Painting behind your toilet might sound like a tricky, tight squeeze, but with the right approach and tools, it can be a straightforward task. My name is Paul from Trusted House Painter, and I’m here to walk you through the best ways to tackle this often-overlooked area. Whether you decide to remove the toilet tank or keep it in place, I’ll share practical tips and tricks to help you get a professional finish behind your toilet.
Understanding Your Toilet Setup: To Remove the Tank or Not?
There are two main ways to paint behind a toilet:
- Remove the tank completely
- Paint without removing the tank
If your toilet tank is flush against the wall, you might run into some challenges that require removing the tank for proper access. However, many toilets have a small gap behind the tank, which means you can paint without removing it. Knowing your setup will help you decide which method works best for you.
Preparation Is Key: Clean and Protect
Like any painting project, preparation is crucial. Toilet tanks hold water and often “sweat,” creating moisture behind the toilet. This moisture attracts grime, dust, and debris, making the area behind your toilet a prime spot for buildup.
First, thoroughly clean behind the toilet. Many painters skip this step, which is why painting back there often looks unfinished or patchy.
Next, remove the toilet lid to gain better access. Be gentle when handling the lid—it’s made of porcelain and can easily break. Place it somewhere safe while you work.
Protecting the toilet during painting is also important. Some painters use a large black garbage bag wrapped around the tank and taped in place. Others prefer old bed sheets or canvas drop cloths. These coverings help keep paint off the porcelain, though most tanks are relatively easy to clean.
Choosing the Right Tools: The Magic of Whiz Rollers
Once your walls are cleaned and sanded, it’s time to paint. The tool I recommend for this job is called a whiz roller, or as I like to call it, a Johnny on the spot roller. These rollers come in various shapes, sizes, and naps to fit different applications.
Because space behind the toilet is limited, I prefer mohair or velour rollers. They are millimeters thick, hold minimal paint, and allow you to get into tight spaces easily without dripping or overloading.
Whiz rollers come in different lengths—short ones and longer ones—so you can choose what’s most comfortable for your reach. You can find them in packs of one, two, or even a dozen at most paint supply stores. Their versatility makes them a must-have for painting behind toilets and other challenging spots.
Painting Technique and Drying Tips
Use the roller attached to its handle to carefully roll paint behind the toilet. Move the roller stick to reach as far back as possible, covering all areas evenly.
Keep in mind that bathrooms are “wet rooms” with high moisture levels due to showers and toilets. This makes it essential to let your paint dry and cure completely before applying a second coat. Rushing this step can result in peeling or uneven finishes.
Pro Painter’s Tip: Always Keep a Rag Handy
This might sound simple, but every professional painter knows the value of a rag. Always have a wet rag nearby to quickly clean up any paint drips that land on the floor or the porcelain tank. Think of the rag as a goalie’s best friend—ready to save the day whenever a paint mishap happens.
Final Thoughts
Painting behind your toilet doesn’t have to be a frustrating or impossible task. With proper prep, the right tools like whiz rollers, and a little patience, you can achieve a clean, professional-looking paint job in those hard-to-reach places.
If you have questions or want more detailed advice, feel free to reach out or leave a comment. And if you’re looking for trusted professionals to paint your home, visit Trusted House Painter to find local painters who can help you beautify your space.
