How to Choose the Perfect Vanity Unit for Your Bathroom Size

October 14, 2024

The vanity unit is often the focal point in any bathroom design. The size and style you pick out will make or break a room’s appearance! However, the main question is how to choose the perfect bathroom vanity units for your bathroom size. An ideal vanity unit fits your bathroom precisely, allows for other storage, and should complement the rest of your furniture. Whether you want to design a compact cloakroom or an expansive main bathroom, choosing well guarantees everything comes together for that seamless feel without compromising on functionality or durability.

In this guide, we will discuss all the aspects you need to consider when selecting a new vanity unit for your bathroom, from measuring your space and choosing the right style to material and storage options.

How Do You Measure Your Bathroom Space for the Perfect Vanity Unit?

When choosing a compact vanity unit for your bathroom, you should measure the space correctly so that it fits perfectly. We understand this confusion and will bring you a step-by-step guide to help measure bathroom dimensions for the right vanity unit.

Measure the Available Floor Space

Start by measuring the width, depth, and height where you want to install the vanity.

Width: Measure from wall to wall or from one side of the bathroom to the other at the vanity’s location. This prevents picking a vanity that’s too wide for the space.
Depth: Measure how far the vanity can stand out from the wall without impeding walkways or colliding with a door or other bathroom fixture like a toilet or shower. Standard vanities usually vary between 18 to 22 inches in depth.
Height: Choose a height that’s comfortable to use. The average vanity stands between 30 and 36 inches tall, but remember, a countertop basin will add further height.

Check Plumbing Location

The size of your vanity unit will be influenced by where your plumbing is located. If the plumbing is fixed and you’re not planning to move it, look for a vanity with suitable pipe cutouts or space.

Verify Door Swing

Ensure none of the doors or drawers will hit vanity components, like the bathroom door. These measurements help you select the right size and style for your vanity, keeping it practical and visually balanced.

What Is the Ideal Height for a Bathroom Vanity?

The height of a bathroom vanity comes down to user preferences and bathroom design. Here are the two most common heights:

Standard Vanity Height: 30 to 32 inches (76 to 81 cm). Best for children or guest bathrooms but might be too low for adults.
Comfort Height Vanity: 34 to 36 inches (86 to 91 cm), similar to kitchen countertops. This height is more ergonomic for most adults, making daily tasks like brushing teeth more comfortable.

Which is best for you?

Comfort-height vanities are great for master bathrooms, especially for taller users or those looking to age in place.

How Do You Choose the Right Width and Depth for Your Vanity?

Width

Measure the wall space where the vanity will be installed. If the vanity sits between two walls, measure from wall to wall. If it’s in an open area, measure from the vanity’s edge to the next fixture, like a toilet or shower.

Clearance Space: Leave 1 to 2 inches on each side for breathing room and easier installation.
Door Swing & Drawers: Ensure doors and drawers can open fully without hitting walls or other fixtures.

Standard Vanity Widths:

Single Sink Vanities: 24″, 30″, 36″, 48″
Double Sink Vanities: 60″, 72″

Depth

Most bathroom vanities have a standard depth of 18 to 24 inches. If space is limited, slimline vanities as shallow as 12 inches are available.

Small Bathrooms: Shallow vanities (12-18 inches) help maximize floor space.
Larger Bathrooms: Deeper vanities (20-24 inches) provide more storage and countertop space.

What Type of Vanity Unit Should You Choose Based on Your Bathroom Size?

Choosing the right type of vanity unit affects both the design and functionality of your bathroom.

Small Bathrooms or Cloakrooms

Recommended Size: 400mm to 500mm wide.
Style: Opt for wall-mounted vanities to save floor space and make the room feel larger.

Example: A 400mm vanity unit with a ceramic basin provides storage without overwhelming the space.

Medium-Sized Bathrooms

Recommended Size: 500mm to 600mm wide.
Style: Both wall-mounted and floor-standing vanities work well here.

Large Bathrooms

Recommended Size: 1000mm to 1200mm for single-sink units; larger for double sinks.
Style: Double sink vanities are ideal for large bathrooms, offering ample space and a luxurious look.

For more detailed comparisons, check out our guide on wall-mounted vs floor-standing vanity units.

How Much Storage Space Do You Need in Your Vanity Unit?

When choosing a vanity unit, storage is key. Consider your bathroom size and how much you need to store.

Small Bathrooms: Opt for wall-mounted or compact vanities with integrated shelves or drawers.
Larger Bathrooms: Freestanding or double sink vanities provide more storage with added cabinets and drawers.

Types of Storage:

Drawers: Ideal for organizing smaller items like cosmetics or hair tools.
Cabinets: Great for storing bulkier items like towels and cleaning supplies.
Open Shelves: Perfect for displaying decorative items or neatly folded towels.

Need tips on keeping your vanity organized? Check out our guide on how to maintain and clean your vanity unit.

What Material Should You Choose for Your Bathroom Vanity?

Choosing the right material is crucial for durability and style. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Solid Wood: Strong and timeless but requires sealing to prevent moisture damage.
MDF: Affordable and smooth, but can swell if exposed to water.
Plywood: More water-resistant than MDF and durable.
Laminate: Budget-friendly and water-resistant, but less luxurious.
Natural Stone (Granite, Quartz): Luxurious but expensive and requires maintenance.

For a full breakdown, visit our guide on the best materials for bathroom vanities.

How Can You Set a Realistic Budget for Your Bathroom Vanity Unit?

Your vanity should fit your budget without compromising on quality.

Overall Budget: A vanity typically takes up 10-15% of your total bathroom renovation cost.
Type and Style:
- Freestanding Vanities: £100 to £800
- Wall-Mounted Vanities: £200 to £1,200
Material Costs:
- MDF or Laminate: £50 to £400
- Solid Wood or Stone: £500 to £2,000+
Installation: Wall-mounted vanities may cost more to install due to the need for extra support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Size Vanity Unit Is Best for a Small Bathroom?

Vanities from about 18 to 24 inches in width are recommended for small bathrooms since they are light but sufficient for the space. These narrower units provide the required storage for toiletries with little bulk and little learning. For further utility, reflect on shallow-depth vanities because these vanities save floor space and ease an area’s traffic pattern in a bathroom.

How Do You Choose the Right Vanity Color for Your Bathroom?

The vanity should fit with the rest of the bathroom’s colour scheme. Colours such as white, grey, black, and similar shades are the best as they fit into most design options, namely the modernist, classicist, and other specific options. If you want to stand out or want something with a bit more personality, then think of other darker colours, such as navy blue, forest green, or brighter pastel shades.

Can You Replace a Vanity Without Changing the Plumbing?

Most of the time, people may decide to change a vanity because doing so can be accessible without having to shift your plumbing system, especially if the new arrangement complements the position of the pipes. This way, you wouldn’t have to worry about moving pipes around to fit different sink and faucet styles that the vanity you selected comes with.
This makes it easy to perform the upgrade and improve the look of your bathroom without much fuss. In this case, if you decide to switch the size or other style that requires a sinking change of position, the plumbing may have to be altered.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect vanity unit for your bathroom comes down to size, style, and storage. Whether you’re outfitting a small cloakroom or a large master bath, the right vanity will balance functionality with design. Measure your space carefully, choose a style that complements your bathroom, and select materials that meet your needs and budget.

Ready to find the perfect fit? Explore our full range of bathroom vanity units today.