Most refrigerators are either white, stainless steel, or black. You can, of course, find other colors as well, but they are usually more expensive and there are not many models available. If you want to make your fridge stand out a bit or simply give it a new look, then painting it is a great idea! Whether you want to give your refrigerator a more vintage feel, or make it an accent piece in your kitchen, adding some color to it is a way to go.

Painting a fridge may seem like a daunting task, but it is actually a lot easier than you might think, and it’s a great way to add a pop of color or style to your kitchen. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know to get started, including what type of paint to use, how to prepare your surface, and how to apply the paint evenly. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to transform your fridge into a work of art.

Supplies for DIY refrigerator painting

  • Paint – See below: What kind of paint to use on a fridge?
  • Primer – Some types of paint require using direct-to-metal primer, while others do not. Read the directions on your paint can to see if you need to use primer or not.
  • Masking tape – This is to protect any areas of your fridge that you don’t want to paint.
  • Paint roller and tray – A paint roller will help you apply the paint evenly.
  • Paintbrush – A paintbrush can be used to get into any tight spaces or corners.
  • Sandpaper – This is to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.
  • Seal layer (optional) – You can use a seal layer to protect your paint job and make it last longer.
  • A drop cloth or old sheet (optional) – This will protect your floor from paint drips.

How to choose the color for your fridge?

When it comes to painting your fridge, the possibilities are endless! You can go with any color you want, but it’s a good idea to choose a hue that will match the other colors in your kitchen. If you’re not sure what color to choose, consult a paint swatch book or go online to see what colors are available. Have in mind that the colors can look different on the fridge than they do on the paint chip, so it’s always a good idea to test out a small area first before painting the entire fridge.

Painting a fridge – Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Unplug the fridge and move it to a well-ventilated area.

The first step is to unplug your fridge and move it to a spot where you can work comfortably. Make sure the area is well-ventilated to avoid any paint fumes. If you can, take the fridge outside

Step 2: Clean the exterior

Clean the fridge with a mild soap and water solution. This will remove any dirt or grease that could prevent the paint from adhering properly.

Is your fridge rusty? If the answer is yes, you’ll need to sand down the rust before you can paint it.

Step 3: Mask off any areas you don’t want to paint

Use masking tape and newspaper to cover up any areas of the fridge that you don’t want to paint. This includes the interior, gasket (the rubber seal around the door), lights, and any other areas you don’t want to paint. It is a good idea to take off the handles, too. If you can’t remove them, just be sure to mask them off well.

Step 4: Give it a light sand

Once you’ve masked everything off, sand the exterior of the fridge lightly with medium-grit sandpaper to remove the gloss. Wipe away any sanding dust with a damp cloth before you start painting.

Step 5: Apply the primer

If you’re using a direct-to-metal primer, now is the time to apply it. Follow the directions on the can for how long you should let it dry before moving on to the next step. The best way to apply primer is by using a paint roller.

Step 6: Apply the paint

applying paint

Once the primer is dried, it’s time to start painting! Again, the easiest way to apply paint is by using a paint roller for large surfaces and a paintbrush for any tight spaces or corners. Start with the top of the fridge and work your way down. Make sure you’re applying an even coat of paint and not missing any spots. Let the first coat of paint dry for the amount of time recommended on the can before applying a second coat

Optional: Seal the paint

If you want to, you can apply a sealant over the paint to protect it and make it last longer and be resistant to scratches. This is especially important if you’re painting your fridge with a light color.

Step 7: Let it dry

Once you’re done painting, let the fridge dry for at least 24 hours before plugging it back in and putting everything back inside.

Images are courtesy of Marianne and HGTV Handmade YouTube channel. Here is a full video:

Fridge Painting FAQ

What kind of paint can be used on a refrigerator?

You can use any type of paint that is designed for metal surfaces. You’ll find most of these at your local hardware store.

Water-based paint for metals dries fast and has less fumes. If you’d like to use water-based paint, choose a water-based acrylic. They are ideal for kitchen spaces because they are more likely to resist mold and mildew.

Latex-based paint is easy to use and has minimal fumes. However, it will not yield a professional finish like some of the other options. If you choose latex paint, be sure to paint as cleanly as possible because latex is less forgiving than water-based paint.

Oil-based paint is ideal for a refrigerator because of its durability. While a primer can make the end result look smoother, it is not always necessary to use one with oil-based paint. Be careful not to drip paint onto your refrigerator or paint in haphazard lines. The time you save using oil-based paint will be wasted if you have to go back and fix your mistakes!

Can you spray paint a fridge?

Yes, you can! In fact, spray painting is often the easiest way to achieve a professional-looking paint job on your fridge. If you decide to spray paint, use painters’ tape to mask off any areas you don’t want to be painted. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and spray multiple lighter layers, instead of one thick coat, to prevent dripping.

How to paint with chalk paint

Chalk paint is a very popular option for painting furniture, but did you know that it can be used on appliances, too? Just like any other type of paint, make sure you sand down the surface of the fridge before you begin. Then, apply a thin layer of chalk paint with a brush or roller and let it dry. You will get a matte, blackboard-like finish that you can then distress for a shabby chic look.

Can you paint a white fridge stainless steel?

Yes, you can! In fact, there is a Liquid Stainless Steel Paint made with bits of real stainless steel, that replicates the metallic shine and the versatile look of contemporary appliances. It is not cheap, but certainly cheaper than buying a new fridge.

Painting your fridge is a great way to update the look of your kitchen without spending a lot of money. With the right paint and some careful prep work, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will last for years.

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