How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity

What types of bathroom vanity are there available on the market?

Here're five types of bathroom vanities option you can use:

Vanity Cabinet

The vanity cabinet is more like the traditional kitchen cabinet with a series of pull-out doors. It has a classic and attractive design. And it passes for an appropriate basic option for your design needs - that isn't too rough or complicated to add to your space. If you have a small bathroom, your vanity sink should be long and narrow - not wide.

But, it's important to note that this option is best in homes without kids because they are fragile, taller, and harder to clean.

Floating / Wall Mounted Vanity

The wall-mounted vanity can work in your bathroom without taking so much floor space. Even though it's not connected to the floor, you have to be cautious about how you use it - because it could get damaged easily.

In other words, the excess force can make the vanity fall off. This option is ideal in a medium sized bathroom.

Freestanding vanity

Freestanding vanities have a rectangular or square look with the capacity to hold one or two sinks. 

The freestanding vanity is available in a variety of finishes and design choices. It's perfect for a standard bathroom that measures about 36 to 40 sq. Ft.

Console vanities

The console vanity creates a sense of vintage appeal. And it's perfect for people that want to create a more open bathroom concept. The look is simple - so it doesn't intrude on your surrounding area.

Corner vanities

If you have limited space, you should go for the corner vanity. This vanity provides a perfect storage solution without disrupting anything else and a high degree of flexibility - even in the most compact bathroom spaces.

What are the most common bathroom vanity materials?

It's tempting to jump on any material. But you have to be sure that your choice is strong enough to handle the weight you might add to the vanity. It should also be able to handle the moisture and humidity in your bathroom - without the risk of warping or wearing out.

Here're four materials you can choose from:

Laminate

This material is an economical option that features a smooth surface. The smooth surface is due to the paper sheets affixed together with adhesive into a sturdy body. It gives you the option of painting it in various ways.

Pros:

• Doesn't stain
• Affordable
• Stands up to water
• Easy to clean
• Durable

Cons:

• You can't repair if it gets damaged
• It's not high-end

Particle Board

The particle board is a combination of wood particles glued together - then, heated and pressed. For a more refined style, the board is covered with veneer or melamine - to eliminate the risk of damage from steam and moisture.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Withstands damage from steam and moisture

Cons:

• Tends to sag over time under the solid surface like granite

Marble

A marble top vanity is usually tough enough to handle many conditions. And it has an appealing smooth and fresh surface. But it requires regular cleaning as stains are easy to spot on a marble surface.

Pros:

• Durable
• Comes in different choice of hues
• Heat and humidity resistant
• Provides a unique, upscale look

Cons:

• Requires regular cleaning
• It's porous
• Expensive

Solid Plywood

Solid plywood is a sturdy option that comes from several sheets of wood glued together. It does an excellent job of handling moisture more than other forms of wood.

Pros:

• Durable
• Handles moisture effectively
• It has high quality

Cons:

• It's expensive

What shape of a vanity should I choose?

The bathroom vanity comes in three standard shapes:

• Rectangular. The rectangular vanity is mostly for large-sized bathrooms. It works exceptionally in a master bedroom in your home. The rectangular vanity can accommodate two separate sink spots.

• Square. The square vanity is quite small compared to the rectangular vanity in terms of width. This vanity is ideal for small and mid-sized bathrooms.

• Round. The round vanity is the smallest option. The vanity is ideal for a powder room that has a dimension of 11 to 20 square feet.

What kind of sink works well with bathroom vanities?

Here're the type of sinks that work perfectly with bathroom vanities:

Under-Mounted Sink

The under-mounted sink features a basin directly inside the vanity. It has an overall flatter appearance that makes it look modern and refined. This design is an attractive choice that comes with adequate storage space. It's ideal for a large-sized bathroom.

Pros:

• It creates a seamless and clean look
• It's easy to clean
• Has adequate storage space
• It has a modern look

Cons:

• You can't seal it against moist
• It isn't suitable for laminate
• The sink only goes well with a solid surface countertop

Pedestal Sink

Pedestal or freestanding sink comes with no storage features around its body. The appearance of this model adds a sense of class to any bathroom. It's a great option if your waste pipe goes through the floor. The height of a pedestal sink ranges between 33 to 34" - which makes it perfect for period bathrooms and traditional schemes.

Pros:

• It conceals any pipework
• It gives your bathroom a classical vibe
• Aesthetically pleasing

Cons:

• It doesn't have a storage space
• Tricky to clean

Vessel Sink

Vessel vanities consist of a rising bowl around the sink area, which links to its separate tap. It comes with storage spots on the bottom part - which makes it a beautiful choice. But, you should only opt for this in powder rooms and master bathrooms.

Pros:

• Modern feel
• Holds plenty of water

Cons:

• Tricky to clean

Top-mount Sink

As the name proposes, the sink sits on the counter and the rim. It can either be chunky or slim depending on the style you choose. It's ideal for minimalist schemes and elegant master bathrooms.

Pros:

• Water can't damage the sink
• Suitable for most countertop materials
• Installation is affordable

Cons:

• You can't wipe water spills from the counter to the sink

Integrated Sink and Countertop

This style features the sink molded as part of the countertop. It comes from materials like acrylic or porcelain. It's a good option for large bathrooms.

Pros:

• No ridges or steam
• Easy to clean
• Available in set standard sizes

Cons:

• It may have a less flat counter space over time

What Size Should Your Vanity Be?

Your vanity should be about 16" to 25" deep and 30" to 40" in height. This dimension helps you create a sizeable space that will give you enough room for your needs. And it will be slim enough to take lesser space in your bathroom than you can afford.

With the knowledge you have now, you can hardly go wrong with choosing the best bathroom vanities as long as it looks good, feels good, and provides an increased level of practicality.