How to Paint Your Kitchen Appliances the Right Way, According to Pros

But to get that sleek, long-lasting finish, there are a few essential steps and techniques to keep in mind. Here’s how to paint your kitchen appliances the right way, according to design pros who’ve done it themselves.

1. Choose the Right Appliance

Before you dive in, pick the appliances that can handle a fresh coat of paint. Stoves and ovens, for instance, reach high temperatures, so it's best to avoid painting them. Instead, start with dishwashers, refrigerators, or microwaves, which typically don’t heat up as much.

Interior designer Kaarin Staalsen, who painted her own appliances, recommends focusing on non-heated surfaces. “I chose parts like handles and plastic surfaces, which take paint well and aren’t exposed to heat,” she explains.

Pro Tip: If you’re hesitant to paint the entire appliance, start small by testing on knobs or handles first. This lets you get a feel for the process without committing to a full appliance.

2. Prepare Your Space

Proper prep work is key to a flawless finish. Lay down a drop cloth or tarp around the area to catch any paint drips, and make sure the room is well-ventilated. For spray paint, it’s crucial to keep people and pets out of the area until it dries.

To help the paint adhere, lightly sand down any plastic surfaces. Staalsen suggests using both coarse- and fine-grit sandpaper: “This helps the paint stick well and prevents chipping.” Kathleen Martin, a DIY expert, notes that she used an orbital sander on her refrigerator to ensure a smooth surface.

Safety Tip: Always wear a mask to protect yourself from fumes, especially if you’re using spray paint.

3. Select the Perfect Paint

Once your appliance is prepped, it’s time to pick your paint. You can go for a seamless, blended look or make a statement with a bold color. When choosing a paint, make sure it’s compatible with the material—some paints work better on plastic, while others are ideal for metal.

Martin recommends Fusion Mineral Paint for a durable, consistent finish. “This acrylic paint has a thinner consistency than typical wall paint, making it perfect for appliances.” For a brushstroke-free finish, Staalsen opted for spray paint: “It gave me a clean, even coating, especially when I used a two-in-one primer and color spray.”

Pro Tip: If you want a temporary look, try removable options like peel-and-stick wallpaper. Simply apply it over your appliance before painting for easy removal later.

4. Apply Paint with Patience

For a smooth, lasting finish, apply multiple thin coats of paint and let each coat dry completely before adding the next. Staalsen recommends sanding lightly between coats for a flawless result. Martin cautions, “I rushed my dishwasher’s second coat, and it pulled up the paint. Once I let it dry fully, I applied another coat, and it looked perfect.”

If you’re using spray paint, keep the can at a distance to avoid drips. If a drip does occur, let it dry completely, then sand it out with fine-grit sandpaper before applying a fresh coat.

5. Finishing Touches

Once your appliances are painted and dried, put the finishing touches in place. For an added professional look, consider adding some protective topcoat for extra durability. A few key accents, like vibrant knobs or a painted handle, can also add a bit of flair to your newly refreshed kitchen.

By following these expert tips, you’ll be able to transform your kitchen appliances into stylish, personalized focal points in your home. And if you love your updated look, you might even feel inspired to bring new color to other parts of your space.