Storage Solutions
Metal file cabinets make perfect storage solutions for things other than office files. Here are some ideas:
Kitchen Pantry
Use a 2 drawer file cabinet in your kitchen to store pantry items like spices, canned goods, or baking supplies. Install small shelves inside the drawers to separate and organize items. Label the drawers for easy access.
Craft and Hobby Supplies
Crafters and hobbyists can use file cabinets to neatly organize fabric, yarn, scrapbooking paper, art supplies, and more. The drawers keep everything visible but tidy.
Linens and Towels
Store spare sheets, blankets, and towels in a file cabinet. Fold and stack them neatly in the drawers to keep closets free. The metal cabinets are also great for humid laundry rooms.
Shoes and Accessories
Use the drawers to neatly store shoes, scarves, hats, bags, and other accessories. Much easier to see what you have compared to a crowded closet shelf.
Electronics and Chargers
File cabinets are ideal for organizing electronics like tablets, e-readers, and their various chargers and cords. Keep them plugged in and ready to use.
Pet Supplies
Store pet food, treats, leashes, toys, grooming supplies, and medications organized in a 2 drawer filing cabinet. Keep it in the mudroom or laundry for easy access.
Furniture Projects
With some DIY modifications, a metal 2 drawer file cabinet can be transformed into a variety of functional furniture pieces.
Kitchen Island or Cart
Remove the top drawer and attach a wood top to create an instant kitchen prep station or serving cart. Add wheels for extra portability.
Side Table or Nightstand
Similarly, remove one drawer and add a finished wood top to convert a file cabinet into a side table or nightstand for bedrooms or living rooms.
Desk
Lay the file cabinet horizontally and attach a finished wood top to create a desktop work surface. Add legs or attach to a wall for support.
Cabinet for Sink
On its side, a 2 drawer file cabinet is the perfect height for installing a sink to create a kitchenette, wet bar, laundry or utility sink.
Nursery Dresser
Paint or finish the cabinet to create a cute dresser for a nursery. Use the drawers for baby clothes and accessories. Optionally add changing table top.
Entryway Bench
Place an upholstered seat on top of the file cabinet to build a handy entryway bench with storage. Top with throw pillows for comfort.
Kids and Students
Metal file cabinets can also be great for kids’ rooms, students’ spaces, and other small areas in need of organization.
Art Supply Storage
Make an art supply station for kids by using file drawers to organize crayons, markers, paints, scissors, glitter and all the odds and ends.
Toy Chest
Use a 2 drawer cabinet to neatly store Legos, cars, dolls, and other toys. Let kids decorate the drawers themselves for extra fun.
Homework Station
Add a small desk or fold-down workspace to create a dedicated home office area for students to store school supplies and complete homework assignments.
Dress Up Cabinet
Little kids will love playing dress up with a costume cabinet made from a painted file drawer filled with fun costumes and accessories.
Locker Organization
Give students personalized portable storage by removing the cabinet legs so the drawers can slide right into school lockers.
Additional Tips and Ideas
- Sand and paint the cabinets any color to match your home’s style. Stencil on designs for extra flair.
- Add drawer liner or inserts to customize the interior storage to your needs.
- Label drawer fronts with vinyl lettering or chalkboard paint to organize contents.
- Stack two 2 drawer cabinets to create a taller 4 drawer version.
- Locking file cabinets are great for secure storage; use keys for safety.
- Look for used file cabinets at thrift stores and garage sales to repurpose on a budget.
With so many possibilities, metal 2 drawer filing cabinets can be amazing assets for organization and storage in your home. Get creative with one of these projects to give new life to a once humble file cabinet!
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Things From File Cabinets
Can I remove the rails and drawers completely from a file cabinet?
Yes, the drawer slides and rail system on most standard file cabinets are designed to be fully removable if desired. This allows full customization of the interior space.
What is the best paint or finish to use?
High-quality spray paints or finishes like polyurethane work best for fully covering and protecting the metal from scratches. Proper metal primer should be used first.
What are some good ways to cut down the height of a cabinet?
You can carefully use a metal saw to cut the legs down for projects like converting to a rolling cart. For a sink base, cutting horizontally through the spot welds attaching the legs works well.
How can I safely lock the drawers for kids’ rooms?
Install child safety drawer locks on the interior which allow drawers to only open a crack to prevent climbing. Keyed exterior locks are also an option.
What are the drawer dimensions on standard 2-drawer letter/legal cabinets?
The typical drawer depths are about 15 inches. Heights range from 5-8 inches for the top drawer and 10-12 inches for the bottom. Widths average 15-18 inches.
What are the best ways to attach a wood top?
Using nuts and bolts or metal brackets on the inside is very secure. You can also use adhesives like liquid nails construction adhesive if the top sits flush.
What are some good furniture legs to use when converting to a desk?
Hairpin legs are a popular choice for an airy look. Wooden tapered legs also look nice. Standard metal legs are inexpensive but perfectly functional.
Can I remove the top to make it shorter without compromising strength?
Yes, the top can usually be unscrewed and taken off completely. Just make sure the cabinet will be properly supported in your final project setup.
Conclusion
Metal 2 drawer filing cabinets are versatile items that can create incredibly useful storage solutions or be transformed into new furniture pieces throughout your home. With just a bit of creativity and effort, you can customize them to suit your family’s needs. Making use of these often-overlooked cabinets provides an eco-friendly way to get organized and decorate on a budget.