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How to Change a Dishwasher Color From White to a Stainless Steel Finish

Sally Keller

If you're tired of looking at the same old white dishwasher, give it a trendy new look. It is easier than you might think. All that’s needed is some faux stainless steel film, a pair of scissors, a squeegee, measuring tools and about an hour of your time. Faux stainless film can be used on many surfaces.

You can apply it to most appliances, cupboards, trashcans, counters and just about any other smooth surface.

  1. Wipe the surface of the dishwasher with glass cleaner or other degreasing cleaner to remove all surface soil and grease.

  2. Measure the front panel of the dishwasher with a tape measure, and cut the faux stainless film to these measurements with scissors, leaving about a half-inch extra on all sides. Prepare the front of the dishwasher surface according to the directions for the particular type of stainless film you are using. For example, some films require the dishwasher surface to be dampened with a sponge first.

  3. Peel approximately 1 inch of the backing away, and position it along the top edge of the dishwasher panel.

  4. Slowly peel the backing away with one hand while smoothing it into place with the other. For the smoothest results, use a squeegee to smooth out air pockets, working from the center toward the edges. Use a light touch when smoothing the air bubbles to avoid scratching the faux stainless film.

  5. Trim off excess film along the edges with a razor knife by holding a ruler parallel to each edge. Position the knife between the edge of the dishwasher and the side of the ruler, and try to cut the excess off in one seamless movement.

  6. Tip

    Be sure that the grain of the faux stainless film runs from top to bottom before applying.