How to Paint Kitchen Appliances

Looking to refresh your kitchen without the cost of a full renovation? Painting your appliances might be the budget-friendly solution you didn’t know you needed. This simple DIY project can breathe new life into your space and give outdated appliances a more modern, cohesive look.

Kitchens are one of the biggest selling points in a home. A quick paint upgrade can create a strong visual impact that buyers will notice, especially in a competitive market.

Step 1. Pick the Right Appliance

Not every kitchen appliance is a good candidate for paint. Items that generate heat, like stoves and ovens, may require special attention or should be avoided altogether. It’s important to avoid painting any area that gets hot, and instead focus on components like knobs, handles, doors, and plastic or metal surfaces that won’t be exposed to high temperatures.

Older appliances tend to be great candidates for a paint upgrade, especially if they’re still functioning well but could use a visual update. If you’re unsure about painting an appliance directly, another option is to apply removable contact paper or peel-and-stick wallpaper underneath the paint. This allows for easier removal if you change your mind later.

Step 2. Create a Safe, Paint-Ready Space

As with any painting project, preparation is key. Protect surrounding surfaces by covering nearby counters, cabinets, and floors with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.

Make sure the space is well-ventilated by opening windows and using fans to help disperse fumes. If possible, move smaller appliances outside to paint. Always wear a mask during the process to stay safe.

Step 3. Clean and Sand

Before painting, thoroughly clean the appliance and sand the surface to help the paint adhere. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper and finish with a finer grit for smoother results. For slick surfaces like plastic or metal, this step is especially important to prevent chipping.

Step 4. Apply a Primer

A high-quality primer is also essential. Some primers are specifically designed to adhere to nonporous surfaces and go on clear, making them ideal for appliance makeovers.

Apply the primer with a foam roller or brush, making sure the coating is even and smooth. Uneven application may result in visible ridges under the paint, so take your time during this step.

Step 5. Choose the Right Paint

With your appliances prepped, it’s time to start painting. Some homeowners go bold with a pop of color, while others choose shades that blend in with surrounding cabinetry. Either way, a fresh coat of paint can instantly transform a room, making for a more updated, cohesive kitchen.

It’s important to choose a paint formula that suits your project. Some are made specifically for appliances, but always check the label—some formulas are designed for plastic, while others are intended for metal surfaces.

Step 6. Take Your Time

As with any painting project, it’s important to let each coat dry completely before applying the next. Starting too soon can cause the roller or brush to pull up the previous layer, leading to smudges or uneven coverage. Once the paint is fully dry, you can apply the next coat with a smoother, more professional finish.

If you’re using spray paint, apply light, even coats and keep the can at a distance to avoid drips. Should drips occur, let them dry completely, then gently sand the area smooth before adding another coat.

Patience during this step goes a long way toward a polished result.

Discover Your Dream Kitchen With a Professional Realtor

The Massey Team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties helps clients find and purchase a house that works for them. Since the kitchen is one of the most important spaces buyers consider, a functional layout and appealing features can make all the difference.

Let’s get your home sold—and help you find the right place for what’s ahead. To speak with a team member, contact us today at (618) 791-5024 or (618) 791-9298!