How to Decorate With an Old Antique Metal Igloo Water Cooler

Old, antique metal coolers were originally designed to keep foods cold, usually cold drinks sold at gas stations and other food vendors. These metal ice chests are impractical for modern food storage because the metal can corrode in the presence of water. Many metal ice chests also have rusted areas or holes in the sides of the box, which make them impractical for daily use. However, these boxes have a vintage décor that is ideal for decorating rooms with a vintage theme, such as living rooms, bedrooms and even bathrooms.

Soft cloths
Clear varnish
Paintbrush
Screwdriver
Drill

Instructions

- 1
  Clean out the inside and outside of all coolers. Seal all rusted metal with clear varnish to prevent it from damaging other items and surfaces in the home.
- 2
  Use rust-free, small coolers for storage in kitchens or living rooms. Remove the lids with a screwdriver and store small items inside, such as food, fruits and vegetables, odds and ends, change, magazines or nearly any other small object.
- 3
  Use large coolers as end tables or coffee tables. Remove any top handles and use the flat top as an end table or coffee table, depending on the height and size of the cooler.
- 4
  Use a large cooler as a stand in a bathroom to hold bathroom items, towels or even a sink basin. Drill through the top and bottom of the cooler to fit the sink and plumbing lines inside the cooler box.
- 5
  Place several small coolers on a bookshelf or table for a decorative, vintage display.

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