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How to paint a bath

Freshly painted white bathtub

Overview

If your bath is looking a little tired or outdated, repainting it is a great way to refresh your bathroom without the cost of a full renovation. With the right preparation and materials, you can achieve a professional finish that will stand up over time. Follow these step-by-step instructions to get started.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Prepare your workspace

Before you begin, ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated. Open any windows and doors to allow for proper airflow. Protect the surrounding areas by laying down drop sheets, making sure to cover the floor and any fixtures or fittings nearby.
Open window to allow for proper airflow

2Clean the bath thoroughly

A clean bath surface is essential for a good result. Use a bath cleaner to remove any soap scum, grease, or grime from the surface. Scrub thoroughly, rinse with clean water, and allow the bath to dry completely. Remove any old caulk around the edges of the bath and clean the area again if necessary.
Clean the bath to remove any soap scum, grease, or grime from the surface

3Use abrasive paste to clean the surface

Using an abrasive pad and abrasive paste, clean the entire surface of the bath to remove any stubborn residue or buildup. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean cloth.
Use abrasive paste to clean the surface

4Sand the surface

Lightly sand the bath using fine-grit sandpaper. This will help create a slightly rough surface, which allows the paint to adhere better. After sanding, rinse off any dust or residue, wipe down the bath with a tack cloth, and allow it to dry completely.
Sand the surface using fine-grit sandpaper

5Tape off the edges

Use painter’s tape to cover any areas you don’t want painted, such as taps, drain covers, and hardware. This will help you achieve clean, professional-looking edges and prevent paint from spreading where it’s not wanted.
Apply painter's tape along the edges to prevent paint from spreading

6Apply the first coat of paint

Select a paint specifically designed for baths, as it’s formulated to withstand moisture and frequent use. Stir the paint well or mix it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour a small amount into a paint tray.

Using a small paint brush, start by painting the corners and hard-to-reach areas. Then, switch to a foam roller to apply a thin, even coat of paint across the larger surfaces. Take your time to ensure even coverage. Allow the first coat to dry completely, following the drying times recommended by the paint manufacturer.

Apply the first coat of paint using a paint roller

7Apply the second coat of paint

Once the first coat is fully dry, apply a second coat of paint using the same method as the first. Use a foam roller for even coverage and a small paint brush for detail work in corners or tight spots. Again, ensure the coat is thin and even to avoid drips or uneven finishes. Allow the second coat to dry thoroughly.
Apply the second coat with a small handheld roller

8Finishing touches

Once the final coat is dry, carefully remove the painter’s tape. Check for any areas that need touch-ups, and apply more paint as necessary. Allow the paint to cure fully before using the bath. This may take several days, depending on the product you’ve used. Finally, re-caulk the edges of the bath to ensure a neat and waterproof finish.
Once the final coat of paint is dry, remove the painters tape

9Now that you’ve painted a bath…

Suggested products

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.