Paint a Metal Bathroom Shelf in 3 Easy Steps

To avoid chipping, exposed metal and a frequent need to repaint, follow these steps to paint your older or modern metal bathroom shelf.

Step 1 — Clean

Make sure your shelf is clean and free from any debris. If rust has formed, clean it with distilled white vinegar. Let the vinegar soak on the shelf for a while, and then wipe it clean.

Step 2 — Prime

Add a coat of primer to the metal shelf. If your shelf has rust on it already and you have cleaned it the best you can, you can use RustOleum or the equivalent to coat it. Wait for it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 3 — Paint

Paint the shelf with the color of your choice. Use a semi-gloss paint for protection in the bathroom against moisture and mold buildup.