Refrigerators with coating "metallic"** (or metallic finish) look stylish, but require special care. Conventional detergents leave streaks, abrasive sponges scratch the surface, and greasy finger stains spoil the appearance. In this article - the only way to return the original shine without damage: proven compositions, step-by-step instructions and warnings about common mistakes.
The problem is that “metallic” is not real metal, but a polymer coating with a metallized effect. It is sensitive to alkalis, acids and mechanical stress. For example, Samsung RB37A5200SA or LG GA-B459SLGL have just such a coating, and manufacturers directly prohibit the use of powders or products with chlorine for cleaning them. Next, we will look at what can and cannot be done so as not to spoil the equipment.
Why “metallic” is so difficult to wash: the structure of the coating
The coating metallic is applied to refrigerators in 3 layers:
- Primer — provides adhesion to plastic or metal body.
- Pigment layer —gives color (silver, graphite, gold).
- Protective varnish —glossy or matte, responsible for shine and resistance to scratches.
It is the top varnish that suffers when cleaning. If it is damaged, the coating becomes dull and microcracks appear in which dirt accumulates. For example, models Bosch KAN90VI20R have a thinner varnish than model Liebherr CNef 4815, so they are washed only with soft napkins.
Another feature is Electrostaticity. Dust and grease are attracted to the surface more strongly than to ordinary plastic. Therefore, you have to wash a metallic refrigerator 2-3 times more often, but with caution.
What can be used for washing: safe products and their composition
Suitable products are divided into 3 groups:
- 🧴 Special sprays for technology (for example, Top House for stainless steel or Cif for metal surfaces). They contain surfactants (surfactants) with a neutral pH and silicones for shine.
- 🧽 Soap solution (baby soap, dish soap without abrasives). The optimal concentration is 1 tbsp. spoon per 1 liter of warm water.
- 🍋 Natural compositions: solution of vinegar (1:1 with water) or lemon juice (for disinfection and fat removal).
| Remedy | Advantages | Disadvantages | Price (for 500 ml) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top House (spray) | Does not leave streaks, protects from dust | Expensive, sharp smell | ~450 ₽ |
| Baby soap | Safe, hypoallergenic | Weakly removes old fat | ~30 ₽ |
| Vinegar solution | Kills bacteria, removes plaque | Pungent odor, requires ventilation | ~10 ₽ |
| Cif Cream (for metal) | Cleans well, adds shine | Can leave a film if applied incorrectly | ~300 ₽ |
Important: even safe products are applied to napkin, and not on the surface of the refrigerator. This prevents leaks and waterlogging. For models with antibacterial coating (for example, Hitachi R-BG410P6M) you cannot use alcohol - it destroys the protective layer.
What not to wash: black list of products
These compounds destroy the protective varnish or leave irremovable marks:
- ❌ Abrasive powders (Pemolux, soda) - scratch the surface.
- ❌ Chlorine-containing products (Whiteness, Domestos) - cause yellowing.
- ❌ Acetone and solvents - dissolve pigment layer.
- ❌ Hard sponges (metal, with fibers) - erase the varnish.
- ❌ Wax polishes - leave a sticky film that attracts dust.
⚠️ Attention: if there are display or touch buttons on the refrigerator (like Samsung Family Hub), avoid getting liquid into the cracks. Use dry microfiber cloth for these areas.
It is also not recommended to wash the refrigerator in sunny weather or near heat sources. Rapid drying leads to streaks. The optimal temperature for cleaning is 18–22°C.
Step-by-step instructions: how to clean a refrigerator without streaks
Required: soft microfiber cloth, warm water, selected product, dry towel.
Remove food and unplug the refrigerator|
Wipe the internal shelves (if necessary)|
Apply the product to a napkin, not to the surface|
Wash from top to bottom, avoiding joints|
Dry the surface with a dry cloth-->
- Preparation: remove all food, unplug the refrigerator from the outlet. If the model is with No Frost, 10 minutes are enough to cool the case.
- Dry cleaning: walk over the surface with a dry cloth to remove dust.
- Wet cleaning:
- 🧼 Apply the product to a napkin.
- 🌀 Wipe in a circular motion, without pressing.
- 🔄 Change the napkin every 2-3 passes.
For stubborn stains (for example, from adhesive labels), use steam generator at minimum power. Keep the nozzle at a distance of 10–15 cm from the surface so as not to deform the coating.
How to remove scratches on metallic
If small scratches appear on the refrigerator, they can be masked with a special pencil for metal surfaces (for example, Edding 8400 Metallic>). Deep damage will require professional polishing.
How to restore shine: polishing and protection
After washing, the surface can be polished for additional shine and protection. Suitable products:
- 🌟 Spray-polishes for cars (without wax!), for example, Sonax Brillantz Metallic.
- 🛡️ Silicone wipes (disposable, sold in auto stores).
- 💧 Drying oil or linseed oil (applied with a cotton pad, excess is removed after 5 minutes).
Polishing is carried out no more than once every 2-3 months. For daily care, it is enough to wipe the refrigerator dry microfiber - this removes dust and prevents streaks.
⚠️ Attention: if the refrigerator is in the kitchen with gas stove, a greasy coating forms on it faster. In this case, increase the frequency of cleaning to 1 time per week.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced housewives make these mistakes:
- 🧼 Too much product → leaves a sticky film. Solution: apply the composition on a napkin, not on the refrigerator.
- 🌡️ Wash with cold water → impairs fat dissolution. Solution: use water 30–40°C.
- ☀️ Drying in the sun → leads to streaks. Solution: wipe dry immediately after washing.
- 🧽 Using a dish sponge → scratches the varnish. Solution: only microfiber or flannel.
Another typical problem is yellowing of the coating with time. This occurs due to the reaction of the varnish with fat or household chemicals. To return the original color, use metal polishing paste (for example, Autosol), but not more than once a year.
Features of caring for refrigerators of different brands
Manufacturers use different coating technologies. Here's what you need to know:
| Brand | Coating type | Care recommendations | Prohibited |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Metal Cooling (glossy) | Sprays without alcohol, drying with microfiber | Abrasives, chlorine |
| LG | Stainless Steel Look (matte) | Soap solution, polishing once every 3 months | Wax compounds |
| Bosch | VitaFresh Metallic (antibacterial) | Products with silver ions | Vinegar in a concentration of >5% |
| Indesit | Regular metallic (budget) | Vinegar solution 1:1 | Powders, hard brushes |
For models with display (for example, Samsung RF23A9671SG) use special napkins for electronics —they do not leave lint and will not damage sensor.
⚠️ Attention: if the refrigerator is under warranty, check the manufacturer's instructions. Some brands (for example Liebherr) will void the warranty if unsuitable detergents are used.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
Can a metallic refrigerator be washed? steam generator?
Yes, but only at minimum power and at a distance of 10–15 cm from the surface. Steam removes grease well, but high temperatures can deform the protective varnish. Do not direct the jet at the rubber seals and the display.
How to remove traces of stickers or tape?
First try to remove the sticky layer plastic scraper (for example, with a bank card). If traces remain, apply for 5 minutes vegetable oil, then wipe with soapy water. For stubborn stains, use WD-40, but rinse it off immediately with water.
How to wash the inside of a metallic refrigerator?
Internal surfaces usually do not have a metal coating, so they can be washed with conventional means (for example Sanitary for refrigerators). The main thing is to prevent liquid from getting on the external “metallic”. For glass shelves, use vinegar solution (1:1).
Why do stains remain after washing?
Reasons:
- 💦 Too much water - wipe the surface almost dry napkin.
- 🧴 Remaining detergent - rinse with clean water.
- ☀️ Quick drying - wash in the shade, at room temperature.
To remove stains, wipe the refrigerator with a napkin soaked in vinegar solution (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water).
How often should you wash a refrigerator with a metallic coating?
Optimal frequency depends on the kitchen conditions:
- 🏡 Clean kitchen (no stove, little cooking) - once every 2-3 months.
- 🍳 Active use (daily cooking) - once every 3-4 weeks.
- 🐾 Home animals or smoking in the house - once every 2 weeks.
Wipe the surface daily dry microfiberto remove dust.