Google says

Yes, you absolutely can paint them, and it can look really lovely when it’s done properly, especially against a black metal frame.

The key thing is making sure it’s done in a way that’s both durable and safe, because stair treads take a lot of wear.

First, you’ll want to give the wood a really good prep. Light sanding is essential to remove any existing finish and help the paint properly bond. If they’re quite glossy now, don’t skip this bit or the paint won’t last.

For paint, go for a proper floor or stair paint rather than standard wood paint. Something like a hardwearing polyurethane-based floor paint or a specialist stair paint will hold up much better to foot traffic. Satin or matt finishes tend to be nicer underfoot and less slippery than high gloss.

Speaking of slipping, that’s the one thing you really need to think about on a spiral staircase. I’d strongly recommend adding an anti-slip element. You can either use a paint with anti-slip additive mixed in, or apply a clear anti-slip top coat over the paint. Some people also go for subtle stair strips, but that depends on the look you’re after.

If you’re after longevity, a good system would be primer, two coats of quality floor paint, then a tough clear sealant on top.

Done right, it’ll completely refresh the space and still be practical for everyday use.

- Georgia from Flooring365

As per other comments, yes you can absolutely paint stair treads. Just make sure you prioritise safety as well as durability. Because stair treads get a lot of wear and can become slippery, it’s important to use a hard-wearing floor paint and consider an anti-slip solution.

In terms of products, widely available options like Ronseal are a good starting point.

If you’re looking for a more premium, long-lasting finish, Dulux Trade Floorshield is a strong choice. Leyland Trade also offers reliable floor paints suitable for wooden surfaces, and you’ll likely find other solid options at your local DIY shop.

Before painting, make sure the treads are properly cleaned, lightly sanded, and primed if needed. This will help the paint adhere well and last longer.

With the right prep and product, painted treads can look great and hold up well over time.