We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

The 8 Best Paint Edgers of 2024

Create a clean line of paint against trim and other edges

A paint edger we recommend on a green background

The Spruce / Lecia Landis

Paint edgers are useful for creating clean lines along the edges of trim rather than painting an entire wall or ceiling. They are also great for getting up high where the wall meets the ceiling or anywhere else you want to paint a straight line without slopping over onto a nearby surface.

“As a professional, I was taught to paint freehand, but I use a paint edger tool because it's time effective. I use it when painting walls up against the ceiling and when painting accent walls,” says Jan Walter, a professional painter and owner of the blog Gocolorize.

There are multiple different types of paint edgers: pad-, roller-, brush-style, and spray shields, so the type of paint tool you are using will determine the right type of paint edger for your project.

Additionally, some edgers work best on smooth surfaces (walls and pavement), while others are better suited for uneven surfaces (gravel or popcorn ceilings). Others are specifically designed for corners and tight spaces, so consider the surface area you want to tackle before purchasing a paint edger.

To help with your purchase decision, we researched the best paint edgers available today, evaluating them for durability, ease of use, smoothness of coverage, performance, ability for reuse, and overall value.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Shur-Line Paint Edger Pro

Shur-Line Paint Edger Pro with 2 Pad Refills

Amazon

What We Like
  • Flip-up wheels stay clean when reloading with paint

  • Single-touch pad ejection

  • Works on popcorn ceilings

What We Don't Like
  • Pads are not reusable

One of the biggest annoyances when using a paint edger is dipping the pad into the paint tray and getting paint onto the edger’s wheels, which then track paint onto the wall and spoil your perfect edge. This innovative tool boasts a straightforward yet efficient design that allows you to easily flip the wheels up and out of the way, ensuring that paint stays off your walls. This edger's slightly textured fabric pad holds a good amount of paint and lays it down in a smooth coat without shedding lint or fuzz into your fresh paint.

The tool also has a single-touch pad ejection feature, which lets you remove the pad without having to actually touch it—no more dealing with messy paint all over your fingers. The handle of the edger swivels, making it much easier to change directions when you come to a corner of the wall. You can comfortably grip the handle even when working up close, thanks to its ergonomic design—a nice touch during longer painting sessions.

It is worth noting that the edger is highly versatile and can be easily attached to any standard extension pole. It can be used on rough surfaces, such as popcorn ceilings, as well as smooth surfaces. This makes it a highly practical and valuable tool for those who require a reliable edging solution for a variety of different tasks and projects.

Dimensions: 4.75 x 3.75 inches | Type: Pad | Material: Plastic and fabric

Best Roller

Wagner Smart Edge Paint Roller

Wagner Smart Edge Paint Roller

Amazon

What We Like
  • Holds paint in the handle

  • Reduces time for painting projects

  • Work with sealants

What We Don't Like
  • Can't be used with extension pole

This paint roller-style edger from Wagner is a must-have tool for all your painting projects. What sets this edging tool apart is that it holds 6 ounces of paint right in the handle, allowing you to cover up to 96 feet of wall surface before needing to refill. This feature is especially useful for finishing small rooms in one go, reducing the inconvenience of frequent visits to the paint can or paint tray. A thumb trigger on the edger lets you release just the right amount of paint to the attached 3-inch fabric roller, so you won’t need to worry about too much paint spoiling your smooth lines. 

The synthetic roller has a 3/8-inch nap that’s suitable for most smooth or lightly textured surfaces and can be used multiple times if it is cleaned immediately after use. The nap refers to the length of the fibers that cover the roller. Generally, the thicker the nap, the greater the roller's capacity to hold paint. You'll need a ladder since the 18.5-inch pole is too short and doesn't accommodate an extension pole. Additionally, it’s not recommended for use on very textured surfaces, such as popcorn ceilings, and it can also be a bit tricky to use in corners.

Dimensions:
4.5 x 18.5 inches | Type: Roller | Material: Plastic and synthetic fabric

How do you clean a paint roller?

It is highly recommended to clean your paint roller after each painting session. This will not only keep your roller in good condition but will also make cleaning it a breeze. Begin by using a putty knife to scrape off any excess paint from the roller. Then, put the roller in a bucket of warm water with a few drops of dishwashing liquid.

Rinse the roller with fresh water or a new bucket of water, and lastly, stand the roller upright to dry.

We recommend cleaning your roller while the paint is still wet because it prevents the buildup of paint that can occur if the roller is left to dry with the paint still on it.

Best Paint Brush Edger

BoxTown Team Cut-n-Edge Pro

BoxTown Team Cut-n-Edge Pro

BoxTown Team

What We Like
  • Works with any 2-inch angled paint brush

  • Can be set to expose different lengths of bristles

  • Stores clean paint brush

What We Don't Like
  • Paint brush not included

If you’re looking for an edger that you can use with your favorite paintbrush, consider the BoxTown Team Cut-n-Edge Pro. The plastic edger slides over the paint brush bristles, exposing just the length of bristle you desire for painting fine lines, working around trim, or painting in corners. When closed, the edging tool squeezes the bristles flat to create a firm, clean edge, thus making it far easier to create that precise line.

Keep in mind that the Cut-n-Edge Pro does not include a brush. You will have to supply your own angled 2-inch brush for use with this tool. It’s also important not to overload your paintbrush when using the Cut-n-Edge, as that will almost certainly cause drips and an uneven line of paint.

And it’s only for use with a 2-inch angled brush; any other size or shape won’t work well with this tool. While there might be a bit of a learning curve when first starting out, you’ll quickly get the hang of it and be painting around trim like a pro. Once your project is finished, you can use the Cut-n-Edge to protect your clean paintbrush as well.

Dimensions: 2 x 3.5 inches | Type: Brush | Material: Plastic

Expert Tip

“When using a paint edger, you will have to apply two coats with the tool to get proper coverage. Check the edges of the edger from time to time to be sure you haven’t gotten paint there. Otherwise, the paint will get all over the surface you're trying to avoid getting paint on," says Jan Walter, a professional painter and owner of the blog Gocolorize.

Best for Ceilings

Mr. LongArm Trim Smart Paint Edger

Mr. LongArm Trim Smart Paint Edger

Amazon

What We Like
  • Horizontal and vertical guides

  • Pivoting handle

  • Can be attached to extension pole

What We Don't Like
  • Not good for popcorn or heavily textured surfaces

One of the most challenging aspects of DIY painting projects is tackling the tops of walls along the ceiling. Not only do you have to perch on a ladder or step stool, but you also have to maneuver your brush or roller while keeping your head craned back to look up. While this paint edger from Mr. LongArm won’t eliminate the latter issue, it does make it much easier to paint ceilings or tall walls.

Unlike most edgers, which only have two horizontally aligned wheels, this edger has an additional wheel placed vertically, so you can pivot without lifting the edger off the painted surface—a major plus when working on a surface high above your head.

Using this tool is a breeze; simply attach a standard extension pole, and you'll be equipped to tackle even the trickiest edges along the ceiling or near windows. The paint edger can also be used on its own with its short handle, which pivots 180 degrees for easy maneuvering when painting down low. It has a flocked foam pad that glides over smooth or lightly textured surfaces and is easy to replace once your project is finished. 

Dimensions: 4.75 x 3.375 inches | Type: Pad | Material: Plastic and foam

Are paint edgers reusable?

In general, some paint edgers are reusable, but you have to wash them right away, and watch that they don't become frayed or worn. If you don't clean the pad right away, it will be nearly impossible to remove dried paint, thereby relegating the pad un-reusable. On our list, Luigi's The Worlds Best Paint Pad and Mr. LongArm Paint Edger are reusable if you take care of them.

Best for Corners

Behr Multi-Painter

Behr Multi-Painter

Behr

What We Like
  • Slim shape is ideal for corners and other tight spots

  • Lightweight tool

  • Works with water- and oil-based paints

What We Don't Like
  • Can't be used with extension pole

  • Single-use only

One problem with many paint edging tools is that it can be tricky to work in corners or other tight spots, such as between closely spaced window frames. However, this parallelogram-shaped paint edger from Behr makes it far easier to tackle these tough spots while laying down a smooth coat of paint.

At 6 inches in length and a mere 3 inches in width, it’s easy to maneuver the device in tight spots, corners, and around the trim that’s close to a wall’s edge. The edger’s handle is made of foam that is very lightweight and easy to grip, even if your hands are a bit sweaty. The attached pad is made of synthetic flocked fibers that won’t shed into your fresh paint; that’s an annoyance with many paint brushes and rollers. 

You can use this paint edger with any water-based or oil-based product. Note, however, that it cannot be attached to an extension pole, so it’s best for projects where you’ll be standing on the ground or where the surface to be painted is within easy reach from a step stool or ladder. This edger is intended for single use, but considering its low cost, we think it's still worth it.

Dimensions: 6 x 3 inches | Type: Pad | Material: Foam and synthetic fabric

Best Kit

Accubrush MX Paint Edger Jumbo Kit

Accubrush MX Paint Edger Jumbo Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Includes multiple rollers

  • With practice, creates a very clean line

  • No-smear shield

What We Don't Like
  • No extension pole adapter

If you are embarking on a significant paint project as a new homeowner, it is essential to have a kit that includes all the necessary tools and equipment. This kit includes one handheld frame, four rollers, and four tiny edging brushes, so you’ll always have a fresh replacement when you need one. The rollers are 4 inches wide and 2 inches in diameter with a 3/8-inch nap that evenly covers both flat and lightly textured surfaces. Each roller can hold enough paint for 5 to 8 feet of edging, making the painting process faster. 

But the real secret is in the combination of the plastic side guard and tiny underlying brush that lets the roller glide right along the edges of corners, ceilings, baseboards, and trim without the need for protective painter’s tape. Instead, you’ll get a perfect line of paint that would make even a professional proud.

You can wash out the rollers and brushes after use as well. It’s best for tackling edges around doors, windows, baseboards, and other edges that are within your reach while standing on the ground. And if you can't reach certain window edges, you can always use this on a ladder (since it doesn't have a pole extension adapter).

Dimensions: 4 x 8 inches | Type: Roller | Material: Plastic and synthetic fabric

Best Multi-Purpose

Luigi’s World’s Best Paint Pad Set

Luigi’s World’s Best Paint Pad Set

Luigi Paint

What We Like
  • Three different sized edgers

  • Lays down a smooth coat of paint

  • Paint tray included

What We Don't Like
  • Cannot be used with extension pole

When it comes to painting jobs that require precision, edgers are the go-to tool. However, Luigi's World's Best Paint Pad goes above and beyond by not only being able to tackle your edges but also painting the entirety of your walls. The set includes a paint tray plus three edgers, all with comfortable plastic handles and sponge pads that hold a lot of paint.

Three different-sized pads are included in the set: a 9 x 6-inch one that can be used to paint a large wall space, a 9.5 by 2.5-inch one for use in corners and other tight spaces, and a 5 by 3.5-inch one for use in smaller areas like around windows and other trim. 

The three edgers are designed with a tapered point, which makes them the perfect tool for painting tight and hard-to-reach spaces like corners. This feature allows for precision and accuracy in painting, ensuring a neat and clean finish. Note that these edgers do not have connectors for use with an extension pole, and while they are theoretically able to be washed clean for reuse, in practice it’s actually fairly difficult to do so. 

Dimensions: 9 x 6, 9.5 x 2.5, 5 x 3.5 inches | Type: Pad | Material: Plastic and sponge

Best for Paint Sprayer

Warner 24-Inch Plastic Spray Shield

Warner 24-Inch Plastic Spray Shield

Warner

What We Like
  • Prevents overspray when using a paint sprayer

  • Lightweight

  • Easy to clean

What We Don't Like
  • Requires you to hold the shield while painting

While using a paint sprayer is fast and, with practice, quite easy, it's also undeniably true that most paint sprayers create considerable overspray. To avoid ending up with tiny dots of paint all over nearby surfaces that you want to leave untouched, consider the Warner Spray Shield.

Measuring 24 inches wide, this plastic shield allows you to pivot to the angle that works best for your needs, whether working in a corner, along trim or even when painting furniture or other items. The shield weighs only ‎5.3 ounces, so you can be sure you won’t experience any arm fatigue.

To use, hold the shield over the surface you want to protect while you are spraying your paint, and enjoy a clean edge that isn't marred by overspray or smeary blotches of paint. Once you are finished painting, it's easy to wipe the shield clean, as long as you do so before the paint dries. 

Dimensions: 24 x 2 inches | Type: Spray shield | Material: Plastic

Final Verdict

We love the Shur-Line Paint Edger Pro, as it’s easy to use, creates a clean line, and has innovative wheels that flip up out of the way when reloading paint to help prevent annoying smudges and smears. But if you prefer a roller-style edger instead of a pad, then we like the Wagner Smart Edge Paint Roller, which holds six ounces of paint right in the handle so you don’t have to keep visiting the paint tray to reload.

What to Look for in a Paint Edger

Type

Before you start shopping for paint edgers for your project, it’s important to understand the different types of edges and their features and benefits.

  • Pad-style edgers, like our best overall pick, the Shur-Line Paint Edger Pro, are a widely used tool due to their ergonomic design. They come equipped with an attached fabric pad that holds and applies the paint. 
  • Roller-style edgers are a type of painting tool that uses mini paint rollers to apply paint. Similar to full-size rollers, they are known for their efficiency and speed in getting the job done. Our favorite roller-style paint edger is the Wagner Spraytech Smart Edge Paint Roller.
  • Brush edgers, like our favorite, the Boxtown Cut-N-Edge Pro, are designed to fit snugly around a standard paint brush, providing a sharp, clean edge that ensures a precise paint application. They work with a variety of brush types.
  • Spray shields are typically rectangular in shape and made from either plastic or metal and can be placed over the surface you want to safeguard. An example of this is our favorite pick for paint sprayers, the Warner 24" Plastic Spray Shield.

Size

Most paint edgers are only a few inches tall and wide, as these devices are intended for painting small areas around trim, corners, and edges, not an entire wall. Still, some edgers are smaller than others, especially those specifically geared towards working in corners or other especially tight spots, such as our favorite option for corners, the Behr Multi-Painter.

Consider the area you’ll be painting when choosing your edger, and pick the size accordingly. You may also want to consider an edger with a larger surface area, like Luigi’s World’s Best Paint Pad Set (our best multi-purpose pick), which is good for painting long swaths of ceilings or along baseboards. Our best kit, the Accubrush MX Paint Edger Jumbo Kit, is great if you’ll be using the tool extensively in a room with a lot of edging and trim. 

If you’re trying to reach high areas that require you to stand on a ladder, look for an edger that can be connected to an extension pole, like our best for ceilings pick, the Mr. LongArm 0470 Trim Smart Paint Edger. This feature is particularly useful when painting along the ceiling, up above high windows, or any other area that would require you to stand on a ladder otherwise.

Material

Some paint edgers have foam pads, which are especially good for laying down a smooth coat of paint, and others, including our best multi-purpose pick, Luigi’s World’s Best Paint Pad Set, have sponge pads, which work very well for applying paint thickly without drips. 

Roller-style edgers like the Accubrush MX Paint Edger (our favorite kit) generally have synthetic wool-like fabric rollers with a ⅜-inch nap, which is a good length for most smooth to fairly smooth surfaces. They are also great because they can be used for several projects if washed immediately after use.

Surface

The type of surface you are painting will determine what paint edger is best for your project. All of the edgers on this list are suitable for painting smooth and lightly textured surfaces, including walls and ceilings. If you are painting a textured surface such as a popcorn ceiling, consider our best overall option, the Shur-Line Paint Edger Pro, which glides over uneven surfaces with ease.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was researched and written by Michelle Ullman, who is a writer specializing in home and garden products, and who once painted an entire bedroom using nothing more than a Shur-Line Pro Paint Edger and a gallon of paint. She has been a writer for The Spruce since 2020, covering a wide range of home improvement products, including power and hand tools, painting supplies, landscaping tools, and tool organizers. To choose the best paint edgers for this article, she evaluated dozens of these devices from various brands, evaluating each for durability, ease of use, smoothness of results, reusability, and overall value. 

Our Experts: