How to Refinish a Metal Medicine Cabinet Mirror

Refinishing a metal medicine cabinet mirror can update the look of your bathroom while being a relatively easy DIY project. With some simple steps, you can give your cabinet mirror a fresh new finish.

Assess the Existing Finish

Before starting, inspect the current finish on the metal mirror and cabinet. Determining if the existing finish is paint, varnish, lacquer, or another coating will help guide the refinishing process. Gently scrape a hidden area with a razor blade to see if the finish flakes or peels, which could indicate paint. Lacquer and varnish will feel smooth compared to paint.

Remove the Medicine Cabinet

First, remove the entire metal medicine cabinet from the wall. This will allow you to work on refinishing the mirror more easily. Be sure to turn off the water supply if the cabinet has any built-in plumbing. Detach it from the wall anchors or screws, being careful not to damage the surrounding wall area. Place the cabinet on a flat, protected surface.

Clean the Mirror

Thoroughly clean the mirror inside the cabinet using a quality glass cleaner or mild soap and water solution. Avoid abrasive pads or paper towels that could scratch the glass. Wipe away any grease, dirt, or soap residue. This cleans the surface for the new finish and prevents particles from getting trapped under the new paint or varnish.

Remove the Existing Finish

Next, strip away the old finish. For paint, use a chemical paint stripper, applying a thick coat according to the product directions. Let it sit for the recommended time, then scrape away the softened paint with a plastic putty knife. Lacquer and varnish can be removed with steel wool and paint stripper or by sanding. Be extremely careful not to scratch the actual glass mirror when removing any finish. Wipe away any remaining residue with mineral spirits.

Prepare the Bare Metal

Once stripped down to the bare metal frame, sand away any rust or peeling paint specks using 220-grit sandpaper. This roughs up the surface a bit for better adhesion of the new finish. Carefully sand just the metal, avoiding the mirror glass. Wipe the metal clean after sanding using a tack cloth.

Apply Primer

Optionally, use a quality metal primer made for cabinets and mirrors before painting or varnishing. This helps the new finish stick better. For small mirrors, brush on a thin coat of primer, using smooth strokes in one direction. Allow it to fully dry per the instructions. Lightly sand again with fine 320-grit sandpaper before the next step.

Refinish the Cabinet

Now you’re ready to refinish the cabinet mirror frame and cabinet box with your desired coating. Consider your bathroom’s decor when choosing a finish:

• Paint: Any high-quality metal paint works, in gloss, semi-gloss, or satin sheens. Match existing color schemes or be bold. Apply in thin coats.
• Varnish: Polyurethane varnish adds shine and protection. Use an interior grade, applying multiple thin coats with light sanding between each.
• Lacquer: Spray lacquer is commonly used on medicine cabinets, providing a durable glossy finish. Use thin coats.

Follow all product label directions closely, allowing ample drying time between coats. Cover the mirror glass with painter’s tape and paper to prevent overspray.

Reinstall the Cabinet

Once the refinished cabinet and mirror are fully cured and dry, you can reinstall them in the bathroom. Anchor into the original holes if possible. Connect any plumbing lines again. Apply a bead of bathroom-grade silicone caulk around the edges for a clean finish.

Tips for Refinishing Medicine Cabinet Mirrors

• Work in a well-ventilated area when refinishing.
• Carefully protect the mirror glass from scratches.
• Use high-quality primer and finish products.
• Allow sufficient drying time between finish coats.
• Lightly sand between finish coats for maximum durability.
• Use painter’s tape and drop cloths to protect surrounding areas.
• Match any original hardware or replace with updated metal handles/knobs.

Refinishing the frame and mirror of a metal medicine cabinet is an affordable way to update the look of a bathroom without a major renovation. With some time and care, you can achieve a brilliant upgraded finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Refinishing Medicine Cabinet Mirrors

Can I just paint over the existing finish?

It’s best to completely remove the old finish first for proper adhesion and smooth results from the new paint or varnish. The new coating likely won’t adhere as strongly if applied over an existing finish.

How do I avoid brush strokes when painting?

Use high-quality painter’s brushes and apply paint in thin, even coats. Pour paint into a paint tray rather than applying directly from the can. Brush in the same direction using light, smooth strokes.

What kind of primer should I use?

For metal medicine cabinets, use a quality metal primer made specifically for metal finishes. Rust-resistant primers help prevent corrosion on metal surfaces in bathrooms.

How do I get splatters or overspray off the mirror?

Carefully scrape off any dried paint drips using a plastic paint scraper, then wipe with paint thinner to clean off overspray. Be extremely gentle around the glass.

Should I take down the whole cabinet to refinish it?

Yes, it’s best to completely detach the cabinet from the wall. This allows you to easily refinish the box, sides, mirror frame, and all hardware. Reinstall later when fully dry.

Can I just replace the mirror instead?

Certainly, inserting a new mirror glass is simpler than refinishing the frame and cabinet box. Make sure to get the exact measurements for a custom-cut mirror replacement.

Refinishing the frame and interior of a metal medicine cabinet provides a quick upgrade for a dated bathroom. With some cleaning, sanding, priming, and painting, you can revive both the mirror glass and cabinet box itself. Just be sure to properly prep the surfaces and allow adequate drying time for smooth, durable results.

Conclusion

Refinishing a metal medicine cabinet mirror requires some work but can make a big visual impact in your bathroom’s look. With careful surface preparation, use of a quality metal primer, and applying thin even coats of paint or varnish, you can achieve a brilliant upgraded finish. Always properly ventilate the area and carefully protect the mirror glass from scratches. Match your bathroom’s existing decor or get creative with a fresh color or lacquer coating. Reviving metal medicine cabinets provides satisfaction from both the DIY project itself and the stylish new finish you’ll see reflected every day.