White Appliances Are Making a Comeback in Today's Kitchens

White appliances, while popular in the '80s and '90s, once had the stigma of being inexpensive and not very stylish. “I still get triggered at the thought of those bumpy orange-peel textured refrigerators!” laughs Marie Cloud, owner and interior designer at Indigo Pruitt Design Studio.

But today’s white appliances feature modern, sleek lines and bright white hues. “Many are made of a stainless-steel base and coated in an automotive-grade, durable paint,” says T.K. Wismer, creative director of Café Appliances, whose line of white appliances come in a matte, low-gloss finish. “They’re super stylish with the added perk of being able to customize your hardware—from silver to bronze to copper and black—so you can make your white appliances uniquely your own.”     

Thinking of going white with your kitchen appliances? Ahead, experts answer your questions on how to do so.

What Color of White Is Trending?

“In the past, we’ve seen various shades of white appliances, from bisque to almond, yet today’s focus is on a pure, bright white that offers a crisp, modern aesthetic, in finishes that include matte, satin, and high gloss,” says Cloud. 

The veneer you choose for your white appliances depends on your design preference and kitchen style. “I love a bright, glossy, jewel-like finish, especially when paired with metallic hardware,” shares Paula Smith, the design engagement director at Fisher & Paykel, a high-end maker of white appliances. 

What Type of Appliances Can Be Purchased in White? 

Refrigerators, dishwashers, and ranges are all trending in white, but you don’t need to buy a major appliance to tap into the color trend. “You can start off small with a white countertop appliance, like a toaster, air fryer, blender, steam oven, microwave or coffee maker,” suggests Cloud.

Do White Appliances Complement Every Design Style?

With a curated selection of fixtures and finishes, white appliances can work with most kitchen aesthetics. “Their neutral color means they adapt well to any situation,” says Cloud. “They can feel right at home in a kitchen with a casual cottage vibe or one with a midcentury or modern design.”

"Most kitchen designs are dictated by the customer’s choice of cabinetry, countertop, backsplash, fixtures and accessories—because white is a neutral, it blends well with all of that,” says Mattia Sala, a product manager at SMEG USA, a company known for its vintage-inspired appliances.

What Type of Hardware Looks Best on White Appliances?

Bronze or copper hardware can add a sense of warmth to a white appliance, while stainless steel promotes a more industrial look. Matte or polished black gives off a modern edge. “I love a white range with stainless-steel legs and vents and a mix of stainless and white handles,” notes Sala.

Pair White Appliances with Stained Cabinets

“Pairing white appliances with wood-stained cabinets can result in a warm and inviting space,” says Cloud. “Lighter woods like maple or birch maintain a bright, airy feel, while darker woods such as walnut or mahogany offer a striking contrast.” Not only can white appliances pair with many design styles, but they also work well with a variety of wood tones. “I love how white appliances ground traditional, darker wood cabinets and add lightness to softer-toned ones," says Wismer.

Blend White Appliances with White Cabinetry

Creating a seamless look when it comes to appliances and cabinetry is a growing trend in kitchen design. “Both white appliances and white panels are part of this movement, resulting in a unified, clutter-free aesthetic, which is particularly popular in minimalist designs,” says Cloud.

What Types of Countertop Pairs Well with White Appliances?

Stones such as marble, granite, or quartz in shades of white or black complement the sleekness of white appliances, while wood countertops create a warm contrast. “If you want a really bold look, an exotic quartzite would steal the show,” says Cloud. Wismer also suggests white quartz or marble if you’re going for a cohesive look. For something more high contrast and bold, she loves a black honed countertop in combination with matte black hardware.

How to Maintain White Appliances

Worried about fingerprints showing on your white fridge or dishwasher? White appliances are a breeze to maintain. “They’re actually easier to clean than their stainless-steel cousins, which are prone to streaks and fingerprints and require frequent polishing,” says cleaning expert Melissa Homer. “Coated in a durable paint, they’re easy to spray and wipe clean with a Magic Eraser.”

Some white appliances can turn yellow due to aging, sunlight, grease vapor, or cigarette smoke. “A combo punch of a kitchen degreaser and a Magic Eraser will help eliminate that tinge,” says Homer. 

Cost of White Appliances

The pricing on white appliances depends on the brand, model, and features. “Right now, stainless steel tends to be the more affordable option due to economies of scale—because it’s the most in-demand finish, factories are producing larger quantities, which helps keep the overall cost down,” says Sala.

Will Stainless Steel Ever Go Out of Style?

Despite the recent love for white appliances, designers report seeing little pushback against stainless. “This metal’s continued popularity isn’t surprising because it offers a neutral, versatile finish that complements many design styles,” explains Cloud.

“The sleek aesthetic of stainless steel and its association with professional kitchens and lasting quality has cemented its status in kitchen design despite sometimes being perceived as cold or industrial," says Sala.