Don’t trash out old drawers. Here are 10 brilliant ways to reuse them | April 17, 2025

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and reducing waste, upcycling has become a popular trend. Instead of discarding old furniture, many are finding creative ways to give these items a new lease on life. Old drawers, often overlooked, are a perfect candidate for upcycling. With a bit of imagination and some DIY skills, these pieces can be transformed into functional and stylish additions to your home. Not only does this practice help reduce waste, but it also adds a unique, personal touch to your living space. Here are ten innovative ways to repurpose old drawers, turning them from trash into treasure.

1. Transforming Drawers into Stylish Shelving Units

 

Old drawers can be easily converted into chic shelving units. By simply mounting them on the wall, you can create a visually appealing display for books, plants, or decorative items. Sand down the drawer, paint or stain it to match your decor, and attach it securely to the wall using brackets. For an added touch, consider lining the inside with wallpaper or fabric to create a pop of color or pattern.

2. Creating Unique Planters for Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Drawers make excellent planters, offering ample space for a variety of plants. For indoor use, line the drawer with a plastic sheet to prevent water damage, and fill it with soil and your choice of plants. For outdoor gardens, consider stacking multiple drawers in a tiered arrangement to create a vertical garden. This not only saves space but also adds a rustic charm to your garden area.

3. Crafting a Vintage Drawer Coffee Table

A vintage drawer can be transformed into a charming coffee table with a few simple steps. Attach sturdy legs to the bottom of the drawer, ensuring they are the right height for your seating area. The drawer itself can serve as a storage compartment for magazines, remote controls, or other living room essentials. Finish the piece with a glass top for a sleek look, or leave it open for a more rustic feel.

4. Designing a Drawer-Based Pet Bed

Create a cozy and stylish pet bed by repurposing an old drawer. Remove any hardware and sand down rough edges. Add a cushion or pillow that fits snugly inside the drawer, providing a comfortable spot for your pet to rest. Personalize the bed by painting the drawer in colors that match your home decor or adding your pet’s name for a special touch.

5. Constructing a Drawer Wall Organizer

Turn a drawer into a functional wall organizer by adding hooks, knobs, and small shelves inside. This is perfect for entryways or home offices, providing a place to hang keys, store mail, and organize small items. Paint or stain the drawer to match your decor, and mount it on the wall at a convenient height for easy access.

6. Building a Drawer Ottoman with Storage

An old drawer can be transformed into a stylish ottoman with built-in storage. Attach a cushioned top to the drawer, and add legs or casters for mobility. The drawer provides hidden storage space for blankets, magazines, or other items, while the cushioned top offers a comfortable place to rest your feet or an extra seat for guests.

7. Making a Drawer Shadow Box for Display

Create a shadow box for displaying collectibles or memorabilia by using an old drawer. Remove the drawer’s front panel, and add a backing board if needed. Arrange your items inside, using small shelves or dividers to create different sections. Hang the shadow box on the wall or place it on a shelf for a unique display piece.

8. Turning Drawers into Under-Bed Storage Solutions

 

 

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