Whether you’re performing a complete bathroom renovation or hoping to give it new life with a few minor changes, a new bathroom vanity is worth considering. A vanity is the focal point of the bathroom, so choosing the right one is of utmost importance. While it’s tempting to haphazardly choose your vanity based solely on its aesthetic, there’s more to consider than its appearance. Here are some other key factors to contemplate when replacing your bathroom vanity.
1. Size vs. Space
Selecting the right vanity for your space is the first thing to consider before you begin shopping. Be sure to take accurate measurements of your desired footprint and projection so that you can easily sift through vanities that won’t work. Measuring your current vanity’s size and footprint is a good starting point if you hope to replicate it.
If you’d like to upgrade to a bigger vanity, be sure to make clearance allowances for other bathroom fixtures. Consider toilet and bathtub placement as well as clearance for bathroom and shower doors to freely open and close. A crafty way to visualize whether a bathroom vanity will work in your space is by tapping out its frame on your wall and floor. There are three important measurements for a vanity: width, height, and depth. Of note, the width of your footprint determines whether you can fit a double vanity or a single one. While it’s good to measure height, too, and 32 inches is the standard, vanities are available up to 36 inches in height. You can use wholesale bathroom vanities for a variety of options in terms of size and style.
2. Storage Needs
Another thing to think about when replacing your bathroom vanity is your family’s storage needs. Although you’ll be somewhat limited on storage based on your vanity’s size, vanities come with a variety of storage feature options. Take a look at some of the options you may encounter in terms of storage.
- Open shelves
- Doored cabinets
- Single drawers
- Double drawers
- Shallow drawers
- Vertical pull-outs
- Tip-out drawers
- Tool slots (curling irons, hair dryers, etc.)
Depending on how you foresee using your vanity storage, some of these features might be more desirable than others. Open shelves are perfect for storing rolled towels; cabinets are great for tall toiletries and cleaning supplies; and drawers are great for small tools, makeup, and skincare products. Stonecreek cabinets are a great option that features a variety of storage elements for your new bathroom vanity.
3. Materials & Finishes
In terms of your aesthetic for a new vanity, materials, and finishes can run the gamut from hardwood to laminate to porcelain and marble. Budget, personal style, and functionality will all come into play as you narrow down your best option. While materials such as natural wood and stone will give your bathroom a more luxurious vibe, vanities made of materials such as plywood, particle board, and MDF are more durable options in the long run.
Besides the materials used to craft the base of your vanity, you’ll also have to consider your sink, countertops and hardware. Like your vanity’s base, these features can come in a wide array of materials and finishes. For your sink, you’ll have options such as stainless steel, porcelain, granite, glass and quartz. Bathroom countertops, much like those in the kitchen, also come in a variety of materials; some of your options may include tile, concrete, marble, granite, and beyond. Lastly, your vanity’s hardware comes in many shapes and sizes. Although, when buying premade vanities, the materials and finishes may already be curated, if you’re buying a custom vanity, you’ll get to select each of these items independently of each other.
4. Overall Appeal
As you begin planning and collecting all your bathroom inspiration images, you’ve probably begun distinguishing an overall appeal. Whether your style is minimalist, modern, contemporary, traditional, farmhouse, or beyond, be sure to consider all things before purchasing a vanity. To achieve a cohesive aesthetic, your shower, toilet, flooring, backsplash, lights, and hardware should all come together to achieve an overall vibe.
In terms of flooring, vinyl plank flooring is a great option for your bathroom. This flooring material creates a timeless, hardwood look and, therefore, lends itself well to any style. What’s more, vinyl plank flooring is much more durable and functional in a bathroom where it will be exposed to water and humidity. Vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, eco-friendly, and durable as well as budget-friendly and versatile.
5. Plumbing Considerations
In reality, a good plumber can likely accommodate any new vanity upgrade for you. If you’re looking for simplicity and savings, replacing your bathroom vanity with the same dimensions as your existing one will make it easier to install. You may be able to avoid the cost of a plumber altogether by using your bathroom’s existing plumbing. When the layout, position, and size of your new vanity differ from your old one, you might have to move or reposition the plumbing.
If you’re replacing an exceptionally old bathroom vanity, it’s smart to have a plumber check out the existing plumbing. It could be time to replace the supply lines and piping that run to your new sink.
Establishing Your Bathroom’s Focal Point
The vanity is the first thing your eyes are drawn to as you enter any bathroom. It is the bedrock that ties together your bathroom’s entire aesthetic. As such, choose a bathroom vanity that will best fit your space, accommodate your storage needs, and uphold your style.
