Decorating Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas Bathroom Remodeling Ideas DIY Bathroom Projects How to Paint Bathroom Countertops Ready for a bathroom update? Follow our tips and tricks for painting laminate countertops. By Caitlin Sole Caitlin Sole Instagram Caitlin Sole is the senior home editor at BHG. She is a writer and editor with nearly a decade of interior design expertise. She has vast experience with digital media, including SEO, photo shoot production, video production, eCommerce content, print collaboration, and custom sales content. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process Updated on June 15, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email Are your bath surfaces looking a little dated? If your countertop is laminate, you're in luck. Set aside a few hours over the weekend, and a newly painted surface will be yours. Be sure to limit this project, though: Ordinary paint isn't a food-safe finish, and it won't stand up to the heat, moisture, and abrasions that kitchen countertops are subjected to daily. What You Need Fine-grade sandpaper or sanding blockWiping clothPaint rollerPrimerLatex paintClear-drying latex polyurethane Step 1 Begin by sanding the surface with fine-grade sandpaper to lightly scuff away the gloss, being careful not to sand away the color. Wipe clean, then lightly roll on a coat of primer for nonporous surfaces. When the primer is dry, roll on a base coat of latex paint. Use a roller to avoid brushstrokes in your finish. *Tip: For melamine shelving and cabinets, wash with a TSP solution before priming. Step 2 When the latex paint is dry, apply three to five coats of clear-drying latex polyurethane, making sure each coat dries before adding the next one. You can use spar varnish for even greater durability, if you don't mind the yellowing effect this coating will have on the paint underneath. *Tip: Don't attempt to paint over scratched or water-damaged melamine—those surfaces should be replaced. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit