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Rosanne asked: How can I remove layers of paint from an old bathtub? I just moved into an old rental property, and it looks like someone tried to paint the tub with white paint. They also put a layer of beige paint on top of the white. My son and I have been trying to scrape the layers of paint with a utility knife and scraper. It has been very difficult. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Painted 
tubs can start to chip and wear over time leaving them looking worn and damaged. It will require a chemical paint remover to remove the paint completely. Here are the steps for a successful removal.
You Will Need:
- Chemical paint remover/stripper (ex: Peel Away 7)
- Plastic tarps
- Tape
- Soft cloths
Steps to Remove the Paint:
- Ensure the room is well ventilated prior to starting the paint removal. Chemical removal products can produce fumes that can be very dangerous. Be sure to carefully read the label of your selected product. A respirator can be rented from some major hardware stores if needed.
- Spread plastic tarps over the surrounding floor, walls and fixtures. Tape them in place to ensure that no chemicals damage the surfaces.
- Apply and remove the paint remover following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once all of the paint is removed, evaluate the tub to see if it needs to be resealed.
- Remove all of the tape and plastic and dispose of it properly.
Additional Tips and Advice
- If Peel Away 7 is not available, consult any paint store or the paint department in a home improvement store for the available products. Read the packaging carefully to ensure it is safe to use on the bathtub surface.
- This method is intended to remove layers of paint that have been applied to the entire bathtub. It is not to remove small spots or splashes of paint from other painting projects. Removing those spots requires much simpler removal methods.
This was very helpful! I have all the paint off, and the edges and sides are smooth and shiny, but the bottom is rough. I don’t want to repaint tub; is there a clear gloss or sealer I can use?
After removing the old latex paint from a porcelain tub can it be painted with an oil-based paint?
My daughter rented a house built in 1971 and the porcelain tub in the main bathroom has lost most of its porcelain and the metal or steel is showing through and a few places are rusted.
Just wondering if there are any economical solutions to repair the cosmetic look of the tub that is safe to bathe in. The landlord, of course, is not going to have the porcelain tub repaired.
Thank you for your time.
Deb,
Yes, an oil-based paint can be used on the bathtub. Look for paints that do not have a California Prop 64 warning and that specifically say they are nontoxic – Colorhouse Multipurpose may be a good choice. Also, gently sand the rust spots to remove the rust as that will just continue to deteriorate under the new paint if you don’t, then prime the metal with a metal primer to be sure the paint adheres to those areas. There are tub refinishing kits at hardware stores that are relatively economical, but the difficult part is finding one that’s nontoxic. There are also touch-up paints for bathtubs, but since you mentioned most of the porcelain is gone, it sounds like you will need more than just a touch-up. Talk to the people at your local hardware store to see what your available options are. Good luck!
Source: Shenandoah – The Appropriate Paint for a Bathroom