Turn a Broken Fridge into an Amazing DIY Backyard Cooler for Just $40

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cooler made out of old fridge

Have an old fridge sitting in your garage?

Summer is in full swing and it’s time for cookouts, fire pits, and pool parties! If you have an old refrigerator that you’re not sure what to do with, Matt over at Instructables.com has an amazing idea! He put together an awesome step-by-step tutorial on how to transform a broken fridge into a DIY backyard cooler or serving station!

Even better, the entire project costs around $40 if you already have the old fridge! If not, you can grab one on the cheap from a garage sale, Craigslist, your local Facebook yard sale group, or Marketplace.

backyard cooler

This cooler is perfect for storing all those backyard BBQ must-haves, including drinks, snacks, meat, and more. Plus, you can attach wheels and move it around your patio or pool area! After the party is over, you can easily drain the ice and melted water so that it’s ready to go for your next get-together.

DIY backyard fridge cooler in yard

Interested in making this backyard fridge cooler? Head over to Instructables.com for DIY instructions.


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About the writer:

Angela graduated with a Bachelor's Degree and has 25+ years of experience as a writer and photographer with her work being featured in US Weekly Magazine, The Los Angeles Times, People Magazine, and more.


Join The Discussion

Comments 6

  1. Cassie

    You can also turn a broken fridge into a root cellar!

    • Jennifer (Hip Sidekick)

      Great idea, Cassie!

  2. Laura

    Suuuuuuuppper cool! I LOVE when items are repurposed and not dumped in a landfill!!! ๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿผ

    • Jennifer (Hip Sidekick)

      I totally agree, Laura!

  3. LB

    How do you empty the ice/water when done with it?

    • Amber (Hip Sidekick)

      Hi LB! When clicking through the link above and scrolling down a bit, I do see that they installed a drain. Hope that helps!

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