Workshop
Ask a question

The Bunnings Workshop community can help with your home improvement projects.

How to convert a chest freezer into an ice bath?

Tom23
Just Starting Out

How to convert a chest freezer into an ice bath?

HI guys I want to convert a chest freezer into an ice bath.  Does anyone know what paint is best to use on both the inside and outside of the freezer and any preparation I need to do to the surface?  Will probably go with a blue on the inside and black on outside.  It is a brand new 519 litre chest freezer.  Thanks!608828-Product-1-I-638533321817001161.jpg

MitchellMc
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: Ice bath from a chest freezer

Hi @Tom23,

 

You can definitely paint the outside of the freezer to achieve the look you’re after. Lightly sand the surface with 240-grit sandpaper to remove any gloss and key the surface, then apply a suitable primer followed by spray paint in your preferred colour. This will give you a clean, durable finish.

 

As for the inside, I’m not aware of any paint that would adhere to the plastic interior while also being suitable for constant water exposure and immersion. Bath paints are sometimes mentioned for waterproof applications, but they’re not suitable for flexible plastic surfaces like a freezer’s lining and also don't typically come in a range of colours.

 

I just want to add a quick word of caution: modifying or using electrical appliances in ways they weren’t designed for, particularly those not made to hold water, can be very unsafe. Filling a freezer with water and using it as an ice bath carries a serious risk. Even a small leak could allow water to reach the electrical components and lead to electric shock. Chest freezer lids can also seal tightly due to suction, which could make it difficult to open from the inside. It’s best to use equipment that’s purpose-built for ice baths. We have a couple of inflatable options that might be worth checking out. 

 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Mitchell

 

See something interesting? Give it the thumbs up!

Why join the Bunnings Workshop community?

Workshop is a friendly place to learn, get ideas and find inspiration for your home improvement projects