How to Recover a Metallic Appliance

Even smaller metallic appliances need recovering sometimes.

Metallic appliances come in smaller sizes, including toasters and blenders and in larger sizes, such as stoves and refrigerators. With regular use, the appliance develops scratches, stains and scuff marks. While cleaning the metal removes some of the stains, cleaning does little for the scuffs and scratches. Recovering the appliance with new paint changes the look of the appliance and hides the old damage.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Masking tape
• Dish soap
• Warm water
• Small bowl
• Microfiber cloths
• Appliance/stainless steel paint
• Foam paintbrush
• Small paintbrush

Instructions

1. Unplug the electric cord from the wall. Remove any hardware from the appliance with a screwdriver, including the handle. For hardware that does not come off with a screwdriver, cover the pieces with masking tape. Use masking tape on any areas you do not want painted.

2. Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap with warm water in a small bowl. Clean the metallic surfaces with the solution, applied with a microfiber cloth. Dip a second cloth in fresh water and wipe off any soapy residue. Dry the appliance carefully with a dry cloth.

3. Paint the metallic surfaces with a paint specifically designed for metal surfaces or stainless steel appliances. Apply one coat with a foam paintbrush, which will not leave behind brush marks or streaks, and let the appliance dry.

4. Check the appliance after the paint dries. Depending on the original color or the shine on the piece, you might need multiple coats of paint to cover the old look completely. Apply each coat and let dry in between the coats.

5. Remove the masking tape and examine the appliance for any smudges or problem spots. Touch up those areas with a small paintbrush. Once the paint dries, attach the original hardware and use the appliance as you did before.

Tips & Warnings

• For stainless steel appliances, gently rough up the surface with fine-grit sandpaper before painting. The paint adheres better to a rough surface.

• If you have a larger appliance, consider using spray paint, which goes on faster.

• For stoves and ovens, use a heat-resistant paint that will not peel, chip or fade due to constant exposure to high temperatures.

References

• Consumer Reports: Stainless Steel Paint
• Rustoleum: Appliance Epoxy