Thu Aug 17 2023
Can You Paint a Bathroom Sink? If So, How? Explanation in 5 Steps
Wondering if you can give your bathroom sink a makeover with some paint? Absolutely, you can jazz up just about anything in your bathroom – sinks, tubs, you name it. Now, the process might have its twists, but painting your sink is definitely on the table. But here's the important stuff: how and why should you go about painting your bathroom sink?
Imagine this: a layer of paint not only hides those little imperfections but can also resurrect the sink's former glory. It's like giving your bathroom a fresh breath of life, and depending on the color you pick, it can totally switch up the vibe.
And here's the good stuff: boosting the resale value of your home. Having a spiffy bathroom, complete with a dazzling bathtub, can seriously raise up your home's selling points. It's all about that pristine condition and bathroom allure!
So, without wasting time, let’s discuss how you can get started with your DIY sink painting journey by making sure that you have the tools you need.
Tools for Painting the Sink
First and foremost, you need a sink cleaner. Make sure your chosen cleaner is an all-green non-abrasive cleaner. This should help to prevent any damage to the sink’s surface and the surrounding area.
What if the all-green solution does not work as you expected? The next best thing to do is to use a TSP cleaner. It is inexpensive and easily dissolves in the water making it easy to use. Moreover, TSP is a great fighter against deep grease and heavy-duty stains.
Next on the list is sandpaper. Sandpaper is mostly to remove any debris or burr (surface imperfections) from the sink’s surface to make sure it is ready for painting.
Don’t forget your safety gear. Make sure you have a paint respirator, to avoid inhaling paint fumes. Safety gloves and eye protection is also important to manage potential accidents.
Paint and primer is the next thing you should have on your list. Choose the primer that is suitable for your sink material. If you do not know your sink’s material, get the epoxy. This helps your paint stick to the sink’s material.
Next is paint. There are five main types of paints, which are: gloss, semi-gloss, flat, matte, or egg-shell. There are both advantages and disadvantages for all types, so choose the best one for your sink.
Our recommendation is to use epoxy-based paint since it can sit well on your sink and can cure in a short time, unlike other types of paint.
Lastly, you need a paintbrush and a roller to paint your sink smoothly. To get that perfect corner, use painter's tape.
Let’s recap, the tools you need for your DIY painting project are:
- Sink cleaner (All green cleaner or TSP cleaner)
- Sandpaper (better if you use 220-grit sandpaper)
- Safety gear (hand gloves, eye protection, and respiratory gear)
- Paint (best if you use epoxy-based paint)
- Primer or epoxy
- Paintbrush and roller
- Painter’s tape
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Towel or microfiber cloth
Approach to Painting the Sink
Step #1 – Preparing the Sink and Surroundings
Make sure that the sink and surroundings are free from dirt and debris before painting. In this step, you are also ensuring that all the features, such as the faucet and the shut-off valve are disconnected.
Use the wrench and screwdriver to disconnect the drain line and shut off the valve. Removing all the plumbing fixtures can help you to paint the sink quickly. Once you removed the features, it is time to thoroughly clean the sink.
Either use the all-green sink cleaner (non-abrasive), or the TSP cleaner to clean your sink. If you are going with the TSP cleaner, make sure you mix the cleaner with hot water in a 1:2 ratio.
Step #2 – Sanding Your Sink
Your objective here is to make the sink’s surface rough enough for the paint to sit well. One of the best ways to do that is by sanding the sink. For sinks and bathtubs, use 220-grit sandpaper, since it is light and does not damage the surface. Be sure to wear your protective gloves.
Slowly sand the sink’s surface and cover all sides evenly. Make sure not to “over sand” the surface. This can severely damage the surface to the point where you cannot paint the sink. To avoid this scenario, wet the sandpaper and sand the sink. This helps to avoid unnecessary accidents.
Once you are done with sanding, wipe the dust and debris off the sink with a microfiber cloth.
This is optional, but if there is still dirt and debris on the surface, use the TSP cleaning mixture. This helps you to remove all the dirt from the sanding process.
Step #3 – Masking Your Sink
Wear respiratory and eye protection before starting to paint. To cover all the sides, use painter’s tape to mask your sink. Make a note of where you don’t want to paint and place the tape strategically. Most common places, such as faucet spots, drain areas, and the surrounding areas.
Use an old paper sheet around the sink to protect it from paint splatter.
Step #4 – Priming Your Sink
Take a paint brush or roller, and apply a thin layer of primer on your sink. Make sure you spread the primer evenly to all the areas. Let it sit for some time, mostly it can be anywhere from 2-3 hrs. But, it is better to read the manufacturer’s instructions for the primer’s cooling timing.
Most of the time, one coat of primer is more than enough, but in some cases, you can do two.
Once the sink is fully set with the primer, it is time to paint it. Again, make sure you are wearing protective gear and are painting in a well-ventilated area to disperse the fumes.
Step #5 – Painting the Sink
After you are done priming your sink, painting is the last step. Take a paintbrush and evenly apply a thin coat of paint. Ensure you are covering all sides, and make use of the painter’s tape as the indicator.
Repeat the process two or three times depending on the sink. Understand one thing, it is better to have multiple thin layers of paint instead of one thick layer.
Dry the paint either using a hair dryer or letting it dry naturally. Check the manufacturer’s instructions on the waiting period for the paint to dry off.
Lastly, remove the painter's tape carefully.
Great! You have successfully painted your sink. Reconnect all the plumbing and features such as the drain line and faucet.
The major thing to remember is that you should allow your sink to cure. The curing period can vary depending on the type of paint that you choose, but in general, the time can range from a day to a week.
Suggested Reads:
- Bathroom Sink Materials – All Important Things to Know in 2023!
- Bathtub Reglazing – Best Way to Increase the Life Span of a Bathtub
- How To Paint a Bathtub? A Fresh Look in 10 Steps
FAQs
- What kind of paint is best for a bathroom sink?
There are five types of paint best fit for a bathroom sink: Gloss, semi-gloss, matte, eggshell, or flat. It is better to choose semi-gloss or gloss finish paint since these types of paints have an extra layer (the shiny layer) that can protect your sink from structural imperfections.
- Can I spray paint my sink?
Yes, you can use spray paint to change the color of your sink. Make sure you choose an epoxy paint for better results. A quick tip: Keep the spray can at least eight to ten centimeters (3.4 inches to 3.9 inches) away from your sink for better adhesion and finish.
- Is acrylic paint safe for sinks?
In a sense, acrylic paint can be safe and effective, thanks to the hardened layer formed after applying the paint. But you have to be careful not to spill the paint over the drain or inside the sink, since it can water lock the drain and cause water damage.
Final Thoughts
Painting your sink or a bathtub by yourself can be therapeutic and relaxing. Viewing the finished product after all the work and time you have put into it can be very satisfying. It may look daunting at first, but with the right tools and guidance, you can tackle this painting project easily. That is one of the main reasons we came up with this easy, and effective sink painting guide.If you want a new sink or even a new bathtub, you are in the right place. Check out our collections here and get a new look for your bathroom.