Changing the color of appliances in your home is a great way to update the look and feel of your space. With some appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and stoves, the color is baked into the finish and cannot be altered. However, for some appliances like microwaves and small kitchen appliances, changing the color is possible with replaceable parts or wraps. Here’s what you need to know about changing appliance colors in your home.
Can you change the color of major appliances?
For major appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, ranges, and ovens that have a painted metal or enameled finish, the color cannot be changed. These finishes are baked onto the metal or glass surfaces at high temperatures during manufacturing. Attempting do-it-yourself paint touch-ups is not recommended and will likely result in a poor finish that chips and peels quickly. The enamel finishes are also nearly impossible to strip completely.
The only way to change the color on these types of appliances is to purchase a whole new appliance in the finish you desire. Thankfully, most major brands offer their appliances in a variety of standard color options like black, white, stainless steel, and bisque to coordinate with your kitchen design.
Can you change the color of microwave ovens?
Microwave ovens are one appliance where it may be possible to change the color. Many microwave ovens have a plastic outer cabinet that is removable and replaceable. Replacement cabinets in different colors can sometimes be purchased from the manufacturer or specialty retailers.
For example, GE has their Advantium microwave ovens that have customizable door and handle colors that can be switched out. Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and LG microwaves also offer replaceable plastic overlays or wraparound kits to change the appearance.
Before purchasing, double check that the replacement cabinet parts are compatible with your specific microwave model.
Can you repaint a refrigerator?
Repainting a refrigerator is extremely challenging and not recommended. The baked-on enamel finish is nearly impossible to remove completely. Attempting to paint over the existing finish will likely result in chipping, cracking, and peeling of the new paint in a short time. Hiring an auto body shop to strip and repaint the refrigerator is possible but expensive.
If your refrigerator is still functioning well but you want to update the color, consider these options instead:
- Add a vinyl wrap skin to the exterior
- Attach wood panels to the front and sides
- Useremovable contact paper to change exterior color
While not permanent color changes, these DIY options can refresh the look at a fraction of the cost of a new fridge.
Changing the color of small appliances
For small kitchen appliances like toasters, coffee makers, stand mixers, and blenders, changing the color is often possible with replaceable parts. Many appliance manufacturers sell alternative side panels, base plates, and bowl sets so you can customize the look.
For example, you could buy a red mixer bowl and base for your KitchenAid to match your kitchen instead of the default white or metal finish. Ninja blenders have interchangeable color lids and pitcher options. Replacement panels and knobs for retro-style appliances are also widely available.
Again, double check that the replacement parts are compatible with your appliance make and model. With some DIY skills, you can transform the look of your small appliances.
Using appliance paint
If you want to try painting metal or plastic appliances, look for specialty appliance paint. Products like Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy offer formulations that adhere to slippery surfaces and withstand heat. Prepare the surface thoroughly by cleaning and lightly sanding before painting.
Test appliance paint on inconspicuous areas first and follow drying time instructions carefully. While appliance paint opens up more coloring possibilities, the finish may not be as durable as original oven baked enameling.
Is it possible to wrap appliances?
Vinyl wraps that can change the exterior color of appliances have grown in popularity over the past few years. Appliance wraps are typically made from heat-resistant vinyl films with adhesive backing. They can be applied to the doors, sides, and control panels of major appliances to alter the appearance.
Wraps allow you to get a customized color for far less than the cost of a new built-in appliance. The wraps can also be removed cleanly later on if desired. If opting for wraps, hire a professional installer for the best, wrinkle-free results.
Conclusion
While permanently changing the finishes of major appliances like refrigerators and ovens is not realistic, there are many ways to alter the color scheme of your appliances. Replaceable components and wraps allow you to customize the look of microwaves, small appliances, and exteriors. With some strategic changes, you can update your appliances to match any decor.