How to Convert a Dresser into a Bathroom Vanity

Learning how to convert a dresser into a bathroom vanity is a very cost effective and relatively easy way to add furniture in the room. This will update your bath with a popular trend of adding an upscale. With the right tools, you can quickly and easily accomplish this great look!

Step 1 - Prepare the Finish

First you will need to remove the top of the dresser, as well as the drawers. Depending on your plumbing, you may have to remove the drawers and only use the fronts of the drawers. You will want to measure to see if you need to remove the drawer fronts at this point so you can prepare your dresser. After removing the drawers and the top, prepare it for staining or painting unless your piece is already to your liking. If you decide to refinish your piece, do it at this point and apply sealant. If you are not refinishing you will need to cover the dresser with a sealant to protect it from any possible water damage. After you have let the sealant completely dry, you will be ready to cut the top.

Step 2 - Measure and Cut

Turn the top over onto a cloth and place your sink upside down on it, being sure you have it centered on the top. Trace around the sink and remove. Go back to the top where you traced, and make another marking one inch around the entire diameter of the original tracing. This is very important to be sure your sink has a lip to rest on and doesn't fall through. You will also need to cut the hole for your faucet using this same method. Do check to see how much extra room you will need to leave for the faucet to rest on, as it won’t need an inch. Faucets all vary. If you are replacing your old faucet, the instructions for installation will be on the packaging. After the top is cut for the sink and faucet using a jig saw, the back will need cut for your plumbing coming out from the wall. You can cut holes for the pipes, or you can opt to leave the back off entirely. This is a personal preference. After this is completed, you are ready for installation.

Step 3 -Installation

Set the vanity in place and be sure the plumbing is through the back and be sure it is in place. If you decided to leave the back off for simplicity's sake, skip this step. Put the top on your vanity and drop in the sink and faucet. Connect the plumbing to the sink and faucet and turn on the water to check for any leaks and make sure your fittings are tight enough. You can add a sealer to the fittings if you want to be sure they are sealed tightly. Take your drawers and slide into place. If you have had to remove the drawers and prepared the drawer fronts to cover the drawer space, adhere them into place with wood glue. They will snap into place. You will need to let the glue dry overnight to be sure they are held strongly in place. Next you will want to caulk around the sink and the faucet. You can find caulk in different colors, and there is also clear caulk if you cannot find a color that matches to your liking. Follow the instructions on the caulking for how to apply. You're finished!