Simple Steps to Paint Your Bathroom Tiles

If your bathroom feels a little dull but you're not ready for a full renovation, don't worry — you can give it a quick update by painting the tiles. I did it recently, and the results were way better than I expected!

Step 1. Start with a Good Clean

Before anything else, scrub the tiles well. I used warm soapy water and a scouring pad to get rid of soap scum and limescale. If you spot any mould in the grout (which is common), use a mould remover or bleach-based cleaner. Make sure the surface is dry before moving to the next step.

Step 2.  Protect the Edges and Floor

Next, tape on to anything else in the vicinity — like the walls, cabinets, or bathtub edges. Place old newspapers or rags on the floor to protect it as well -- you’ll thank yourself for it later!

Step 3. Time for Primer 

Some people skip this, but if your paint needs it, apply one layer of tile primer. Let it dry for about 4 hours. The tin should tell you whether primer is needed or not.

Step 4. Let the Painting Begin

I went with a ceramic-friendly paint. If you're painting bathroom tile floor areas, make sure to get paint made for high-moisture spots. Use a roller for most of the wall and a brush for edges and grout lines. Take your time — neat strokes give better results.

Step 5. Allow for Drying

For an even finish, you need two coats to make sure it looks clean. It is important that there is at least a 4-hour wait time in between the coats, and once you finish your last coat, leave it for one day before you touch it. It is very important that it has time to settle correctly.

Step 6. Don't use abrasive detergents to maximize your efforts. If you avoid abrasive detergents, you can keep the bathroom tile paint looking good for a long time.

Painting your bathroom tiles is a simple DIY project that can completely change the look of your space with little effort and cost.