Top 10 Best Tile Paints for Covering Old, Stained Tiles in the UK (2026 Review)

Old tiles have a habit of making a whole room feel tired.

It’s rarely just one mark. It’s the faded patch behind the sink. The stubborn stains that never lift. The colour that looked fine years ago but now dates the space.

Replacing tiles sounds like the obvious fix. Until you price it up. Or think about the mess. Or realise the tiles themselves are still solid.

That’s when tile paint starts to make sense.

Tile paint is used to cover stains, hide discolouration, and give old tiles a cleaner, more modern look without ripping anything out. In the right conditions, it can hold up well against steam, splashes, and daily cleaning. In the wrong conditions, it can peel, scratch, or look patchy within months.

This guide reviews the 10 best tile paints available in the UK for 2026, with a focus on covering old and stained tiles in bathrooms and kitchens. We’ve looked at finish, durability, ease of use, and how forgiving each paint is in real homes, not perfect showrooms.

If your tiles are tired but still doing their job, this review will help you decide whether paint is worth it, and which ones are less likely to let you down.

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Top 10 Best Tile Paints in the UK Compared

1. Johnstone’s Revive – Tile Paint – White – 750ml

Best for: Renters or homeowners on a budget who want a quick, glossy refresh for tired kitchen or bathroom wall tiles.

You know that feeling when you walk into your kitchen and just wish the tiles weren’t that weird 90s beige? This Johnstone’s Revive tin is basically a shortcut to a cleaner look without the mess of a full renovation.

It’s a water-based formula, so you aren’t stuck with that heavy, headache-inducing paint smell for days. Additionally, this tile paint goes on smoothly and leaves a shiny gloss finish that actually looks like real ceramic. Since it’s a best seller, you aren’t the only one trying to hide old patterns. Just grab a brush and get stuck in.

Key Features

• Shiny gloss finish that mimics actual tile surfaces.
• Low-odour water-based formula for indoor use.
• Quick-drying to speed up your DIY afternoon.
• Specific “Revive” tech for better adhesion on stone and ceramic.
• Generous 750ml tin covers a decent amount of wall space.

Pros

• No primer is usually needed, saving you an extra step.
• The white is crisp and bright, instantly opening up small rooms.
• Wipes clean easily once it has fully cured.
• Very affordable compared to buying brand-new tiles.

Cons

• Might require two coats to fully hide dark patterns.
• Not intended for floor tiles or heavy-duty walking areas.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Revive – Tile Paint – White – 750ml

This Johnstone’s tile paint is a reliable, budget-friendly staple. If you want a bright white bathroom without the stress of hiring a tiler, this tin gets it done.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s Revive – Tile Paint – White – 750ml

2. V33 Renovation Wall Tile & Panelling Paint – White Satin 750ml

Best for: Transforming wall tiles in the wettest parts of the house, like shower interiors and sink splashbacks.

If you are hunting for a tile paint that won’t peel off the second it gets wet, this V33 option is a heavy hitter. In comparison to the Johnstone’s Revive we discussed, which is perfect for a standard gloss refresh, this paint is specifically engineered for the “splash zone.” Consequently, it handles the constant humidity of a shower without flaking or bubbling.

Furthermore, the formula is self-priming, so you can go straight onto your old ceramic tiles without wasting a day on undercoats. In addition to this, it leaves a smooth satin finish that looks modern and clean. Ultimately, it is tough enough to withstand daily scrubbing and the heat from a steaming hot bath, making it a solid choice for a busy family bathroom.

Key Features

• Aquaresist technology prevents water and humidity from lifting the paint.
• No undercoat needed, allowing for direct application onto ceramic and glass.
• High resistance to temperature spikes from hot showers or kitchen cooking.
• Formula stands up to bleach, vinegar, and heavy-duty bathroom cleaners.
• Provides a durable satin finish that resists everyday wear and tear.

Pros

• One of the few tile paints reliable enough for use inside a shower.
• Massive time saver since it combines the primer and topcoat.
• The satin look is great at masking light scratches on old tiles.
• Does not yellow or flake when exposed to repeated steam.

Cons

• You must wait a full 48 hours for it to cure before getting it wet.
• Not designed for use on floor tiles or any walking surfaces.

Why we recommend V33 Renovation – White Satin 750ml

It is the ultimate solution for wet-room tiles. It offers a professional, waterproof finish that holds up where most other tile paints eventually fail.

Check prices on Amazon: V33 Renovation Wall Tile & Panelling Paint – White Satin 750ml

3. RUSTINS Step & Tile Paint Black 250ml

Best for: Toughening up unglazed floor tiles and porous stone with a durable, walk-on finish.

Most tile paints are only meant for vertical surfaces, but this Rustins formula is a specialist tile paint built specifically for floors. It handles the pressure of being walked on without cracking or lifting away from the tile surface.

If you are dealing with unglazed tiles or stone that looks faded and worn, this tile paint acts as a heavy-duty coating that seals the surface while adding a sharp gloss. It is designed to grip into the texture of the tile itself, creating a slip-resistant layer that stays bonded even when used on outdoor tiles facing the rain.

Key Features

• Specialist tile paint formulated for horizontal surfaces and foot traffic.
• High-adhesion acrylic bonds directly to stone, brick, and unglazed tiles.
• Slip-resistant gloss finish provides better traction on flat tile surfaces.
• Weather-proof properties keep the tile paint from peeling in outdoor conditions.
• Water-based formula allows for a quick drying time between coats.

Pros

• Specifically engineered as a floor tile paint, offering much higher durability.
• Deeply saturates porous tiles to provide a uniform, solid colour.
• Resists the scuffing and scraping that would ruin standard tile paints.
• Very easy to apply with a brush for a smooth, thick layer.

Cons

• Will not adhere to glazed, shiny, or polished tile surfaces.
• The tiny 250ml tin size is only enough for small tile sections or steps.

Why we recommend RUSTINS Step & Tile Paint Black 250ml

This is the definitive choice for floor tile paint. It provides a hard-wearing, walk-on finish that standard tile paints simply cannot match.

Check prices on Amazon: RUSTINS Step & Tile Paint Black 250ml

4. Rust-Oleum White Water-Resistant Bathroom Tile Paint-  750ml

Best for: Adding a professional-grade, ultra-durable satin finish to ceramic, glass, or stone tiles that need to withstand heavy daily cleaning.

If you want a tile paint that feels more like a permanent coating than a quick fix, this Rust-Oleum kit is a serious contender. It uses a two-part system, which means you mix in an activator to make the paint much tougher than your average tin.

This extra step ensures the paint bonds tightly to slick tile surfaces, making it incredibly difficult to chip or scratch once it sets. It skips the need for a separate primer, so you can apply it directly to your stone or ceramic. The finish is a soft satin that looks expensive and resists that annoying yellowing over time.

Key Features

• Two-part formula with a dedicated activator for maximum tile adhesion.
• Water-resistant finish specifically built to handle splashes and drips.
• Mould and mildew resistant, keeping the painted tile surface cleaner for longer.
• High coverage rate of up to 14m² per litre, making the 750ml tin go a long way.
• Quick-recoat time of 4 hours so you can finish the job in a single day.

Pros

• No primer required; the activated paint sticks directly to ceramic and glass.
• Chip-resistant technology makes it much more durable against knocks.
• Thousands of colour options are available beyond just the standard whites.
• Fully washable, so you can scrub the tiles without worrying about the paint rubbing off.

Cons

• Once you mix in the activator, you have a limited window to use the paint.
• Slightly more expensive than the one-part tile paint options.

Why we recommend Rust-Oleum Bathroom Tile Paint

This tile paint offers some of the best durability on the market. The activator ensures it stays stuck to the tile even in high-moisture environments.

Check prices on Amazon: Rust-Oleum White Water-Resistant Bathroom Tile Paint-  750ml

5. DecorRom Tub and Tile Refinishing Kit – 500ml

Best for: A complete DIY overhaul of slick bathroom tiles, porcelain, or ceramic sinks that need a hard, professional-style resurfacing.

If you are looking for more than just a quick colour swap, this DecorRom kit is a full resurfacing system. This isn’t your standard “open and brush” tin; it is a two-part tile paint that requires mixing a hardener into the paint.

This chemical bond creates a semi-gloss finish that is far tougher than basic acrylics, specifically designed to handle the constant moisture and scrubbing that bathroom tiles endure. It comes with everything from sandpaper to masking film, so you don’t have to go hunting for tools. The result is a smooth, porcelain-like layer that effectively hides old scratches and stains.

Key Features

• Two-part epoxy-style formula for maximum hardness and durability.
• Waterproof and scratch-resistant finish built for wet environments.
• Complete kit includes roller, brush, sandpaper, tape, and gloves.
• Low-odor and non-toxic, making it much safer for small, unventilated bathrooms.
• Versatile adhesion works on ceramic, porcelain, acrylic, and even marble tiles.

Pros

• Everything you need for the job is in the box, saving you a trip to the DIY shop.
• Once cured, the finish is incredibly tough and resembles a factory-new tile.
• High-quality coverage that can mask deep stains or outdated patterns in fewer coats.
• Semi-gloss finish strikes a perfect balance between being easy to clean and looking modern.

Cons

• You must use the mixture within 12 hours of adding the hardener, or it becomes solid.
• Requires a full 7 days to reach “full hardness” before you should really test its durability.

Why we recommend DecorRom Tub and Tile Refinishing Kit – 500ml

This tile paint provides a professional-grade finish for a fraction of the cost of replacing tiles. It is the ultimate “all-in-one” solution for a total tile transformation.

Check prices on Amazon: DecorRom Tub and Tile Refinishing Kit – 500ml

6. V33 Renovation Floor & Stairs Paint – White Satin 2 Litres

Best for: Giving high-traffic tiled floors a fresh look with a finish that is actually tough enough to be walked on every day.

Remember that V33 wall tile paint we looked at earlier? This is its much stronger sibling. While the wall version is built to handle steam, this floor-specific tile paint is reinforced with ceramic technology to survive the scuffs of shoes and heavy foot traffic. It’s a game-changer because it skips the undercoat entirely, bonding directly to smooth floor tiles without flaking away.

So, if you have a tiled floor that looks dated, this creates a flexible, hard-wearing barrier that won’t crack when the floor naturally shifts. It’s basically a protective shield for your tiles that happens to come in a stylish satin finish.

Key Features

• Ceramic technology reinforcement for superior resistance to scuffs and shocks.
• 2-in-1 formula that sticks to floor tiles without needing an undercoat.
• High-adhesion properties that work on smooth, non-porous tiled surfaces.
• Flexible coating that moves with the floor to prevent cracking.
• Ultra-washable surface that resists common household stains and spills.

Pros

• Specifically engineered for floors, unlike the wall-only V33 version.
• The 2-litre tin offers massive coverage, perfect for entire rooms.
• Stain-resistant finish makes it very easy to mop and maintain.
• Doesn’t require a separate primer, which saves a huge amount of time.

Cons

• More expensive upfront than the smaller tins of wall tile paint.
• Needs careful cleaning of the tiles beforehand to ensure the ceramic bond works.

Why we recommend V33 Renovation Floor & Stairs Paint

This is the ultimate upgrade for floor tiles. It brings the same ease of use as the V33 wall paint but with the heavy-duty grit needed for floors.

Check prices on Amazon: V33 Renovation Floor & Stairs Paint – White Satin 2 Litres

7. PENTAUSA All in One Bathroom Paint – Matte & 250ml (White)

Best for: Small, high-detail tile projects like sinks or splashbacks that need a sophisticated, non-reflective matte finish.

While the V33 we discussed earlier is great for covering massive floor areas, this PENTAUSA tile paint is a specialist “small-batch” solution. It is a waterproof acrylic that comes with a catalyst, making it incredibly sticky on surfaces that usually reject paint. It is specifically built for tiles that get wet—think bathtubs and sinks—so you know it won’t slide off the ceramic when you turn the tap on.

The matte finish is a real standout here, providing a modern, velvet-like texture that makes old tiles look like expensive new stone. It’s non-toxic and low-odour, so you won’t need to keep the windows open for a week.

Key Features

• Two-part formula includes a catalyst for industrial-strength tile adhesion.
• True waterproof performance designed for “wet zone” tiles and porcelain.
• High-impact scratch resistance to handle everyday knocks and cleaning.
• Versatile bonding works on ceramic, marble, glass, and even metal tiles.
• Non-yellowing matte finish that stays crisp and white over time.

Pros

• The matte look is much more modern than the standard shiny tile paints.
• Incredibly high adhesion means it can handle being submerged in a sink.
• Safe for indoor use thanks to a non-toxic, low-smell formula.
• It can be mixed with other colours if you want to create a custom tile shade.

Cons

• The 250ml tin is very small, covering only about 4.5m² per coat.
• Must be used within 12 hours once the catalyst is mixed in.

Why we recommend PENTAUSA All in One Bathroom Paint – 250ml (White)

It is the best tile paint for high-end, matte finishes. If you want your tiles to look like soft stone rather than shiny plastic, this is the winner.

Check prices on Amazon: PENTAUSA All in One Bathroom Paint – Matte & 250ml (White)

8. RUSTINS BRITW500 Quick Dry Brick and Tile – 500 ml

Best for: Restoring the classic, earthy look of unglazed red tiles or outdoor brickwork that has become pale and weathered.

Unlike the sleek, chemical-heavy PENTAUSA matte paint we just discussed, this Rustins tin is all about tradition. It is a specialist tile paint designed for porous surfaces that need to breathe. If you have unglazed red floor tiles or a brick fireplace that looks a bit dusty, this water-based tile paint sinks in to provide a rich, pigment-heavy matte finish.

It’s significantly faster to use than the two-part kits because there is no mixing involved. It is also built to handle the outdoors, so it won’t flake off your garden tiles when the frost hits.

Key Features

• Pigment-rich matte red finish designed for porous brick and tile.
• Quick-drying water-based formula that is touch-dry in under an hour.
• UV-resistant properties to prevent the red colour from fading in the sun.
• Low-odour technology makes it comfortable for indoor tile projects.
• Weatherproof protection for tiles used on patios or external steps.

Pros

• Extremely easy to apply; stir and go with no complicated catalysts.
• Very affordable per litre compared to technical “all-in-one” paints.
• Does not peel or blister because it allows the tile to “breathe.”
• Brushes clean up instantly with tap water.

Cons

• Not suitable for glazed or shiny tiles; it needs a porous surface to grip.
• Offers lower water resistance compared to epoxy-style bathroom tile paints.

Why we recommend RUSTINS BRITW500 Quick Dry Brick and Tile – 500 ml

It is the most efficient way to bring “life” back to red tiles. For unglazed surfaces that need a classic matte look, it is unbeatable.

Check prices on Amazon: RUSTINS BRITW500 Quick Dry Brick and Tile – 500 ml

9. JOYAONE Enamel Touch Up Paint – High Gloss White – 30ml

Best for: Fixing small chips, deep scratches, and localized damage on individual bathroom or kitchen tiles.

Fixing a single chipped tile shouldn’t require buying a massive 2-litre tin of paint. This JOYAONE kit is specifically designed for those small, annoying “oops” moments. It comes in a compact 30ml bottle with a brush built right into the cap, making it feel more like a bottle of nail polish than a DIY project.

The high-gloss finish is a great match for standard white ceramic tiles, sinks, and tubs, blending in easily to hide the dark marks left by impact damage. And being a water-based acrylic, it dries in about half an hour, so you can patch up a tile and get on with your day.

Key Features

• Built-in Applicator: The integrated brush makes it easy to dab paint exactly where the chip is.
• Fast-Drying Formula: Touch dry in 30-60 minutes, which is perfect for quick maintenance.
• High-Gloss Finish: Designed to mimic the reflective surface of glazed ceramic and enamel.
• Low-Odour Acrylic: Water-based and safe for indoor use without needing heavy ventilation.
• Multi-Surface Bond: Works on ceramic tiles, porcelain, metal, and even plastic.

Pros

• No tools or mixing required—just open the bottle and start dabbing.
• Excellent at filling in deep scratches so they become invisible at a glance.
• Small enough to keep in a kitchen drawer for future emergencies.
• Much cheaper than replacing a single tile or buying a full refinishing kit.

Cons

• Only meant for small repairs; it’s not suitable for painting a whole wall or floor.
• The stark white colour might not perfectly match “off-white” or aged tiles.

Why we recommend JOYAONE Touch Up – 30ml

This is the smartest way to deal with minor tile damage. It saves you the time and expense of a full renovation by focusing purely on spot-repairs that look professional and stay waterproof.

Check prices on Amazon: JOYAONE Enamel Touch Up Paint – High Gloss White – 30ml

10. VNEUOL Bathtub and Tile Repair Paint – 30ml

Best for: Quick, small-scale touch-ups on white tiles, sinks, and porcelain that need a glossy, seamless fix.

This VNEUOL repair kit is all about speed and convenience. It’s a 30ml bottle designed specifically to hide those annoying yellow stains, hairline cracks, or small chips that ruin the look of a clean bathroom. You don’t need to be a professional to use it; the screw-cap comes with its own brush, so you can just dab the paint directly onto the damage.

It uses a high-quality acrylic resin that sticks firmly to slick surfaces like porcelain and enamel. While it’s a simple white paint, it dries with a high-gloss shine that blends in well with the natural glaze of most standard bathroom tiles.

Key Features

• Nail-Polish Style Bottle: Small and portable with an integrated brush for pinpoint accuracy.
• Surface Specialist: Formulated to stick to difficult surfaces like metal, porcelain, and glass.
• Non-Toxic Formula: Odourless and safe to use in small, unventilated bathrooms or kitchens.
• High-Gloss Finish: Mimics the reflective surface of tiles to make repairs less noticeable.
• Fast Recovery: Dries quickly so you can get back to using your sink or shower sooner.

Pros

• Perfect for hiding yellowing or stains that won’t come off with cleaning.
• Extremely easy to store in a cupboard for whenever a new scratch appears.
• No mixing or prep work required—just shake the bottle and go.
• Great for small appliances too, like white refrigerators or ovens.

Cons

• It is not a rust-proofer, so it won’t stop existing rust from spreading on metal.
• Cold weather can cause the paint to thicken, so keep it at room temperature before use.

Why we recommend VNEUOL Bathtub and Tile Repair Paint – 30ml

This is a handy “first-aid kit” for your tiles. It’s the easiest way to cover up minor imperfections and stains without the mess of a full-scale painting project.

Check prices on Amazon: VNEUOL Bathtub and Tile Repair Paint – 30ml

Key Considerations Before Buying Tile Paint

Choosing the wrong tile paint can result in a messy, peeling finish that is harder to fix than the original tiles. Before you buy, run through this checklist of essential considerations to ensure your project lasts for years.

• Vertical vs. Horizontal Surfaces: This is the most critical factor. Wall tile paint is formulated to stay on vertical surfaces without sagging, but it cannot handle weight. If you are painting a floor, you must select a floor-grade tile paint reinforced with ceramic or acrylic resins to withstand foot traffic and furniture pressure.

• Glazed vs. Unglazed Tiles: Standard tile paint is designed for the smooth, non-porous surface of glazed ceramic. However, if you are painting porous surfaces like brick, stone, or unglazed quarry tiles, you need a breathable formula (like Rustins Brick & Tile) that won’t trap moisture and cause the paint to bubble.

• One-Part vs. Two-Part Systems: * One-Part: Ready to use straight from the tin. Best for low-impact areas like kitchen splashbacks.
  • Two-Part: Requires mixing an activator or catalyst into the paint. These are significantly more durable, chip-resistant, and better suited for “high-stress” tiles like those in a shower or a sink.

• Moisture and Submersion: Not all “water-resistant” paints are equal. If you are painting tiles inside a shower cubicle or the basin of a sink, you must ensure the label specifies it is waterproof and suitable for constant water contact. Standard moisture-resistant paints are only meant for occasional splashes.

• Cure Time vs. Dry Time: While a tile paint might feel “touch dry” in 1 hour, it hasn’t reached its full strength. Most specialist tile paints require a “cure time” of 48 hours to 7 days before they are fully scrub-resistant or waterproof. Consider if you can go without using that bathroom or kitchen area for the required duration.

• Maintenance Requirements: Consider how you clean your tiles. High-gloss finishes are generally the most scrubbable. If you choose a matte or satin tile paint, check if it is “stain-resistant” to ensure that kitchen grease or bathroom products don’t permanently discolour the new finish.

• Opacity and Pigment: Tiles with dark, busy patterns or deep floral designs often require more than one coat. Check the “coverage” rating on the tin. If you are covering dark tiles with white tile paint, you will likely need a high-opacity formula or a third coat to prevent the old pattern from “ghosting” through.

Conclusion: Transform Your Tiles Today

Refreshing your home doesn’t require a sledgehammer. As we’ve explored, the right tile paint can bridge the gap between a dated space and a modern sanctuary. Whether you need the high-traffic durability of V33 Floor Paint, the waterproof precision of Rust-Oleum, or a quick JOYAONE touch-up, there is a specialized formula for every surface.

Don’t let tired, discoloured tiles drain the life from your room any longer. By choosing a paint tailored to your specific needs—wall vs. floor or gloss vs. matte—you ensure a professional finish that lasts.

Ready to start your renovation? Click the links above to grab your supplies on Amazon and give your tiles the facelift they deserve!

Answering Your Common Questions About Tile Paints