Painting a bathroom can totally transform the space, but it’s important to do it the right way. From proper prep work to choosing the best paint, follow these tips for painting your bathroom like a pro.
Prep the Bathroom
Proper prep is crucial for achieving great results when painting a bathroom. Here are the key steps:
Remove Everything
Clear the counters and empty the room as much as possible. Take down towels, decor, rugs, shower curtains and anything else that could get paint on it.
Clean Surfaces
Wipe down all walls, trim, ceilings and surfaces with a degreaser. Remove any soap scum and grime so the paint adheres well.
Patch Holes and Cracks
Fill any holes, cracks or imperfections with spackle. Once dry, sand smooth. This gives you a flawless surface for painting.
Sand Glossy Surfaces
If you’re painting over tile, glossy paint or other shiny surfaces, scuff sand them to help the new paint stick. Wipe away dust after sanding.
Apply Painter’s Tape
Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want to get paint on. This includes trim, outlets, mirrors, windows and baseboards. Apply tape carefully for crisp paint lines.
Cover Floors and Furniture
Spread drop cloths over the floors and any remaining furniture. Use plastic sheeting and tape for extra protection if needed.
Choose the Right Paint
Picking the appropriate paint for a bathroom is key to getting great results. Consider these factors:
Paint Sheen
Opt for paint with a satin, eggshell or semi-gloss sheen. These offer durability and easy cleanup while still providing some subtle sheen. Stay away from flat paint since it’s harder to clean.
Mold-Resistant Paint
In humid bathrooms, choose a mildew-resistant paint. This will help prevent mold and mildew growth on the walls over time.
High-Quality Paint
Invest in premium quality 100% acrylic latex paint. It will provide better coverage and hold up better to moisture over cheaper paints.
Color
Lighter colors help make small bathrooms feel open and airy. But don’t be afraid to use darker hues in a large bathroom. Just be sure it’s a color you enjoy since you’ll see it every day.
Paint the Bathroom
Once you’ve prepped the space and chosen the right paint, it’s time to get to work painting. Follow these tips:
Ceiling First
Paint the ceiling first. This allows you to be messier above without worrying about drips on the walls. Use a brush for cutting in edges and a roller for large expanses.
Cut In Wall Edges
Outline where the walls meet ceilings, trim, windows and doors with an angled brush. Move methodically around the room. This takes practice but ensures straight edges.
Roll Walls
Use a quality roller to apply paint in 3×3 foot sections. Work in a “W” pattern from top to bottom, rolling back over areas to evenly spread the paint. Make sure edges match the cut in paint.
Trim and Doors Last
Paint all the trim and doors last. Carefully cut in around each with a brush, then use an edger or small roller for larger areas. Let the trim paint dry before removing tape.
Apply Second Coat
For best coverage, apply two coats of paint allowing proper drying time between coats. The colors will really pop after the second coat!
Key Painting Tips
Follow these additional tips to get paint perfect results:
- Work top to bottom when painting walls to avoid drips.
- Maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks and blend sections together.
- Roll slowly to evenly spread paint and avoid bubbles.
- Use high quality applicators – Purdy and Wooster make excellent brushes and rollers.
- Read the paint can’s instructions to determine drying times between coats.
- Minimize brush strokes and unevenness by maintaining proper roller pressure.
- Paint in 50-70 ̊ F temperatures with low humidity for ideal results.
Common Paint Problems and Solutions
Even professional painters encounter issues from time to time. Here are some common painting problems and how to fix them:
Drips or Runs – Allow paint to dry completely, then scrape off any drips gently with a razor blade. Touch up with paint as needed.
Brush Marks – Apply paint in a consistent direction while carefully feathering out edges as you go.
Lint or Debris – Remove any loose particles with masking tape wrapped backwards around your hand. Lint-free rollers also help avoid this.
Flashing – When the paint looks uneven in areas, it’s called flashing. Caused by applying paint too thickly or inconsistently. Touch up by rolling on more paint until uniform.
Lap Marks – To avoid seeing where sections overlap, maintain a wet edge and evenly blend areas together as you paint.
Bubbles – Slow down your rolling speed and use less pressure to prevent air bubbles in the paint.
Paint Bathroom Features
Beyond just the walls, make sure to properly prep, prime and paint all the special features in a bathroom:
Tile
Lightly scuff glossy tile with sandpaper, then use a bonding primer made for tile before painting. Allow any grout lines to show through.
Fiberglass Surfaces
Clean thoroughly and use 40-60 grit sandpaper to roughen for painting. Always prime before applying paint.
Vanity
Remove drawers and hardware to paint vanities. Use painter’s tape to mask off faucets and any areas not being painted.
Mirrors
Remove medicine cabinets and mirrors to paint the surrounding wall if needed. Mask mirrors if painting around them.
Windows and Trim
Use painter’s tape around windows and trim before painting walls. Remove tape as soon as possible once dry to avoid peeled edges.
Clean Up Afterwards
Once the paint dries thoroughly, you can start to put the bathroom back together. Follow these tips for cleanup:
- Remove all painter’s tape gently at edges once the paint has dried.
- Wipe down all paint surfaces to remove any drips or residue.
- Clean paint brushes thoroughly in warm, soapy water until all paint is removed.
- Reinstall any fixtures, shower curtains, mirrors and other items securely.
- Give newly painted surfaces several days to cure before scrubbing or cleaning.
FAQs About Painting a Bathroom
Still have questions about taking on a bathroom paint job? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Should I Remove the Toilet to Paint?
It isn’t totally necessary, but it allows for easier painting behind and around the toilet. Turn off the water supply and flush to empty the tank before removing.
How Long Does Bathroom Paint Need to Dry?
It’s best to allow bathrooms paint to dry and cure for 2-3 days before regular use. Wait at least 24 hours between coats. Proper ventilation speeds drying.
What Kind of Paint Finish is Best For a Bathroom?
A satin or semi-gloss finish is ideal. The subtle sheen is wipeable and moisture-resistant but minimizes uneven walls or imperfections.
Should I Use Mold Resistant Paint?
Yes, mold resistant paint is highly recommended in humid bathrooms. The additives in the paint prevent mold growth on walls over time.
Can I Paint Over Wallpaper in a Bathroom?
It is possible but requires proper prep. Remove any loose wallpaper, sand surfaces and use an oil-based primer made for wallpaper before painting.
How Soon Can I Shower After Painting?
It’s best to wait at least 2-3 days before getting the surfaces wet to allow for proper curing. Quick showers are possible after 24 hours if ventilation is good.
Conclusion
Painting the bathroom might seem intimidating, but taking it step-by-step ensures you’ll get professional looking results. The key is proper prep, choosing quality bathroom paint, applying it carefully and maintaining patience during the drying and cleanup process. Following these tips will have you loving your fresh, painted bathroom. Just be sure to give the paint ample time to cure before scrubbing or cleaning the walls and trim. Get ready to enjoy your bright, welcoming new space!