When it comes to designing or remodeling a bathroom, the vanity is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Not only is it a functional centerpiece, but it also sets the tone for the overall style of your space. With so many options out there—different sizes, materials, storage solutions, and finishes—it can be hard to know where to start.
Here are a few steps and considerations for making the right vanity choice.
Start with your space and storage needs
Before diving into colors and materials, let’s talk logistics. The first step to finding the perfect vanity is understanding your space and what you need from it.
Measure twice, buy once
Bathroom vanities come in all shapes and sizes, so take accurate measurements of your bathroom’s space. Consider the flow of the room: Will the vanity block any doors or windows? Will it feel cramped in your layout? For smaller bathrooms, a sleek wall-mounted vanity or compact design can save precious floor space. Larger bathrooms give you the luxury of choosing a double vanity or one with extra storage.
Who’s using it?
Think about how the vanity will be used. If it’s just you, a single sink with some drawers might suffice. If it’s for a family or a shared bathroom vanity, you’ll likely need more storage or a double sink to keep everyone happy.
Drawers or doors? Let’s break it down
One of the biggest decisions when choosing a vanity is the storage style: drawers, doors, or a combination of both.
Why choose drawers?
• Convenience: Drawers are perfect for smaller items like makeup, toiletries, and hair accessories.
• Organization: They make it easy to see and access what you need—no more rummaging in the back of a cabinet!
• Modern Touch: Many drawers now come with soft-close mechanisms, which feel luxurious and prevent slamming.
Why choose doors?
• Larger Storage Space: Cabinets with doors are ideal for bulkier items like towels, cleaning supplies, or tall bottles.
• Budget-Friendly: Doors are typically more affordable than drawers.
• Classic Look: They’re a timeless option that can suit both modern and traditional styles.
Can’t decide? go for both.
A combination vanity with both drawers and cabinets gives you the best of both worlds. For instance, you could use drawers on the sides for smaller items and a central cabinet for bigger ones.
Material matters: durability is key
Bathrooms are humid spaces, so choosing the right materials is essential if you want your vanity to last.
Vanity body (base material)
• Solid Wood:
Solid wood is the gold standard for durability. It’s sturdy and resistant to warping when properly sealed. While it’s more expensive, it’s worth the investment if you want something long-lasting and timeless.
• Plywood:
A popular choice, plywood is a durable, moisture-resistant material made with softwood veneer glued together, with each layer’s grain direction perpendicular to the adjacent layers.It’s a step down from solid wood but still performs well, especially if labeled “marine grade.”
• MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard):
MDF is smooth and affordable but less resistant to moisture than wood or plywood. Make sure it’s sealed with a high-quality finish and PVC edges to prevent swelling in damp environments
• Particleboard:
This is the cheapest option, but it’s also the least durable. Particleboard can swell and break down over time in a humid bathroom, so it’s best to avoid it if longevity is a priority.
Countertop materials
The countertop is where style meets function. Here are some popular options:
• Quartz: non-porous, durable, and stain-resistant, quartz is low-maintenance and perfect for busy bathrooms.
• Granite: A natural stone that offers a luxurious look, granite is durable but requires periodic sealing to stay stain-resistant.
• Marble: Gorgeous but high-maintenance, marble is prone to scratches and stains, so it’s best for low-traffic bathrooms.
• Laminate: Budget-friendly and easy to clean, laminate is less durable and can chip or warp if exposed to water over time.
• Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: These offer endless design options but require grout cleaning to maintain their fresh look.
•Acrylic is the new kid on the block. It’s a strong and durable man-made material. It’s easy to clean and much cheaper than marble or quartz.
Don’t forget the hardware
The hardware—hinges, handles, and drawer slides—might seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference in the functionality and feel of your vanity.
• Soft-Close Everything: Soft-close hinges and drawer slides prevent slamming and add a touch of luxury to your bathroom.
• Rust-Resistant Materials: opt for stainless steel or other rust-proof finishes to withstand the humid environment.
• Style Matters: Match your hardware finish (e.g., brushed nickel, matte black, chrome, or brass) with the rest of your bathroom fixtures for a cohesive look.
Style and finish: make it yours
Your vanity isn’t just about function—it’s also a major design element in your bathroom.
• Modern: Think clean lines, sleek finishes, and floating designs.
• Traditional: Ornate details, raised panels, and rich wood tones.
• Farmhouse/Rustic: Distressed wood finishes, natural tones, and vintage-style hardware.
• Industrial: Metal accents, concrete countertops, and darker colors.
Choose a finish that complements your bathroom’s overall vibe. Neutral tones like white, gray, or black are versatile, while natural wood adds warmth and texture. Just make sure the finish is water-resistant to handle daily moisture exposure.
Bonus features to consider
Looking for something extra? Modern vanities often come with features that take your bathroom to the next level.
• Integrated Sinks: A built-in sink makes cleaning a breeze and saves space.
• Under-Lighting: LED lights under the vanity add a modern, luxurious touch and improve the overall design.
• Floating Vanities: Wall-mounted designs make cleaning underneath easier and give your bathroom a sleek, open feel.
Keep plumbing in mind
Before you fall in love with a vanity, make sure it works with your existing plumbing. Moving pipes can add extra cost and complexity to your project, so choose a design that aligns with your current setup unless you’re planning a full remodel.
Set your budget
Finally, let’s talk about money. Vanities range from affordable to high-end, so set a budget that aligns with your needs and priorities.
• Budget Options ($100–$500): Simple designs made with particleboard or laminate countertops.
• Mid-Range ($500–$2,000): Plywood vanities with quartz or solid surface countertops and better finishes.
• Luxury ($2,000+): Custom designs, solid wood bases, premium countertops, and advanced features like lighting or built-in outlets.
Remember: A vanity is an investment. Spending a bit more on quality materials can save you headaches (and money) down the road.
