A padding system for protecting an outer surface of an appliance. The padding system includes a securing device that is attached to opposed first and second ends of a pad. The securing device consists of a first securing member that is releasably attachable to a second securing member when the pad is secured around the outer surface of the appliance. The padding system additionally includes a hand strap that is attached to the first end of the pad. A slit is formed in the pad adjacent to the second end of the pad. The hand strap is passable through the slit to provide a hand grip when the pad is secured around the outer surface of the appliance.