Choosing a new bathroom vanity can completely transform the look and feel of your bathroom. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to select the right vanity for your space and needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of picking out a bathroom vanity, from determining your budget and style to selecting the ideal size, material, and features. Follow these tips to ensure you choose the perfect vanity to upgrade your bathroom.
Determine Your Budget
The first step is deciding how much you want to spend on your new bathroom vanity. Prices can range dramatically based on size, materials, and features. High-end designer vanities can cost thousands, while basic budget models start around $200. Consider how much you are willing to invest in a focal feature of your bathroom.
Here are some average price ranges for vanities:
- Basic: $200 – $500
- Mid-range: $500 – $1500
- High-end: $1500 – $5000+
Set a comfortable budget that fits both your finances and your bathroom dreams. Remember you don’t necessarily need to buy the most expensive option to get a high quality, stylish vanity.
Decide on a Style
Vanities come in a diverse array of styles, from modern and contemporary to traditional and antique-inspired. Consider the overall aesthetic you want for your bathroom. Do you envision a sleek, minimalist look or a more ornate, vintage feel?
Some popular vanity styles include:
- Contemporary: Simple, streamlined designs with clean lines. Often frameless with minimal ornamentation.
- Traditional: Classic sophistication with elements like raised panels, crown moulding, fluted legs.
- Modern Farmhouse: Rustic charm meets modern simplicity. Natural wood tones and matte black finishes.
- Coastal: Relaxed, beachy vibe with white shaker cabinets and metal or rope accents.
- Industrial: Edgy, urban feel with exposed pipes, metal hardware, concrete or wood countertops.
- Antique: Opulent details like carved legs and panels, distressed paints, vintage hardware.
Once you identify the style you love, browse photos online or in design magazines to find inspiration. This will help guide you when selecting your vanity.
Choose the Right Size
Bathroom vanities come in a range of standard widths, depths, and heights. Make sure to measure your existing vanity and space carefully before selecting a new one.
Width
Common vanity widths are:
- 24 inches – Great for small powder rooms
- 30 to 36 inches – Standard for main bathrooms
- 48 to 72 inches – Spanning two sinks, ideal for master baths
Consider traffic flow and how much surface area you need. Opt for a wider vanity if multiple people will use it.
Depth
Standard depths are:
- 21 inches – Accommodates a standard sink
- 24 inches – Deeper sink and more countertop space
Account for plumbing and door swings when choosing depth.
Height
Look at your current vanity height and decide if you want to adjust it:
- 31 to 33 inches – Standard vanity height
- 36 inches – Wheelchair accessible
- Higher than 36 inches – Custom for standing tasks
Make sure to account for any changes in height when selecting your faucet and mirror.
Other Measurements
Also measure the width between your wall studs, distance from the floor to the bottom of the plumbing, and amount of existing electrical outlets. This will ensure proper fit and an easy installation.
Select a Countertop Material
Bathroom vanity countertops come in a diverse range of materials, each with their own aesthetic appeal, durability, and price point.
Natural Stone
- Marble: Elegant veining with upscale look. Stains easily.
- Granite: Durable surface with classic, speckled pattern.
- Quartzite: Resistant to scratches and etching. Neutral tones.
- Soapstone: Smooth feel, matte look. Needs frequent sealing.
Engineered Stone
- Quartz: Highly durable, low maintenance. Resists stains and heat.
- Sintered Stone: Mimics look of natural stone. Easy to clean.
Tile
- Ceramic: Budget-friendly option. Wide variety of colors and designs.
- Porcelain: More durable and water-resistant than ceramic.
- Glass: Adds shiny, sleek visual appeal. Can chip or scratch.
Wood
- Butcher Block: Warm, natural look. Requires maintenance.
- Wood Tile: Durable and moisture-resistant. Easy to clean.
Other
- Laminate: Budget option that mimics pricier materials. Susceptible to damage.
- Concrete: Industrial, utilitarian look. Can stain and etch.
- Stainless Steel: Sleek, modern appeal. Shows water spots.
Consider your lifestyle, design taste, and maintenance level when selecting a countertop. More durable options like quartz and porcelain tile work well for families.
Choose Your Sink Type
Bathroom sinks come in many different materials, shapes, sizes and configurations. Consider which sink attributes are most important for your space.
Materials
- Vitreous China – Glossy, classic porcelain look. Durable and stain-resistant.
- Enameled Steel – Similar look as vitreous china. Budget-friendly.
- Solid Surface – Seamless installation. Matte look resists showing water spots.
- Glass – Sleek and modern. Susceptible to chips, cracks and stains.
- Copper – Natural, antimicrobial material. Develops patina over time.
- Stone – Elegant marble, granite or limestone. Requires frequent sealing.
Mounting Styles
- Undermount – Installed below the countertop. Easy to wipe into sink. Needs solid surface.
- Drop-In – Sits in a hole cut in the counter. Rim rests on top.
- Vessel – Sits on top of the counter. Dramatic focal point.
- Wall Mount – Attaches directly to wall. Great for small spaces.
Configuration
- Single – One main basin. Most common option.
- Double – Two same-sized basins. Good for multiple users.
- Offset Double – One large and one small basin. Provides versatility.
Be sure to coordinate your sink with the vanity width, counter material and faucet configuration. An undermount sink requires an extended vanity to accommodate installation.
Choose Between Open or Closed Storage
Vanities are available with either open bottom shelves or closed cabinet doors for storage. Consider the pros and cons of each option:
Open Shelving
Pros
- Airy, open look
- Easy to access items
- Can customize storage baskets
Cons
- Exposes plumbing and clutter
- Limited privacy
- No protection from moisture
Best for contemporary styles and organized spaces.
Enclosed Cabinets
Pros
- Hides plumbing and mess
- Flexible built-in storage
- Protect contents from moisture
Cons
- Closed off look
- Items can get buried in back
Great for traditional styles and containing lots of supplies.
Take into account your storage needs, bathroom style and organization abilities when deciding between open and closed vanity storage.
Choose Your Cabinet Design
Vanity cabinets come in many different designs and finishes to coordinate with your style. Consider cabinet doors, hardware, color, finish and detailing when selecting cabinetry for your vanity.
Doors
- Slab: Simple, clean look.
- Shaker: Classic style with center recessed panel.
- Raised Panel: Ornate with framing around central panel.
- Doorless: Open shelving. Casual style.
- Framed Glass: Allows visibility inside cabinet.
Hardware
- Knobs: Traditional look with round shape.
- Pulls: Modern, streamlined handle bar.
- Handles: Elongated metal grip shape.
Finish hardware to match faucets and mirrors.
Color
- White: Clean, bright, classic. Easy to match with any style.
- Gray: Versatile neutral works with cool or warm tones.
- Black: Dramatic and sleek for modern spaces.
- Wood Stain: Adds natural, organic look. Must match décor.
Finish
- Glossy lacquer: Smooth, shiny, reflective surface. Shows scratches.
- Matte lacquer: Silky finish mutes reflections. Hides fingerprints.
- Stained wood: Natural appeal. Requires more maintenance.
- Painted: Custom colors. Chip-prone.
- Thermofoil: Durable, budget-friendly faux woodgrain finish.
Combine painted cabinets with wood or marble counters for visual interest.
Details
Look for special accents that reflect your style:
- Molding, corbels and feet for traditional charm
- Angled legs or metal bases for contemporary cool
- Exposed hinges, pipes and edges for industrial edge
Have fun choosing creative details to make your vanity unique!
Order Bathroom Vanity Accessories
Don’t forget essential vanity accessories that finish the look and enhance functionality.
Mirror
Aim for a mirror at least as wide as your vanity. Consider convenient features:
- Lighted mirror for bright, shadow-free grooming
- Defogger to keep mirror clear after showers
- Tilting mirror that adjusts angle as needed
- Storage behind mirror to tuck away toiletries
Coordinate the frame with your vanity hardware.
Stool or Chair
Seating creates a convenient place to put on make-up or style hair. Look for:
- Comfortable seat height and depth
- Wheels for mobility
- Washable, stain-resistant upholstery
- Style matching your vanity
Storage Solutions
Keep toiletries organized with trays, boxes and bins:
- Pull-out drawer organizers
- Spinning corner lazy susans
- Matching canisters for cotton swabs and cotton balls
- Concealed hampers for hiding dirty laundry
Luxury Touches
Elevate your routine with spa-like accents:
- Towel warmer for pampering comfort
- Diffused vanity lighting for a flattering glow
- Charging station or Bluetooth speaker to enjoy music
- Personalized monogrammed towels or robe hooks
How to Pick Out a Bathroom Vanity: Key Takeaways
Picking out a new bathroom vanity may seem overwhelming initially, but following this decision-making process will ensure you end up with your dream vanity:
- Set a comfortable budget for your vanity investment
- Browse photos to identify your ideal bathroom style
- Carefully measure your existing space and vanity
- Select a durable, easy-care countertop material
- Choose a sink configuration that fits your needs
- Decide between open or closed vanity storage
- Have fun with creative cabinet designs and hardware
- Finish your vanity with a beautiful mirror and accessories
By taking the time to make informed decisions, you can create a bathroom oasis with a vanity that looks beautiful and functions perfectly for years to come. Enjoy the process of designing your ideal space!
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Bathroom Vanity
What is the standard size for a bathroom vanity?
The standard width for a single-sink bathroom vanity is 30 to 36 inches. However, exact vanity dimensions depend on your available space. Measure your bathroom carefully, accounting for traffic flow, door swings and existing plumbing locations.
How do I choose a vanity height?
Standard vanity heights range from 31 to 36 inches. The most common choice is 32 or 33 inches. Consider visibility in your mirror and easy access for all household members. Standard wheelchair accessible height is 34 to 36 inches.
What is the deepest bathroom vanity?
Deeper vanities of 24 inches provide ample counter space, though depths of 21 to 22 inches can work with vessel sinks mounted on the counter. Make sure to measure clearance from walls, doors and existing plumbing when selecting vanity depth.
What is the most popular bathroom vanity material?
The most popular vanity materials are wood, MDF or plywood with a laminate finish. Laminate provides an affordable, durable surface that is heat, scratch and stain-resistant while mimicking natural stone and wood grains.
What should I look for in bathroom vanity cabinets?
Look for vanity cabinets with sturdy plywood box construction, soft-closing doors and drawers, concealed European hinges, full extension drawer glides, and finished interiors. Choose water-resistant materials like plywood over particleboard or MDF.
How much should I budget for a bathroom vanity?
A basic vanity can cost $200 to $500. Most mid-range vanities fall between $500 to $1500. For high-end designer vanities made with premium materials and detailing, expect to pay $1500 to $5000 or more. Set a budget that fits the overall style and cost of your bathroom remodel.
What are the best materials for bathroom vanity countertops?
The best vanity countertop materials are quartz, quartzite, and porcelain or ceramic tile. These durable, non-porous surfaces resist moisture, scratches, stains, and heat. Marble looks elegant but requires frequent sealing. Laminate is affordable but less durable over time.
Should I get an undermount or top mount sink?
Undermount sinks install below the counter for an elegant, streamlined look. However, top mount or drop-in sinks are easier to install and less expensive. Vessel sinks sit on top of the counter as decorative focal points. Select based on your style, counter material, and DIY abilities.
How do I organize my bathroom vanity?
Maximize your vanity storage with pull-out drawers, Lazy Susans, and trays to corral small items. Use everyday toiletries near the sink and tuck away lesser-used items. Install hooks on the back of doors to hang towels or small appliances. Add a mirror cabinet for hidden storage.
So in summary, when picking out a new bathroom vanity, carefully measure your existing space, set a budget, browse photos for inspiration on style, and select the ideal sink, counter, cabinet, and storage options for your needs. Take time to make deliberate choices and you’ll love your new vanity!
