What To Do With An Old Dresser Drawers

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Introduction

If you have an old dresser with drawers that you no longer use or are looking to replace, don’t throw them away just yet! Those dresser drawers can have a new life and serve a variety of purposes beyond their original function. Repurposing these drawers can not only save them from the landfill but also add unique and functional elements to your home decor. From storage solutions to stylish furniture pieces, there are many creative ways to upcycle your old dresser drawers.

Repurposing furniture has become increasingly popular as people seek eco-friendly and budget-friendly options for their home. It allows you to unleash your creativity and transform something old into something fresh and useful. So let’s explore some exciting ideas on what you can do with those old dresser drawers.

Repurpose as Storage

One of the most obvious yet practical uses for old dresser drawers is to repurpose them as storage solutions. Whether you need additional organization in your closet, bedroom, or even the garage, these drawers can be a game-changer.

You can stack the drawers on top of each other to create a makeshift bookshelf or utilize them as stand-alone storage units. Apply a fresh coat of paint or wallpaper to match your existing decor or give them a new look. Use them to store clothes, linens, shoes, toys, craft supplies, or any other items you need to keep organized and out of sight.

To further maximize their usability, you can add wheels or casters to the bottom of the drawers, making them easily movable to any room in the house. This gives you the flexibility to rearrange your storage as needed. Additionally, you can attach hooks or handles to the sides or front of the drawers for hanging items such as scarves, belts, or bags.

Another creative way to use the drawers for storage is by mounting them on the wall. Install the drawers vertically or horizontally, depending on the size and shape, and use them as open shelves. This approach adds a unique and visually appealing element to your space while providing functional storage for small books, plants, or decorative items.

When it comes to repurposing drawers as storage, the possibilities are endless. Let your imagination run wild and transform these old dresser drawers into stylish and practical storage solutions that fit your needs and home decor.

Turn into a Bookshelf

If you’re a book lover or simply enjoy displaying your favorite reads, turning your old dresser drawers into a bookshelf is a fantastic idea. With a little creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can create a unique bookshelf that adds character to any room.

Start by removing the front face of each drawer, leaving only the sides and back intact. This will create an open shelving unit where you can showcase your books. Sand and repaint the drawers in a color that complements your interior design or leave them as they are for a more rustic look.

To give your bookshelf a cohesive look, align the drawers vertically or horizontally, depending on the available space and your preference. You can stack them directly on the floor or secure them to the wall for added stability. Arrange the drawers in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern to create visual interest.

Now comes the fun part – arranging your books! Place them vertically or horizontally to create variation and add decorative elements such as small plants, framed photos, or trinkets to break up the rows of books. This will add a personal touch and prevent the shelf from feeling too cluttered.

Not only will your old dresser drawer-turned-bookshelf serve as a functional storage solution for your reading collection, but it will also become a statement piece in your home. Guests will be captivated by the uniqueness of your bookshelf and the creative way it was repurposed.

So, go ahead and turn those old dresser drawers into a book lover’s dream by transforming them into a stylish and personalized bookshelf that showcases both your literary treasures and your creativity.

Make a Pet Bed

If you have a furry friend at home, repurposing your old dresser drawers into a pet bed is a wonderful way to provide them with a cozy and comfortable sleeping spot. This DIY project is not only practical but also allows you to customize the bed to suit your pet’s size, style, and comfort preferences.

To begin, select a drawer that is large enough for your pet to comfortably lie down in. Consider their size and any specific needs they may have. Remove any hardware or handles from the drawer and thoroughly clean it to ensure it is safe and sanitary for your pet.

Next, line the bottom of the drawer with a soft, cushioned material such as foam or an old pillow. This will provide a comfortable base for your pet to rest on. Fleece or fabric can then be used to cover the foam, creating a cozy surface for them to curl up on.

To add an extra touch of comfort and style, you can sew or attach a removable cover to the mattress. This will allow for easy cleaning and maintenance. Choose a fabric that is durable and easy to wash, and consider incorporating your pet’s favorite colors or patterns.

To make the pet bed more visually appealing, you can paint or stain the exterior of the drawer to match your decor or give it a fresh look. Adding decorative elements such as stencils or decals can further personalize the bed and make it a standout piece in your home.

Place the pet bed in a quiet and comfortable corner of your home where your furry friend can relax and feel secure. You can also add blankets or pillows to make the space even cozier and more inviting for your pet.

By repurposing your old dresser drawer into a pet bed, you not only give new life to an unused item but also create a special place for your beloved companion. They will appreciate the comfort and love that went into creating their cozy bed, and you’ll feel satisfied knowing that you’ve repurposed something instead of throwing it away.

Create a Plant Stand

If you’re an avid plant lover or want to incorporate more greenery into your home decor, repurposing your old dresser drawers into a plant stand is a fantastic idea. It’s a creative and stylish way to display your plants while adding a unique touch to your space.

To start this project, select drawers that are deep enough to hold potted plants. You can choose drawers of various sizes or use multiple drawers to create a multi-tiered plant stand. Make sure to clean the drawers thoroughly and remove any hardware or handles.

To protect the drawers from water damage and ensure proper drainage for your plants, line the bottom of each drawer with a waterproof liner or plastic sheet. Cut holes in the liner to allow excess water to drain out.

Now it’s time to decorate your plant stand. Consider painting or staining the drawers to match your interior decor. You can even get creative and paint each drawer a different color or use stencils to add patterns or designs. This will give your plant stand a vibrant and eye-catching look.

Place the plant-filled drawers on top of each other to create a tiered arrangement. You can stack them directly on the floor or use wooden blocks or crates to elevate the plant stand and provide more stability. Arrange the drawers in a way that allows each plant to get adequate sunlight and air circulation.

Experiment with different types and sizes of plants to create an interesting and diverse display. Mix and match foliage plants, flowering plants, and trailing plants to add visual interest and create depth. Remember to consider the lighting requirements of each plant and place them accordingly.

A repurposed dresser drawer plant stand serves as a functional and attractive way to showcase your plant collection. It adds a touch of whimsy and creativity to any room, whether it’s in the living room, hallway, or even on a covered outdoor patio.

With your newfound plant stand, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor gardening while giving your old dresser drawers a new lease on life. It’s a win-win situation that combines your love for plants and upcycling!

Convert into a Kitchen Island

If you’re looking to add extra counter space and storage to your kitchen, repurposing your old dresser drawers into a kitchen island is a fantastic DIY project. Not only will it provide a practical solution for meal prep and storage, but it will also add a unique and stylish element to your kitchen decor.

To start, select a dresser that has a sturdy base and drawers that can be repurposed to hold kitchen items such as utensils, pots, pans, or even small appliances. Remove any hardware or handles from the drawers and clean the dresser thoroughly to prepare it for its new life as a kitchen island.

If the dresser has a solid top, you can use it as the countertop for your kitchen island. However, if the top is not flat or suitable for food preparation, you can replace it with a butcher block or a piece of granite or marble. Measure and cut the new countertop to fit the dimensions of the dresser and secure it in place.

Next, determine the layout of the drawers to create functional storage space. Remove any unnecessary divisions or dividers inside the drawers to maximize storage capacity. You can also add hooks or racks on the side or inside the doors of the dresser to hang kitchen utensils or towels for convenience.

To enhance the aesthetics of the kitchen island, consider painting or staining the dresser to match your kitchen decor. Choose a color that complements your existing cabinetry or opt for a bold statement color to make the island a focal point in the room.

Once the dresser has been painted and all necessary modifications have been made, it’s time to assemble your kitchen island. Place the countertop securely on top of the dresser, ensuring it is level and stable. If needed, use screws or adhesive to hold it in place.

Finally, position the kitchen island in your desired area and make sure it is well-balanced and doesn’t obstruct the workflow in your kitchen. Use the drawers and cabinets to store your kitchen essentials and arrange the countertop with small appliances, cutting boards, or decorative items to personalize the space.

By repurposing your old dresser into a kitchen island, you not only add functionality to your kitchen but also give new life to an unused piece of furniture. It’s a cost-effective and creative solution that allows you to customize your kitchen island to suit your specific needs and style.

Consider repurposing old dresser drawers as under-bed storage, a bookshelf, or a wall-mounted shelf. With a fresh coat of paint or some decorative paper, they can be transformed into stylish and functional pieces for your home.

Transform into a Bathroom Vanity

If you’re in need of a new bathroom vanity or want to upgrade your current one, repurposing your old dresser drawers is a brilliant way to create a unique and stylish piece for your bathroom. It’s a cost-effective solution that allows you to customize the vanity to fit your space and storage needs.

To begin, find a dresser that fits the dimensions of your bathroom and has enough drawers to provide the storage you require. Remove any hardware or handles from the drawers and clean the dresser thoroughly to ensure it’s ready for its new role as a bathroom vanity.

If the dresser has a solid top, you can use it as the countertop for your vanity. However, if it’s not suitable or flat, you can replace it with a marble or granite countertop that matches your bathroom decor. Make sure to measure and cut the new countertop to fit the dimensions of the dresser and secure it in place.

To accommodate plumbing fixtures, you’ll need to create openings in the back of the dresser so that pipes can run through. Measure the required size and cut holes accordingly, ensuring they’re aligned with the plumbing connections in your bathroom.

Consider adding a sink to your vanity for a complete and functional setup. There are various options available, including vessel sinks, undermount sinks, or even repurposing a vintage basin for a unique look. Ensure that the sink is properly installed, and the plumbing connections are secure.

To enhance the aesthetics of your bathroom vanity, consider painting or staining the dresser to match your bathroom decor. Choose a color that complements the overall style and theme of your bathroom, whether it’s a modern, rustic, or traditional design.

Once the dresser has been painted and all necessary modifications have been made, it’s time to assemble your bathroom vanity. Place the countertop securely on top of the dresser and attach the sink and faucet. Connect the plumbing fixtures and ensure they’re functioning properly.

Finally, position the vanity in your bathroom, making sure it aligns with the existing plumbing connections. Use the drawers and any additional shelves or cabinets to store your bathroom essentials, such as toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies.

By repurposing your old dresser into a bathroom vanity, you not only add a functional and stylish piece to your bathroom but also give new life to an unused item. It’s a clever and cost-effective solution that allows you to have a custom-crafted vanity that perfectly suits your space and personal style.

Use as a TV Stand

Repurposing your old dresser drawers as a TV stand is a practical and creative way to add a unique touch to your living room or entertainment area. Not only does it provide a sturdy and functional base for your television, but it also offers additional storage for media devices and accessories.

To begin, select a dresser that is wide and deep enough to accommodate your TV and any other media equipment you may have. Remove any hardware or handles from the drawers and clean the dresser thoroughly, ensuring it is free from dust and debris.

Measure the height and width of your TV to determine the ideal placement on the dresser. The TV should fit comfortably on top of the dresser without blocking any necessary ventilation. It’s essential to ensure that the dresser is strong enough to support the weight of the TV.

To add a decorative touch, consider painting or staining the dresser to match your living room decor. You can choose a color that complements your existing furniture or go for a contrasting hue to make the TV stand stand out. Apply a protective coat of varnish to keep the finish looking fresh.

Use the drawers for practical storage. You can store media devices such as gaming consoles, DVD players, or cable boxes in the drawers to keep them hidden and organized. Consider adding cable management solutions to keep the cords tidy and out of sight.

To enhance the functionality of the TV stand, you can make additional modifications such as drilling holes in the back of the dresser for cable routing or adding additional shelves for storing DVDs, remote controls, or other media accessories.

Place the TV on top of the dresser, ensuring it is centered and stable. You may want to use a wall mount bracket to secure the TV to the wall for added safety. Arrange the media devices and accessories in the drawers and on the shelves, keeping them easily accessible yet organized.

Repurposing your old dresser drawers as a TV stand not only gives new life to an unused piece of furniture but also adds a unique and personalized touch to your living room. It offers a practical storage solution while becoming a focal point of your entertainment area. Enjoy watching your favorite shows and movies while appreciating your creative and functional TV stand.

Craft Organization Station

If you enjoy crafting and need a dedicated space to keep your materials organized, repurposing your old dresser drawers into a craft organization station is a perfect solution. It provides ample storage and workspace, keeping all your supplies within easy reach and allowing for a seamless crafting experience.

Start by selecting a dresser with drawers that are spacious and deep enough to hold your various crafting materials. Keep in mind the size of your supplies and consider removing any dividers or unnecessary compartments to maximize the storage space.

Clean the drawers thoroughly and consider lining them with decorative contact paper or fabric to add a personalized touch. This not only keeps your supplies protected but also adds a visually appealing element to your craft organization station.

Divide the drawers into sections or compartments based on your specific craft supplies. Use small bins, containers, or dividers to separate items such as pens, scissors, beads, threads, ribbons, and more. This allows for easy organization and quick accessibility to your materials while working on your crafts.

To create a dedicated workspace, remove the top of the dresser or place a sturdy board on top. Ensure that the workspace is wide enough to comfortably accommodate your crafting projects. You can cover the surface with a self-healing cutting mat or clear plastic sheet for added protection.

Consider attaching a pegboard or a bulletin board on the wall above your craft organization station. This can serve as a place to hang tools, scissors, or even display inspiration and ideas for your projects. It keeps everything within reach and provides a visual reference for your work.

Personalize your craft organization station by adding hooks or small shelves on the sides of the dresser to hold items such as spools of ribbon, paintbrushes, or other tools. Hang fabric or plastic pockets on the inside of the drawers to store smaller items like stickers or embellishments.

With everything organized and easily accessible, you’ll have a dedicated space for all your craft supplies and can enjoy a clutter-free and efficient crafting experience. Your repurposed dresser drawers turned craft organization station will not only keep your materials tidy but will also inspire creativity and make your crafting endeavors more enjoyable.

Build a Bench or Seating Area

Repurposing your old dresser drawers to create a bench or seating area is a wonderful way to bring functionality and style to any room in your home. Whether you need extra seating in your entryway, bedroom, or living room, this DIY project allows you to transform neglected drawers into a comfortable and visually appealing seating solution.

Start by selecting drawers that are in good condition and large enough to accommodate a seating surface. Consider the height and width of the space where you plan to place the bench to ensure it fits seamlessly into the room.

Remove any hardware or handles from the drawers and clean them thoroughly. If desired, you can paint or stain the drawers to match your existing decor or give them a fresh look. Consider adding a protective layer of varnish to enhance their durability.

To create the seating surface, lay the drawers side by side, ensuring they are aligned and secure. You may need to secure them together using wood glue, screws, or brackets, depending on the design of the drawers. Reinforce the structure by adding a sturdy plywood or solid wood board on top of the drawers as the seating platform.

To add comfort and style, upholster the seating area with foam padding and fabric. Measure and cut the foam to fit the dimensions of the seating surface and attach it securely using adhesive or upholstery staples. Stretch the fabric over the foam and staple it to the underside of the seating platform, ensuring a smooth and wrinkle-free finish.

To elevate the bench and add stability, consider adding wooden legs or decorative feet to the underside of the drawers. Alternatively, you can also attach the bench to a wall for added security and to prevent it from tipping over.

To enhance the functionality of the bench, consider incorporating storage options. You can add hinged lids to the drawers to create hidden storage compartments, perfect for storing items such as shoes, blankets, or other household necessities. Alternatively, you can attach baskets or fabric bins underneath the seating area for easy access storage.

Finally, place the repurposed dresser drawer bench in your desired location and accessorize it with cushions, pillows, or throws to enhance comfort and aesthetics. This versatile seating solution will not only provide a functional and stylish place to sit but will also become a unique focal point in your space.

By repurposing your old dresser drawers into a bench or seating area, you give these neglected pieces of furniture a new purpose while adding character and functionality to your home. Enjoy the charm and practicality of your homemade bench or seating area and appreciate the satisfaction of repurposing and upcycling.

Conclusion

Repurposing your old dresser drawers is a fantastic way to breathe new life into unused furniture while unleashing your creativity. From storage solutions to stylish furniture pieces, there are a plethora of possibilities for repurposing these drawers and adding unique and functional elements to your home decor.

By repurposing dresser drawers as storage units, you can organize your belongings and keep your space tidy. Whether used as bookshelves, kitchen islands, or bathroom vanities, these upcycled drawers offer a practical and cost-effective solution that adds charm and functionality to any room.

Crafting enthusiasts can transform old drawers into crafting organization stations, providing a dedicated space for all their supplies and materials. Meanwhile, pet owners can convert drawers into cozy pet beds, offering their furry friends a comfortable sleeping spot while adding a touch of style to their home.

For plant lovers, repurposed dresser drawers can be turned into plant stands, displaying a variety of botanical beauties. Additionally, by repurposing drawers as entertainment centers or benches, you can add personality and functionality to your living space while minimizing waste.

In conclusion, the possibilities for repurposing old dresser drawers are limitless. Whether you repurpose them for storage, furniture, or organizing your crafts, these drawers can find a new purpose and add value to your home decor. Embrace your creativity, reduce waste, and enjoy the satisfaction of breathing new life into your old furniture through repurposing.