GE Appliance - Magnetism of an Appliance Finish

Many appliance finishes will hold a magnet. Examples of appliance finishes that will hold a magnet are listed below.

 

Stainless Steel can vary in its magnetism. Some Stainless Steel will not hold a magnet. If you are looking for an appliance with a Stainless Steel finish and want to know if it will hold a magnet, we recommend bringing a magnet with you to test when shopping for the appliance.

  • Slate is a low-gloss matte, metallic paint finish on steel with stainless handles. The Slate surface will hold a magnet.

  • Black Slate is a low-gloss matte, metallic paint finish on steel with stainless handles. The Black Slate surface will hold a magnet.

  • CleanSteel™ is a laminate vinyl with the look of Stainless Steel. It is applied over metal, so magnets will stick to CleanSteel™ appliances.

  • Silver and Silver Metallic is a painted finish with a similar look to Stainless Steel. The paint is applied over metal, so it will hold a magnet.

  • Bisque, Black and White paint finishes are applied over metal, so these finishes will hold a magnet.

  • Matte White and Matte Black paint finishes are applied over metal, so these finishes will hold a magnet.

 

Refrigerators:

Most often, the question about appliance magnetism is about a refrigerator. Many owners will use magnets on a refrigerator door.

 

Most 2017 and newer Stainless Steel refrigerators will hold a magnet. For older models or for models not addressed below, we recommend testing the refrigerator with a magnet to see if it will hold.

  • Bottom Freezer and French-Door Refrigerators:

    All models except stainless Café will hold a magnet. This includes Black Stainless and Fingerprint Resistant Stainless. However, we strongly advise not to use magnets on Black Stainless or Fingerprint Resistant Stainless doors because the magnet can damage the finish.

  • Side-by-Side Refrigerators:

    All models will hold a magnet except for Built-In models (42" and 48" PSB/CSB models).

  • Top Freezer Refrigerators:

    All 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 22 cubic feet capacity models will hold a magnet.