Painting your refrigerator is a simple and cost-effective way to give your kitchen a fresh, updated look without buying a new appliance. However, because fridge surfaces are smooth and glossy, getting the paint to stick can be tricky. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from prepping and sanding to choosing the right paint and applying each coat—to ensure a professional-looking finish. Whether you’re using acrylic, chalk, or oil-based paint, these steps will help your fridge look brand new.
Painting a Fridge
The biggest challenge in the fridge painting process is ensuring that the paint adheres to the smooth and slippery surface of the fridge. The fridge’s shiny, smooth surface tends to repel paint. Therefore, instead of painting directly on the fridge, you need to sand or star the surface to prepare it. “Related article: Preparing metal for paint.”
If you remove the seals and handles before painting the fridge, it will be easier to paint. If you don’t want to remove them, cover these areas with painter’s tape.
Before you start painting the fridge, sand the surface to ensure good paint adhesion and to remove any rust stains, if present. You can use 200, 220, or 240-grit sandpaper for sanding. However, if there are no rusty areas on the fridge, you should apply a bonding primer or a glossy surface primer before painting. These primers will help the paint adhere better to the fridge surface. “Related article: Is primer necessary before painting.”
The third thing to consider before painting your fridge is the choice of roller and brush. A high-quality short-pile or firm sponge roller will help you paint the fridge flawlessly without leaving marks. Now, let’s explore which types of paint are suitable for painting your fridge.
What Kind of Paint do you Use for a Refrigerator?
Acrylic and chalk paints are easy to apply on a refrigerator and dry quickly. For this reason, the most suitable paints for painting a refrigerator are acrylic and chalk paints. However, you can also use oil-based paint if you prefer.
Do You Have to Sand a Fridge Before Painting?
Sanding the refrigerator before painting helps the paint adhere better. However, if you’re using a primer before painting, sanding is not necessary.
How to Paint a Refrigerator
By following these steps during the refrigerator painting process, you can achieve excellent results. The painting process is designed for all-purpose acrylic paint.
1. Remove the Handles and Refrigerator Seals
Before starting the fridge painting process, remove the handles and the rubber seals around the door. This will make it easier to paint all surfaces evenly, especially the areas around the handles and seals. It also prevents the paint from getting on parts that should not be painted, like the handles or rubber seals.
2. Sanding and Priming
Once the fridge is disassembled, the next step in the fridge painting process is sanding. Use medium-grit sandpaper (around 200-220 grit) to lightly sand the fridge. This will help the paint adhere better. After sanding, clean off any dust and apply a primer designed for metal surfaces. Priming is essential for ensuring that the paint sticks properly and provides a smooth finish, especially on shiny surfaces like a fridge.
3. First Coat of Paint
Once the primer has dried, it’s time for the first coat of paint. For fridge painting, use a high-quality roller or brush, and apply the paint evenly, starting from the top and working your way down. For best results, choose an appliance-specific paint that is durable and designed for metal surfaces. Be sure to cover the entire fridge, but avoid thick layers to prevent drips.
4. Wait for the Drying Time
Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before proceeding to the second coat. Drying time can vary depending on the type of paint used, but typically it takes 4-6 hours. It’s crucial to let the paint dry thoroughly to avoid smudging or uneven coverage when applying the second coat of fridge painting. “Related article: How long to wait between coats of paint.”
5. Apply the Second Coat of Paint
Once the first coat is dry, apply the second coat of paint. This helps achieve an even, flawless finish with improved coverage. Make sure to use even strokes and apply the paint lightly to avoid streaks or runs. Allow the second coat to dry completely before reassembling the fridge. After the second coat is dry, your fridge will have a fresh, new look ready for use in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about fridge painting below. For any other questions, feel free to use the comment section.
How Can I Change the Color of My Fridge?
To change the color of your refrigerator, you can cover it with peel-and-stick wallpaper or paint it.
What Paint Will Stick to the Fridge?
All-purpose acrylic, enamel, chalk, and spray paints are the best options for painting a refrigerator. For better adhesion, lightly sand the surface and use a primer if needed.
Can I Spray Paint My Refrigerator?
It is possible to paint a refrigerator with spray paint. However, acrylic paints and chalk paints more suitable for painting a fridge.
What Is the Best Paint for an Old Refrigerator?
You can paint your refrigerator with acrylic paint. However, to increase its durability, we recommend applying an acrylic varnish after painting.
Can I Paint My Fridge with Chalk Paint?
Yes, you can paint your fridge with chalk paint, but it may not be as durable as other options. To protect the finish, seal it with a clear wax or polyurethane topcoat.
How Many Spray Cans to Paint a Fridge?
If you’re planning to spray paint a large refrigerator, you will need two 400 ml cans of primer spray paint and at least three 400 ml cans of spray paint. If you want to apply a protective varnish after painting, you will need two cans of varnish as well.
