What Can I Use Instead of a Medicine Cabinet?

Ah, the medicine cabinet. It’s one of those bathroom staples we rarely think about until it’s time for a change. Maybe you’re redesigning your bathroom, or perhaps you just moved into a new place, and that old, clunky recessed medicine cabinet doesn’t quite fit your vision. Whatever the reason, you’re probably wondering, “What can I use instead of a medicine cabinet?” Well, you’re in luck! There are plenty of stylish and functional alternatives to keep your bathroom looking sleek while storing all your essentials.

Why Move Away from Traditional Medicine Cabinets?

Before we dive into the alternatives, let's chat about why you might want to ditch the traditional medicine cabinet in the first place.

1. Aesthetics: Those old-fashioned cabinets can sometimes look dated. If you're going for a modern, minimalistic, or even a rustic look, they might not fit the bill.
2. Space Utilization: Medicine cabinets often don’t make the best use of space, especially in small bathrooms.
3. Accessibility: For some, reaching into a recessed medicine cabinet can be a hassle, especially if it’s placed over the sink.

Now that we’ve covered the why, let’s explore some fantastic alternatives.

1. Floating Shelves

Why They Work: Floating shelves are incredibly versatile. They can be installed at any height and provide easy access to your essentials. Plus, they look modern and can make your bathroom appear more spacious.

How to Style: Choose shelves in a material that complements your bathroom decor. Wooden shelves add warmth, while glass can keep things looking clean and contemporary. Arrange your toiletries in stylish containers or baskets to keep everything organized.

2. Open Shelving Units

Why They Work: Open shelving units offer plenty of storage space and can be customized to fit your needs. They come in various sizes and styles, making them a great option for any bathroom layout.

How to Style: Use baskets or bins to keep smaller items tidy. You can also display decorative items like candles or small potted plants to add a personal touch.

3. Mirrored Cabinets

Why They Work: If you still want the functionality of a mirror with storage, but not the recessed kind, mirrored cabinets are a great alternative. These can be mounted on the wall and come with internal shelves.

How to Style: Opt for a cabinet with a sleek, frameless design for a modern look. If you’re into vintage vibes, go for something with an ornate frame.

4. Vanity Cabinets

Why They Work: Vanity cabinets combine the functionality of a sink with ample storage space underneath. They’re perfect for hiding away those less-than-aesthetic items like cleaning supplies and bulk products.

How to Style: Choose a vanity with drawers and doors to keep things organized and out of sight. You can also add drawer organizers to keep smaller items from getting lost.

5. Over-the-Toilet Storage

Why They Work: Over-the-toilet storage units are a genius way to utilize vertical space in your bathroom. They come in various styles, from simple shelves to more elaborate cabinets.

How to Style: Keep frequently used items within easy reach and use decorative baskets or jars for smaller items. This keeps the space looking neat and stylish.

6. Trolley Carts

Why They Work: Trolley carts are mobile and versatile. They can be moved around as needed and provide ample storage for your bathroom essentials.

How to Style: Opt for a trolley that matches your bathroom decor. Use it to store everyday items like skincare products and toiletries. You can also add a few decorative touches like small plants or candles.

7. Medicine Cabinet with Lights

Why They Work: If you’re not ready to completely part ways with a traditional medicine cabinet, consider upgrading to one with built-in lights. These offer the added benefit of extra illumination, making your morning routine a bit easier.

How to Style: Choose a cabinet with adjustable shelves to customize the storage space. The built-in lights can add a touch of luxury and improve visibility.

8. Wall-Mounted Baskets

Why They Work: Wall-mounted baskets are a chic and functional way to store your bathroom essentials. They’re great for keeping items within reach without taking up counter space.

How to Style: Use baskets made from natural materials like wicker or metal for a rustic or industrial look. Mix and match sizes for visual interest and functionality.

9. Apothecary Jars

Why They Work: Apothecary jars are both functional and decorative. They’re perfect for storing cotton balls, Q-tips, and other small items.

How to Style: Arrange them on a shelf or your bathroom counter. Choose jars in different shapes and sizes for a charming, old-world apothecary vibe.

10. Built-In Niches

Why They Work: Built-in niches are a sleek and seamless way to add storage to your bathroom. They’re recessed into the wall, providing storage without taking up extra space.

How to Style: Use niches in your shower to store shampoo and body wash, or near the sink for everyday essentials. You can even add a pop of color with tiles to make the niche stand out.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a plethora of stylish and practical alternatives to the traditional medicine cabinet. Whether you’re aiming for a modern look with floating shelves or need extra storage with a vanity cabinet, there’s an option out there to suit your needs and style.

Remember, the key to a functional and beautiful bathroom is to choose storage solutions that complement your space and personal taste. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can create a bathroom that’s both organized and aesthetically pleasing. So, go ahead and give your bathroom that much-needed makeover. You’ll be amazed at how a few thoughtful changes can transform the entire space!