Why People Are Ditching Medicine Cabinets
You’ve probably noticed: fewer and fewer bathrooms include traditional medicine cabinets above the sink. Here’s why:
They can feel bulky or builder-basic
Modern vanities offer better, more accessible storage
Design trends are leaning clean, minimal, and mirror-forward
They often don’t work with today’s wall-mounted faucets or sconce lighting
It’s not that they’re “bad.” They’re just not always the best option anymore.
What’s Replacing Medicine Cabinets?
If you’re remodeling, you’ve got plenty of storage options.
Flat or framed mirrors for a more polished look
Floating vanities with full-extension drawers
Tall linen cabinets or towers for overflow
Built-in shelving niches behind doors or near the shower
Wall shelves for open, display-worthy storage
These solutions give you more space without compromising the overall design.
But Here’s When a Medicine Cabinet Still Makes Sense
There are still cases where a medicine cabinet is the right call:
Small bathrooms with tight vanity space
Guest bathrooms where you don’t need full drawer storage
Shared bathrooms where each person wants their own zone
Vintage or mid-century homes where it fits the style
In these cases, the right cabinet can add storage without sacrificing function.
Today’s Medicine Cabinets Look a Lot Better
If you’re including one in your new bathroom, don’t settle for what’s always been done.
Modern versions can include:
Mirrored fronts that blend into the wall
Recessed frames that sit flush
Custom cabinetry doors to match your vanity
Built-in lighting, outlets, or defoggers
Soft-close hinges and adjustable shelving
Even better? Some are hidden behind a regular mirror you’d never know opened.
Thinking of Removing Yours? Read This First
Pulling out a medicine cabinet might seem like an easy upgrade. But take a moment to think through the trade-offs.
What will replace the storage?
Will you need to move electrical wiring or patch drywall?
Is there a new mirror or lighting plan in place?
A recessed medicine cabinet can hold a lot more than you think. If you’re short on vanity drawers, losing it might create a new problem.
So... Are They Outdated?
They’re not outdated. They’re just not one-size-fits-all anymore.
If it makes sense for your layout, your routines, and your storage needs—keep it. Or upgrade it with something more design-forward. If not, there are plenty of smart alternatives that can give your bathroom a more modern feel without sacrificing function.
Like any remodel decision: it should be thoughtful, not automatic.
Ready to start planning your kitchen remodel? Click here to get started.
