Antique Stepback Cupboard
Discover the charm of my Antique Stepback Cupboard! Learn about this solid maple piece from 1910-1920, its functionality, and how I scored it for just $60 on Facebook Marketplace.
When I came across an Antique Stepback Cupboard on Facebook Marketplace, I knew I had found something special. This gorgeous piece, dating back to the 1910-1920 era, is crafted from solid maple and has the timeless charm only antiques possess.
Even better, I managed to snag it for just $60! From its sturdy construction to its classic design, this cupboard is a functional addition to my home and a stunning piece of history. Let me share more about this incredible find and the many ways it can be used.

When we purchased our home in 2018, I knew a cabinet would be the perfect addition to the laundry room, so I was on the hunt before you knew it.
As I was researching, I learned that an antique Stepback Cupboard is just what I wanted. It had to be antique and well-made and pleasing to the ascetic of our 1885 home.
If you know me, you know I love a good deal—especially on antiques. Recently, I stumbled upon an incredible find on Facebook Marketplace: a stunning antique stepback cupboard for just $60!
Yes, you read that right. This beauty was sitting there, waiting for someone to see its potential, and I couldn’t hit “Message Seller” fast enough.
The Stepback Cupboard was a Marketplace Find.
If you have been following me for a while, you know I love a good antique find! But can you believe this was only $60?
I was chatting with the seller about how he acquired the cupboard. He purchased it many years ago at an antique store and restored it to its natural beauty.
Built to Last
One of the things I admire most about antique furniture is the craftsmanship, and this cupboard is no exception. It’s made well, with sturdy construction and attention to detail that you just don’t see in modern furniture.
The solid maple wood has a beautiful grain; despite its age, it’s in excellent shape.
What a Steal!
Finding a piece like this for $60 feels like winning the antique lover’s lottery. Similar cupboards, especially ones as well-made and charming as this, can easily go for hundreds of dollars.
The seller was looking to downsize and was thrilled to know it was going to someone who would cherish it.

We had a bookcase that we used for storage, which housed baskets to keep things neat and tidy. However, it always looked like a mess, so I thought a cabinet would be the perfect solution to hide all the items.
Why I Love Antique Finds
Purchasing antique furniture is a budget-friendly way to decorate and add unique character to your home.
Every piece has a story and a personality that mass-produced furniture can’t replicate. Plus, giving these treasures a new home helps keep them out of landfills and preserves them for future generations.
The Details
The antique stepback cupboard has its original hardware that is so beautiful & the details are gorgeous.


Tips for Finding a Similar Piece Like the Stepback Cupboard
If you’ve fallen in love with the charm and functionality of my Antique Stepback Cupboard, you might be wondering how to find one of your own. These timeless pieces can be treasures waiting to be discovered! Here are some practical tips for tracking down a similar cupboard:
1. Check Online Marketplaces
- Facebook Marketplace: This is where I scored my $60 find! Search keywords like “stepback cupboard,” “antique cupboard,” or “vintage cabinet.”
- Craigslist: Another great platform for finding local furniture deals.
- eBay: For those willing to pay shipping costs, eBay offers a broader selection.
2. Visit Local Antique Shops and Flea Markets
- Antique shops often carry a variety of furniture, including stepback cupboards from different periods.
- Flea markets are perfect for finding unique pieces at negotiable prices. Go early for the best selection or late for potential discounts.
3. Explore Estate Sales and Auctions
- Estate sales are excellent for finding authentic antiques, often at reasonable prices.
- Check auction houses for vintage furniture; some even allow online bidding.
4. Join Social Media Groups
- Many communities have Facebook groups dedicated to buying, selling, and trading antiques.
- Engage with collectors and sellers to learn about upcoming sales or hidden gems.
5. Keep an Open Mind at Thrift Stores
- While rare, stepback cupboards can occasionally be found at thrift stores like Goodwill or local charity shops.
- Visit often, as inventory changes frequently. Don’t be afraid to look past dirt or old paint layers—these can easily be restored.
6. Network with Fellow Antique Lovers
- Connect with others who share your passion for vintage furniture. They may know of places or sellers that offer great finds.
7. Know What to Look For
- Construction: Look for solid wood (like maple or oak) and quality craftsmanship.
- Authenticity: Check for signs of age, such as dovetail joints, original hardware, or patina.
- Dimensions: Ensure the piece fits your space and has the storage capacity you need.
8. Set a Budget and Be Patient
- While I was lucky to find my cupboard for $60, prices can vary widely. Set a budget and be willing to wait for the right piece at the right price.
- Remember, the hunt is part of the fun!

Finding a stepback cupboard requires patience and persistence. Still, the reward of owning a unique piece of history is worth the effort. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to discovering a charming antique to call your own!
There are many Creative Uses for the Stepback Cupboard!
Although I am using the cupboard for storage in the laundry room, there are so many other wonderful options to use an antique stepback cupboard in your home!
Stepback cabinets are more than antique beauties; they’re incredibly functional pieces that can serve various purposes in your home.
With their timeless charm and solid construction, these versatile cabinets can be found in nearly every room. Whether you’ve recently snagged one or are dreaming of owning one, here are a few creative ways to use a stepback cabinet in your home.
Kitchen Storage
Traditionally, stepback cabinets were used in kitchens to store dishes, cookware, and pantry items. Their design involved a deeper base with a narrower upper section.
This makes them perfect for displaying plates, bowls, and glassware on top while keeping bulky items like pots, linens, or small appliances tucked away below. If you love the look of an old-fashioned, functional kitchen, this is ideal.
Dining Room Display
Turn your stepback cabinet into a stunning focal point in your dining room. Use the upper shelves to showcase your finest china, vintage glassware, or decorative collectibles.
The enclosed lower cabinet can hide less attractive items like tablecloths, serving dishes, or seasonal decor. It’s a stylish way to marry practicality with design.
Home Office Organization
Who says stepback cabinets are only for kitchens? Use one in your home office to create a charming yet functional storage system.
The open shelves are perfect for organizing books, baskets with office supplies, or even plants to add greenery. The closed bottom can house files, printer paper, or any items you’d rather keep out of sight.
Bathroom Storage
A stepback cupboard can be a lifesaver for storage in a bathroom. The shelves can hold neatly folded towels, jars of cotton swabs, or baskets of toiletries.
The enclosed section can store extra toilet paper, cleaning supplies, or other necessities. Its vintage look adds warmth and character to a bathroom space.
Living Room or Entryway Accent Piece
A stepback cupboard can serve as a unique display case for books, photo frames, or small antiques in a living room. For hidden storage, add a few decorative baskets or boxes to the bottom.

In an entryway, it’s perfect for storing shoes, umbrellas, or winter accessories like hats and gloves while using the top for decor or a catch-all tray for keys and mail.
A Timeless Treasure
Stepback cabinets are not only beautiful but incredibly versatile. Whether you use yours for its original purpose or give it a new role in a modern home, these pieces always add character and functionality. The best part? With a little creativity, a stepback cabinet can fit into any room, becoming a beloved part of your home’s story.
Laundry Room
Stepback cabinets are not only beautiful but incredibly practical, making them a perfect addition to a laundry room. Their deep base cabinets and upper shelving offer both storage and style for a space that often gets overlooked in home design.
Store detergents, fabric softeners, and stain removers on the upper shelves of your stepback cabinet to keep your laundry essentials within easy reach.
Add decorative baskets or jars to organize smaller items like clothespins or dryer sheets. The enclosed lower section is ideal for hiding bulkier cleaning supplies or extra refills.
Storage for Linens and Towels
Use the stepback cupboard as a linen closet alternative. The upper shelves can display folded towels, washcloths, and spare bedding neatly. The lower cabinet is perfect for stashing seasonal items like heavier blankets or guest linens you don’t need every day.
Ironing and Sewing Supplies Hub
Organize all your ironing and sewing supplies in one convenient spot. Hang your iron and ironing board on the side or back of the cabinet and use the shelves to store spray starch, sewing kits, and extra buttons. The enclosed bottom can hold larger items like a handheld steamer or sewing machine.
Decorative Touch with Functionality
Laundry rooms don’t have to be dull! Add charm to your space by decorating the top shelves with vintage jars, small potted plants, or framed prints. The cabinet’s antique look will bring warmth and personality to your laundry room while keeping it functional.
A Practical Antique for Everyday Life
Incorporating a stepback cupboard into your laundry room is a wonderful way to combine storage, style, and functionality. Whether you’re using it for essentials or adding a decorative touch, this versatile piece will help keep your laundry space tidy and inviting.
Commonly Asked Questions
Stepback cabinets are versatile pieces that can bring charm and functionality to any space!
What is a Stepback Cupboard?
Another cabinet name is an antique stepback cupboard, which comprises a dovetailed case, enclosed closets, and a shelving unit on top of this construction.
A Stepback cupboard is a type of antique cabinet or cupboard with a distinctive design characterized by a recessed or “stepped” upper section set back from the lower part of the cupboard. This stepback feature gives the piece a tiered appearance, with the upper shelves typically smaller and more shallow than the lower section.
Here are the key features of a stepback cupboard:
- Two-Tiered Design
- Solid Construction
- Historical Significance
- Aesthetic Appeal
- Versatility
In short, a Stepback cupboard is a charming, functional piece of furniture that combines beautiful craftsmanship with practical storage solutions. This makes it a sought-after item in both vintage and contemporary home décor.
Why is it called a Stepback cupboard?
The Stepback cupboard gets its name from the unique design feature that distinguishes it from other types of cabinets. The “stepback” refers to the way the upper part of the cupboard is set back or recessed from the base, creating a step-like effect.
This design gives the piece visual interest and allows for more storage space in the lower section.
Historically, stepback cupboards were designed with a tall, open upper section with shelves for displaying dishes or glassware. In contrast, the lower section was often enclosed with doors, offering storage for larger items.
The “stepback” design became particularly popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, especially in the United States and Europe.
Furthermore, the combination of practicality and elegance made stepback cupboards a staple in kitchens, dining rooms, and pantries during the late 1800s and early 1900s, and their unique design continues to make them sought after today for functionality and charm.
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What is the difference between a Cabinet and a Cupboard?
A cupboard is more like a cabinet. You usually find cabinets built into a wall or it’s a separate piece of furniture.
Cabinets are typically considered general-purpose storage, as cupboards are known for storing food and dishes. However, the two are somewhat interchangeable; typically, a cupboard is a type of cabinet.
Can a stepback cupboard withstand the humidity of a laundry room?
Yes! Most stepback cabinets, especially those made from solid wood like maple or oak, are sturdy enough to handle moderate humidity. However, to preserve its condition:
- Place the cabinet away from direct exposure to moisture, such as near the washer or dryer.
- Use a dehumidifier or proper ventilation to reduce excess humidity in the room.
- Apply a wood sealant or furniture wax to protect the surface from damage over time.

How do I organize a stepback cupboard for laundry room essentials?
A stepback cabinet is perfect for organizing laundry supplies! Here’s a simple system:
- Use the upper shelves for lightweight items like detergents, dryer sheets, and stain removers. Store them in decorative jars or baskets for a cohesive look.
- Keep heavier items, such as extra detergent refills, cleaning supplies, or small laundry baskets, in the enclosed lower cabinet.
- Label storage containers to make finding items easy and to keep the space tidy.
What’s the best way to decorate a stepback cupboard in a laundry room?
Decorating your stepback cupboard can make your laundry room feel inviting. Try these tips:
- Use the top shelves for a mix of functional and decorative items, like vintage jars filled with clothespins or natural elements like greenery.
- Add a framed quote or sign with a laundry-themed message for a fun touch.
- Choose neutral tones and textures to complement the cabinet’s antique look while keeping the space visually calming.
Is it hard to maintain an antique stepback cupboard in a functional space?
Not at all! Regular care will keep your cabinet looking great. Dust and clean the surfaces regularly with a Soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals; use mild wood cleaners or homemade solutions like diluted vinegar. Reapply furniture wax or polish occasionally to keep the wood protected and vibrant.
Final thoughts…
A Stepback cupboard is a timeless piece of furniture that combines both form and function, making it a perfect addition to any home, whether you’re drawn to antiques or simply appreciate unique, well-crafted pieces. Its distinctive stepped design, sturdy construction, and versatile storage options make it not only a practical solution for organizing your home but also a charming focal point in any room.
Whether you find one at a local antique shop, estate sale, or Facebook Marketplace (like I did!), a stepback cupboard offers the perfect blend of history and style. Its ability to fit into a variety of spaces, from kitchens to living rooms, allows it to adapt to your personal needs and aesthetic. Plus, its character and craftsmanship make it a lasting investment that will serve as both a functional storage piece and a conversation starter for years to come.
So, if you’re looking to add something with history and character to your space, consider a stepback cupboard. It’s more than just furniture—it’s a piece of the past that can elevate your home and bring timeless charm into your everyday life.
Until next time,
If you want to follow along on our home restoration/renovation plans and all of our exciting antique & thrift finds, be sure to check out Linen and Wildflowers on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest! And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive updates.
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