Refinishing can refresh a worn tub, shower, sink, or tile without replacing the whole fixture. The best choice depends on your surface, how much you need to cover, whether you want a slip-resistant finish, and how much prep work you want to handle. These five kits range from a two-part coating with a defined cure time to bundles that include tools or a non-slip additive.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Standout feature | Coverage or kit notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile Gloss White 2-Part Refinishing Kit | Simple two-part coating | Waterproof epoxy-acrylic finish | Two coats; allow three days before water exposure |
| Bathworks Essentials Tub & Tile Refinishing Kit | Adding traction in wet areas | Includes non-slip additive | One standard tub or up to 60 sq. ft.; tools sold separately |
| Bathworks Roll-On Refinishing Kit | A more complete tool bundle | Includes application and prep tools | 21 fl oz of coating materials |
| Bathworks Roll-On Kit with Non-Slip Additive | Slip-resistant finish with tools included | Non-slip additive and project supplies | 21 fl oz of coating materials |
| EZroll Bathtub Refinishing Kit | Low-odor, two-coat epoxy system | Step-by-step video guidance | One kit is listed for one standard tub |
Our Picks: Best Bath And Shower Refinishing reviews
1. Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile: A straightforward two-part coating
This two-part epoxy-acrylic kit is made to renew ceramic tile, porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, cast iron, and steel tubs and sinks. You combine the base and activator before applying the coating, so careful mixing and following the instructions are important parts of the job.
The kit is designed for high-moisture bathroom surfaces and creates a washable, waterproof finish. The listed application method is a fine-bristle brush or a short-nap roller, with two coats recommended for a more even, porcelain-like appearance. It dries to the touch in one hour and can be recoated after at least one hour, but the surface needs three days to cure before it is exposed to water.
That cure period is a practical planning point: you will need to keep the tub or sink out of use while the finish sets. Unlike some Bathworks options below, this product description does not list application tools in the kit, so check the package contents and gather what you need before starting.
Pros:
- Works on several common tub, sink, and tile materials.
- Two-part epoxy-acrylic coating is designed for bathroom moisture.
- Provides specific recoat and water-exposure timing.
Cons:
- Requires a three-day cure before water exposure.
- Application tools are not listed as included.
Verdict: Choose Rust-Oleum if you want a versatile two-part coating and can plan around its three-day cure time.
2. Bathworks Essentials: A non-slip option for wet areas
Bathworks Essentials is a coating kit for tubs, showers, sinks, and tile. Its main distinction is the included slip-resistant additive, which mixes into the coating for added traction in wet areas. The finish is described as high gloss, so this option is aimed at shoppers who want both a refreshed appearance and a less slick surface.
The kit includes 22 fluid ounces of coating, hardener, liquid primer, additive, a mixing container, and instructions. Applicator tools and prep supplies are sold separately, so the included materials are not a complete tool bundle. The listed coverage is one standard tub or up to 60 square feet. For glossy surfaces such as tile, porcelain, ceramic, and cast iron, the product calls for etching first with Bathworks EZ-Etch; that step is not listed as needed for acrylic or fiberglass.
This is a useful choice when traction matters, but the extra prep requirements and separately purchased tools should be part of your project plan. Confirm that your surface is supported and follow the product instructions for preparation and application.
Pros:
- Includes a non-slip additive for wet surfaces.
- Designed for tubs, showers, sinks, and several surface types.
- Lists coverage for a standard tub or up to 60 square feet.
- Includes coating, hardener, primer, additive, and mixing container.
Cons:
- Applicator tools and prep supplies are sold separately.
- Etching is called for on several hard, glossy surfaces.
Verdict: Bathworks Essentials is a good fit if you want a non-slip additive and are prepared to source the application tools and any needed etching product separately.
3. Bathworks Roll-On Kit: More project tools in one package
This Bathworks kit pairs a high-gloss white coating with a selection of tools for applying it and preparing the surface. Its 21 fluid ounces of coating materials include coating, hardener, and primer. The listed tools and supplies include a roller, tray, brush, mixing container, TSP cleanser, sandpaper, stir stick, and instructions.
Having those supplies together can make planning easier, especially if you do not already own basic application tools. The product is intended for tubs, sinks, showers, and tile, and its resin formula is described as resisting chips, stains, soap scum, and yellowing. As with any refinishing project, the final result still depends on proper surface preparation and following the instructions closely.
This version does not list a non-slip additive, unlike the fourth pick. If traction is a priority, compare it with that option instead. The product description also does not state a specific coverage area, so check the package details against the size of your project before buying.
Pros:
- Includes a roller, tray, brush, and several prep supplies.
- Contains coating, hardener, and primer.
- Designed for tubs, sinks, showers, and tile.
- High-gloss white finish is described as resistant to yellowing.
Cons:
- No non-slip additive is listed.
- Coverage information is not provided in the supplied product details.
Verdict: Pick this kit if you want the main coating and a broad set of application and prep tools in one package, and do not need a non-slip additive.
4. Bathworks Roll-On with Non-Slip Additive: A tool bundle with added traction
This version combines the Bathworks roll-on coating system with a non-slip additive and a set of project supplies. The 21-fluid-ounce coating materials include coating, hardener, and primer. The listed extras include a roller, tray, brush, mixing container, tack cloth, sandpaper, stir stick, gloves, and instructions.
The additive mixes into the coating to create traction in wet areas, making this a more complete option for someone refinishing a tub or shower and seeking a slip-resistant surface. The product is also intended for sinks and tile. Its high-gloss resin finish is described as resistant to chips, stains, soap scum, and yellowing.
Compared with Bathworks Essentials, this kit lists more application and prep supplies, while Essentials provides a stated coverage figure. The supplied details for this roll-on version do not specify coverage, so check the package information if you are coating more than one fixture or a larger surround.
Pros:
- Includes a non-slip additive.
- Bundles application tools and several prep items.
- Designed for tubs, sinks, showers, and tile.
- Includes gloves, tack cloth, sandpaper, and instructions.
Cons:
- Coverage information is not stated in the supplied details.
- The added traction may not suit shoppers seeking a uniformly smooth finish.
Verdict: Choose this kit over the standard Bathworks roll-on option if you want the included tool bundle and a non-slip additive together.
5. EZroll Bathtub Refinishing Kit: Low-odor coating with video guidance
EZroll is a two-coat, two-part epoxy system for tubs, tile, sinks, and showers. It is described as a low-odor, roll-on coating with a hard, glossy finish. The product is positioned as a more comfortable indoor application option, though you should still follow the package directions and any safety guidance provided with the kit.
The instructions include a QR code for written directions and step-by-step video guidance in English and Spanish. The listed coverage guidance is one kit for one standard tub, two kits for a tub and three-wall surround, and three to four kits for a tub, surround, and additional tile areas. That makes it easier to estimate how many kits a larger project may need.
The description highlights bonding at areas such as the drain, overflow, and grout lines. This is a useful consideration because those are common places to pay close attention during prep and application. Compared with Rust-Oleum, EZroll emphasizes low odor and video instructions, while Rust-Oleum provides specific dry, recoat, and cure times in the supplied details.
Pros:
- Two-coat, two-part epoxy system for multiple bathroom surfaces.
- Described as low odor for indoor application.
- Includes written instructions and video guidance in English and Spanish.
- Provides project-based coverage guidance for tubs and surrounds.
Cons:
- Coverage guidance indicates that larger projects may require several kits.
- Specific recoat and cure times are not provided in the supplied details.
Verdict: EZroll is a strong option if low-odor positioning, video guidance, and clear coverage planning matter most to you.
How to Choose a Bath and Shower Refinishing Kit
Check that the coating matches your surface
Start by identifying the material you plan to refinish, such as porcelain, ceramic tile, fiberglass, acrylic, cast iron, or steel. Product compatibility varies, so verify that the kit lists your surface before you buy. Also check whether it covers the whole project: a tub-only kit may not be enough for a tub plus a tiled surround.
Plan for surface preparation
Refinishing is not just applying a new coat. The surface must be prepared according to the kit instructions, and some products call for extra steps on certain materials. For example, Bathworks Essentials specifies etching first on hard, glossy surfaces such as tile, porcelain, ceramic, and cast iron. Make sure you have the required prep materials before starting.
Decide whether you need a non-slip finish
A non-slip additive may be useful in a tub or shower where traction is a priority. Bathworks Essentials and the Bathworks roll-on kit with additive both include one. The other kits in this selection do not list a non-slip additive. Read the product directions to understand how the additive changes the finish and how to mix it properly.
Compare what is included
Some kits focus on coating materials, while others bundle rollers, brushes, sandpaper, cleanser, gloves, or mixing supplies. Bathworks Roll-On and the Bathworks roll-on version with non-slip additive list several tools and prep items. Bathworks Essentials says its applicator tools and prep supplies are sold separately. An included tool bundle can simplify shopping, but confirm that it has everything your project requires.
Estimate coverage before you order
Measure the area you want to refinish and compare it with the product’s coverage guidance. Bathworks Essentials lists one standard tub or up to 60 square feet. EZroll provides separate guidance for a standard tub, a tub with a three-wall surround, and a larger tiled area. For kits without stated coverage in the supplied details, check the package information before choosing a quantity.
Consider application time and curing time
Dry-to-touch time does not always mean the surface is ready for water. Rust-Oleum, for example, lists a one-hour dry time and a minimum one-hour wait before recoating, but requires three days of curing before water exposure. Follow the instructions for the exact product you choose, and plan for the tub or shower to remain unused for the full required period.
Think about odor and instructions
If indoor application comfort is important, EZroll is specifically described as low odor and includes video guidance in English and Spanish. Other products may have different application and safety directions. Review the package instructions before starting, prepare the room as directed, and do not assume that guidance for one coating applies to another.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a bathtub refinishing kit also be used on a shower?
Several kits in this selection are listed for both tubs and showers, including Bathworks Essentials, both Bathworks roll-on options, and EZroll. Confirm that your specific surface material is supported and follow the product instructions for preparation and use.
How long should I wait before using a refinished tub?
The wait depends on the product. Rust-Oleum specifies a three-day cure before water exposure. For the other kits, check the product label or included instructions for the correct cure time rather than relying on the dry-to-touch time.
Do I need to buy application tools separately?
It depends on the kit. Bathworks Essentials says applicator tools and prep supplies are sold separately. The Bathworks Roll-On kits list tools such as a roller, tray, and brush. Check the contents for your selected product before beginning.
Which option includes a non-slip additive?
Bathworks Essentials and Bathworks Roll-On with Non-Slip Additive both list a slip-resistant additive. The other products in this selection do not list one in their supplied descriptions.
How many kits do I need for a tub surround?
Coverage depends on the kit and the size of your project. EZroll lists two kits for a tub plus a three-wall surround and three to four kits for a tub, surround, and additional tile areas. Bathworks Essentials lists one standard tub or up to 60 square feet. Check the package coverage for other products.
Can I apply a refinishing kit without preparing the surface?
Surface preparation is part of the process, and the required steps vary by product and material. Follow the kit instructions, including any cleaning, sanding, or etching steps. Skipping required prep can affect how well the coating bonds.
Final Recommendation
For a straightforward two-part coating with clear instructions on recoating and water exposure, Rust-Oleum is a practical pick if you can leave the surface unused for its full cure period. Choose Bathworks Roll-On with Non-Slip Additive if you want traction and a bundle of common project tools. If low-odor positioning and video guidance are your priorities, consider EZroll. In every case, match the kit to your tub or shower material, prepare the surface as directed, and plan for the coating’s full cure time.
