Ready to give your kitchen a makeover? Learn how to paint your fridge using appliance refinishing paint for a fresh and stylish update. It’s so easy to transform your fridge into a statement piece!
Is your fridge looking a little tired and outdated? Before you consider splurging on a new appliance, why not give it a makeover with a fresh coat of paint? We do this for furniture makeovers. Why not for our appliances? Painting your fridge is a budget-friendly way to breathe new life into your kitchen and add a pop of color or style to your space. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve professional-looking results that rival the appearance of a brand-new fridge.
A fridge makeover might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it’s entirely achievable—even for DIY novices. Appliance refinishing paint is formulated to adhere to metal surfaces. Which will withstand the wear and tear of daily use in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to update your fridge with a trendy new color or simply freshen up its appearance with a clean coat of paint, appliance refinishing paint offers a durable and long-lasting solution.
Your fridge is one of the most visible and frequently used appliances in your kitchen. So why not make it reflect your design aesthetic? Painting your fridge allows you to customize its appearance to suit your preferences and complement your kitchen decor. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can transform your fridge into a statement piece. It will add personality and flair to your kitchen. So grab your favorite paint color, and let’s give your fridge the makeover it deserves!
Supplies To Paint a Fridge
- Appliance refinishing paint (choose a color or finish that complements your kitchen decor). I love the Appliance Refinishing Paint by DWIL Paint! And it comes with all of the supplies you need!
- Painter’s tape
- Fine-grit sandpaper or sanding block
- Paintbrushes or foam rollers
- Drop cloths or newspapers to protect surrounding areas from paint drips
- Cleaning solution or degreaser
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Gloves and safety goggles (optional)
- Respirator mask (recommended for ventilation with some paints; I used a lower odor paint & did not need a mask)
Instructions for Painting a Fridge
- Start by cleaning the surface of your fridge thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or residue. Use a cleaning solution or degreaser and a microfiber cloth or sponge. This will ensure the surface is clean and free of contaminants.
- Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block to lightly sand the surface of the fridge. This will help create a slightly roughed up texture for the paint to adhere to and remove some glossy finish that may prevent proper adhesion.
- Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas of the fridge. You want to do this to make sure you don’t paint anything you don’t want to paint, such as handles, hinges, and logos. Make sure the tape is securely adhered to prevent paint bleed-through.
- It’s time to apply the appliance refinishing paint. Stir the paint thoroughly before applying to ensure uniform color and consistency. Use a paintbrush or foam roller to apply the paint in smooth, even strokes, working from top to bottom. Apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat to achieve better coverage and avoid drips.
- Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before applying additional coats. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended drying times between coats. Depending on the paint and desired coverage, you may need to apply two or more coats of paint. The paint I used has a quick dry time of 2 hours.
- Once the final coat of paint is dry, carefully remove the painter’s tape to reveal clean, crisp lines. Use a small brush to touch up any areas that may have been missed or need additional coverage.
- Allow the painted fridge to cure completely before placing any food items inside or applying magnets or decals to the surface. This typically takes several days, so be patient and avoid putting any strain on the painted surface until it’s fully cured.
- Once the paint is fully cured, step back and admire your handiwork!
Your freshly painted fridge will become a standout feature in your kitchen and bring new life to the space.
Tips and Tricks
- For a low odor paint that dries quickly, has great adhesion, and is scratch-resistant, I recommend using Dwil Appliance Paint. I appreciate that it’s affordable and doesn’t have the yucky smells some paints have. I used the color Foggy Gray for this fridge.
- To ensure proper adhesion, thoroughly clean and sand the fridge’s surface before painting. Remove any dirt, grease, or residue, and lightly sand the surface to create a rough texture for the paint to grip onto.
- Instead of applying one thick coat of paint. Opt for multiple thin coats to achieve better coverage and prevent drips or streaks. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and recoat intervals.
- Use painter’s tape to mask off areas of the fridge that you don’t want to paint, such as handles, hinges, and logos. Take your time to ensure the tape is applied securely and create clean, crisp lines. Remove the tape carefully once the paint is dry to avoid peeling or damaging the painted surface.
Can I use regular paint to paint my fridge?
Using regular paint to paint your fridge is not recommended. Regular paint is not designed to adhere to the smooth, non-porous surface of a fridge, and it may not withstand the wear and tear of daily use in the kitchen. Additionally, regular paint may not provide the durability or resistance to moisture and temperature changes that appliance refinishing paint offers. Appliance refinishing paint is specially formulated to adhere to metal surfaces, providing a long-lasting finish that can withstand the rigors of everyday life in the kitchen. Therefore, it’s best to use appliance refinishing paint specifically designed for painting fridges to ensure optimal results and durability.
How do I clean and maintain a painted fridge to ensure longevity?
To clean and maintain a painted fridge for longevity, use a mild detergent and warm water solution to gently wipe down the surface. Avoid harsh abrasives or cleaners that could damage the paint finish. For stubborn stains, use a soft sponge or cloth to spot clean the area. Regularly inspect the painted surface for any signs of wear or damage, and address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration. To maintain the paint’s integrity, avoid placing hot items directly on the surface of the fridge and be mindful of sharp objects that could scratch or chip the paint. By practicing gentle cleaning habits and taking precautions to protect the painted surface, you can ensure that your painted fridge maintains its vibrant appearance and durability for years to come.
