The Best Tools To Make Painting Behind A Toilet A Breeze

There are some painting tips that we swear by. And, if you've never heard of a flat paint brush for tight spaces, it may forever change the way you approach your DIY projects. Just like applying a coat of paint behind a gutter or a radiator, painting behind a toilet is one of those tasks that seems easy — until you actually try it. The tank is in the way, standard brushes are too bulky, and rollers don't fit. You could remove the tank to get better access, but that's a risky move. If you don't reinstall it perfectly, you might end up with leaks, a misaligned seal, or a wobbly toilet. Not exactly the kind of home improvement project you want to spiral out of control.

Luckily, there's a better way. A paint-behind tool is designed to fit into tight spaces and make the job almost effortless. The brush has a thin, flexible pad that slides between the tank and wall, covering the area without requiring you to twist your wrist into uncomfortable angles. And with a quick few strokes, you can get the job done. There's no mess and no extra plumbing work — just dip, swipe, and you're done. If you've ever tried shoving a roller or even a sponge behind a toilet and ended up with uneven coverage (or paint on the tank itself), this tool is the upgrade you need.

What makes a flat paintbrush tool so effective? It all comes down to two key features: A replaceable brush pad and an extendable handle. The brush pad is so thin that it squeezes in to provide an even coat in the tightest of spaces. And when the pad wears out, you don't have to buy a whole new tool — just swap in a fresh pad and keep going. That's not just convenient, it's cost-effective too. The 12-inch extendable handle is a lifesaver as well because it gives you extra reach, so you're not struggling to angle a short brush into a tight gap and leaving some spots uncovered.

Using the flat paintbrush is straightforward. You simply load it with paint, press it against the wall, and slide it up and down. Unlike a roller, which can leave thick edges or uneven strokes, the pad applies smooth, even coverage. It sounds like every painter's dream, right. All you need to do is to apply a steady pressure to the brush while painting in one direction. Cleaning these brushes is easy too. For water-based paints, just rinse the pad in warm, soapy water, let it dry and it's ready for the next project. As for oil-based substrates, use a recommended solvent product before washing it too. But if you're not up to wetting them, there is an ultimate alternative to washing paint brushes between coats that will have them as good as new.

If you're looking for alternatives to a flat paintbrush, a painter's mitt is another handy option. In a pinch, you could even try using microfiber dusting gloves to paint tight areas. You slip it on, dip your hand in paint, and swipe it behind the toilet like you're dusting a shelf. The application could not be easier. The mitt is perfect for curved surfaces and tricky angles where a rigid tool might struggle. Think about outside plumbing pipes that are sometimes a little tricky to cover. An extra tip for using the mitt is to make sure to use gloves underneath to keep your hands paint-free.

A mini roller with an angled handle is another solid fix that you may want to try. The slim roller fits into small spaces, while the bent handle lets you reach behind obstacles without stretching into awkward positions.  For the best results, go with a high-density foam roller — it holds enough paint to get the job done without dripping everywhere. Some people prefer a roller brush over a flat paint brush, and this may become your go-to option if you find yourself in a tight spot. No matter which tool you choose, the right one turns this frustrating chore into a quick, hassle-free task. After all, even your toilet deserves a job well done.