Can You Paint Behind a Toilet Without Removing It? The Ultimate Guide

If you‘re looking to refresh your bathroom on a budget, painting behind the toilet is a great way to update the look without the hassle and plumbing work of completely removing the toilet. While it can be a tight squeeze to paint behind there, with the right prep and tools it can be done seamlessly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to paint behind your toilet like a pro.

Should You Remove the Toilet Before Painting?

Before deciding if you need to fully remove the toilet or can get away with painting around it, consider these factors:

• Available Space – If you have at least 18-24 inches of clearance around the sides and back of the toilet, there should be adequate room to paint without taking it out. Any less space makes it very tricky.

• Toilet Type – Standard 2-piece toilets allow more room to work behind them. Newer low-flow one-piece models restrict access to the supply line so removal is often required.

• Layout – How your bathroom is configured affects ease of access. Corner spots are most challenging.

• Skill Level – Those newer to DIY may want to simplify and remove toilet fully for easiest access.

Statistics show leaving toilet in place can save 1-3 hours of labor and $75-$150 in costs compared to hiring a plumber to remove and re-install the toilet. But for maximum access, removing it is ideal if you‘re up for the process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Around an Installed Toilet

Follow these tips for a foolproof painting process:

Gather Supplies

• Paintbrushes (angled sash brush, trim brushes)
• Paint roller + extension pole
• Painter‘s tape
• Drop cloths
• Primer and paint
• Paint tray, roller covers
• Rags, paint thinner, cleaning supplies

Prepare the Area

• Remove all items stored around toilet including towels, TP holder, etc.

• Use a plastic putty knife to scrape away any loose or flaking paint/caulk from wall area.

• Thoroughly clean walls with TSP substitute cleaner using scrub brush and rinse.

• Fill any holes or imperfections with spackle compound; allow to fully dry and sand smooth.

Proper prep leads to better paint adhesion. Image credit: Hunker

Tape Off Surrounding Areas

• Cover floors with plastic sheeting/drop cloths secured with painter‘s tape.

• Tape off baseboards, countertops, cabinets, mirrors with painter‘s tape.

• To protect toilet, tape lid shut and cover tank, bowl, and seat with painter‘s tape.

Apply Primer Coat

• For bathrooms, use a mold/mildew resistant primer like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3.

• Use a 2” angled trim brush to cut in along ceiling, corners, baseboards and edges.

• Roll primer onto remaining area you can reach around toilet with a 4” mini roller.

Cut in primer along all edges before rolling.

Paint Behind the Toilet

• For bathroom walls, use satin or semi-gloss latex paint which resists moisture.

• Light colors like Cloud White or Pale Oak work well in small spaces.

• Use angled sash brush to cut in along ceiling, corners, and baseboards.

• Attach mini roller to extension pole for improved reach behind toilet to roll paint.

Tips for Painting Tight Spaces

• Move slowly and carefully to avoid drips and splatters.

• Load brushes and rollers lightly; don’t overload paint.

• Use steady, even strokes and reload paint brush frequently.

• Consider foam brush for easiest control in confined area.

• Use spray-can paint formulated for tight spaces if brush can‘t fit.

Final Touches

• Remove painters tape from floors, toilet, etc. once paint is completely dry.

• Caulk gaps between toilet and floor with waterproof silicone caulk. Smooth with finger.

• Allow caulk to fully cure for 24-48 hours before using toilet.

• Reinstall any parts like TP holder previously removed.

You did it! Enjoy a fresh new look in your bathroom.

Pro Tips for Paint Prep

Preparing your bathroom properly will ensure the paint adheres well and lasts:

• Repair any holes, cracks, or imperfections with spackle before priming

• Sand glossy surfaces with fine grit sandpaper so primer sticks

• Wash walls with TSP substitute cleaner and rinse thoroughly

• Remove switch plates and outlet covers before painting

• Use painter’s tape for the cleanest paint lines along trim and ceilings

Primers and Paints Suited for Bathrooms

Product	Sheen	Pros	Cons
KILZ Adhesion Interior Latex Primer	–	Sticks to slick surfaces	Strong odor
Zinsser Mold Killing Primer	–	Prevents mold growth	Needs ventiliation
Behr Premium Plus Bathroom Paint	Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss	Moisture resistant, low odor	Higher price point
Benjamin Moore Advance Bathroom Paint	Eggshell, Satin, Gloss	Self-leveling, smooth finish	Extended dry time

Common Bathroom Paint Sheens

Eggshell – Provides subtle shine and hides imperfections well. Easy to clean but shows scuffs.

Satin – Low sheen with slight gloss. Resists moisture and stains. Ideal for bathrooms.

Semi-Gloss – Very shiny and smooth finish. Enhances trim and makes colors pop.

High-Gloss – Ultra reflective shine. Best for trim and creating depth. Shows imperfections.

Protecting Your Bathroom During Painting

Painting in a small bathroom requires extra care. Here are some tips:

• Never leave paint cans open and unattended in the bathroom. Keep containers sealed when not in use.

• Ventilate the room well by turning on exhaust fan and/or opening windows.

• Check for paint drips after each coat and wipe them up immediately with a damp rag.

• Keep shower curtain pulled back and avoid using shower until paint is fully cured.

• Store bath towels and accessories in a separate room to prevent splatters on them.

• Avoid hanging wet towels on fresh paint to prevent peeling or sticking.

Hiring a Professional vs. DIY Painting

Benefits of Hiring a Pro Painter:

• Experienced working in tight spaces behind toilets

• Proper equipment for best results in bathroom

• Expert prep and cleanup – no messy fuss for you

• Perfect results from someone who paints for a living

• Worth the money if you want a seamless look

Pros of DIY Painting:

• Cost savings – supplies are relatively inexpensive

• Allows you to customize the color selection

• Opportunity to refresh space on your own schedule

• No need to take time off for appointments

• Gives you a sense of accomplishment

Common Painting Mistakes To Avoid

1. Insufficient prep – Don‘t skip scraping, sanding, cleaning the walls first.

2. Choosing the wrong paint – Use bathroom-specific paint with mildew resistance.

3. No primer – Priming ensures topcoat adherence and uniform color.

4. Applying too thickly – Do multiple thin coats rather than one heavy coat.

5. Drips and splatters – Work slowly and carefully to prevent messes.

6. Forgetting drop cloths – Protect floors and surfaces from paint spills.

7. Poor ventilation – Keep air circulating to avoid fumes.

8. Removing tape too soon – Wait until all coats dry before peeling off tape.

9. Not caulking gaps – Seal up gaps around toilet for water protection.

10. Using oil-based paints – Stick with latex paint which is lower odor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does bathroom paint need to cure?

Most bathroom paints take 2-3 days to fully cure and become water resistant. Avoid heavy cleaning during this time.

Should I paint the ceiling too?

Yes, painting the ceiling at the same time as the walls gives a cohesive finished look. Use bathroom ceiling paint.

What is the most popular bathroom paint color?

Softer neutral shades like light grey, beige, and pale blue are currently most popular for bathrooms.

What kind of roller should be used?

Use a shorter nap roller with smooth edges for the best finish on bathroom walls, usually 1⁄4” to 3/8” nap.

Is it ok to paint over wallpaper?

Painting over wallpaper is not recommended, as the paint will not properly adhere to wallpaper. Remove wallpaper first.

How do I avoid brush strokes behind the toilet?

Use a small trim brush and apply paint in thin, even coats. Gently blend and roll as much area as possible.

Still have painting questions? Reach out and I‘d be happy to help advise on your specific bathroom paint project needs!

Conclusion

Painting behind your toilet without fully removing it first is definitely achievable with the right preparation and tools. Just be sure to properly tape off surfaces, prep the walls, and work slowly and carefully in the confined space. Hiring an experienced professional is also a great option for those wanting an easy, flawless result.

No matter what painting method you choose, a fresh coat of paint keeps your bathroom looking updated and beautiful for years to come. Use paint specially formulated to resist moisture and mildew for the most durable finish. And don‘t forget to caulk all gaps when you’re done for a water-tight seal.

With this detailed guide‘s step-by-step instructions, you can tackle painting behind your toilet with confidence. Let me know if you have any other bathroom painting questions!