Can You Spray Paint Plastic Tubs?

Yes, you can spray paint plastic tubs!

The first step is to make sure you have the right kind of paint. The more flexible the surface, the better. If you’re going to be spraying your tub with a lot of coats and want a smooth finish, consider using acrylic paint. It’ll last longer than other types of paints and will stick better to your tub’s surface.

If you want to go for a more vibrant look, try using water-based latex paint instead. You can also use spray paint in either case. Just keep in mind that if your project needs more than one coat, it might be better to stick with acrylic.

Once you’ve chosen your type of paint, apply it as usual by holding the can about six inches away from the surface while spraying in even strokes. Make sure not to go too thin or too thick. It’s best if there’s just enough paint on there. Therefore, it covers any color underneath without running over onto other parts of the tub.

What kind of spray paint will stick to plastic?

Plastic is a material that’s hard to paint. It doesn’t soak up the paint, and it can end up looking dull and dirty.

The best spray paint for plastic is Rust-Oleum’s High Heat Spray Paint. This spray paint comes in a variety of colors. But it also has a special formula that allows it to stick to plastic and other non-porous surfaces without peeling or chipping off.

If you’re looking for something more metallic, Valspar Metalizer is another good choice. It’s available at most hardware stores, and it comes in several different colors as well as gold, silver, bronze, and copper finishes.

Finally, Krylon Fusion is another good option if you want your project to look shiny and metallic without having to worry about chipping or peeling off later on down the road.

How to Spray Paint Plastic Tubs

Select the Right Spray Paint

Ensure you choose a spray paint that’s specifically designed for plastic surfaces. This will help ensure the paint adheres properly and lasts longer.

Cleaning

Clean the tub thoroughly using soapy water to remove any reside or dirt. A clean surface is imperative for smooth paint application.

Sanding (optional)

If the surface of the tub is glossy or slick, consider lightly sanding it with a high-grit sandpaper. This helps the paint adhere better.

Priming

Apply a primer suitable for plastics. Primer gives the surface an extra layer of protection and makes the spray paint more durable.

Spray Painting

Hold the spray can about 12 inches from the tub and apply paint in a sweeping side-to-side motion. It’s best to apply several thin layers rather than one heavy layer for a smoother finish.

Drying

Allow enough time for the paint to dry completely, usually between 24-48 hours, before using the tub.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Ignoring the Type of Plastic

Not all plastics are suitable to painted, and some might need special prep work. Always research the type of plastic you are dealing with and choose the right kind of paint for it.

Skipping Surface Prep

One of the biggest mistakes people make is skipping appropriate surface prep, cleaning and, when needed, sanding. Ensure your tub is thoroughly cleaned and sanded, if necessary, before applying paint.

Not using Primer

While it might seem tempting to bypass this step, priming is crucial for achieving a good, lasting finish. A primer makes the spray paint more durable and helps in avoiding peeling or chipping.

Heavy Layering

Applying a heavy layer of paint in one go can lead to uneven coverage, drips, or blotches. It’s always better to apply several thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.

Maintenance Tips after Spray Painting

Clean it Wisely

After spray painting your tub, clean it regularly but be gentle. Harsh scrubbers or chemical cleaners may scrape off the paint. Use a soft cloth and mild cleaning solutions.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Try to avoid exposing your painted tub to extreme temperatures as it may lead to cracking or peeling of the paint.

Retouch as Needed

Over time, the paint might show signs of wear. It’s okay to touch it up with the same spray paint as needed to keep it looking fresh.

Apply a Sealer

Consider applying a clear sealer after the paint completely dries. This provides an added layer of protection.

Best Spray Paint For Plastic Tubs

If you’re looking to repaint a plastic tub, you don’t want to use just any spray paint. You need something that’s designed specifically for plastics, otherwise there’s a good chance it will just peel off in no time.

But there are plenty of great options out there! We’ve done the research and picked out our top favorite paint for plastic tubs. We’ll be explaining what makes each one so great, and also telling you about our favorite places to buy them online.

Rust-Oleum 211338 Specialty Spray Paint for Plastic, 12 oz, Black

I’ve been looking for spray paint that can be used on plastic tubs, and I finally found it! The Rust-Oleum 211338 Specialty Spray Paint for Plastic, 12 oz, Black is the perfect spray paint for plastic tubs.

I used it on my outdoor shower, which is made out of PVC. This paint dried to touch in 20 minutes and covered up to 10 sq. ft. per can with one coat. It’s oil-based so it applies directly to plastic without needing a primer. It provides excellent color retention and a soft gloss finish.

I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for spray paint that will work well on plastic tubs or other plastics like PVC and fiberglass!

Final Thought

So, can you spray paint plastic tubs? The answer is a resounding yes! It’s not only possible, but it’s also easy and fun.

But before you get started, make sure that your tubs are clean and dry. And make sure they’re made of plastic that will hold up to the paint (like polyethylene).

Now that you’ve checked those boxes, it’s time to get out your supplies and start painting! We recommend using a high-quality spray paint that has been tested on plastics like polypropylene.

Once your project is complete, be sure to let it dry for at least 24 hours before using or putting anything into the tubs.