How to Paint a Textured Refrigerator

Dramatically change the appearance of a textured refrigerator with paint.

Springing for a new refrigerator to update your kitchen's look might be out of your budget, but that doesn't mean you have to settle for a mismatched appliance. You can paint a refrigerator, even a textured one, to match any kitchen decor. With a little attention to detail and the proper tools, even a novice painter can achieve a professional-looking paint job that will hold up to the standard wear and tear most refrigerators endure.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Tape
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 2 cups water
• Liquid dish soap
• Bucket
• Nylon-bristle scrub brush
• Clean towel
• Epoxy spray paint
• Extra-fine-grit sanding sponge
• Water

Instructions

1. Move the empty and unplugged refrigerator outdoors to an open area if possible. If you cannot move the fridge, tape newspaper over the surrounding walls and floor, and open all the windows to keep the room well-ventilated.

2. Combine 2 cups of white vinegar, 2 cups of water and just enough liquid dish soap to create suds in a bucket or other large container.

3. Scrub the outside of the refrigerator with a nylon-bristle scrub brush and your soapy vinegar and water solution. This will remove any grease or dirt on your refrigerator that may prevent the paint from properly adhering.

4. Dry the refrigerator thoroughly with a clean towel, wiping all of the small creases in the textured surface of the refrigerator to make sure that no water drops remain.

5. Shake a can of epoxy spray paint for at least one full minute. You can find epoxy spray paint in most hardware and home improvement stores in a variety of colors.

6. Apply the paint to your textured refrigerator using short vertical bursts in a back-and-forth motion. Keep the can of spray paint moving constantly while you work to avoid creating drips in the paint.

7. Wait for the first coat of paint to dry, and then apply a second coat. Allow the second coat of spray paint to dry as well before you proceed to the next step.

8. Lightly sand the surface of the fridge with an extra-fine-grit sanding sponge moistened in clean water. You won't be able to sand the low areas of the refrigerator's textured design, but this sanding will shine the high areas.

Tips & Warnings

• Spray paint should always be applied warm to ensure an even coat, according to Lucianna Samu, author of "Paint Saves the Day." If your can of spray paint is cold to the touch, dip it into a bucket of warm water to bring it to room temperature before you begin painting.

References

• "Paint Saves the Day"; Lucianna Samu; 2009