Update Outlet Covers
Swap yellowed or almond covers for white or metallic screwless plates. Screwless plates look modern and only cost $3-5 each.
Quick Summary
15-30 minutes
$15-$50
Very Easy
Screwdriver only
Why This Small Change Matters
Outlet covers are one of those details that scream "dated" when they're old and yellowed. Replacing them is the easiest upgrade in your entire kitchen refresh— no tools beyond a screwdriver, no skills required, and instant visual improvement.
The 80s-90s giveaway: Almond/beige outlet covers and painted-over plates instantly age a kitchen. Crisp white or metallic finishes modernize the space.
Style Options
Screwless Plates
$3-6 eachTwo-piece design hides screws for a clean, modern look. Worth the small extra cost. Available in white, light almond, and various colors.
Metallic Finishes
$4-10 eachBrushed nickel, stainless, or brass finishes can coordinate with hardware. Great for adding a subtle design element.
Standard White
$1-2 eachSimple and clean. If budget is tight, even basic white covers are a huge improvement over yellowed old plates.
What to Count
Walk through your kitchen and count:
- • Single outlets (duplex receptacle) - most common
- • Double outlets (two duplex side-by-side)
- • Single switches
- • Double/triple switches
- • Combo plates (switch + outlet together)
- • GFCI outlets (with test/reset buttons) - need larger plates
Buy one or two extras in case of breakage or miscounting.
Installation
Remove Old Cover
Unscrew the single screw (or two screws) holding the old plate. Pull straight off.
For Screwless: Attach Base
Screw the base plate onto the outlet using the same screw holes. Make sure it's level.
Snap On Cover
Align the decorative cover and snap it onto the base. It should click into place.
No power shutoff needed: You're only touching the plastic cover, not any wires. However, if you're nervous, turning off the breaker is always safe.
FAQ
What are screwless outlet covers?
Screwless outlet covers have a two-piece design: a base plate that screws onto the outlet, and a decorative snap-on cover that hides the screws. They give a sleek, modern appearance and are worth the extra $1-2 per plate.
Do I need to turn off power to change outlet covers?
No, you don't need to turn off power to replace outlet covers. You're only touching the plastic cover plate, not any electrical components. However, if you're uncomfortable or the outlet itself needs work, turning off the breaker is always a safe choice.