How to Cover Rust on a Refrigerator

Rust is a common and unsightly problem for many home appliance owners living in areas that experience high humidity levels. The iron or iron alloys in the metal casing of your refrigerator begin to oxidize in the presence of moisture and oxygen, producing the familiar dark red and brown colors. Treating and covering the rust before it begins to spread helps to protect other parts of the appliance from damage.

80- and 120-grit sandpaper
Several cloths
Detergent
Paint thinner
Water-displacing spray
Touch-up paint
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Sand the affected area with 80-grit sandpaper using a gentle circular motion and then progress to a 120-grit paper until the area is smooth to the touch and flush with the surrounding metal work.
- 2
  Clean the affected area – paints do not bond well to dirty surfaces. Wash the sanded area with a strong detergent and rinse thoroughly with a separate wet cloth. Remove any flash rust that appears with paint thinner and a cloth.
- 3
  Spray a thin layer of water-displacing formula over the area to prevent the rust from reoccurring.
- 4
  Apply the touch-up paint to the sanded area. Use smooth strokes to avoid leaving brush marks. Add paint a little at a time to help blend it into the existing paintwork.
- 5
  Allow the paint to dry for the amount of time indicated on the label. Repeat these steps for any other patches of rust. You may still use the refrigerator provided the wet paint does not obstruct normal use.

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Refrigerators