Having cabinets with metal filing can be very useful for organizing documents, files, and other paperwork. However, over time these types of cabinets can start to feel cluttered, outdated, or simply take up too much space. If you have metal filing cabinets that you want to repurpose or get rid of, there are several options to consider.

Assess the Condition of the Cabinets

The first step is to thoroughly assess the condition of the metal filing cabinets. Check for any rust, dents, broken drawers or rails, and other damage. If the cabinets are in good structural condition with all drawers and rails functioning properly, they have much more reuse potential.

Cosmetic issues like scratches or minor rust can often be repaired with some sanding, priming, and a fresh coat of paint. However, significant rust, broken drawers, or other major damage likely means the cabinets should be recycled or disposed of.

Consider Repurposing the Cabinets

If the metal filing cabinets are still in good shape, one option is repurposing them instead of getting rid of them. Their utilitarian design and storage capabilities make them ideal for a variety of different uses around the home.

Use in the Garage or Shed

One of the most practical ways to repurpose metal filing cabinets is using them in a garage, shed, or workshop. They provide great storage for tools, hardware items, paints and stains, automotive supplies, seasonal items, and more.

The drawers allow you to neatly organize and label different categories of items to keep your workspace tidy. The sturdy steel construction also withstands dirt, liquids, or other workshop conditions well.

Convert to Kitchen Pantry Storage

With some priming and a fresh coat of chalkboard paint or appliance-style paint, metal file cabinets can be adapted for kitchen storage. The deep drawers are perfect for organizing canned goods, baking ingredients, packaged foods, cooking gadgets, and pots and pans.

Add drawer liner and labels to make finding what you need a breeze. The cabinets lend a vintage feel to a kitchen or butler’s pantry while providing sturdy and space-efficient storage.

Use for Home Office Supplies

Metal file cabinets are ideal home office storage. Use them to organize office supplies, paperwork, cords and tech accessories, extra printer ink and paper, and anything else you need to store.

Add hooks inside the cabinet doors to hang frequently used items like headphones or chargers. Paint or decoupage the exterior to give it some personality while keeping the interior practical.

Create Built-In Cabinetry

You can also convert metal filing cabinets into built-in cabinetry or shelving. Flank them with matching wood cabinetry, remove the hardware, and paint them to match the rest of the cabinet finish.

They can blend right in while providing you with extra storage space. This works especially well in home offices, laundry rooms, workshops, and garages.

Refurbish and Resell the Cabinets

If you decide you don’t want to keep the metal filing cabinets, consider refurbishing them to resell. Vintage metal file cabinets are popular vintage and industrial decor pieces. With some restoration work, you can give yours new life and make some extra cash.

Clean and Make Cosmetic Repairs

Start by thoroughly cleaning the cabinets inside and out with a degreaser to remove dirt and grime. Use sandpaper to smooth any scratches, chips, or areas of rust.

Prime and paint the cabinets in a fresh, neutral color or a tone that matches current decor trends. Replace any damaged or corroded hardware. Add new drawer glides if needed.

Market to the Right Buyers

Once refurbished, metal filing cabinets can sell for $50-$200+ depending on size, style, and condition. Market them on sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Etsy.

Emphasize details like vintage, mid-century style, retro patina, and industrial charm that make them appealing. Individuals working on home renovations or seeking unique storage may be interested.

Repurpose the Inner Components

Even if the metal filing cabinet itself has seen better days, you can repurpose or recycle its inner rails, drawers, and hardware. The steel can be reused for other DIY and hardware projects around the house.

Use the Drawers for Organizers

The drawers can become desktop organizers, toolboxes, sewing kit holders, and more. Simply remove the rails and attach handles or casters for easy transport. Add plank wood bottoms or paint the interior for a customized look.

Create Shelving with the Rails

The metal drawer rails form ready-made brackets perfect for DIY shelving. Mount them horizontally to walls for floating shelves. You can also use them vertically between floor and ceiling to create storage racks.

Incorporate the Hardware into New Furniture

The handles, knobs, and other metal pieces attached to old filing cabinets can become details on new furniture projects. Incorporate them into items like coffee tables, console tables, or storage chests.

Sell for Scrap Metal Value

If the filing cabinets are damaged beyond repair or not worth the effort to refurbish, another option is selling them for scrap metal value. Steel filing cabinets can contain a decent amount of reusable steel.

Find Local Scrap Metal Buyers

Search for local scrap metal recycling companies that accept items like filing cabinets. Call ahead to ask what types of metal they accept and get price quotes.

They will likely want details on the cabinets’ size, weight, and metal composition. Weigh your cabinets on a scale at home so you have this info ready.

Remove Non-Metal Components

Before scrapping filing cabinets, be sure to remove any parts that cannot be recycled, like wooden drawer bottoms, plastic handles, or rubber casters. This leaves only the steel body to be recycled.

Transport Cabinets to the Facility

Once you find a buyer, dismantle the cabinets and transport them to the recycling facility. Many buyers can schedule a pickup for a fee if you cannot transport them yourself. Expect to receive a few cents per pound of steel.

Give Cabinets Away on Freecycle or Buy Nothing Groups

Check to see if there are any Freecycle or Buy Nothing groups in your community. These networks allow you to give usable items away to new owners for free.

Offer to give the filing cabinets away “as is” to anyone willing to haul them away. It lets someone reuse them while decluttering your space. Be sure to advertise that they work and do not leak anything.

Donate Cabinets to Charity

Several charities accept donated furniture and housewares, sometimes arranging free pickups. Contact Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, or Goodwill to see if they will take metal filing cabinets.

Make sure to mention the cabinets are fully functional and in good condition. If accepted, your donation benefits the charity while keeping the cabinets out of a landfill.

Break Down and Recycle Properly

As a last resort if the filing cabinets are severely damaged or unsafe, the components must be broken down and disposed of or recycled properly.

Metal and other materials each have specific disposal requirements that can impact waste removal costs.

Remove Hazardous Components

Start by checking for any potentially hazardous materials that require special handling like lead paint or asbestos insulation. Contact waste management experts to test and safely remove these elements before recycling the steel.

Break Down the Cabinets

Next, fully break down the cabinets into separate pieces. Remove drawers, hardware, and any non-metal elements. Break apart the metal shell using hammers, saws, tin snips, or other tools.

Wear protective eyewear and gloves when dismantling metal pieces.

Recycle the Metal

Once fully broken down, the steel pieces can go into a scrap metal recycling bin. Check with your local waste management company on rules for curbside metal recycling in your area.

Some companies may also pick up metal recycling for a fee.

Dispose of Remaining Pieces

Any non-metal components like wood, plastic, or rubber drawer pieces should go into general garbage disposal. Contact your waste removal company regarding separate pickup for bulky items or additional disposal fees.

Tips for Reusing Metal Filing Cabinets

• Inspect cabinets carefully for rust, damage, or safety hazards before reusing
• Remove any old papers or contents and clean thoroughly before repurposing
• Consider updates like new paint, hardware, drawer liners, or glides
• Add wheels or casters for easy cabinet mobility if desired
• Measure cabinet dimensions to ensure a good fit for any space before installing
• Repurposed cabinets work well in home offices, workshops, pantries, closets, and more
• Market vintage cabinets on secondhand sites by highlighting retro charm and good condition

Frequently Asked Questions About Repurposing Metal File Cabinets

How much weight can metal filing cabinets typically hold?

Most metal filing cabinets have a weight capacity between 200-500 lbs, depending on size, construction, and design. Always check manufacturer specs and inspect cabinets for damage prior to loading with heavy items.

What’s the best way to clean rusty metal filing cabinets?

Light rust can be removed with a wire brush or fine sandpaper. For heavier rust, use a rust converter chemical blend, or sand and prime the rusted area before painting. Be sure to address rust issues prior to repainting.

Can you change the layout or remove drawers in old metal file cabinets?

The frame and drawer sizes are usually fixed, but in some models, you may be able to remove dividers or alter the placement of drawers along the rails. Be careful not to damage the structural integrity.

How do you get rid of the office smell from old metal file cabinets?

Thoroughly clean the interior using a degreaser or disinfectant solution. Allow cabinets to air out fully opened outdoors if possible. Odor-absorbing charcoal sachets can help remove any lingering smells.

Is the paint on vintage metal filing cabinets likely to contain lead?

Many older cabinets do have lead paint, which requires safety precautions for removal. Test paint before sanding or stripping. Consider painting over lead paint rather than removing it if the paint is intact.

Key Takeaways on Repurposing Metal File Cabinets

• Assess cabinet condition to determine if refurbishing or recycling is more viable
• Metal cabinets can be reused in workshops, kitchens, home offices, and other rooms when refinished
• Selling restored vintage cabinets can generate extra income
• Components like drawers, slides, and hardware can take on new life in other projects
• Donating usable cabinets keeps them out of landfills and benefits charity
• If recycling, remove hazardous elements first and break down carefully
• With some creativity and elbow grease, old metal filing cabinets can be given exciting new purposes

Conclusion

Metal filing cabinets may seem destined for the dumpster when they start to feel old and worn. However, with a little creativity and effort, these storage workhorses can be revamped into functional fixtures once again. Whether you decide to repurpose, resell, or recycle, there are many eco-friendly and practical options for giving used filing cabinets new life. With one of these filing cabinet solutions, you can reclaim your space while keeping useful resources out of the landfill.