How to paint bathroom taps / faucets black with spray paint

If you’re looking to give your bathroom a modern update without breaking the bank, knowing how to paint bathroom taps/faucets is a great DIY project. Rest assured, this isn’t one of those silly TikTok home improvement trends! I personally spray-painted my flaking bathroom tap black, and the results were amazing. Here’s the tutorial on how to achieve a stylish matte black finish on your faucets, shower fixtures, and other hardware. Below is the step-by-step tutorial. I’ve also shared a video on Instagram, which you can watch here. For ease, this whole repainting project is done in situ without removing the tap, making it easy to complete without calling a plumber.

You will need

• Matte black spray paint
• Primer spray
• Fine grit sandpaper
• Razor blade (optional)
• Painters tape
• Plastic sheeting
• Drop cloth
• Damp cloth
• Soft cloth

Step 1: Preparing Your Workspace

Protect the surrounding area by covering literally everything you aren’t painting as that spray paint gets everywhere! Wrap the plastic sheeting around the base of your sink faucet, tub faucet, shower head, or whatever you happen to be painting with this method. Secure everything with painter’s tape. Use a drop cloth to cover the bathroom counter, old vanity, and floors to catch any excess paint. NOTE: I discovered that it was a good idea to cover the grill where the water comes out with a small piece of masking tape, cut to size. This prevents paint from getting in the gaps in the grill and impeding the water flow. I used tweezers to place the tape in place.

Step 2: Clean and Sand the Fixtures

Before you start spray painting, it’s crucial to clean the faucets thoroughly. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the sink faucet, tub faucet, and any other fixtures you plan to paint. Removing dirt and grease will help the paint adhere better. After cleaning, lightly sand the faucets with a fine-grit sandpaper. For tougher surfaces, like a brass faucet, steel wool can be used to ensure the paint will stick. I used the pointy tip of a mouse sandpaper pad as it was small and easy to get into the narrow areas of the tap with. I sanded by hand as there’s very little surface to cover so won’t take long and is easier than using a bulky sander and having to bring the extension lead into the bathroom etc. Once you’ve sanded, remove any dust or flaked paint with a brush or damp cloth and dry.

Step 3: Priming the Surface

Apply a coat of primer to the faucet. The primer is essential for a durable finish, especially if this is your first-time spray painting bathroom fixtures. Apply the primer in light coats, allowing each to dry before applying the next. This step will help the paint bond to the surface and extend the life of your painted faucets. You can paint the primer on with a brush but I opted for a spray which was excellent at applying thin layers and dried quickly.

Step 4: Applying the First Coat of Paint

Now comes the fun part—spray painting! Shake the can of matte black spray paint well and begin applying the first coat. Thin, light coats are the best way to avoid drips and achieve a smooth finish. I learnt this from accidentally overdoing it on the primer on the plughole! It’s better to use little paint at a time and build up coverage with multiple coats rather than applying heavy coats that can run. Let the first coat dry completely before moving to the next step. Make sure the areas around, behind and under the taps are covered and really protected as the black spray paint can get everywhere if you aren’t careful.

Step 5: Applying the Second Coat

After the first coat is dry, apply a second coat of matte black spray paint. Remember, light coats are key to a professional-looking finish. Continue to build up the layers until you’re satisfied with the coverage.

At this point, I removed the piece of masking tape I’d put over the grill where the water comes out. I used tweezers to make the removal easier.

Step 6: Final Touches and Reinstallation

Once everything is dry, carefully remove the painters tape and protective sheeting. If any paint bled under the tape, use a razor blade or small brush to touch it up. Wipe down the faucets with a soft cloth to remove any dust.

If this tap painting project went well, consider upgrading other elements like new lights, shower door, or even a full kitchen renovation to complement your fresh bathroom fixtures. I was so happy with the results that I’m planning to spray-paint our chrome heated towel-rail… keep an eye on my Instagram for that one…

Another home maintenance project you might be interested is DIY gutter cleaning. Read my step-by-step guide.