How to Paint & Refinish a Refrigerator

Cleaning the Refrigerator

• 1

  Remove the contents--including any pictures and magnets on the outside--from the refrigerator. Unplug the refrigerator and pull it away from the wall or kitchen counter to expose the unit’s sides. Place the fridge’s contents into an alternate unit or plastic coolers filled with ice.

• 2

  Fill a clean sink or plastic basin with a mixture of 1 gallon lukewarm water, one tbsp liquid dish soap and 1/2 cup white vinegar. Stir the ingredients and pour 3 cups of the mixture into a plastic spray bottle.

• 3

  Remove the shelves and drawers from the fridge and place them into the sink or basin. Allow the shelves to soak while you continue to clean.

• 4

  Spray the inner surfaces of the refrigerator, including the walls, with the soap and white vinegar mixture. Wipe down the surfaces with a soft cloth, applying pressure to remove any spills and stains.

• 5

  Cover the front, including the handles, and the sides of the fridge with the soapy mixture. Wipe down the surfaces with a separate soft cloth.

• 6

  Lift the shelves and drawers from the soapy water and scrub them with a nylon scrub brush. Empty the basin or sink with lukewarm water. Dry off the pieces with a soft cloth and install them in the refrigerator.

Painting the Fridge

• 7

  Move the refrigerator into a well-ventilated space, preferably outdoors. Cover the handles with blue painter’s tape.

• 8

  Apply a thin coating of appliance epoxy spray paint to the front and sides of the refrigerator. Holding the can at least 10 inches away from the unit, use steady, straight, overlapping lines. Allow the first layer to dry for at least 15 to 20 minutes.

• 9

  Cover the fridge with a second light coating of the epoxy spray paint, once again using straight, even motions. Allow this coat to cure for 15 to 20 minutes before applying a final layer, if necessary.

• 10

  Allow the fridge to dry for at least 3 to 4 hours before moving it back into your home and refilling it with your food, minus the items that are spoiled or past their expiration date.