An old medicine cabinet doesn’t have to be discarded. With a bit of creativity, it can be transformed into a practical and stylish piece for your home. Whether you’re looking to add extra storage, create a decorative accent, or repurpose it for another functional purpose, an old medicine cabinet can still shine. Here are 10 clever ideas to breathe new life into your cabinet.
1. Create a Rustic Spice Rack for the Kitchen
If your kitchen could use more storage, repurpose your old medicine cabinet into a rustic spice rack. This is a great way to organize your spices while adding charm to the kitchen.
- Transform the Cabinet: Sand the surface and repaint or stain it to match your kitchen’s vibe. A rich wood stain or a sleek matte black finish works great.
- Adjust Shelving: Remove any existing shelves and add custom shelves for your spice jars. If your cabinet has a mirror, consider replacing it with a simple wooden door for a more rustic feel.
- Wall Mounting: Install the cabinet near your cooking area so the spices are easily accessible and you save counter space.
Tip: Add small hooks or pegs to the inside of the cabinet door to hang measuring spoons or utensils.
2. Repurpose Into a Bathroom Vanity Organizer
An old medicine cabinet makes for a perfect storage solution in your bathroom vanity. You can keep toiletries, cotton swabs, and beauty products organized and off the countertop.
- Repaint or Refurbish: Begin by giving the cabinet a fresh coat of paint in a color that complements your bathroom. A soft white, light grey, or pastel color works well.
- Mounting: Place it under your sink or above your vanity for a sleek and functional addition.
Tip: Add an extra shelf inside the cabinet for even more storage and organization.
3. Turn It Into Open Shelving for a Modern Look
If you prefer a minimalist and modern aesthetic, consider converting your medicine cabinet into open shelving. This is a stylish way to keep your space organized while displaying decor.
- Remove the Door: Take off the cabinet door to create an open shelving unit. If the cabinet has a mirror, replace it with a simple wood panel for a clean, modern look.
- Install New Shelves: If the existing shelves are too small, replace them with sturdy new ones for more storage capacity.
Tip: Install hooks on the inside of the cabinet door for hanging small items like keys, towels, or jewelry.
4. Repurpose as a Garage Tool Organizer
An old medicine cabinet can be transformed into a great organizer for your garage or workshop. Store screws, nails, wrenches, and other small tools.
- Remove Shelves: Depending on your needs, you may want to remove some or all of the shelves and add pegboard inserts.
- Install Hooks: Hang small tools like pliers, scissors, and screwdrivers inside the door using hooks or pegs.
- Mount on the Wall: Once refurbished, mount the cabinet on a wall in your garage for easy access to tools.
Tip: Use clear plastic bins or jars to keep your smaller tools visible and organized.
5. Create a Craft or Sewing Station Organizer
An old medicine cabinet can easily be repurposed into a fantastic craft or sewing station organizer. Store your crafting supplies, ribbons, threads, or sewing accessories neatly inside.
- Reconfigure the Interior: Add small containers, dividers, or baskets inside the cabinet to store thread, scissors, and small tools.
- Wall-Mounted Storage: Mount it on the wall in your crafting area to keep all supplies within reach and declutter your desk space.
Tip: Use the inside of the door for organizing smaller items like needles, pins, or patterns using hooks or small organizers.
6. Turn It Into a Stylish Entryway Organizer
Repurpose your old medicine cabinet into an entryway organizer, perfect for storing keys, sunglasses, mail, and small accessories.
- Remove or Replace the Door: If you want quick access, take off the door entirely. Or, for a decorative touch, replace it with a glass or open-frame design.
- Mount It Near the Entry: Mount the cabinet above or beside your door for easy, organized access.
Tip: Use the top of the cabinet for decorative storage, like a tray for mail or a small plant.
7. Build a Customized Niche Shelf in the Bathroom
If your old medicine cabinet is recessed, repurpose the space by turning it into a stylish niche shelf in your bathroom. This makes for a sleek and functional upgrade.
- Remove the Cabinet: Carefully remove the old medicine cabinet and prepare the exposed drywall.
- Frame the Niche: For a finished, built-in look, frame the niche with trim and add decorative tiles or wallpaper to the background.
Tip: Install lighting around the niche to highlight the items stored on the shelves.
8. Repurpose as a Mini Bar or Liquor Cabinet
Your old medicine cabinet can be turned into a stylish mini bar or liquor cabinet. This is a creative and space-efficient way to keep your drinks and mini bar organized.
- Refurbish the Cabinet: Repaint the cabinet in a color that matches your living space, think dark, rich tones for a sophisticated look.
- Mount It on the Wall: Mount your mini bar on the wall, or place it in a corner to create a compact but functional bar area.
Tip: Use the door space to hang wine glasses or cocktail tools.
9. Repurpose It as a Jewelry Organizer
A compact medicine cabinet can be transformed into a beautiful jewelry organizer. The various compartments and door hooks are ideal for organizing your necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets.
- Install Jewelry Hooks: On the inside of the cabinet door, attach small hooks or pegs for hanging necklaces and bracelets.
- Repaint or Stain: Give the cabinet a fresh look by painting it in a color that complements your bedroom or closet decor.
Tip: Line the inside with soft velvet or fabric to protect delicate jewelry from scratches.
10. Create an Outdoor Garden Tool Organizer
Repurpose your old medicine cabinet as a garden tool organizer. This is perfect for keeping your garden shed neat and organized, while storing gardening gloves, small tools, or seed packets.
- Refinish the Cabinet: Sand and repaint it to ensure it can withstand outdoor conditions. Consider using outdoor-safe paints for durability.
- Mount on the Shed Wall: Install the cabinet in your garden shed for easy access to your gardening tools.
Tip: Label the shelves or hooks inside to create a dedicated spot for specific tools, making it easier to find them.
Ready to Repurpose That Old Medicine Cabinet?
Repurposing your old Medicine Cabinet is an easy and cost-effective way to add functional and stylish storage to your home. Whether you’re transforming it into a mini bar, organizing your jewelry, or creating extra space in the garage, the possibilities are endless. Start your DIY project today and give that old cabinet a second life!
FAQs
1. Can I repurpose a medicine cabinet if it’s in poor condition?
Yes! Even if your medicine cabinet looks a little worn, a fresh coat of paint and some new hardware can completely transform it. Consider replacing the door if it’s too damaged.
2. How do I remove a medicine cabinet without damaging the wall?
Start by unscrewing any mounting screws. If it’s caulked, use a utility knife to cut through the caulk. Work slowly and gently to avoid damaging the drywall.
3. How can I make my repurposed medicine cabinet look more modern?
Try repainting it in neutral shades, adding new hardware, or removing the door for an open shelving unit. You can also install new, custom shelves for a cleaner, more modern look.