Medicine cabinets are a crucial component of any bathroom, providing a convenient and organized space to store essential items such as medications, first aid supplies, and toiletries. However, not all medicine cabinets are designed to open from both the left and right sides. If you have a medicine cabinet that currently opens from the right side but would prefer it to open from the left side for better accessibility or aesthetic reasons, you may be wondering if it is possible to adjust the door. In this article, we will explore the options and considerations when it comes to adjusting the door of a medicine cabinet to open from the left side.
Understanding the Design of the Medicine Cabinet
Before attempting any modifications, it is important to familiarize yourself with the construction and design of your medicine cabinet. Medicine cabinets typically have a hinged door that is attached to the sidewalls or frame with hinges. The hinges might be positioned in a way that allows the door to swing only in one direction, preventing it from opening from the opposite side.
Assessing the Feasibility of Adjusting the Door
To determine whether adjusting the door to open from the left side is possible, several factors should be considered:
- Type of Hinges: Examine the type of hinges used on your medicine cabinet. Most cabinets feature surface-mounted hinges that can be adjusted or replaced to change the direction of the door swing. If your medicine cabinet uses piano hinges or concealed hinges, modifications might be more challenging.
- Space Constraints: Assess the space surrounding the medicine cabinet. Ensure that there is sufficient clearance on the left side for the door to swing open without obstruction. Nearby light fixtures, mirrors, or other bathroom fixtures may limit the range of motion for the door.
Adjusting the Hinges
If your medicine cabinet employs surface-mounted hinges, adjusting them to open from the opposite side is relatively straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Remove the Door: Open the medicine cabinet door completely and locate the screws holding the hinges in place. Unscrew these screws using a screwdriver to detach the door from the cabinet.
- Adjust the Hinges: Flip the door to the opposite side to see the new position of the hinges. Align the hinges to the desired location on the left side, making sure they are perfectly level. Then, use a pencil to mark the new screw holes.
- Drill New Holes: Use an appropriate-sized drill bit to create fresh screw holes on the left side of the cabinet. Be cautious while drilling to avoid damaging the cabinet’s internal shelves or mirrored surface.
- Attach Hinges and Reinstall Door: Secure the hinges in their new position on the left side of the medicine cabinet using screws. Ensure they are tightly fastened. Finally, attach the door back onto the hinges and check if it opens and closes smoothly from the left side.
Professional Help and Alternatives
If adjusting the hinges seems challenging or if your medicine cabinet utilizes piano hinges or concealed hinges, seeking professional help might be a viable option. A skilled carpenter or cabinet installer can assess the viability of modifying your medicine cabinet and offer alternative solutions if necessary.
Alternatively, if modifying the door is not possible or desirable, another option is to consider replacing the medicine cabinet entirely. There are a wide variety of medicine cabinets available on the market, many of which offer reversible doors or the option to select the side of the swing during installation.
Adjusting the door of a medicine cabinet to open from the left side is possible in many cases, especially if the cabinet employs surface-mounted hinges. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily modify the cabinet’s door swing to better suit your preferences. However, it is essential to consider space constraints and the type of hinges used in your specific cabinet before attempting any adjustments. If in doubt, consulting a professional can help ensure a successful modification or guide you towards alternative solutions, such as replacing the medicine cabinet entirely with a more suitable model.