Metal file cabinets have been a staple of offices and workspaces for decades. As technology advances and paperless offices become more common, many businesses and households are left wondering what to do with their old metal file cabinets that are no longer needed. Here are some creative ideas to give your outdated file cabinets new life.
Repurpose as Storage
One of the easiest ways to reuse your old metal file cabinets is to repurpose them as storage solutions around your home. They make great storage for:
Garage or Shed
Old file cabinets are perfect for organizing tools, automotive supplies, gardening equipment, and everything else that tends to get cluttered in garages and sheds. Labelling the drawers makes finding what you need a breeze.
Craft Supplies
For avid crafters and hobbyists, file cabinets can corral all those bits and bobs like ribbon, wrapping paper, fabrics, paints, and more. The small drawers keep everything visible and within reach.
Office Supplies
If you have a home office, old file cabinets can become handy homes for office supplies and other desk items. Use them to organize paper, pens, tapes, clips and more for quick access.
Linens
In hall closets, basements or laundry rooms, metal file cabinets are great for neatly folding and arranging sheets, towels, blankets, tablecloths and other household linens.
Pantry
Make use of unused space in your pantry by storing dry goods and canned foods in file cabinet drawers. You can group items together and access them easily.
Create New Furniture
With a little DIY magic, old file cabinets can be transformed into cool new furnishings for your home. Some ideas include:
File Cabinet Desk or Side Table
Remove the top drawer and flip a file cabinet on its side to create an inset area for storing office supplies or other items. Add a tabletop to the top for a handy little desk or side table.
Storage Cabinet for Kitchen or Bathroom
Take off the drawer fronts and paint or wallpaper the inside of the cabinet to give it a finished look. Install shelves if needed. Use in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, etc.
Filing Cabinet Bar
The narrow drawers are perfect beer and wine bottle storage. Add a butcher block or other sturdy top to create an unusual cabinet bar. Optionally, cut out the top drawer area for sinks.
Secretary Desk
Replace the bottom drawers with a solid cabinet door for a secretary desk nook. Use the remaining drawers for organization. Add leather or felt lining for a luxurious look.
Cabinet Shelves
Remove the draws and add shelves, using the file cabinet as a bookcase or display cabinet for collectibles. Paint and decorate as desired.
Repurpose Drawers Only
If you don’t want the whole filing cabinet, consider repurposing just the metal drawers for organization around your home. Ideas include:
- Underbed drawer storage
- Jewelry or makeup organization
- Silverware dividers
- Bathroom vanity drawers
- Hobby supply storage
- Small parts and hardware
Give Away
If you don’t have a use for your old metal file cabinets, consider giving them away through:
- Local buy nothing groups
- Community organizations
- Schools and youth programs
- Churches and nonprofits
- Small businesses such as startups
Many people and groups may appreciate the storage options that old filing cabinets can provide. Offer them for free to save usable furniture from the landfill.
Sell It
While metal file cabinets are now considered vintage, you may be able to sell yours through:
- Local online marketplaces
- Consignment stores and antique shops
- Auction websites
- Classified ads
Pricing will depend on factors like condition, quality, age and style. Mid-century modern styles may be especially desirable. Clean it up nicely to potentially get more money.
Donate
Several charitable organizations accept old file cabinet donations, including:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores
- Career wardrobe nonprofit groups
- Housing assistance providers
- Job training programs
Call ahead to find groups in your area that want old filing cabinets to help their clients. Your donation may be tax deductible.
Recycle Properly
If no other options exist, it’s important to recycle metal file cabinets properly rather than send them to the landfill. Metal can be endlessly recycled into new products. Contact local scrap metal recycling services to have them hauled away. Consider removing and recycling folders, papers and non-metal parts separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are old metal file cabinets worth?
The value depends on several factors like age, condition, quality, size and style. Vintage midcentury cabinets in good shape may sell for $50-$200. Plain legal-size cabinets may only be worth $20-$50 if in very good condition. Damaged or rusty cabinets likely have little value.
Can you paint old metal filing cabinets?
Yes, metal file cabinets can be painted with proper preparation and paint formulated for metal. Remove drawers, thoroughly clean, sand, apply primer and finish with a couple coats of quality enamel spray paint. Allow each coat to fully dry between applications for best results.
Are old file cabinets worth anything?
Common standard-size office file cabinets from the 80’s or 90’s have very little resale value, usually less than $20. Vintage styles, like green metal cabinetry from the 1950’s-1970’s, unique looks like woodgrain, or ornate details can boost value for selling or repurposing. Condition is also key.
What should I do with my personal documents in old filing cabinets?
Before disposing of old home and office filing cabinets, it is crucial to remove and properly destroy any documents containing sensitive personal information. Completely empty all drawers and shred any files with account details, identities, addresses, etc. to prevent identity theft.
Can you make furniture from old file cabinets?
Absolutely! With some simple DIY skills, old file cabinets can be repurposed into a variety of furnishings like benches, storage units, cabinets, desks, bars, shelving, and more. Remove drawers, replace fronts, paint and add tops or legs to make custom creations.
Conclusion
Instead of hauling old metal file cabinets to the dump, consider giving them new life. With a little imagination and effort, they can be reused as effective storage or converted into unique furniture projects. If selling or donating isn’t feasible, be sure to recycle them properly to keep the metal out of landfills. Just because file cabinets are outdated for offices does not mean they lack value. With creativity and purpose, they can be given fresh starts and provide years of service in new ways.