Over the years, readers have written asking where to find mid century style medicine cabinets of all sorts. I’m updating this story [Nov. 2019] to identify known suppliers of the various styles as we’ve heard from more readers with tips and as some old suppliers exited the scene. – including the type with the vertical light bars to the right and left of the cabinets.
Current places to find mid century style medicine cabinets:
- Ketcham Cabinets has an expansive range of bathroom medicine cabinets. They have a “cosmetic series“. Check out the “sliding door with light on top” — so retro! And reader Jane used a more basic design — but one with lovely metal edging — in her gorgeous-built-from-scratch vintage style bathroom. In fact, it’s thanks to Jane that we first learned about Ketchum.
- Rangeaire makes a variety of medicine cabinets styles including the “cosmetics boxes”.
- Over on Amazon, I see that cosmetic boxes are made by Jensen and ProPlus. << affiliate links, I earn a commission if you click and buy anything after clicking
Medicine cabinets with light bars:
Check out this story about where you can find light bars — and replacement covers for them — that typically went to the left and right, or above, medicine cabinets.
Hunt vintage
You can also hunt vintage. My local ReStore Habitat for Humanity always seems to have a good variety of salvaged medicine cabinets. You can also watch the usual sources like craigslist, Facebook marketplace, local salvage places and vintage stores — even neighbors who are doing remodels. Please be aware, the glass in old mirrors may not be up to current safety standards and there could be lead paint etc. — get with your own pro to assess what you are dealing with so you can make informed decisions. Renovate Safe 🙂
Tip: It can be worthwhile to see a sample of your medicine cabinet “in the flesh” before you buy – in order to assure it meets your quality expectations. There could be differences in quality, from model to model.
Readers, be sure to let us know if you have any more tips on where to find vintage and mid century style medicine cabinets made new today — thank you!
Shane says
Yes there’s a dedicated Australian eBay. I came across a retractable ceiling light from there last week.
Pam Kueber says
PugFreek, why can’t you use ebay? I’m sure I’ve seen listings from Australia….?
Pam Kueber says
Northside CJ, I am not sure how early the 124LP started showing up. I’m sure I’ve seen it by the early 60s, though. I think it would look just fine in a mid-50s home. If you’d like, I can ask the folks at Nutone what the inception date was for this model….?
NorthsideCJ says
I’m amazed that you can still get some of these styles new. I’m thinking of ordering the 124LP. I think it would look great, but I’m not sure how well it would pass as mid-50’s period correct.
Palm Springs Stephan says
Should have added the direct link to the photo that Pam posted some time ago:
https://retrorenovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/pssbathroomsink.jpg
Pam Kueber says
Yes, Palm Springs Stephan – good stuff to be found on ebay – as well as at the Restore/Habitat for Humanity. It’s cool, though, that you can still get these vintage-style medicine cabinets new. In fact, I was looking at some circa-1967 marketing material this afternoon – and some of these Nutone designs for sure go back that far, at least. That company was prolific!
Palm Springs Stephan says
I cannot say this often enough: eBay, eBay, eBay!
I bought my circa 1950 white metal medicine cabinet on eBay, in absolutely mint condition. In fact, almost everything in my bathroom, including the bathtub, sink, and toilet, were purchased on eBay!
Shane says
In the specialty category, I’ve got the 455FL cabinet in my bathroom. I bought the house with an unfinished bathroom with this cabinet already installed so maybe I can convince my wife to finish the bathroom around the cabinet. 😛
Milster says
Wow Pam, how did you know my next thing to track down is a replacement for my medicine cabinet? Thank you for always doing such great legwork for us! My turquoise boomerang formica is supposed to arrive today for the kitchen project in works…I’ll keep you posted!
Pam Kueber says
Cool, Milster, can’t wait to see the final product!
patti says
Did you find a turquoise cabinet? I have one with verticle lights AND a turquoise shelf.
Amber Rhea says
Thank you! This is exactly what I’ve been looking for, but I haven’t been able to find one anywhere.
Jita says
I’ve been SO wanting one of these!