The phrase "Let's paint the refrigerator black" became a viral meme thanks to the song that hooked millions of netizens. But few people know that behind this joke lies a real opportunity to transform an old refrigerator - or even create a unique designer piece of furniture. In this article we will look at two key topics:
1. The origin of the song - who is the author, where the words came from and why they became popular.
2. Practical tips - how to safely paint a refrigerator black black (or any other) color, what materials to use and what mistakes to avoid.
If you are here just for the sake of the song, scroll to the section about the original track. If you want to update the appearance of your equipment, read the painting instructions with step-by-step photos and recommendations from the masters.
Spoiler: song really exists, but its history is much more interesting than it seems. And painting a refrigerator is a doable task, even if you have never held a spray gun in your hands. The main thing is not to skip the surface preparation stage and choose the right paint.
1. Where did the song “Let's paint the refrigerator black” come from?
A viral track with this phrase appeared on 2020 on the platform TikTok, where users began to overlay the text with different melodies - from remixes of Soviet songs to modern beats. But original author this “song” does not: it is Internet memecreated by the collective creativity of the network.
The most popular version is associated with a remix of the song “Black Cat” the group “Earthlings” (1983). Users replaced the words with absurd phrases, and the line about the refrigerator caught on better than others. Later, dozens of covers appeared - from electronic arrangements to rock versions.
Interesting fact: in 2021 one of the tiktokers (@mister_black_cat) released a full track with this text, which received millions of plays. But legally it is not the original, but a derivative work.
- 🎵 The original source of the meme: the song “Black Cat” (USSR, 1983) - it is its rhythm and melody that are most often used to overlay text.
- 📱 Platform-distributor: TikTok i YouTube Shorts — there the meme gained viral popularity.
- 🎤 Copyrights: no one officially registered the song, but some covers are monetized (for example, on Spotify).
- 🔥 Why about the refrigerator?: the absurdity of the phrase made it memorable - this is a classic reception surreal humor.
⚠️ Attention: If you plan to use this song in your projects (videos, streams), please note that some covers may fall under copyright blockingplatforms. YouTube automatically checks audio tracks.
2. Is it possible to paint a refrigerator black? Technical nuances
Yes, a refrigerator can be painted, but not all models tolerate the procedure equally well. Main factors: data-i="99">can be painted
— Case material (metal, plastic, enamel).
— Paint type (acrylic, automotive, powder).
— Surface preparation (degreasing, sanding, primer).
Most modern refrigerators have powder coating -it is scratch resistant, but does not adhere well to new paint without pre-treatment. Old Soviet models (for example, ZIL or Minsk) are often covered with enamelwhich is easier to repaint.
What cannot be painted without risk:
— Refrigerators with textured surface (for example, “stainless steel”).
— Models with built-in display or touch buttons (paint can damage the electronics).
— Equipment on guarantee (painting will void the warranty).
| Refrigerator type | You can paint? | Recommended paint | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soviet enamel (ZIL, Minsk, Atlant) | Yes | Auto enamel, acrylic | Medium |
| Modern with smooth plastic (Samsung, Indesit) | Yes, with primer | Acrylic for plastic | High |
| With stainless steel (Liebherr, Bosch) | No (vinyl stickers only) | — | — |
| With a textured surface (marbled) | No | — | — |
3. Step by step instructions: how to paint a refrigerator black
The process takes 2-3 days (including drying time). You will need:
— Paint (for example, "Kudo" for metal or "Bosny" acrylic).
—Primer ("Rostex Super" for plastic/metal).
— Sandpaper (grit 400–600).
— Degreaser (white spirit or anti-silicone).
— Masking tape, film, brushes/spray gun.
Step 1. Preparation
1. Unplug the refrigerator, remove all food and shelves.
2. Remove the doors (if possible) or seal the joints with tape.
3. Degrease the surface - this critical for adhesion of the paint.
Step 2. Sanding
— For smooth surfaces: light sanding with sandpaper P600 to create micro-scratches.
— For old enameled refrigerators: remove loose paint with a spatula.
Step 3. Primer
Apply 2 layers of primer with an interval of 1-2 hours. For plastic, use primer with adhesive additives (for example, «Plasti Dip»).
Step 4. Painting
—Apply paint thin layers (2-3 layers) with intermediate drying.
—For a glossy effect, use auto enamel with hardener.
— For dullness - acrylic paint with the addition 10% matting agent.
Step 5. Drying and assembly
— Dry the refrigerator 24 hours in a ventilated area.
— Install the shelves and doors back only after complete drying.
☑️ Checklist before painting
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator is with the No Frost system, do not paint the back wall - the ventilation holes are located there. Their overlap will lead to overheating of the compressor.
4. Which paint to choose: comparison of options
Not every paint is suitable for a refrigerator. Main criteria:
— Moisture resistance (the refrigerator condenses water).
— Elasticity (so as not to crack when the compressor vibrates).
— Safety (non-toxic after drying).
The only paint that absolutely cannot be used is oil paint. Over time, it turns yellow and cracks due to temperature changes on the surface of the refrigerator.
| Paint type | Pros | Cons | Price (per 1 liter) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto enamel (acrylic) | Glossy, durable, waterproof | Requires a primer, expensive | 800–1500 ₽ |
| Acrylic for metal | Dries quickly, large selection colors | Less scratch resistant | 400–700 ₽ |
| Powder | The most durable, factory quality | Requires professional equipment | 1500+ ₽ |
| Vinyl film | No painting, easy to remove | Can come off at corners | 300–600 RUR/m² |
- 🖌️ For beginners: acrylic paint in cans («Kudo» or «Dupli-Color») - easier to apply, less risk of drips.
- 🔧 For pros: powder painting - gives the result as at the factory, but you need an oven for polymerization.
- 💡 Budget option: self-adhesive film «Oracal» - suitable for rental housing (can be removed without traces).
5. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even with careful preparation, you can make critical errorsthat will ruin the result. Here are the most common:
Error 1: Painting without a primer
— The paint will lie unevenly and will begin to peel off after 1–2 months.
— Solution: Use a primer with high adhesion (for example, «Body 960»).
Error 2: Applying a thick layer of paint
— Drips and “orange peel” are formed.
— Solution: Paint in 2-3 thin layers with an interval of 15-20 minutes.
Error 3: Ignoring the temperature regime
— If you paint at a temperature below +15°C, the paint will take longer to dry and may become cloudy.
— Solution: Paint in a warm room (optimally +20…+25°C).
Error 4: Using a household hair dryer for drying
— Overheating will lead to bubbles or cracking.
— Solution: Dry naturally or in a ventilated room.
What to do if the paint is already drip?
If drips appear during painting, do not breathe on them or try to wipe them off! Wait until they dry completely (24 hours), then carefully sand the drip with P1000 sandpaper and apply another thin coat of paint.
6. Alternatives to painting: other ways to update. refrigerator
If you are scared to paint or don’t have time, there is 5 alternative ways to transform the refrigerator:
- 🎨 Vinyl film: sold in rolls, glued like a sticker. You can choose the color, texture (for example, “wood” or “marble”)
- 🧲 Magnetic panels: removable decorative panels on magnets (suitable for metal refrigerators).
- 🖼️ Photo wallpapers or stickers: thematic stickers (for example, “retro” or “space”)
- 🔧 Door replacement: some models (Samsung Family Hub) allow you to buy a new door separately.
- 🛠️ Patina or decoupage: for lovers of vintage style - artificial aging paints.
The advantage of these methods is reversibilityIf you get tired of the black color, the film or magnets can be removed without leaving a trace.
Comparison cost:
— Painting: 1500–3000 ₽ (paint + tools).
— Vinyl film: 1000–2500 ₽ (depending on the size of the refrigerator).
— Magnetic panels: 2000–5000 ₽ (designer models).
7. Safety: is it possible to paint a working refrigerator?
Absolutely not. Painting a working refrigerator is dangerous. for three reasons:
1. Paint fumes they can get into the cooling system and damage the compressor.
2. Electronics (display, sensors) are sensitive to moisture and chemicals.
3. Ventilation grilles (models with No Frost) will become clogged with dust from grinding.
How to prepare a refrigerator for painting:
1. Unplug and defrost (if there is ice).
2. Remove all removable parts (shelves, drawers, doors - if possible).
3. Seal with masking tape all holes (including the drainage hole). below).
4. Move the refrigerator to well ventilated area (balcony, garage).
⚠️ Attention: If in the refrigerator is electronic control unit (for example, Liebherr or Beko), it cannot be painted or exposed to solvents. Use removable decorative elements.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about painting the refrigerator and song
Is it possible to paint a refrigerator with a display?
No, the paint will damage the touch panel. An alternative is to use vinyl filmby cutting a hole for the display, or magnetic panelsthat do not cover the screen.
How much does professional painting of a refrigerator cost?
In workshops the price starts from 5000 ₽ (for simple plain painting) and goes up to 15 000 ₽ (for designer design with airbrushing). It will be released independently at 3-5 times cheaper..
Who wrote the original song “Let's paint the refrigerator”?
This Internet meme, it does not have a single author. for the song “Black Cat” (group “Earthlings”), but there are other arrangements. No one has officially registered the song.
Is it possible to paint a refrigerator with spray paint?
Yes, but only if it is special paint for metal or plastic (for example, «Bosny» or «Kudo»). Ordinary spray cans for walls will give a short-lived result.
How to care for a painted refrigerator?
Wash only with a soft sponge with a soapy solution. Do not use abrasive cleaners (they will scratch the paint). For glossy surfaces, car polish is suitable.