Tips for Selecting Bathroom Vanities

The right bathroom vanity can transform both functionality and, consequently, the aesthetics of your bath space. A well-chosen vanity not only offers essential storage but also integrates seamlessly into your bathroom’s design. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in finding the bathroom vanity that is just right for your bathroom:

Measure Your Space

Measure your bathroom space before you start shopping. Take a note of the dimension of the room with respect to length and width, considering the placement of other fixtures, such as the toilet and shower. Additionally, keep in mind the layout of tiles for the bathroom floor, as this will influence how the vanity integrates with the overall design.

This will help you estimate the dimensions, ensuring the chosen vanity fits well without congestion or blocking passage. However, ensure there’s at least 24 inches of clearance in front for ease of use.

Pick the Right Style

The style of vanity should complement your bathroom decor. You will find vanities available in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, rustic to transitional, whatever your taste may be. Modern designs are characterized by lean lines, subtle looks, and in most cases involve floating or mounting on walls.

Traditional design emphasizes the use of classic hardware and high-end finishes, with a prior reliance on detailed woodwork. Rustic natural wood designs focus on naturally finished and distressed woods that really show off their earthy tones, bringing elements of outdoors inside a space.

Material Matters

Material is important for both the appearance and durability of a bathroom vanity. Wood has a classic look and is extremely durable, but it does need to be sealed periodically to maintain its appearance. Plywood is cheaper and tends to be far less prone to warping than solid wood.

Selecting Your Sink Style

Vanities feature a variety of sink types: undermount, drop-in, vessel. Each modifying the look and function of the vanity accordingly:

• Undermount Sinks: Mounted under the countertop, giving clean lines and easy cleaning.
• Drop-In Sinks: Mounted on top of the counter, typically less expensive and easier to install.
• Vessel Sinks: Mounted on top of the counter, creating a dramatic look with a very contemporary feel.

Be sure the sink is proportional in size to the vanity and there is ample counter space around the sink.

Choose Proper Size and Configuration

There are other variances of vanity available in terms of size and configuration. Be sure to pick a size that will work for you, fitting your environment and needs.

When selecting a bathroom vanity, consider the following types based on your space and needs. A single vanity, typically small, is ideal for compact bathrooms where space is limited. In contrast, a double vanity provides an additional vessel along with extra storage and counter space, making it highly suitable for shared bathrooms.

For smaller bathrooms that need to maximize every inch of space, a corner vanity is designed to fit snugly into a corner, optimizing the available area. If extra storage is a priority, look for vanities that come with additional drawers or shelves to accommodate your needs.

Mirror the Countertop

The Countertop material should complement the vanity and the rest of your bathroom. This includes:

• Granite: Strong, and in many colors and patterns.
• Quartz: Low maintenance and very stain and scratch resistant.
• Marble: Very decorative, first class, but requires periodic sealing.

High-Quality Hardware Should be Chosen

Its hardware on your vanity, handles or knobs, may make a difference. Hardware correct to vanity-style will let it bring out the look and provide the needed durability. When selecting vanity hardware, consider the style and finish that best compliments your bathroom’s design.

Brushed nickel offers a contemporary and sleek appearance, while oil-rubbed bronze provides a classic and traditional look. For a bright and shiny, reflective finish that suits modern aesthetics, polished chrome is a great choice. Ensure that the hardware is comfortable to use and durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear.

Light It Up

A functional vanity is an outright necessity for any bathroom, and proper lighting to the vanity is quite central to its functionality. Vanity lighting includes all wall mount light fixtures installed directly above or beside a mirror, providing sharp, focused illumination like that needed for shaving or applying makeup.

Ambient lighting, however, provides the general illumination from sources such as ceiling lights or recessed lighting to lighten up the whole place. In choosing any lighting, what must be kept in mind is that it must have practical purposes and at the same time create a pleasant ambiance in the bathroom.

Budget Wisely

The prices of bathroom vanity cabinets range from very cheap to very expensive. You can start your search with some rough budget in mind. Remember that many times the price will not establish the quality. Look out for sales and discounts at all times, but invest in a vanity wisely to derive maximum value for money invested.

Check Installation Requirements

Know the vanity’s installation requirements prior to buying. Some vanities can be installed much more easily than others, so professional installation might be required for the more complex designs or configurations. Be sure that the vanity is going to work with your existing plumbing or consider any alterations that need to be made.

Check Maintenance Needs

Also consider the maintenance associated with the material used on the vanity. Some materials require sealing regularly, like natural stone, while others, like quartz, are pretty low maintenance. Choose one that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences, ensuring longevity and low maintenance.

Select a Reputable Brand

Going for a vanity from an acclaimed brand gives one assurance regarding the quality and durability. Research brands and read all reviews customers have placed on them to find a reliable option. Check warranties or guarantees put forward by the manufacturer for protecting your investment.

Eco-Friendly Options

If sustainability is at the center of your being, then look for eco-friendly vanity options. Nowadays, most brands offer their products with sustainable materials or environment-friendly practices. Low-VOC finishes and certifications hold the key to environmentally conscious choices.

Make It Personal

Lastly, add personal touches to your vanity to really make it yours. Consider cabinetry color, hardware finish, and countertop pattern—all customizable features that match your style and taste. Making the add-on of more personality into your vanity can raise your bathroom’s looks as a whole and make the space better to use daily.

Conclusion

Using these tips, you can choose a bathroom vanity that meets your practical needs and complements your bathroom’s design and functionality. Take time to explore various options, considering your space and area requirements, and choose a vanity that suits your style and budget.

FAQs

1. What Size Bathroom Vanity Should I Use?

The size of your bathroom vanity should be relative to the size of your bathroom. Measure the available space, allowing at least 24 inches in front of the vanity for easy passage to go around it.

2. What’s the best material to choose for my countertop?

While choosing, consider durability, maintenance, and its appearance. Those who want durability with low maintenance will undoubtedly choose between granite and quartz; marble projects glamor but needs to be sealed regularly. Pick a material that will fit your lifestyle and personal taste.

3. What do I need to know when choosing vanity hardware?

Select vanity hardware that will match your vanity style and the bathroom style. This will run the gamut from brushed nickel to oil-rubbed bronze to polished chrome, whatever your taste in design may be.