How to Refinish a Metal Medicine Cabinet

Refinishing a metal medicine cabinet can give your bathroom a fresh, updated look. With some simple steps, you can transform your old, worn-out cabinet into a like-new focal point. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to refinish a metal medicine cabinet.

Assessing Your Medicine Cabinet

Before starting any refinishing project, take time to thoroughly assess the current state of your metal medicine cabinet.

• Examine the cabinet for any structural damage, rust, or holes that need repairing. Address any of these issues first before refinishing.
• Look at the type of metal. Most medicine cabinets are made of steel, aluminum, or tin. Each metal may require slightly different prep work and paint.
• Determine if the cabinet was previously painted. If so, you will need to strip the old paint completely rather than just scuffing the original metal finish.
• Decide if you want to replace any of the hardware like hinges or the mirror. Doing so can entirely change the look.

Gather Your Refinishing Supplies

Refinishing a metal cabinet requires some key supplies. Be sure to have the following materials on hand:

• Paint stripper or sander – To remove old paint and rust down to the bare metal
• Metal primer – A bonding primer made for metal will help the new paint adhere properly
• Paint – A high-quality spray paint made specifically for metal works best
• Sandpaper – Both coarse and fine grit sandpaper for prepping and smoothing
• Paintbrushes and rollers – For trim or detail work
• Rags and paint thinner – For cleaning and removing paint between steps
• Eye protection, gloves, and mask – For safety when stripping or sanding paint
• Drop cloths – To protect surrounding surfaces from paint

Preparing the Cabinet Surface

Proper prep work is crucial for getting a smooth, long-lasting finish. Follow these steps to prep your cabinet:

Remove Door and Hardware

• Take off the cabinet door by removing the hinge pins. Set it aside in a safe place.
• Remove all hardware like shelves, mirrors, and knobs. Set aside items you plan to reuse.

Strip Old Paint and Rust

• If painted, use a paint stripper to remove old paint. Apply a thick coat, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then scrape off.
• Use a wire brush or sander to remove any rust spots down to the bare metal.
• Sand the entire cabinet with 120-150 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface for painting.

Clean and Dry the Cabinet

• Wipe down the stripped cabinet using a degreaser or mineral spirits to remove any residual paint stripper.
• Allow the cabinet to dry completely before priming and painting. Any moisture will prevent paint from adhering.

Prime the Surface

• Apply 1-2 coats of metal primer, allowing proper dry time between coats. This helps the paint bond tightly.
• Lightly sand again with fine 220 grit sandpaper to create a super smooth surface for painting.

Painting Your Medicine Cabinet

Follow these steps for flawless painted results:

Set Up a Paint Area

• Work in a well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight and free of dust.
• Lay down drop cloths to protect surrounding surfaces.
• Adhere painter’s tape around edges you don’t want painted.

Spray Paint Multiple Coats

• Use light, even strokes about 8-12 inches from the surface, overlapping each pass.
• Allow each coat to dry completely according to the paint directions before adding another.
• Apply at least 2-3 coats for best coverage and an ultra-smooth finish.
• For trim or detail work, use small foam rollers or paint brushes.

Cure the Paint Fully

• Let the paint cure for several days before reinstalling hardware or using the cabinet. This prevents chips or fingerprints.
• Follow all drying and curing times specified on your paint product.
• You can speed curing with heat from a hairdryer or sun exposure.

Reinstalling the Cabinet Door and Hardware

Once fully dry, you can reassemble your freshly painted medicine cabinet:

• Clean any paint residue off the interior cabinet edges.
• Reattach door hinges using a drill. Make sure door operates properly.
• Replace mirror, shelves, and knobs using care not to scratch fresh paint.
• Do any final paint touch-ups with a small brush if needed.
• Consider adding new modern hardware like chrome handles and shelves.

With proper preparation, high-quality paint, and patience during drying, your metal medicine cabinet will look factory-fresh. The new colorful finish will instantly give your bathroom a stylish updated look.

Frequently Asked Questions About Refinishing Metal Medicine Cabinets

What type of paint should I use?

Use a high-quality spray paint made specifically for metal. Look for enamel, acrylic alkyd, or rust-resistant formulas.

How do I get rid of rust spots?

Use a wire brush or sandpaper to scrub rust down to bare metal. Wipe with mineral spirits before priming.

What’s the best way to remove old paint?

Paint stripper works well to remove layers of old paint. Apply a thick coat, let sit 15-20 minutes, then scrape off with a putty knife.

Should I take the door off to paint?

Yes, remove the door and all hardware by taking out the hinge pins before refinishing. This allows you to fully paint the cabinet frame and door edges.

How long does the paint need to cure?

Follow the manufacturer’s cure times, but expect to wait at least 3-5 days before using the cabinet after painting.

Conclusion

Refinishing a metal medicine cabinet is an easy DIY project that can make a dramatic impact in your bathroom’s decor. With some simple preparation, priming, and spray painting, you can give an outdated metal cabinet a fresh new look for a fraction of the cost of a full replacement. Taking the time to properly prep and apply quality paint will ensure you get long-lasting, beautiful results. Give your bathroom metal medicine cabinet a colorful makeover and enjoy its renewed style for years to come.