How to Paint Your Bathtub and Shower Professionally: Step-by-Step Guide

Want to learn how to paint your bathtub and transform an outdated bathroom without breaking the bank? This complete DIY bathtub refinishing guide shows you exactly how to paint a fiberglass tub and shower surround using tub and tile paint, saving thousands compared to professional bathtub refinishing or replacement.

Whether you’re dealing with an old beige tub, stained shower walls, or just want to refresh your bathroom on a budget, this step-by-step bathtub painting tutorial covers everything from the best bathtub paint kits to essential safety tips for bathroom renovation.

We’ll walk you through how to refinish a bathtub yourself, including proper surface preparation, painting techniques for bathtub and shower surrounds, and how to maintain your newly painted tub for years to come – all for under $30 in materials.

Ready to give your bathroom a makeover with painted bathtub ideas that actually work? Let’s dive into this budget-friendly bathroom remodel solution.

Our Quick One-Day Makeover

I can’t imagine a time when someone looked at marbled beige fiberglass and was like, “OMG, how GOOD would this look in our shower?!” But I guess that happened back in the 50s when our house was built.

It’s kind of funny to think that someday our grandchildren’s generation will walk through older homes and probably judge our slat walls, exposed hardwood floors, and subway tile and think, “Why would you remove beautiful carpeted rooms?!”

Anyway, back to our bathroom. The larger bathroom in our house was originally a standalone bathroom with access from the hallway, but we made a doorway between it and our bedroom so it became a master bathroom.

We initially painted the vanity a moody green (Muted Sage by Behr) and switched out the vanity hardware for black drawer pulls. Otherwise, we had left it in all its beige glory until now. This guide will teach you how to refinish your tub and shower for a budget-friendly makeover that delivers professional-looking results.

We had planned a budget refresh with a new light fixture above the vanity, new faucets, and a sleek shower trim kit. On a whim, I decided to go all out and refinish the bathtub and shower surround like I’d planned to do at some point on the never-ending house project list. In hindsight, I’m so glad I did because it was just one night of painting, and the results are stunning.

I mean, check out this before and after:

We used a tub and tile refinishing kit, which we’d previously used in our guest bathroom makeover. I already had an extra kit and decided to tackle this project using the lessons learned from our first attempt.

Tools & Materials You’ll Need to Paint Your Bathtub

• Rustoleum Tub & Tile Refinishing Kit (in white)
• 4” mini roller
• Paint tray
• Foam brush
• Ventilator mask
• Painter’s tape
• Sander
• Sandpaper (400 grit recommended, but 220 worked fine for me)
• Tack cloth
• Cleaning solution (any standard bathroom cleaner)
• Utility knife or caulk removal tool
• Caulk

Prep Before Painting a Bathtub

Clean Thoroughly for a Smooth Surface

Before you start painting your bathtub and shower, open any nearby windows and use an exhaust fan—the fumes from epoxy paint can be intense. If you have extra plug-in fans, those help too.

The instructions on the tub refinishing kit emphasize cleaning the panels thoroughly. Scrub like your judgy grandma is visiting. Remove any buildup or mildew to ensure the paint adheres properly.

Sand and Remove Dust

Once everything is clean, sand the entire surface with 220- or 400-grit sandpaper. This roughens the surface slightly, allowing the epoxy paint to bond effectively. Use a tack cloth to wipe away all dust particles. This step is crucial—even tiny bits of dust can create imperfections in the finish.

Remove Caulk and Tape Edges

Remove any caulk around the tub and shower edges. Use a utility knife or a caulk removal tool for this. Trust me, following this step will make the painting process smoother. Apply painter’s tape around all edges, drains, spouts, and the showerhead to keep those areas clean.

Tips for Using Epoxy Tub and Tile Paint

Mix the Epoxy Paint Correctly

Epoxy paint is not like regular paint. The refinishing kit comes with two parts: Part A and Part B. Pour Part A into Part B and mix thoroughly for at least five minutes. This ensures the thinner top layer and thicker bottom layer blend properly.

Don’t worry if the mixture seems watery. Once applied, the paint will harden and create a durable finish.

Work Quickly

Epoxy paint has a short working time. You’ll need to use it within six hours of mixing. Work in sections and don’t overload your roller to avoid drips. Keep your mask on throughout—the fumes can be overwhelming.

How to Paint Your Bathtub and Shower Surround

Start with the Shower Surround

1. Pour some epoxy paint into a tray and load your roller lightly.
2. Begin painting one quadrant at a time. After covering a section, go back over it to smooth out bubbles. The paint is self-leveling, but smoothing helps ensure an even finish.
3. Use a foam brush for corners and edges. Dab lightly to avoid brush strokes.

Blend the Edges

After completing each panel, lightly go over the entire surface with your roller to blend the edges. This prevents visible lines where sections meet.

Apply Multiple Coats

Plan for at least two coats, possibly three, for full coverage. Wait an hour between coats, or circle back to the first section once the last section is complete.

Move to the Tub

The tub’s curves and textured nonslip bottom require extra attention. Paint from the bottom up, working steadily along the curved edges. Use your foam brush for tight corners and rounded areas.

Finish by painting the top lip of the tub to avoid leaning over wet paint. Two coats should suffice for most tubs, especially if it’s already white.

Drying and Final Steps

After you finish painting, remove the painter’s tape and leave fans running overnight to ventilate the space. Re-caulk the edges the next day. Avoid using the shower for at least three days to allow the epoxy to cure fully.

This project cost less than $30 for the paint, and the results are transformative. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly bathroom updates, check out our $500 guest bathroom refresh.

Safety Considerations When Painting a Bathtub or Shower Surround

Ventilation Requirements

• Open all windows and doors in the bathroom
• Run bathroom exhaust fan continuously
• Set up additional fans to create cross-ventilation
• Consider using a box fan in window to pull fumes outside
• Keep ventilation running for 24 hours after project completion

Personal Protective Equipment

• Wear a proper respirator mask (N95 not sufficient – use an organic vapor mask)
• Use chemical-resistant gloves
• Wear protective eyewear
• Cover skin with long sleeves and pants
• Wear non-slip shoes when working in tub

Chemical Safety

• Never mix different brands or types of tub refinishing products
• Keep product away from heat sources and open flames
• Store unused product in a cool, dry place
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions for disposal
• Keep pets and children away from work area for 48 hours

Working Environment

• Maintain room temperature between 65-85°F
• Keep humidity levels below 65%
• Remove all personal items from bathroom
• Cover floor and fixtures with drop cloths
• Seal off bathroom door with plastic sheeting

Emergency Preparedness

• Keep first aid kit nearby
• Know location of nearest eyewash station or sink
• Have emergency contact numbers ready
• Keep clean water available for spills or exposure
• Know symptoms of chemical exposure (dizziness, headache, nausea)

Painting a Bathtub or Shower Surround FAQs

How long does the entire project take?
The actual painting process takes about 4-6 hours, but you’ll need:

• 2-3 hours for preparation
• 1 hour between coats
• 72 hours for full cure time
• Plan for a full weekend to complete the project properly.

Can I paint any type of tub or shower?
Most refinishing kits work on:

• Fiberglass
• Porcelain
• Cast iron
• Acrylic However, check your specific surface material against product specifications.

What kind of cleaning is required before painting?
Deep clean the surface using:

1. Regular bathroom cleaner
2. Mineral spirits or TSP substitute
3. Fine-grit sandpaper
4. Tack cloth for final dust removal

Do I really need to remove all the caulk?
Yes, absolutely. Old caulk:

• Prevents proper paint adhesion
• Can create visible seam lines
• May lead to peeling
• Affects overall finish quality

How many coats of paint are needed?
Typically:

• Minimum: 2 coats
• Recommended: 3 coats
• Light colors over dark may need 4 coats Allow proper drying time between each coat.

What are the most common mistakes to avoid?

1. Insufficient ventilation
2. Inadequate surface prep
3. Rushing between coats
4. Applying too thick of coats
5. Not following cure time guidelines

How long will the painted finish last?
With proper care, expect:

• 3-5 years of good appearance
• 5+ years with gentle use

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