Build Cabinets under a Bathroom Sink

Cabinets under the bathroom sink are a sure-shot way of increasing storage space, allowing you to keep toiletries and other things in them. Building simple cabinets is a relatively easy job for the eager do-it-yourselfer and can be completed in a few hours.

Follow these steps to build your own cabinets under a bathroom sink.

Step 1: Take Appropriate Measurements

Use a measuring tape to measure the area under a bathroom sink so you can determine appropriate cabinet height, width and breath. Measure the height 4-inches off the floor to the base of the sink to determine how high the cabinets should be. Similarly, measure the width from one side of the sink to the other to determine the width of the cabinets.

Note these measurements on paper. Decide whether you want a single cabinet under the sink or have space for two or more that will be placed flush against each other.

Step 2: Cut Plywood to Size

Visit your local hardware store to purchase ½-inch thick plywood sheets with a smooth finish. Use your measurements to cut the plywood to size yourself with a handsaw, or have a professional do it for you. You will need two equal boards for the sides, two equal boards for the top and bottom, and two equal boards for the back and door. Depending on the size of your cabinet, you can have one or more shelves to increase storage.

Step 3: Attach the Base and Sides

Begin assembling your bathroom sink cabinets by placing the plywood sheet for the bottom piece on a flat surface in front of you. Stand one of the side pieces flush against its corner and join them together by drilling 1-inch galvanized wood screws at the top and bottom. Repeat the same procedure with the other side. Your cabinet structure will now have a base and two sides.

Step 4: Attach the Back and Top Boards

Lay the plywood sheet for the top over the cabinet structure and attach wood screws to connect it to both the sides.

Turn your cabinet around so the back faces upwards. Place the back piece over the structure and drill it into place with wood screws.

Step 5: Attach Shelves

Stand the cabinet up to install the shelves. To do this, slide a shelf into the structure so it is flush against the back. Hold it in place with one hand as you drill screws into the side of the cabinet through each shelf.

Step 6: Attach Door

Place both hinges on the same side of the plywood sheet for the door, one near the top and the other near the bottom. Drill them into place with wood screws. Place the door over the cabinet structure, extend the hinges to one of the side panels and drill them into place so they are secure.

Attach a hasp closure on the other side of the door, positioning it in the center of the hinges.

Review your cabinet, sand it to remove any splinters, and apply a coat or two of paint on it to make it decorative.