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How to build a laundry hamper cabinet
How to build a laundry hamper cabinet
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Overview
Flex your D.I.Y. skills by building this chic and sleek laundry hamper cabinet to cleverly house a laundry basket and clothes. Using 12mm plywood keeps the cost and weight down, so it can effortlessly move on castors, and you can have your ply cut in store to make the project even simpler!
Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
Steps
Cutting list
From 12mm plywood:
- Side panels: 700mm x 500mm (x2)
- Back panel: 700mm x 500mm
- Base panel: 525mm x 495mm
- Top panel: 525mm x 525mm
- Door: 525mm x 695mm
- Platform: 380mm x 340mm
Cut the plywood
Follow the cutting list and use a framing square to measure and mark the panels and door along the plywood length, and the platform on the end. Position offcuts underneath to protect the workbench, clamp and cut using a circular saw and guide.
Tip: Have the ply cut in store to skip this step.
Assemble the panels
Butt the side panels against the back. Use a combination square to mark lines 6mm in from the edges; predrill five evenly spaced holes with a countersinking bit. Apply adhesive; secure with 30mm screws. Position the top and base panels, marking 6mm lines around the sides and back to predrill evenly spaced holes; secure.
Drill the door
To make the finger pull at the top of the door, mark the centre and 70mm down from the top. Position offcuts underneath and clamp the door to the workbench. Centre a 32mm spade bit on the mark to drill halfway through, then flip and complete from the other side to avoid breakout.
Reinforce the door
On the base of the door, centre a reinforcing angle bracket with the platform flush against it; secure through all holes with button head screws. Locate the centre of the platform on the front of the door with a combination square, then mark a line to predrill four evenly spaced holes; secure with 30mm screws.
![A metal bracket reinforcing a timber joint.]](https://media.bunnings.com.au/api/public/content/f082951c99d3408198950c32613cd304?v=a6ad4ee3&t=w700h461SmartCropdpr2)
Paint the hamper
Sand and fill all screw holes with filler; leave to dry. Sand the cabinet and door all over with 180-grit abrasive paper, smoothing into the finger pull with a rolled piece. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth. Apply primer all over with a mini roller; leave to dry. Apply two coats of semi-gloss paint, leaving to dry after each coat.
Attach the hinges
With the platform facing up, centre the door flat, 5mm away from the cabinet base. Centre fixed-pin hinges either side, spines facing down, checking the gap is even. Predrill starter holes through the hinges with a 2mm bit; secure with button head screws.
Tip: Starter holes of about 3mm deep hold the screw tips in place.
Install the cabinet
Inside the cabinet on both sides, mark 30mm in from the front edges and 350mm up from base and predrill starter holes through the ball brackets of the furniture stays; secure with button head screws. At the door base, mark 30mm in and 65mm up to predrill starter holes through the mounting plates; secure with 12mm screws. Lock the stays onto the plates, then tilt the door and press onto the ball brackets.
Attach the castors
Position swivel castors on the base, 10mm from the edges, with locks on opposite corners; secure with button head screws. Position a magnetic catch under the top of the cabinet, check it lines up with the door; secure with 12mm screws. Secure the plate at the top of the door using 12mm screws.
Tip: The supplied screws are too long for 12mm ply.
Keep in mind...
- Always wear gloves, a mask, eye and skin protection and work in a well-ventilated area when working with plywood.
- When using power tools, protect ears and eyes with ear muffs and safety glasses (gloves and mask also recommended), follow manufacturer’s instructions and work in a well-ventilated area.
- Do not climb or put excessive weight on the cabinet. Lock the castors when not moving it.
- Paint colours may vary on application
Looking for more laundry storage inspirations
Check out our article on how to make a D.I.Y. laundry basket dresser.
Photo credit: Natasha Dickins.
[disclaimers]
•Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.
More D.I.Y. Advice
Health & Safety
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.