When I was renovating my bathroom, picking the right vanity seemed like a small decision at first.
But soon enough, I realized how much the vanity impacts both the look and function of the room. It’s more than just a place to store your toiletries; it’s a key part of your bathroom’s overall feel.
If you’re planning on remodeling or just swapping out your old vanity, choosing the right one can completely transform your space.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the different types of bathroom vanities, from single to double, wall-mounted to free-standing.
I’ll also give you tips on how to measure your space, balance style and storage, and pick materials that work for your lifestyle.
By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which vanity suits your bathroom best.
How to Choose the Right Vanity for Your Space
Choosing a bathroom vanity is more than just picking a stylish piece. It must fit your space, match your style, and provide the necessary functionality.
1. Measure Your Space
Before anything else, measure your bathroom. Make sure you know how much room you have for the vanity, especially if you’re working with a smaller space.
2. Balance Style, Storage, and Function
Think about what matters most to you. Do you need more counter space? Are you looking for storage?
Do you want something sleek and modern, or traditional with some extra charm? These factors will influence your decision.
3. Height, Sink Options, and Counter Space
Vanities come in different heights. Make sure the height of the vanity matches your needs and feels comfortable when you’re using it.
If you’re interested in different sink options, you can go for under-mount, vessel, or top-mount sinks depending on your style. And of course, make sure there’s enough counter space for your daily needs.
Types of Bathroom Vanities
Let’s look at the various types of vanities. Depending on your space, family size, and design preferences, one of these might be the perfect fit.
1. Single Bathroom Vanities
Single vanities are ideal for smaller bathrooms. They’re simple and compact but still functional. I’ve used one in a guest bathroom and it worked out perfectly.
- Great for Smaller Spaces: If you don’t have a lot of room, a single vanity can provide all the essentials without overwhelming the space.
- Popular Materials: They come in various materials such as wood, marble, and stone. You can pick what fits your bathroom’s aesthetic.
- Space-Saving: Because of their smaller size, single vanities save space and make the bathroom feel less cluttered.
Tips for selecting a single vanity:
- Measure your space carefully to avoid a vanity that’s too large.
- If you need storage, look for one with drawers or a small cabinet underneath.
- Keep an eye on the sink type; an under-mount sink can give it a clean, modern look.
2. Double Bathroom Vanities
Double vanities are perfect for larger bathrooms or homes where more than one person shares the space. If you’re remodeling a master bathroom, this might be the choice for you.
- More Counter Space: With two sinks, you get plenty of space to spread out in the morning. It makes a huge difference when two people are getting ready at once.
- Great for Shared Spaces: Double vanities are perfect for couples or families. No more fighting for mirror time!
Considerations: You’ll need to make sure your layout works for a double vanity, and keep plumbing in mind.
Design ideas:
- Try a double vanity with separate storage areas so everyone has their own space.
- Choose a design that fits your bathroom’s style – traditional, modern, or somewhere in between.
3. Wall-Mounted (Floating) Bathroom Vanities
Wall-mounted or floating vanities have been all the rage lately. They’re modern and sleek, creating the illusion of more space by giving the bathroom a more open feel.
- Sleek and Modern Look: These vanities are attached to the wall, leaving the floor open. This makes them ideal for contemporary bathrooms.
- Illusion of More Space: If your bathroom feels cramped, a floating vanity can make it appear more spacious by showing more of the floor.
Things to consider:
- Wall-mounted vanities can be trickier to install, especially when it comes to plumbing.
- They work best in modern or minimalist bathrooms.
Best styles for wall-mounted vanities: Keep the lines clean and minimal, and opt for materials that emphasize the open space beneath.
4. Free-Standing Bathroom Vanities
Free-standing vanities are the traditional choice. They sit directly on the floor, making them stable and easy to install. I’ve had one of these in my own bathroom, and it always feels sturdy and reliable.
Why choose a free-standing vanity?
- Flexibility: Since they sit on the floor, you can move them around more easily. If you want to update your bathroom’s layout, this can be a great option.
- More Storage: Most free-standing vanities have a lot of built-in storage, which can be helpful if you have a lot of toiletries or towels to store.
- Great for Traditional Styles: These vanities often suit more classic or vintage bathroom designs. If you like a more traditional look, a free-standing vanity could be a good fit.
Design options:
- You’ll find them in all sorts of styles, from sleek modern ones to more ornate, antique-inspired pieces.
- Choose one that fits your bathroom’s vibe – whether it’s wood, metal, or something else.
Custom vs. Pre-Made Vanities: What You Should Know
One big decision you’ll face is whether to go for a custom-built vanity or buy a pre-made one. This is what you need to know:
| Feature | Custom Vanities | Pre-built Vanities |
|---|---|---|
| Customization | Fully customizable to fit your space and needs. | Limited design choices; you must pick from available options. |
| Cost | More expensive | Cheaper |
| Installation | Takes longer to build and install | Faster to install |
| Design Flexibility | High flexibility, tailored to specific needs | Less flexibility, design is fixed |
| Build Time | Longer build time | Ready-made, quick to install |
Material Options for Bathroom Vanities
When selecting a vanity, material plays a huge role in both the aesthetic and functionality. Below is a breakdown of common materials:
- Wood: Classic and warm, but requires maintenance.
- MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard): Affordable and versatile, but not as durable as real wood.
- Granite and Marble: Durable, high-end materials, but they need proper care to avoid damage.
- Glass: Sleek and modern, but can be more fragile.
Sustainability Considerations: If you’re eco-conscious, look for vanities made from reclaimed wood or low-VOC finishes.
Tips for Maintaining Your Bathroom Vanity
To keep your vanity looking good for years to come, below are some simple tips:
- Clean Regularly: Wipe down surfaces to avoid soap scum buildup and water stains.
- Prevent Water Damage: Be mindful of any leaks or standing water, especially around wood vanities.
- Material-Specific Care: Wood should be treated with care, while stone can usually be cleaned with a mild cleanser.
Conclusion
Now that I’ve covered the different types of bathroom vanities, I hope you feel more confident in your decision-making process.
If you’re looking for something simple and space-saving, like a single vanity or a luxurious double vanity for a larger bathroom, there’s an option out there that’s perfect for you.
The key is to think about what’s most important for your space, style, storage, functionality, or a balance of all three.
Now that you have a better understanding, you’re ready to choose the perfect vanity for your bathroom.