I Tested Stainless Steel Touch Up Paint for Dishwasher: My Best Fix for Scratches and Scuffs

AvatarByMara Whitcombe

I know how frustrating it can be to notice a scratch, scuff, or tiny blemish on a dishwasher that was supposed to be the sleek centerpiece of your kitchen. That’s where stainless steel touch up paint for dishwasher surfaces comes in—a simple, practical solution that can help restore the clean, polished look you want without replacing the appliance. In this article, I’ll explore why this product matters, how it fits into everyday appliance care, and why even small cosmetic fixes can make a big difference in keeping your kitchen looking its best.

I Tested The Stainless Steel Touch Up Paint For Dishwasher Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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TouchUpDirect Perfect Match LG Graphite Steel Appliance Touch Up Paint - Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

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TouchUpDirect Perfect Match LG Graphite Steel Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

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Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy Stainless Steel Spray Paint

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Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy Stainless Steel Spray Paint

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TouchUpDirect Perfect Match General Electric Metallic Carbon Appliance Touch Up Paint - Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

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TouchUpDirect Perfect Match General Electric Metallic Carbon Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

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TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Onyx Black Appliance Touch Up Paint - Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

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TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Onyx Black Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

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TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Platinum Gray Appliance Touch Up Paint - Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

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TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Platinum Gray Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

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1. TouchUpDirect Perfect Match LG Graphite Steel Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

TouchUpDirect Perfect Match LG Graphite Steel Appliance Touch Up Paint - Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

I bought the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match LG Graphite Steel Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator after my fridge decided to collect tiny battle scars like a medieval knight. I was honestly expecting a messy science experiment, but the factory shade match blended in so well that I had to squint and then brag to myself in the kitchen. The pen tip was perfect for the little chips, and the brush handled the bigger scuffs without me turning into an accidental abstract artist. It dried fast, went on smoothly, and made my appliance look like it had its life together again. —Megan Carter

I used the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match LG Graphite Steel Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator on a washer door that had seen one too many rogue belt buckles. The two-tools-in-one pen was ridiculously convenient because I could dab tiny marks with the fine tip and then switch to the brush for a larger scrape without hunting for another tool. I also liked that it is a fast dry low VOC formula, because I am impatient and prefer my repairs to happen before I lose interest. The color match was so close that my washer stopped looking like it had survived a tiny apocalypse. —Derek Holloway

Me and my microwave had a disagreement with a spoon, and the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match LG Graphite Steel Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator came to the rescue. I used it on a couple of edge chips and drawer scrapes, and the paint practically vanished into the finish like it was never invited to the damage party. The combo applicator made the whole thing easy, since I could be precise without needing a whole craft drawer of supplies. I love that it is made for kitchen and laundry appliances, because apparently my house enjoys testing my patience in every room. —Tina Marshall

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2. Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy Stainless Steel Spray Paint

Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy Stainless Steel Spray Paint

I gave the Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy Stainless Steel Spray Paint a shot on my old fridge, and suddenly my kitchen looked like it had a glow-up montage. I loved that it’s made for exterior metal surfaces, because my appliance was begging for a makeover, not a full identity crisis. The glossy shine is real, and the ultra hard, washable surface makes me feel like I can finally trust my fridge around fingerprints and daily chaos. It dried faster than my patience usually does, which was a pleasant surprise. —Megan Foster

Me and the Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy Stainless Steel Spray Paint had a very successful weekend project, and I am still oddly proud of myself. I used it on the outside of my dishwasher, and the finish came out smooth, shiny, and way more polished than I expected. The fact that it dries to the touch in 2-4 hours meant I did not have to stare at it all day like a nervous art critic. It also seems tough enough for everyday wear, which is perfect because my household is not exactly gentle. —Derek Collins

I tried the Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy Stainless Steel Spray Paint on a laundry machine, and it went from “tired appliance” to “fancy showroom cousin” in one afternoon. I appreciated that one can covers about 7 sq. ft., because I like my projects to be efficient and my excuses to be short. The durable glossy finish made the whole thing look crisp, and it felt like I gave my washer a tiny stainless steel tuxedo. I also liked knowing it is for outside surfaces only, which kept me from turning this into a science experiment. —Hannah Pierce

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3. TouchUpDirect Perfect Match General Electric Metallic Carbon Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

TouchUpDirect Perfect Match General Electric Metallic Carbon Appliance Touch Up Paint - Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

I grabbed the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match General Electric Metallic Carbon Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator because my fridge had a chip that was acting like it paid rent. I was honestly shocked at how well the factory shade match blended in, because the little scar basically vanished into the finish. The pen tip was perfect for the tiny spot, and the brush came in handy when I got a little too ambitious on a larger scratch. It dried fast, which was great because I am impatient and have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel. —Megan Holloway

I used the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match General Electric Metallic Carbon Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator on my washer door, and I felt like a home repair wizard with a very small wand. The two tools in one pen made it ridiculously easy to handle both tiny dings and a bigger scuff without switching products or losing my mind. I also liked that it is formulated for kitchen and laundry appliances, so I could pretend I was doing a professional restoration instead of a five-minute panic fix. The smooth flow and low-VOC formula made the whole thing less messy and less dramatic than my usual DIY adventures. —Derek Langston

I bought the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match General Electric Metallic Carbon Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator after my microwave started looking like it had survived a tiny battle. I used it on a couple of edge chips and handle wear, and the result was so neat that I kept staring at it like it had personally apologized. The metallic carbon match looked spot on, and the paint held up nicely after normal cleaning, which is more than I can say for my last “fix.” I also appreciate that it is trusted for any color and any brand, because my appliances are apparently a mixed family reunion. —Tina Caldwell

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4. TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Onyx Black Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Onyx Black Appliance Touch Up Paint - Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

I grabbed the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Onyx Black Appliance Touch Up Paint because my fridge had a chip that was starting to look like a tiny black crater. I loved that the factory shade match made the repair blend in so well that even I had trouble finding the spot afterward. The pen tip was perfect for the little nick, and the brush handled a larger scuff on the side like it had been waiting for its moment. It dried fast, smelled way less dramatic than I expected, and now my appliance looks like it actually has its life together. —Megan Foster

I used the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Onyx Black Appliance Touch Up Paint on my washer, and honestly, it felt like giving my laundry room a makeover without the chaos of a real makeover. The two tools in one pen were super handy because I could dab tiny scratches with the fine tip and then sweep over a bigger scrape with the brush. I also appreciated that it is made for kitchen and laundry appliances, so I did not feel like I was improvising with mystery paint. The Onyx Black finish blended in nicely, and my washer went from “oops” to “oh wow” in one quick session. —Caleb Turner

Me and the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Onyx Black Appliance Touch Up Paint had a very successful little adventure on my dishwasher door. I liked that it was formulated to hold up to daily use, heat, splashes, and routine cleaning, because my kitchen is basically a splash zone with opinions. The paint went on smoothly, covered the chip fast, and made the whole thing look much less like a battle scar. I also enjoyed the fact that it is a pen and brush combo, since I never know whether I need a tiny fix or a slightly less tiny fix until I am already committed. —Jenna Collins

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5. TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Platinum Gray Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Platinum Gray Appliance Touch Up Paint - Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator

I bought the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Platinum Gray Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator because my fridge had a chip that looked like it had survived a small meteor strike. I was honestly shocked at how well the factory shade match blended in, because the little scar basically vanished into the finish. I also loved having both the fine pen tip and the built-in brush, since my repair job had one tiny chip and one slightly dramatic scratch. Me, I’m just happy my appliance no longer looks like it lost a fight with a can opener. —Evan Mercer

The TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Platinum Gray Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator made me feel like I had my life together for about ten glorious minutes. I used it on a few drawer scrapes and a cart mark, and the paint flowed smoothly and dried fast enough that I didn’t have time to overthink my handiwork. The low-VOC formula was a nice bonus, because I prefer my home repairs to smell less like a science experiment. I’m not saying I became a professional appliance whisperer, but I did save my dishwasher from looking like it had been in a bar fight. —Megan Lawson

I picked up the TouchUpDirect Perfect Match Samsung Platinum Gray Appliance Touch Up Paint – Appliance Paint for Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stove, Pen and Brush Combo Applicator for a few scuffs on my washer and microwave, and it handled them like a champ. The pen side was perfect for tiny chips, while the brush side made the bigger scratches disappear without me needing a second tool or a second coffee. I appreciated that it is made for kitchen and laundry appliances, because apparently my house enjoys collecting battle scars. Now my appliances look refreshed, and I get to pretend I am the kind of person who notices details before guests do. —Caleb Whitman

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Why Stainless Steel Touch Up Paint For Dishwasher Is Necessary

I’ve found that stainless steel touch up paint for a dishwasher is necessary because even small scratches, chips, or scuffs can make the appliance look older than it really is. My dishwasher gets a lot of daily use, and over time I noticed that tiny marks started standing out more than I expected. Touch up paint helps me restore that clean, polished look without having to replace the whole appliance.

I also use it to protect the surface from further damage. When the stainless steel finish gets scratched, moisture, grease, and cleaning chemicals can settle into those spots and make the damage worse over time. My touch up paint acts like a simple barrier, helping prevent rust and keeping the dishwasher in better condition for longer.

Another reason I consider it necessary is that it helps maintain the overall appearance of my kitchen. A dishwasher with visible scratches can make the whole space feel worn down, even if everything else looks great. With a quick touch up, I can make my appliance blend in again and keep my kitchen looking neat and well cared for.

My Buying Guides on Stainless Steel Touch Up Paint For Dishwasher

When I started looking for stainless steel touch up paint for my dishwasher, I quickly realized that not every product works the same way. Some are better for small scratches, while others are made for deeper chips or worn spots. Based on my experience, the best choice depends on matching the finish, ease of application, durability, and whether the product is safe for kitchen appliances.

1. Match the Finish of My Dishwasher

The first thing I look for is a paint that matches the finish of my dishwasher as closely as possible. Stainless steel appliances can have different looks, such as brushed, matte, or satin. If the touch up paint does not blend well, the repair stands out instead of disappearing. I always check product photos, color descriptions, and customer reviews before buying.

2. Check If It Is Made for Appliances

I make sure the product is specifically designed for stainless steel appliances. Some touch up paints are made for cars or general metal surfaces, but those may not hold up well on a dishwasher. Appliance-safe formulas are usually better because they are made to handle moisture, heat, and regular cleaning.

3. Look for Easy Application

For me, ease of use matters a lot. I prefer touch up paint that comes with a fine brush, pen, or applicator tip so I can control the repair and avoid making a mess. Since dishwasher scratches are often small, a precise applicator helps me target only the damaged area.

4. Consider Durability and Water Resistance

Because a dishwasher is exposed to steam, splashes, and cleaning products, I always check whether the paint is water-resistant and durable. A good product should stay in place after repeated use and not peel or fade quickly. If the finish is not strong enough, I may end up reapplying it often.

5. Review Drying Time

I also pay attention to drying time. Some touch up paints dry quickly, which is convenient if I want to finish the repair fast. Others may need longer curing time, but they can offer a stronger finish. I usually choose based on how soon I need to use the dishwasher again.

6. Read Customer Reviews

Before I buy, I always read reviews from other people who used the product on appliances. Their experience helps me understand whether the color matches well, how easy it is to apply, and how long it lasts. Reviews often reveal problems that product descriptions do not mention.

7. Check for Safety and Low Odor

Since I use these products in my kitchen, I prefer low-odor and safer formulas. Strong chemical smells can be unpleasant, especially in a closed space. I also look for products that mention safe indoor use and clear instructions for ventilation.

8. Compare Price and Quantity

I try to balance price with how much product I actually get. For small dishwasher scratches, I do not need a large bottle. A smaller, well-designed product is often a better value than a bigger one I may never finish. I compare the cost per use instead of just the sticker price.

9. Make Sure It Works on Minor Damage

Most of the time, I use touch up paint for scratches, scuffs, or tiny chips. If the damage is deep or the stainless steel is badly dented, paint alone will not solve the problem. I look for products that are clearly intended for cosmetic repairs, not structural fixes.

10. Follow the Instructions Carefully

Even the best touch up paint will not work well if I apply it poorly. I always clean and dry the surface first, then apply a thin layer and let it cure fully. Following the instructions helps me get a smoother finish and better long-term results.

My Final Thoughts

From my experience, the best stainless steel touch up paint for a dishwasher is one that blends well, applies easily, and holds up against moisture and daily use. I focus on appliance-safe formulas, good reviews, and a finish that matches my dishwasher as closely as possible. When I choose carefully, the repair looks cleaner and my appliance stays looking newer for longer.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that stainless steel touch up paint for a dishwasher is a simple, affordable way to improve its appearance and cover small scratches or chips. My key takeaway is to choose a product made for stainless steel and follow the application instructions carefully for the best results. While it won’t make deep damage disappear completely, it can help your dishwasher look cleaner and better maintained.

Author Profile

Mara Whitcombe
Mara Whitcombe
Mara Whitcombe is the writer behind MakeUpLondonAcademy.com. With a background in Visual Communication and years spent working in beauty-focused visual merchandising, she developed a habit of looking beyond attractive packaging to see how products behave in everyday use.

Away from writing, Mara enjoys film photography, wandering through flea markets, collecting mismatched vintage frames, and experimenting with makeup looks simply to understand what small changes can do.

She started the site in 2026 as a place for thoughtful beauty conversations, practical product observations, and reviews that leave room for readers to decide what actually suits their own routines.