How to Change the Color of Your Bathtub

July 08, 2024 Giving Tree

Fashion is all about staying current and evolving with the times. Decades ago, gold and blue were considered stylish bathtub designs, but today, they might seem outdated. Some users may be eager to find ways to update their bathtub colors to stay on the cutting edge of design trends. Whether your goal is to renovate your bathtub or simply to keep its color trendy, changing the color is far more cost-effective than buying a new one. In this article, Giving Tree Home provides the most comprehensive guide on the internet to help you achieve your bathtub color change!

Bathtub Color Choices

There are many common bathtub colors to choose from, such as black, white, gray, pink, purple, blue, etc. You can select based on your personal preference. However, if you're looking to update an outdated bathtub color, we recommend considering more mainstream options. These may not be the most novel but will ensure your bathtub remains timeless.

White

White is the most classic and versatile bathtub color, suitable for various bathroom decor styles. It exudes purity, simplicity, and elegance, making it a perfect choice for both modern and traditional styles. A white bathtub not only provides a clean visual experience but is also easy to clean, with stains and water spots easily noticeable and removable. This combination of beauty and practicality makes it the top choice for most households.

Black

A black bathtub is ideal for users seeking a stylish, unique, and high-end decorative effect. It gives a sense of nobility, mystery, and strong modernity. When paired with other colors, it creates a striking visual contrast, making it the focal point of the bathroom.

Gray

For those who prefer a simple and elegant style, a gray bathtub might be more suitable. It offers a neutral, understated, and sophisticated look, with a modern and industrial vibe. Gray is not only aesthetically pleasing but also blends well with various colors and materials, creating a harmonious and unified feel.

Brown

For families looking for a warm and cozy atmosphere, a brown is a great option. It represents comfort and relaxation, with a warm, natural, and traditional feel. When paired with wood or nature-inspired bathroom decor, it elevates the bathroom’s ambiance.

Green

If you want to achieve a natural atmosphere, consider a green one. It provides a fresh, natural, and vibrant feel, bringing tranquility and soothing effects. A green bathtub lets you experience the peace and beauty of nature.

Steps to Change the Color of Your Bathtub

Now that you have chosen the color you want for your bathtub, it’s time to start the actual process!

Step 1: Gather Your Tools
- Paint (in your chosen color)
- Primer (appropriate for your bathtub type)
- Etching cleaner
- Foam brushes
- Paint rollers
Step 2: Prepare Your Space

Changing the color of your bathtub requires the use of paint and primer, which may emit strong odors. Therefore, ensuring good ventilation in your work area is crucial. Maintain ventilation throughout the process until the smell dissipates. For your health, wear a mask and gloves.
Before you begin, remove or cover all items in the bathroom to prevent paint splashes. Cover the walls and floor with plastic sheets to avoid any cleanup hassles later.
Step 3: Clean the Bathtub

Long-term use may have caused scratches, bumps, or stains on your bathtub. If your bathtub is made of solid surface material, addressing these issues will be relatively simple. For minor scratches, use 800-grit sandpaper to gently sand the surface and remove uneven areas. Afterward, rinse the bathtub surface with clean water to remove solid debris, ensuring there are no bumps after repainting.
Step 4: Lightly Etch the Surface

Light etching helps remove the old finish and allows the new paint and primer to adhere better to the bathtub surface. Follow the instructions on the etching cleaner you purchased. After etching, rinse the bathtub surface with clean water, then wipe it down with a clean, dry towel and let it dry completely.
Step 5: Apply the First Coat of Paint

Now you can begin changing the color of your bathtub. Use a combination of a roller and foam brush with the primer and paint. Start by applying the primer and allow it to dry completely before painting. To ensure an even color without layers, paint from top to bottom. When applying the first coat of paint, avoid repeatedly painting one area to prevent a thick paint layer. Ensure the entire bathtub is covered.
Step 6: Apply the Second Coat of Paint

Once the first coat is completely dry, apply the second coat of paint. Repeat the previous step to ensure an even coverage on the entire bathtub surface. Do not use a fan or other external force to speed up the drying process, as this may cause ripples or cracks on the paint surface. Always let it air dry naturally, and avoid testing the dryness with your fingers to prevent fingerprints. Normally, the drying process takes at least a day.

Buying a New Bathtub Instead of Changing the Color

Although changing the color of your bathtub can be a cost-effective option, typically costing between $200 to $500, it is advisable to purchase a new one for certain types of bathtubs, such as cast iron bathtubs. Cast iron bathtubs are usually coated with porcelain enamel, and re-enameling them is not only expensive but also has limited effectiveness (the method described in this guide does not apply to such bathtubs). Moreover, if your bathtub is already very old, changing its color may only extend its life by 1-2 years due to issues like leaks, making it not cost-effective.

Even if you are highly cost-conscious, there is no need to worry because Giving Tree Home offers some relatively affordable acrylic bathtubs. These bathtubs cost less than $1000 but have a lifespan of at least 10 years. In comparison, spending a few hundred dollars to change the color of an old bathtub only to extend its life by 1-2 years is clearly less economical than purchasing a new acrylic bathtub.

Ending

This article starts with selecting a bathtub color and gradually guides you through the process of making this change. It also provides a complete guide on whether to refinish your bathtub or purchase a new one. Whether you want to change the color of your bathtub or consider getting a new one, this information will offer valuable insights and assistance.

If you find this guide not detailed enough and need more comprehensive help, please feel free to contact our customer service team. Whether you purchase from us or not, we are here to serve you.

If you are interested in the bathtubs showcased in this article, you can click the link below to go to the respective product page for more information and purchase details: