Can You Spray Paint Pool Noodles?

Pool noodles have various names, such as swim noodles, foam noodles, water woggles, etc. These polyethylene foam pipes are essential pool equipment, especially for family pools or recreational facilities.

Like most things, when you buy foam pool noodles, they might not be available or come in a color that tickles your ‘aesthetic fancy.’ So, what do you do then? One option is painting them to have the color and look you want.

However, given the fragility of the material used to make them, can you spray paint pool noodles? Well, stick around as we answer this question and outline how to spray paint your noodles.

Why you should consider painting pool noodles

• Decorative purposes

One of the quickest and easiest ways of improving the look of your pool noodles is by painting them. This may be because you need them to fit with the color scheme of your pool or other things around it. It can also be a good option for polyethylene foam noodles, especially old ones you no longer use, that you intend to use for other purposes such as crafts, decorations, etc. 

• Adding an extra layer of protection

Painting your noodles will give them extra protection against the elements. While it may not be a lot of protection, it is certainly enough to make you consider adding a coat of paint.

Does spray paint stick to swimming pool noodles?

Yes, spray paints do stick to pool noodles. However, you must be very careful with the paint you use on them. Some spray paints may melt your noodles. Others have chemicals or compounds that can disintegrate the woggles.

When you use the appropriate paint for your polyethylene foam noodles and spray thinner coats, drying should take a little time. 

What kind of spray paint is best for pool noodles?

Spray painting is one of the best ways to improve the aesthetic look of many products, including swim noodles. However, there is a limited choice of types of spray paints you can use on pool noodles. Here are the most common one is water-based spray paint. 

Latex-based spray paints are also considered water-based paints. Another example is water-based acrylic paints. These paints are preferred by many because they do not have any harsh chemicals (such as enamel or lacquer) that can increase the chances of your foam noodles melting or disintegrating.

However, it is still important to note that using the recommended paints does not eliminate the chance of your foam noodles melting. Rather, combining the type of paints above and a good spray painting technique will help you eliminate the risk. 

Let us look at the techniques below.

The best technique to spray paint pool noodles

You can safely use two main approaches when spraying your pool noodle.

1. The First Technique 

First, you must ensure the fuel in your paint evaporates even before it and does not make contact with or stick to the noodle. This is what causes the pool noodle to melt. When using this technique, the paint can/container should be horizontal and at least 12 inches (1 ft) from the noodle.

Quick tip: Avoid spraying face down. Even if you keep the paint can within the recommended distance from the pool noodle, the propellant can easily fall onto the noodle.

2. The Second Technique

This method involves applying Polyfilla on your pool noodles’ surface before spray painting. You can use a brush or hand to apply the Polyfilla after adding a little water. 

The Polyfilla is supposed to offer your noodle extra protection against melting. You must apply adequate amounts of the substances evenly throughout the noodle surface.

 

Now that you know these two ways, we will look at each spray-painting procedure in detail while going through the spray painting process. Without wasting any more time, let us get right into it.

How to spray paint a pool noodle

Things you will require

• Safety gear (gloves, mask, goggles)
• Paint for pool noodles.
• Primer
• Pool noodles.
• Drop clothes.
• Other supplies like Polyfilla, etc.

Step 1: Preparing the foam noodles to be painted

The first step is to ensure the foam noodles you paint are clean and free from grime and dirt. While this might be especially important for old and already-used noodles, we still recommend it for new ones. 

It drastically helps improve the finish of your paint jobs no matter the surface and paint adherence to the surface of the pool noodle.

If you prime the noodles, ensure they are dry after cleaning them. Apply a thin coat of primer suitable for a polyethylene surface and let it completely dry before going on to the next step. Also, ensure the primer is spread evenly across the surface of your pool noodle.

Step 2: The spray painting process

Spray painting process for foam noodles involves several phases. Let us briefly look at each one and how to perform it correctly.

• Using the right painting technique.

Remember, the techniques discussed here are the ones we discussed above. We assume you have already done all the specific preparations outlined earlier for each method.

In the case of the first technique, remember to keep a 1 ft distance between the spray paint can and the noodle. Start by spraying in horizontal streaks before changing to vertical streaks. Ensure you always change the spraying direction to avoid the pool noodle melting due to hot spots.

If you use the second technique, the distance between the noodle’s surface and the spray can be smaller than the previous method. However, it should not be too close. Also, remember to spray in streaks similar to the other technique.

• Spray an even coat

No matter the technique you use, we recommend that you spray thin and even coats across the surface of the pool noodle. This will ensure that your noodles have a uniform look when you finish.

Thin coats of paint take a shorter time to dry completely than thicker ones. In most cases, it may take less than 30 minutes if the weather conditions are favorable. 

• Applying multiple coats

If you plan to apply more than one coat, we recommend leaving each one dry before spraying on the next one. This will help the different coats of paint adhere to each other well and avoid peeling or cracking.

How long will it take paint to dry completely on swimming pool noodles?

If you spray paint during favorable weather conditions and apply thin coats, the paint may take less than 30 minutes to dry. However, there are other cases, such as when the weather is not conducive or when you spray thick coats, where it might take longer. However, even in those scenarios, it should not take more than 24 hours.

I have done a whole article on how to make spray paint dry faster, so you can check it and find ways to speed up the drying time for the painted pool noodles.

Best spray paints for pool noodles

There are various brands of spray paints available on the market. The following are the ones we have used and found to be the best:

1. Minwax Polycrilic Water-Based Spray Paint

This water-based spray paint can be used on various surfaces, including plastic and polyethylene. It comes in an 11.5oz can, giving your surface a clear and pristine finish.

Minwax Polycrilic Water-Based Spray Paint retails for $13.97 and has a rating of 4.6 after more than 24000 reviews.

With ultrafast drying capabilities, it can dry completely in about 1 hour. One of the most impressive things about this paint is that it has no yellowing and a minimal odor.

2. Krylon Fusion All-in-One Spray Paint

Krylon is a brand that is synonymous with superior painting solutions and has been at the forefront of quality products since it was established in 1947.

It comes in 12oz cans and has a price tag of $22.89. It has also received a rating of 4.6 from more than 21000 reviews.

The K02754007 Fusion All-in-One Aerosol will provide a nice matte finish to different surfaces, including foam noodles. It is also available in various colors, such as black, ink blue, and clamshell.

The paint can be used for both indoor and outdoor surfaces and objects. Furthermore, It dries up quickly- it can take around 20 mins. This is our go-to spray paint option, especially for polyethylene surfaces and objects like pool noodles.

Precautions and safety tips when spray painting pool noodles

• Personal protection equipment

Protect yourself when spray painting because spray paint fumes can be harmful. You need to wear a mask and goggles. If possible, wear disposable gloves or any other type you own.

• Using the right technique

Use either of the above-described techniques to ensure you get the best results and that your noodles do not melt. Which of the two you choose is dependent on your preference. We always encourage people to choose the technique they find easiest.

• Avoid spraying in closed places

Do not spray paint in a poorly ventilated room or area, even if your protective gear is on. Ensure your work area is well-aerated so the fumes can clear quicker.

• Protect the environment

As humans, we need to act responsibly and leave as little pollution as possible on the environment. Never spray paint close to living things such as trees, plants, or other people or pets. The fumes from the spraying process can be hazardous to your environment.

FAQs – Can you spray paint pool noodles

Will spray paint melt pool noodles?

Yes, spray paint can melt pool noodles. One way to avoid this is using water- or latex-based spray paints. Even when doing so, ensure you keep a good distance between the pool noodle and your paint can (at least 1ft) so the propellant evaporates and does not stick to the surface of your noodle. 

Can I spray-paint pool noodles on my own?

Yes. However, ensure that you choose the right type of paint and follow the proper spray painting techniques. Remember, protect yourself by putting on safety gear when spraying.

Is using a primer when spray-painting swimming pool foam noodles important?

The choice is mainly down to your preference. However, we always recommend using it, especially for older/used noodles you want to paint/repaint. Ensure you use a safe primer for your noodles and compatible with the spray paint you will use. 

What type of paint can I use on my pool noodle?

Water-based paints such as acrylic paint and latex spray paints are recommended. They are much safer and reduce the chance of your foam noodle melting. They are also slightly more environmentally friendly than enamel or lacquer paints.

What makes my swimming pool noodles melt during spray painting?

There could be several reasons why this is happening. The most common is using a lacquer or enable-based spray paint that contains compounds that can melt your foam noodle. Another may be that you are holding the spray can too close to the pool noodle.

Can I use lacquer paint on foam noodles?

We do not recommend using lacquer or even enamel paint for swimming noodles. They increase the chances of your foam noodle melting. Water-based and latex-based spray paints are much better options.

Content Summary – Spray Painting Swimming Pool Noodles

While it might be slightly more challenging to spray paint swimming pool noodles, it is possible. Always remember:

• Choose the right paint type with a reduced risk of melting your pool noodle.

• Use the right technique when spray painting and avoid creating hot spots.

• Allow each coat to dry before applying another one.

If you follow the above guidelines, there is no reason why it should not be a straightforward process you can do independently.