Introduction
Hoosier cabinets were popular freestanding kitchen cabinets in the early 20th century. They typically had a metal bread drawer as one of the main storage components. Over time, these metal bread drawers can become worn out, rusted, or damaged. Restoring them not only brings back their functionality but can also help maintain the vintage charm of a Hoosier cabinet. With some effort and the right materials, you can restore a metal Hoosier cabinet bread drawer to its former glory.
Assessing the Damage
Before beginning any restoration work, thoroughly examine the metal bread drawer to identify areas needing repair. Check for:
- Rust
- Dents or dings
- Loose or missing hardware like drawer pulls and glide tracks
- Separations in the metal at joints or seams
- General wear like scratches and faded paint
Look inside the drawer as well. Damage like rust and dents will need fixing for the drawer to slide smoothly again.
Gather Your Restoration Supplies
You’ll need the following supplies, depending on the restoration steps needed for your drawer:
- Safety gear like gloves and eye protection
- Cleaning solutions like vinegar, baking soda, and detergent
- Scouring pads, steel wool, and sandpaper
- Rust remover solution or naval jelly
- Metal filler like Bondo
- Primer, paint, and clear coat in your desired finish
- Lubricant like WD-40
- Replacement hardware like drawer pulls and glide tracks
Matching paint to the original Hoosier cabinet finish will provide the most authentic look.
Clean the Drawer
Start by cleaning built-up grime and rust from the metal bread drawer using cleaning solutions and scouring pads. Baking soda or vinegar mixed with water helps cut through grease. Go over the entire drawer front, back, bottom, and sides.
Use steel wool or fine sandpaper to gently scrub away any remaining rust spots. Take care not to overly scratch or gouge the metal.
Rinse the drawer thoroughly and let it dry completely before moving on.
Remove Rust
For heavily rusted areas, apply a rust remover solution. Naval jelly is ideal for vintage metal surfaces like those on Hoosier cabinet drawers.
Follow the product directions. Let it sit for the recommended time before scrubbing away the loosened rust scale with steel wool. Rinse thoroughly.
Severe rust may take multiple applications and scrubbing to fully remove. Always let the metal dry between applications.
Repair Dents and Dings
Use a thin metal filler like Bondo to fill in any dents and dings. Follow package directions to mix and apply the filler, pressing it into indentations in the metal.
Once dry, sand the filler smooth and flush with the surrounding surface. Carefully feather the edges to create a seamless look.
Wipe away sanding dust and debris before moving on.
Reattach Loose Pieces
If metal pieces of the drawer have come loose at joints or seams, reattach them with metal glue before priming and painting.
Clamp the sections together tightly as the glue dries for the most durable hold. Wipe away any excess glue squeeze-out.
Replace Hardware
Take note of any missing or non-functioning drawer hardware like pulls and glide tracks. Purchase replacement components that match the originals as closely as possible.
Install the hardware according to the manufacturer’s directions. On glide tracks, you may need to detach the drawer sides from the front panel for easier access.
Test the movement of the drawer to ensure the glides are aligned and functioning smoothly. Adjust as needed.
Apply New Finish
Once all restoration work is complete, apply primer to the entire drawer. This helps the new paint adhere evenly and prevents bleed-through.
Use light layers of spray primer or brush-on primer like Rust-Oleum. Allow ample drying time between coats.
Next, apply at least two coats of paint in your selected Hoosier cabinet-matching finish. Allow thorough drying between coats.
Consider a clear top coat for added protection and sheen. Use sparing coats of clear enamel spray or brush-on polyurethane.
Reinstall Drawer
With the paint fully cured, reinstall the restored drawer into the Hoosier cabinet. Lubricate the glides with WD-40 to ensure smooth operation.
Test the drawer several times to be sure it glides in and out without catching. Adjust as needed for perfect function.
Maintain Your Restoration
To keep your restored metal bread drawer looking its best:
- Hand wash only using mild detergent. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
- Immediately dry if exposed to any water or moisture.
- Re-lubricate drawer glides periodically with WD-40.
- Touch up paint scratches as soon as they occur to prevent rust.
- Avoid overloading the drawer which can lead to warping.
Taking good care of your restored drawer helps it last for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get rust stains off the Hoosier cabinet around the bread drawer?
Use a rust remover solution on the stains. Apply with a small brush without getting it on surrounding surfaces. Let it sit briefly before wiping away. Repeat as needed for stubborn stains.
What if my drawer front is badly warped or damaged?
You may need to source a replacement front panel from a salvage or architectural antique dealer specializing in vintage kitchen furnishings. Carefully detach the original and install the replacement.
Should I strip old paint before repainting?
If the existing paint is intact, scoring it with sandpaper for adhesion before priming is sufficient. Completely stripping should only be done if paint is peeling, flaking, or concealing serious damage.
Can I use wood filler instead of metal filler on dents and dings?
No, wood filler will not adhere properly to metal. Use a specialty metal filler like Bondo instead.
What type of paint works best?
An enamel paint designed for metal surfaces provides the most durable and rust-resistant finish.
Conclusion
Restoring worn-out bread drawers is one of the best ways to revive old Hoosier cabinets and preserve their vintage character. With some grunt work to remove rust, repair damages, and refinish the surface, you can bring a metal Hoosier bread drawer back to life. Just be sure to maintain your restoration properly so you can enjoy the revived beauty and utility for many more years. Does your Hoosier cabinet have a metal bread drawer needing some TLC? Try these techniques to make it look and function like new again!