How to Spray Paint Bathroom Fixtures: Step-by-Step Tips

This straightforward DIY guide shows how to spray paint bathroom fixtures so you can update shower hardware without touching plumbing.

When I tackle home projects, my husband Robert never quite knows what to expect. Some days I welcome him with big news—like newly painted bathroom cabinets—and other days I’m on the floor wrestling with a project gone wrong. Fortunately, this time it was the kind of surprise that had us both grinning.

Our hallway bathroom makeover is finished, and the final touch was spray painting the shower fixtures. The results were gorgeous, and best of all, I didn’t remove any plumbing or call a plumber—this method lets you transform fixtures in place.

Because this shower has no access panel, removing the fixtures would have required a professional anyway. This in-place painting method is ideal when you can’t or don’t want to remove hardware.

How to Spray Paint Faucets and Shower Fixtures

Supplies

• Coarse grit sandpaper
• Painter’s tape
• Plastic drop cloth
• Automotive spray primer
• Oil-rubbed bronze or desired color spray paint
• High gloss spray lacquer (clear sealer)
• Respirator mask
• Safety glasses
• Razor blade or utility knife

Estimated cost: about $35 for materials you won’t reuse.

Before starting, I read several tutorials on making sprayed finishes durable. The basic approach is sanding, priming, several light coats of paint, sealing, and careful tape removal. Below are the steps that worked for me.

Steps

Make sure the shower has not been used for at least 48 hours before painting so there’s no residual moisture on surfaces.

Step 1 – Tape Around Fixtures

Carefully tape all areas you don’t want painted. Taping circular fixtures can be tricky—take your time to create tight seals so overspray won’t get on tile or the tub.

Step 2 – Sand the Surface

Lightly sand the existing finish with coarse grit paper to scuff the chrome and create a profile for the primer to adhere to. Wipe away dust thoroughly before priming.

Step 3 – Protect the Work Area

Cover the surrounding area with plastic drop cloths and tape them securely. Proper masking prevents overspray and simplifies cleanup.

Step 4 – Prime

Apply two light coats of automotive primer, keeping the can about a foot away and using sweeping motions to avoid drips. Multiple light coats produce a smoother, more durable base than heavy coats.

Step 5 – Paint in Light, Even Coats

Once the primer dries (about an hour), apply three light coats of your chosen spray paint color. Keep the can moving to maintain an even finish.

Step 6 – Seal with Spray Lacquer

After the final paint coat dries, protect the finish with two light coats of high-gloss lacquer. This adds durability and a professional shine.

Step 7 – Score Tape Edges

Before removing tape, score the paint line with a razor blade to prevent peeling. This small step helps keep crisp edges and prevents the new paint from lifting.

Step 8 – Carefully Remove Tape

Peel tape slowly after scoring the edges to avoid pulling paint. Take your time and inspect edges for any touch-ups.

Step 9 – Let It Cure

Allow the paint to cure for a full 24 hours before using the shower. After curing, wipe the tub and fixtures with a soft cloth to remove any dust.

I also swapped the shower curtain rod to match the new finish for a cohesive look.

How Well Spray Painted Fixtures Last

We sprayed these fixtures several years ago and they remained in excellent condition when we moved out a year and a half later. The new owners reported they were still holding up well. Proper preparation, light coats, and a clear lacquer topcoat are key to a long-lasting result. Avoid abrasive cleaners and heavy scrubbing to preserve the finish—use a soft microfiber cloth and gentle cleaner instead.

How to Clean Painted Shower Fixtures

Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and a mild all-purpose spray. Do not use abrasive pads or harsh scrubbing agents—these can damage the paint and sealer.

We liked this method so much that we used it again in another budget-friendly bathroom makeover a few years later.

After finishing the room, Robert and I celebrated—ice cream and a little dance included. If you’ve ever surprised a partner with a home project (successful or not), you know how satisfying—and sometimes humbling—the process can be.

More Simple DIY Bathroom Ideas

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DIY Painted Bathroom Sink, Shower, Tub, and Countertop

Simple Spa Bathroom Ideas to Create Luxury for Less

Frequently Asked Questions