How to pick the right bathroom vanity


Bathroom vanities are one of the most challenging items to shop for. They are a permanent fixture in your home, and choosing the best product for the job is a decision not to be taken lightly. Your style may change over time as trends come and go. So, how do you pick an item that will have a lasting impact on the overall look of a room?

Particularly in smaller bathrooms, a vanity is the largest piece of furniture and shapes the room’s identity, along with the paint color or, if you dare, wallpaper.

Selecting the perfect vanity doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are six steps to choosing a vanity:

Decide the Size You Need

The bare minimum is that the vanity needs to physically fit in the space. Measure the width left to right of the space you have available. If there is additional space remember that the plumbing typically goes in the center of the vanity and therefor you need an even amount of space on either side of the plumbing to have a good fit. If you have additional space you might choose a larger cabinet for more countertop space. Or, you might prefer a smaller cabinet to make room for a laundry hamper or other furniture. Decide what feels right to you

Determine the Function of the Vanity

Do you need drawers, shelves, or cabinets? Typically a shelf on the bottom is great for rolled towels or a basket with toiletries, toilet paper, hand towels, ect. Drawers are great if you want to separate a few different functions. For example in a kids bathroom you may give each child their own drawer, one for hair supplies, another for nail care ect. Vanities with cabinets only are typically less expensive. These are great for powder rooms where you may just want to keep a few maintenance items underneath like cleaners or extra toilet paper.

Consider the Quality

Bathrooms are high-traffic areas subject to frequent use and moisture. A high-quality vanity, made from durable materials like solid wood, can better withstand daily wear and tear compared to lower-quality materials like particleboard. Solid wood or high-grade plywood vanities are less likely to warp, crack, or deteriorate over time. For a bathroom with heavy use, opt for a higher quality material to withstand everyday bumps.

Choose the Style

Select a vanity style that fits with the general vibe of the rest of your home. For example, a modern home might feature clean lines, minimalistic designs, and a neutral color palette, whereas a traditional home might include more ornate details, classic lines, and rich colors. Choosing a vanity that matches these characteristics ensures that the bathroom feels like a natural extension of the rest of your home. Key identifiers are usually in the descriptions of the vanity or filters used to search for them.

Check Plumbing Compatibility

Older homes often have plumbing that surfaces through the floor, whereas newer plumbing typically comes out of the wall. If you are replacing an older vanity with floor plumbing, you may want a vanity without legs to hide the plumbing.

Check the Number of Faucet Holes

Many vanities come with the sink top included. If there are three holes, you will need either a faucet with three separate nozzles or a faucet with a plate to cover the holes. It’s best to know this upfront and plan for the correct pairing. You can also purchase a sink top separately or order a custom one.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you choose a vanity that not only fits your bathroom but also enhances its functionality and style.

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Hi! I’m Kristy Pedersen. I’m renovating houses in Philadelphia and sharing the process one step at a time.