If the thought of changing up your bathroom’s look crossed your mind, you probably dismissed it because a renovation is not cheap. Nevertheless, you can always start by changing up a few pieces instead of going all out and doing a complete overhaul. One of the pieces you can begin with is your toilet seat.
Now, we bet you are probably wondering, can toilet seats be painted? Well, they can, and the best part is that you can do it yourself with a few tools and some basic skills.
Now, before you ask more questions, let us look at some of the reasons why you might consider painting your toilet seat.
Reasons for Painting a Toilet Seat
Here are a few reasons why you might choose to paint your toilet seat:
Aesthetics
Painting your toilet seat can help you match it with the overall color scheme or theme of your bathroom. It allows you to introduce new colors or patterns that complement the existing decor.
Repair or Refresh
If your toilet seat is worn out, scratched, or has stains that cannot be removed, painting it can give it a fresh look. It can be an economical alternative to replacing the entire seat.
Creativity and Personalization
Painting the toilet seat provides an opportunity for creativity and personal expression. You can use various techniques, such as stenciling, hand-painting, or decals, to create unique designs or incorporate patterns or images that reflect your personality or interests.
Temporary Change
Painting the toilet seat offers a temporary modification that can be easily reversed if desired. If you like to change the look of your bathroom frequently, painting the seat allows you to update it without making permanent alterations
How to Paint a Plastic Toilet Seat
Painting a plastic toilet seat requires careful preparation and the use of appropriate materials. Here’s a systematic guide on how to paint a plastic toilet seat:
1. Gather your materials
- Plastic-safe paint: Look for paint specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Acrylic or enamel paints are commonly used for this purpose.
- Primer: Choose a primer that is compatible with plastic surfaces. It will help the paint adhere better and improve durability.
- Fine-grit sandpaper: Use sandpaper with grit between 220 and 400 to roughen the surface of the toilet seat slightly.
- Painter’s tape: Use tape to cover any areas of the toilet seat that don’t require painting, such as hinges or metal parts.
- Paintbrushes or foam brushes: Select brushes appropriate for the size and type of painting you plan to do.
- Drop cloth or newspaper: Lay down a protective covering to prevent paint from getting on the floor or other surfaces.
2. Prepare the toilet seat
Start by removing the toilet seat from the toilet bowl. This can usually be done by unscrewing the hinges. Clean the seat thoroughly with mild soap and water, and dry it completely.
3. Sand the surface
Use the fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface of the toilet seat. This step helps create a rougher texture, allowing the primer and paint to adhere better. Wipe away any dust generated from sanding.
4. Apply the primer
When it comes to primer, less is more. As such, use a thin and even coat of the same to the entire surface of the toilet seat. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
5. Paint the toilet seat
Once the primer is dry, apply the plastic-safe paint in thin layers. You want to be light-handed with the first coat and apply additional ones as needed. Let each layer dry before going in with another one.
6. Let it cure
After the final coat of paint, allow the toilet seat to cure fully. This typically takes several days or as recommended by the paint manufacturer. Avoid using the toilet seat until the paint is completely dry and cured to ensure durability.
7. Reinstall the toilet seat
Once the paint has fully cured, reinstall the toilet seat by attaching it back to the toilet bowl using the hinges.
Now, you want to keep in mind that plastic toilet seats are not the only ones that can be painted. Another common option is the wooden seat. If you want to repaint yours, you can use these same steps for painting plastic.
Can Bleach Discolor a Toilet Seat?
Bleach is known for whitening, so can it discolor your toilet seat? Yes, bleach can potentially cause discoloration, and this is because it contains strong chemicals, including sodium hypochlorite, that have the potential to react with the materials used in toilet seats, especially if they are made of plastic or certain types of painted wood.
What to do with a Discolored Toilet Seat
Clean and scrub
Start by giving the toilet seat a thorough cleaning. Use a mild soap or a bathroom cleaner specifically designed for toilet seats. Scrub the seat gently with a soft cloth or sponge. This may help remove any surface dirt or stains that could be causing the discoloration.
Sand and refinish
If the discoloration is due to the deterioration of the finish or the surface of the toilet seat, you may consider sanding and refinishing it. Carefully sand the affected area using fine-grit sandpaper to remove the existing finish and discoloration. After sanding, wipe away any dust and apply a suitable finish, such as varnish or polyurethane, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Replace the seat
If the discoloration is severe, cannot be cleaned or repaired, or if you simply want a fresh look, replacing the toilet seat is an option. Measure the dimensions of your current toilet seat and purchase a new one that matches the shape and size. Toilet seats are relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of materials and styles.
Is White the Only Color that Can Be Used to Repaint Toilet Seats?
No, white is not the only color that can be used to repaint toilet seats. While white is a common color for toilet seats, you can use various other colors to repaint and customize your toilet seat. The choice of color depends on your personal preference and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in your bathroom.