How to Remove a Surface Mount Medicine Cabinet

Removing a surface mount medicine cabinet need not be a deal breaker for your do-it-yourself bathroom remodel.  Surface mount medicine cabinets are common fixtures because they are much easier to install than flush mount medicine cabinets. Just as the surface mount type is easier to install, it is easier to remove as well. Repairing the wall after removing a surface mount cabinet is a breeze. Following these simple instructions will ensure your success in removing your old surface-mount medicine cabinet and repairing the wall afterward.

Step 1:  Prep Your Work Area

Removing your surface mount medicine cabinet can damage your bathroom counter if you skip the preparation stage. You can scratch the counter with your tools or drip paint all over it. To avoid damaging the counter, cover it with a drop cloth or an old towel. 

Step 2:  Provide Support

If you are working alone, use paint cans and a scrap piece of wood to support the cabinet in case it slips when you remove the screws holding it in place. Take two paint cans and place them on the bathroom counter on either side of the medicine cabinet. Make sure the paint cans are not too close to the faucet if your medicine cabinet is located above the sink. Lay the scrap wood across the paint cans, creating a ledge to support the medicine cabinet. Be sure the ledge is directly underneath the edge of the medicine cabinet—with no space between the two, if possible. If the paint cans are too high, use books to make the ledge. If the paint cans are too low, add books on top the cans to reach the necessary height.

Step 3:  Remove Shelves, Screws and Cabinet

Remove all interior shelves from the medicine cabinet. Then, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws attaching the medicine cabinet to the wall. Take care that the medicine cabinet does not fall forward when you remove the last screw. Finally, pull the medicine cabinet away from the wall.

Step 4:  Repair the Wall

After you remove the medicine cabinet from the wall, the wall will have unsightly screw holes. To repair the holes, use a putty knife to fill the holes with joint compound. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using joint compound. After the joint compound is dry, sand the patched areas with fine grit sandpaper and use a tack cloth to remove any dust left from sanding. To finish the job, use your paint tray and paint roller to prime and paint the wall.

Removing that old surface mount medicine cabinet was not a deal breaker after all. Now that you are finished, you can step back and revel in a job well done.