’t even tell where the repair was."

"This mix was a quick and easy fix for my wall, but the texture ended up being rougher than I expected—almost like actual sand on the surface. It was a bit messy to use, and I had to wear a mask while mixing. Still, it served its purpose for a temporary repair."

#TOP 8

Zinsser 22234 Roll-A-Tex Coarse Texture Additive

Zinsser 22234 Roll-A-Tex Coarse Texture Additive Cover

Zinsser 22234 Roll-A-Tex Coarse Texture Additive, 1 Pound

The Zinsser Roll-A-Tex Additive is a user-friendly product designed to add a coarse texture to your paint projects. Its easy application means you can achieve professional-looking results without hassle. This additive is built to last, providing a durable finish that stands up to wear and tear over time. Made in the United States, it assures quality and reliability, giving you confidence in your home improvement tasks. As a trusted product from Rust-Oleum’s Zinsser brand, it combines convenience and performance to help you enhance your walls with textured appeal.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy to use application
  • Hides wall imperfections
  • Cost-effective solution
  • Flexible texture options
  • Works with various paints

What We Don't Like

  • Somewhat messy process
  • Requires finesse for uniform finish

What Customers Say

"After 35 years of renovating old homes, I can confidently say this product is the easiest and most affordable method I've found for hiding ugly walls. Application is straightforward, and I appreciate being able to experiment with different texture grades and ratios. It's not flawless, but it's the best value and effort tradeoff I've seen in decades."

"I've used this texture additive for multiple townhouse projects, and it looks more natural and consistent than spray cans, which often clogged and cost more. As long as I follow the recommended mixing ratio and prep well for mess, the results are smooth and professional. I've come back to buy it twice more."

"I bought this to mix into paint for our bathroom walls after removing stubborn wallpaper damaged the drywall. This additive made coverage over flaws easy and attractive. Mixed with a drill attachment, it produced a sturdy, beautiful finish that I highly recommend for anyone dealing with similar issues."

#TOP 9

Hemway Glitter Paint Additive - 100g / 3.5oz

  • Hemway
  • 5060529002669
  • Mother Of Pearl
Hemway Glitter Paint Additive - 100g / 3.5oz Cover

Glitter Paint for Walls Mother of Pearl Iridescent Additive Emulsion Latex Acrylic Sparkles Interior Painting 100g / 3.5oz

Hemway Glitter Paint Additive is a great way to add sparkle to any paint, including walls, ceilings, and furniture. The light-reflecting glitter contains premium quality crystals and is colorfast, fade-resistant and heat-resistant, so it is sure to shine for a long time. It is also quick and easy to use; simply add the desired amount to your water-based paint or varnish, mix and apply. Hemway glitter is vegan and free from animal testing.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Beautiful shimmer effect
  • Easy to use and apply
  • Works with various paint types
  • Customizable glitter intensity
  • Enhances decor affordably

What We Don't Like

  • May require extra glitter for dark paint
  • Price slightly high for quantity

What Customers Say

"I was aiming for a subtle, mature shimmer in my closet, and this glitter delivered exactly what I wanted. The 'Champagne Gold' shade gave a gorgeous effect that even impressed my home contractor and closet installer. I found the best results by thoroughly mixing and then burnishing with a kitchen scrubby sponge—the end result is stunning and really makes my white cabinetry pop. It's an amazing way to achieve a high-end look on a budget!"

"I used this product to create a sparkling feature wall in my daughter's room and loved the outcome! Mixing two bags of silver glitter per gallon of paint and then buffing the walls made the glitter shine beautifully. The application was surprisingly easy—definitely not as difficult as I expected. The results look even better in person; photos and videos don’t do it justice. I’m so happy with it, I went back months later to do another room!"

"I tried this glitter additive for a black galaxy wall in my art studio and was disappointed—the effect was barely visible, even after using four packets. For dark paints, it seems you need a lot more product, and the glitter just didn't show up the way I hoped. The buffing pads didn’t help much, either. Maybe it works better with lighter colors."

#TOP 10

Majic 30679 Accelerator Hardener 1/2 Pint Clear

  • Majic
  • 30679
  • Clear
  • 1/2 pint
Majic 30679 Accelerator Hardener 1/2 Pint Clear Cover

Majic 30679 Accelerator Hardener, 1/2 pint, Clear

The Majic Accelerator Hardener Clear is a handy product designed to speed up the drying process of your paint projects. This 1/2 pint clear hardener is part of the Majic brand, known for quality home paint additives. It’s perfect for use with household paint solvents and accessories, helping you achieve better results in less time. Made in the United States, this accelerator hardener ensures you get a reliable and effective product that supports your painting needs, making your work smoother and more efficient.

8.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Improved gloss and shine
  • Faster drying time
  • Enhanced scratch resistance
  • Easy mixing process
  • Professional-looking finish

What We Don't Like

  • Increased paint cost
  • Hardness could be better

What Customers Say

"I combined this with Farm Tractor Black paint, and even as someone new to painting, I got a nearly professional result. It mixed in easily, sprayed well, and dried smooth and evenly without any mess."

"After using this with Rust Oleum Ford blue on my boat trailer, I noticed the paint became much shinier and tougher. While the price is a bit high, it's worth it for projects that need extra durability."

"This catalyst was straightforward to use and mixed well. The dry time was noticeably reduced and scratch resistance improved, although I found the final hardness wasn't quite as high as I hoped for."

Home Paint Additives Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Flood Latex Paint Conditioner Cover

Flood Latex Paint Conditioner

#TOP 2 Sunnyside 79205M Waste Paint Hardener 4.7 oz Cover

Sunnyside 79205M Waste Paint Hardener 4.7 oz

#TOP 3 Zinsser Roll-A-Tex Sand Texture Additive 22616 Cover

Zinsser Roll-A-Tex Sand Texture Additive 22616

#TOP 4 Glitter for Paint [5.3oz] – Holographic Silver with 2 x Buffing Pads – Glitter for Painting Walls for Luminous Paint Finish on Interior or Exterior Walls, Ceilings, and Wood - Glitter Paint Additive Cover

Glitter for Paint [5.3oz] – Holographic Silver with 2 x Buffing Pads – Glitter for Painting Walls for Luminous Paint Finish on Interior or Exterior Walls, Ceilings, and Wood - Glitter Paint Additive

#TOP 5 HOMESPHERE Waste Away Paint Hardener Cover

HOMESPHERE Waste Away Paint Hardener

#TOP 6 Rust-Oleum Anti-Skid Additive 279847 Cover

Rust-Oleum Anti-Skid Additive 279847

#TOP 7 Homax Roll On Paint Additive, Sand Texture, 6 oz Cover

Homax Roll On Paint Additive, Sand Texture, 6 oz

#TOP 8 Zinsser 22234 Roll-A-Tex Coarse Texture Additive Cover

Zinsser 22234 Roll-A-Tex Coarse Texture Additive

#TOP 9 Hemway Glitter Paint Additive - 100g / 3.5oz Cover

Hemway Glitter Paint Additive - 100g / 3.5oz

#TOP 10 Majic 30679 Accelerator Hardener 1/2 Pint Clear Cover

Majic 30679 Accelerator Hardener 1/2 Pint Clear

Brand Flood Sunnyside Corporation Zinsser FBGC HOMESPHERE Rust-Oleum Homax Zinsser Hemway Majic
Color Clear - - Silver red Clear Sand - Mother Of Pearl -
Unit Count 128.0 Fluid Ounces - - 5.3 Ounce 12.0 Count 128.0 Fluid Ounces 6.0 Ounce - 3.8801 Ounce -
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.6
9.5
9.4
9.3
9.2
9.0
8.8
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What additives can be added to paint?

There are several additives that can be added to paint, such as Penetrol and Floetrol. Penetrol is used to improve the flow and penetration of oil-based coatings, while Floetrol is the latex version of Penetrol and extends dry time. Another additive is Mildewcide, which is added to paint to prevent mildew in both indoor and outdoor applications.

2. How do you add scent to paint?

To add scent to paint, you can use a product like Paint SCENTsations! Simply add 1 oz of Paint SCENTsations! per every 1 gallon of paint. It's important to follow the instructions provided with the product. While painting, the scent may be stronger, but it will become more subtle as the paint dries.

3. What additive makes paint flow better?

An additive that makes paint flow better is Floetrol. It can be used with latex paints, primers, stains, and textured coatings to improve flow, reduce brush and roller marks, and restore luster to faded fiberglass. It also helps inhibit rust on metal surfaces and reduces wear and tear on spray guns.

4. Do I need to add anything to paint?

For wall paint, there's usually no need to add anything as it doesn't require thinning. However, if you're painting woodwork, cabinets, or doors, the paint straight from the can may be too thick. In such cases, adding a compatible paint conditioner, like Floetrol, can help the paint flow better and brush on more smoothly.

5. Can I put essential oils in paint?

Yes, you can put essential oils in paint. For example, adding lemon essential oil to paint can counteract any unpleasant smell and it won't leave oil spots on the walls. The recommended ratio is 1 teaspoon (5ml) of pure lemon essential oil per gallon of paint. Make sure to mix it well.

6. How can I make my wall paint smell better?

To make wall paint smell better, you can try several methods. Keep the room well ventilated by opening windows and doors to allow airflow. You can also use baking soda or activated charcoal to absorb odors. Keeping the room cool can help reduce the intensity of the smell. Additionally, using low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint, an air purifier, onions, or scented candles can also help improve the smell.

7. How do you make homemade Floetrol?

While a homemade version of Floetrol can be made with Elmer's glue and water, it won't have the same properties as the original Floetrol. The original Floetrol is more expensive but provides additional benefits and enhances the qualities of water-based paint, making it thinner and easier to apply.

8. Should I thin paint with water or Floetrol?

While water can be used to thin paint, using Floetrol provides additional benefits. Water simply reduces or thins the paint, while Floetrol acts as a conditioner that enhances the qualities of water-based paint. It not only makes the paint thinner for easier application but also improves its flow and workability.

9. Should I use Floetrol in paint?

Using Floetrol in paint can be beneficial, especially for artists working with acrylic paints. Floetrol improves the flow and workability of the paint, making it more fluid and easier to control. This can be particularly useful for techniques like glazing and blending.

Editor's Notes

During our home paint additive research, we found 24 home paint additive products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 199,659 customer reviews through our big data system to write the home paint additives list. We found that most customers choose home paint additives with an average price of $11.59.

The home paint additives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of home paint additives, including Flood, Sunnyside Corporation, Zinsser, FBGC, HOMESPHERE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.