Boring Bathroom? 7 Fixes for an Old Medicine Cabinet

Medicine cabinets aren't just for meds anymore. In reality, they function as a catchall for all those bathroom necessities you want close at hand but still out of sight. Yet, despite its undeniable storage value, the standard builder-grade cabinet falls flat in its style points. If you're looking at your medicine cabinet and thinking it's time for an update, there's good news: You don't necessarily have to replace the entire fixture. With a simple (or extensive) facelift, you can change your cabinet's look and improve its functionality. Let these 7 redos inspire you to get started freshening up your own bathroom.

By Tracy Anderson | Updated Nov 19, 2020 11:02 AM

Reveal Your Inner Beauty

1/7
Restoration Hardware Bathroom

You expect to see your reflection as you approach a medicine cabinet, but how about once you open it up? Take a cue from the luxe models on the market today, and install an interior mirror. The process is fairly straightforward, and the mirror is handy for revealing items lurking in the back of the cabinet.

restorationhardware.com

Door Prize

2/7
Bathroom Medicine Cabinets

If you're working with layers and layers of caked-on paint left behind by previous homeowners, your medicine cabinet door may look well past its prime. Fortunately, you can breathe new life into an old door with a little elbow grease, a paint stripper, and a fresh coat in your choice of color.

laurenmechelle.com

Need a hand?
Receive free, no-commitment project estimates from qualified pros near you.
+

Think Small

3/7
Decorative Knobs

They say the devil is in the details—an idea that highlights the importance of decorative hardware, which can really make (or bring down) a room. Replacing just one knob (which is usually all any cabinet has anyway!) can make your wall fixture feel like a whole new piece.

anthropologie.com

Behind the Scenes

4/7
Hidden Storage

Put artwork to practical use by enlisting it to disguise your storage. A recessed shelf hides nicely behind a hinged (or even simpler, hanging) painting on door duty.

brookegianetti.type pad.com

Make It Stick

5/7
Chalkboard Cabinets

Stretch your storage with a coat of magnetic chalkboard paint. Keep small necessities handy by gluing large magnets directly to essentials like floss containers and cosmetics. The chalkboard paint also doubles as a ready canvas for those gentle flossing reminders.

dwellbycheryl.com

Reclaim the Recesses

6/7
DIY Medicine Cabinet

Even if your home is well past the construction stage, your dreams of custom built-in cabinetry can still come true. The wall cavity between two studs is the perfect space to fit a recessed medicine cabinet, and it offers lots of leeway when it comes to your desired height and width.

victoriaelizabethbarnes.com

Opt for Open Storage

7/7
Open Storage

Who says bathroom cabinetry must include a door? Open storage is in, after all. Create an industrial shelving unit for your bathroom using 3/4-inch pipes and reclaimed wood. The open style will encourage you to keep organized.

etsy.com/shop/Mobeedesigns

Need a hand?
Receive free, no-commitment project estimates from qualified pros near you.
+

Don't Miss!

1pixel

Clever project ideas and step-by-step tutorials delivered right to your inbox each and every Saturday morning—sign up today for the Weekend DIY Club newsletter!