How to Repaint the Inside of a Microwave

If the paint inside a microwave is deteriorating or peeling, repainting is a possible solution instead of just buying a whole new appliance. However, not just any kind of paint is suited for this project, and there are certain preparations that need to be done in order to make the repainting a success. Here are some steps to follow for a functional and polished result.

Step 1 - Prepare

It is important the microwave be unplugged and the interior surfaces be prepped for repainting before doing anything else. To clean debris such as flaked paint, grime, and grease, simply wet a sponge in soapy water, squeeze out the excess, and use it to wipe off the interior surfaces.

Clean the external surfaces as well in order to simply sanitize the entire microwave while you are at it. Finish with a dry rag or paper towel for faster drying time.

If the existing paint is peeling off, remove as much of it as possible, sanding it by hand gently with a medium-grit paper. Afterward, sand it with a fine grit to smooth it out. If there are rusty spots, this procedure will also be sufficient, but you can use steel wool as well. Wipe the sanded parts clean, to prevent the affected area from rusting.

Step 2 - Choose the Best Paint

There are two types of appliance paint that can be used to coat the interior of the oven: brush-on and spray-on. The best type to use is spray because it saves a lot of time and effort; however, brush-on paint may come in handy for small spot repairs.

You can find Microwave safe paint in most appliance stores; you just need to make sure the store provides the right kind that is microwave safe, because some paints may contain materials or particles that will react to microwaves or may release toxins that would contaminate the food in the oven. Just make sure you ask for an appliance paint designed for microwave use.

Step 3 - Paint the Oven

Never spray paint if the oven interior is still wet or if it still has grease on it. Wear rubber gloves, safety glasses, and a mask for protection while using aerosol paint to avoid any health risks.

The paint should be first tested on a small area inside the oven. Once the painted spot has dried, you can run the oven on high for one minute with a cup of water inside of it. After removing the cup of water, feel the inside walls of the oven to verify that the painted spot is no warmer than the other surfaces inside the oven.

After making sure that all of the preparations are complete, you can start spraying the microwave until the paint covers the surface completely. Avoid spraying too much in one area; try to keep your coat of paint as even as possible all around.

To avoid getting runs in the paint, you can apply the paint in more than one coat, but make sure the surface is dry and has been sanded and wiped clean between each coat, before proceeding to the next one.

For the brush-on type, simply apply the paint consistently on all surfaces. Wait for the paint to dry completely before using the oven. It is recommended to allow it to dry overnight while the door is still open.

Do not close the door because obviously this will prevent airflow from getting into the microwave, which will slow down your dry time. The next day, touch the paint to check that it is ready for use.