Paint a Refrigerator
Applying paint to your refrigerator and other large appliances is an easy, inexpensive way to update your kitchen. Appliance paint comes in a variety of colors: white, black, almond, stainless steel--and can be successfully used to paint a refrigerator in a few simple steps.
Steps
- Select your painting method: brush on or spray. Either type of appliance paint can be purchased at your local hardware store.
- Brush on paint provides less mess, and is a more suitable choice if painting the refrigerator while indoors. However, brush strokes may show once the paint is dried unless additional steps are taken to smooth the appliance paint with a sponge brush while wet.
- Spray on appliance paint works like a traditional can of spray paint and produces an even, smooth coat of paint. Spray on application takes less time, however you will need to cover nearby surfaces with protective plastic, or transport the refrigerator outdoors prior to painting.
- Unplug and pull the refrigerator away from any walls/cabinets so that you can easily reach the top, front, and sides that will be painted.
- Clean the refrigerator surface thoroughly with a mixture of ammonia and water to remove any grime, grease, or dust. Allow the refrigerator to air-dry for at least an hour to be certain that all moisture is gone. Do not dry the refrigerator with a soft cloth or towel, as you may transfer lint onto its surface.
- Apply a treatment on any visible rust spots to prevent the rust from spreading or showing through the new coat of paint. A variety of rust treatment products are available at your local hardware store.
- Remove or protect areas on the refrigerator that are not meant to be painted, such as emblems, handles, or rubber trim. Painters tape provided safe coverage and is easily removable from most surfaces.
- Apply the paint. Check the manufacturer's label for specific instructions, but you may generally expect to:
- Shake or stir the paint thoroughly to be certain of an absolute mix.
- Apply light, even coats. Approximately 2-3 coats will be required to ensure an even finish.
- Allow for 15 minutes of drying time between coats of paint.
- Allow paint to dry for approximately 24 hours before returning refrigerator to its original place.
Tips
- If painting indoors, create good ventilation in the painting area by opening windows and doors, or turning on fans.
- You may lightly sand any rust spots or imperfections prior to painting, but be sure not to chip or flake the existing paint.
- Slightly sanding the surface with a high grit sandpaper will allow for better adhesion to the material.
Warnings
- Do not paint on or touch the back of the refrigerator as the coils may be hot.
Things You'll Need
- Appliance Paint
- Paint Rollers and Pans
- Ammonia
- Rags
- Sponge brush
- Painter's Tape
- Rust Treatment
