Changing the color of your washer and dryer is certainly possible, but it does require some effort. With the right supplies and techniques, you can give your laundry appliances a fresh new look to match your home’s decor. In this article, we’ll explore the options for changing washer and dryer colors, things to consider before starting, and step-by-step instructions to help you complete the project.
Reasons to Change Washer and Dryer Color
There are several good reasons you may want to change the color of your washer and dryer:
– Your existing appliances clash with your home’s updated color scheme. Changing the color allows the appliances to coordinate.
– You want to personalize your laundry space and make it look more stylish. Custom colors make the appliances look less generic.
– The original paint has chipped or worn off over time. A new coat of paint provides a quick cosmetic fix.
– You purchased used appliances and want to make them look newer. A fresh color can help conceal dings and scratches.
– You’re staging your home to sell and want to modernize the look of dated appliances. A color change creates a good first impression.
Color Options for Washers and Dryers
When selecting a new color for your washer and dryer, you have several options:
– Matching appliance colors like black, white, bisque, stainless steel, and silver. These coordinate well in laundry rooms.
– Bold colors like red, blue, green, and yellow for a fun, retro look.
– Softer neutrals like beige, gray, and tan for a subtle style.
– Glossy finishes for a sleek, modern aesthetic.
– Matte or flat paint if you prefer a more subtle, casual look.
Consider surrounding decor when choosing a color. Cool-toned grays and blues complement laundry rooms with gray tile or cabinets. Warm neutrals like beige work well with wood cabinetry.
Supplies Needed
Gather these supplies before starting your washer and dryer color change project:
– High-adhesion primer/sealer
– Exterior-grade acrylic latex paint
– Foam paintbrushes
– Paint roller and extra roller pads
– Paint tray
– Sandpaper or sanding sponge
– Tarp or drop cloths
– Painter’s tape
– Rags
– Rubbing alcohol
– Safety gear like gloves and goggles
Be sure to use appliance-safe paint designed for metal surfaces. Primer helps the paint adhere properly. Purchase extra supplies since appliances have many crevices and details requiring touch-ups.
Preparation
Complete these steps to prepare your appliances for painting:
– Unplug the washer and dryer and pull them away from the wall to access all sides.
– Remove any knobs, doors, lids, and control panels that can be easily detached. Set hardware aside protected.
– Lightly sand surfaces to rough up the existing finish so paint can grip better. Wipe away dust.
– Clean thoroughly with rubbing alcohol to remove grease and dirt. let dry fully.
– Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted like power cords or rubber door seals.
– Place tarps or drop cloths below the appliances to protect your floors from drips and spills.
– Apply a coat of primer and let dry fully before painting.
Proper prep prevents paint flaws like peeling, cracking, or chipping later on. Take your time to clean and rough up the surfaces for best results.
Painting Technique
Follow these steps when painting:
– Shake or stir paint thoroughly before pouring some into a paint tray. Periodically remix paint as you work.
– Use a small foam brush to paint crevices, curves, and hard-to-reach spots first. Work slowly and carefully.
– Next use a roller soaked in paint to cover large flat areas like the sides, front, back, and top panel. Apply paint in long even strokes and avoid thick globs.
– Add additional coats as needed, allowing proper drying time between coats according to the paint instructions. Two to three coats typically provides good coverage.
– Inspect for any thin or missing spots and touch up with extra paint. Blend touch-ups smoothly.
– Once paint is fully dry, replace any detached hardware like knobs and doors. Remove painter’s tape and tarps.
– Allow paint to cure fully, about 7 days, before sliding appliances back into place and using again. Curing prevents damage to the new paint.
Maintenance
To keep your freshly painted appliances looking their best:
– Avoid placing them near heat sources like furnace vents which can damage paint over time.
– Touch up any nicks that develop right away to prevent rusting underneath.
– Clean painted surfaces gently using only soft cloths, mild soap, and water. Avoid harsh cleaners.
– Consider applying a clear sealer on top for extra protection, especially for darker bold colors which show scratches more easily.
Proper care extends the life of your new paint finish so it continues looking great.
Conclusion
Updating the color of your washer and dryer is an easy DIY project that can give your laundry space a whole new look. With the right supplies and techniques, you can paint your appliances any color you wish. Just be sure to take time to prepare the surfaces properly and apply paint in thin, even coats. Maintain the finish carefully once dry. With a little time invested, you can gain stylish, customized laundry appliances.
| Supply | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Primer | Helps paint adhere to surface |
| Exterior paint | Formulated for durability on appliances |
| Foam brushes | Used to paint small crevices and details |
| Paint roller | Covers large flat surfaces quickly |
| Sandpaper | Roughens surface so paint grips better |
| Drop cloths | Protect floors from paint drips and spills |
| Painter’s tape | Masks off areas you don’t want painted |