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How to paint a bath caddy

Painted bath caddy over bathtub with soaps and coffee cup.

Overview

A bath caddy is the ultimate relaxation aid for a soak in the tub. Keep your book dry and a cup of tea to hand with this simple D.I.Y. project. It’s easy to personalise your bath caddy with a coat of paint. The trick to painting anything that will be near water is to choose a water-resistant finish, which will protect your caddy from moisture. Apply a few coats for good coverage.

The trick to painting anything to be placed near water is to choose a finish that is splash-proof to protect from moisture, applying a few coats for good coverage.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. Work in a well-ventilated area when working with spray paint.

Steps

  1. 1

    Prepare the work area

    Before getting started, put on any required safety equipment (A mask, safety glasses and gloves, for example.) Cover surrounding areas with a drop cloth to avoid overspray.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Avoid using spray paint on windy days or in extreme temperatures below 10°C or above 30°C.
    A woman in a Bunnings Warehouse apron sits on a drop sheet and wipes down a bath caddy.
  2. 2

    Sand the caddy and wipe to remove dust 

    Use a fine sanding sponge (or 180-grit abrasive paper) to lightly smooth over the caddy. Remove the dust by wiping all over with a damp cloth.

    A woman uses a sanding sponge to lightly smooth over a timber bath caddy to prepare for painting.
  3. 3

    Spray with primer and leave to dry

    Review the instructions on the back of the can. Spray a test patch of primer on a spare piece of cardboard. Begin to spray the caddy, applying even coverage all over. Apply several light coats and then leave to dry.

    A woman sprays a timber bath caddy.
  4. 4

    Apply two coats of your top coat and allow to dry thoroughly

    Use a water-resistant spray paint for the top coat, following the same directions and process as the primer coats. Allow to dry completely before you use it. Check the can’s instructions for recommended drying times.

    A woman sprays a timber bath caddy.
  5. 5

    Keen to transform another home accessory?

    Try our D.I.Y. guide to painting a metal lamp.

      

    Photo Credit: Michelle Holden

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.