Installing a bathroom vanity doesn’t only help you organize your bathroom and save space in the room, it also beautifies the area.
However, setting up a bathroom vanity isn’t easy. A lot of factors need to be considered: factors like getting the right measurements, their orientation in the bath, and their distance from other bathroom fixtures.
Speaking of the standard bathroom vanity dimension: the standard height for a bathroom vanity is 32 inches, but the height can range from 30 to 36 inches. The standard width for bathroom vanities is 24 – 36 inches for narrow bathrooms and 48 – 72 inches for larger bathrooms. And the standard vanity depth is 21 inches (53.5 cm).
That said, let’s dive in to learn more about standard bathroom vanity measurements and every other thing you need to know before installing a new vanity in your bath.
Types of Bathroom Vanities
Bathroom vanities come in different styles, shapes, and dimensions, and provide varying storage space.
So when choosing a bathroom vanity style, go for one that will best fit the space in the room and your lifestyle. Here are the types of bathroom vanities you should know.
1.Freestanding bathroom vanity
Of all the bathroom vanities, the freestanding bathroom vanity is the most popular vanity. There are lots of designs, but mostly, they’re designed as pieces of furniture that are meant to sit on the floor. And they’re secured to the wall using mounting screws.
You can also get modern designs with a closed or open bottom. With the closed bottom vanity, you’ll get more storage space. While the open-bottom bathroom vanity gives you access to clean runoff water on the floor underneath the vanity.
So while the closed vanity is easier to clean since you won’t be cleaning the bottom, the open model will help you prevent the damage this run-off water can do to your floor and home.
You can make your freestanding vanity have a more modern look by using a stylish console table or decorative cabinets.
2. Floating vanity
The floating bathroom vanity is a modern wall-mounted vanity; hence it’s also called wall-mounted vanity as it gets no support from the floor.
To install this design, you’ll have to mount it at least 12 inches above the floor. This design has been growing in popularity because of its modern look that will make your bathroom look neat. It’s also good for making cramped or small spaces look more spacious.
Also, because it’s mounted a few inches above the floor, it makes cleaning and maintaining the floor easy. On the other hand, you should refrain from storing heavy objects in the cabinetry.
3. Corner bathroom vanity
A corner bathroom is the best option for a small bathroom or a powder room. You can tuck it in a corner where it’ll take up almost no space. The vanity will still serve as highly functional storage while saving floor space so you can put other items.
4. Vessel sink vanity
Vessel sink vanities provide the most storage space and are great for larger bathrooms.
This vanity type brings the appeal of luxury to your bathroom due to its unique style. The sink is mounted on top of this vanity and is calculated as part of the height of the vanity.
5. Glass bathroom vanity
For those looking for a real modern wall vanity, the glass vanity presents such an option. Most glass vanities are installed using tempered glass so they’re durable. And the transparent glass doors and body are easy to clean and maintain. Plus they’ll create an illusion of more depth in your bathroom.
6. Console vanity
A console vanity is a go-to design if you want to create an airy feeling in your bathroom. It’s also called open space vanity, and its open concept allows it to have enough space to store items that you often use in the room. And it’s also a better option than a large cabinet for saving more space.
Standard Bathroom Vanity Dimensions
When you’re remodeling your bathroom, installing a small new vanity in a large bathroom or a large vanity in a smaller bathroom will result in the layout looking awkward. You can also check for standard bathtub size on our site too.
In order to avoid this, it’s extremely important you know and take the standard bathroom vanity measurements.
Standard bathroom vanity height
The standard bathroom vanity height for a modern bathroom is 32 inches (81 cm). Although, it ranges from 30 to 36 inches (76 – 91.5 cm).
The height of a bathroom countertop used to be smaller than that of a kitchen worktop so that kids could use the bathroom alongside their parents.
These days, modern vanities called “Comfort height or counter height bathroom vanities” are constructed to reach 36 inches – the same height as a kitchen countertop.
This “comfort height” concept comes from adults being able to use the vanity without bending too much or straining their backs since it’s higher 36 inches – 91.5 cm. And kids can still use this wall vanity with their parents by climbing onto a stool.
That said, the standard height for a vessel sink bathroom vanity is 30 inches, and that’s without a sink. And since a vessel sink is usually 5 – 6 inches tall, this puts the height of a vessel sink vanity at 36 inches – comfort height.
For a standard 2 person walk-in shower dimensions, there is a separate article on our blog!
Standard bathroom vanity depth
The standard depth for a modern wall bathroom vanity is 21 inches (53.5 cm). Although, the depth for a wall vanity ranges from 20 – 23 inches. This includes the thickness of the doors and drawers.
What this measurement doesn’t include is the depth of the countertop and its overhang on top of it. It’s only from the front of the cabinet to the back of the cabinet. These may add around 1 – 2 inches (2.5 – 5 cm) of depth to your vanity. Keep this in mind when installing your vanity close to the bath door.
But if you’ve got a smaller bathroom or a powder room, you may want to consider installing a shallower vanity with a depth of 16 to 18 inches (40.5 to 46 cm).
This slim or smaller vanity can afford you more floor space and make your bathroom look more spacious and bigger.
Bathroom vanity width
When it comes to the width of your vanity, there’s no standard bathroom vanity width as sizes of bathrooms vary.
However, the average width that a single bathroom vanity comes in is 30 – 48 inches. And the standard width for a double-sink bathroom vanity ranges from 60 – 72 inches.
Generally, there are widths of 24, 30, and 36 inches (61, 76, and 91.5 inches) that you can get for your small bathroom vanity. And if you’ve got a larger bathroom, there are much wider vanities of 48, 60, and 72 inches that will fit.
And if your bathroom is small, consider getting a small wall vanity so as not to cramp the space. This will also save you money. And if you’ve got shared bathrooms like the kids’ bathroom or a master suite, a double-sink vanity will make a great choice and save you space.
Learn more about bathroom layout plans.
Designs and Styles of Bathroom Vanities
Whether you want something modern, rustic, or antique, there are many styles of wall cabinets to choose from for your bathroom. Simply pick a design that suits your personality.
Modern vanity
Modern wall vanities have become widespread since the modern mid-century, and they beautify the bathroom with their bold, straight lines. This makes them look neat and simple.
Most modern wall vanities are painted with bold colors like blue. But it’s also common to find them painted in white and black.
They also enhance their appeal with shiny hardware like stainless steel and aluminum. And the hardware can also feature finishes like chrome or brushed nickel.
Some perks of this style are its simple design, ample storage, and ease of cleaning.
Mission vanity
This vanity design also features clean lines and applies a minimalist approach to ensuring that the construction looks simple and handcrafted.
They’re usually built using heavy wood like oak and they use natural stain to highlight the grain of the wood.
The common hardware you’ll find on this vanity cabinet includes iron, bronze, and brass.
Shaker vanity
Shaker vanity design looks a lot like the mission vanity; they’ve both got simple lines without complicated details.
However, shaker cabinets usually display features like slim tapered legs, gentle curves, and round hardware. And compared to modern designs, they mostly use softer wood like pine and maple.
Cottage vanity
You can identify cottage cabinets by their delicate lines and louvered panels that make them look like farmhouse cabinets.
These cabinets usually come in soft neutral colors. And it’s common to see their hardware painted as well.
Rustic vanity
Another vanity cabinet that uses warm stains to reveal the wood grains is the rustic model.
This bathroom vanity is all-natural in appearance and uses reclaimed wood in its construction. To further make an earthy and organic statement, you can find intentional blemishes in the woodwork.
And finally, this vanity uses metal accents to make it look more natural.
Antique vanity
Designers of the antique vanity draw inspiration from the Art-Deco period in designing this vanity. The vanity designs are more decorative, fashionable, and ornate; albeit, they take a rustic appeal and mostly feature country or cottage style.
It’s very common to see antique vanities with bowed and pilaster wind-down legs.
So if you love that vintage look, this may just be the wall vanity cabinet for you.
Traditional vanity
A traditional vanity looks like a piece of classic furniture with more ornate details.
It features both painted and stained colors. And you can easily find a traditional vanity with more complicated designs like scalloped edges and Cabriole legs.
Bathroom Vanity Sink Variations
Undermount
Undermount sink types are mounted underneath the counter. They’re the most common vanity sinks you can find.
Vessel
A vessel sink, unlike undermount sinks, is mounted on top of the vanity. Because of their orientation, they add to the height of the vanity cabinet and make it taller. So keep that in mind.
Semi-recessed
A semi-recessed sink top is a mix of a vessel and undermount sink in that it’s installed halfway into the countertop.
Trough or integral
Trough or integral sink tops are unique in that they act as both the worktop and sink at the same time. This then attaches to the rest of the cabinet to create a seamless structure of the vanity.
Single Sink Vanities vs Double Sink Vanities: Which is Best?
What determines if you’re going to use a single vanity bathroom and a double vanity bathroom is the amount of space you have in the bathroom.
If you’ve got a small bathroom, a single-sink vanity will be the best option. On the other hand, if you’ve got a larger room, you can go with double sink vanity.
Single sink vanity
Single-sink vanities carry one sink and are the best models for small spaces or powder rooms. Keep in mind that despite being the best option for a smaller bathroom, a large single-sink vanity can provide more storage space than a relatively medium-sized double-sink vanity.
Also, you can also create your form of a double vanity by placing two single-sink vanities next to each other. But you should do this if you really need the service of two sinks and if it won’t make your bathroom look cramped.
Double sink vanity
Double-sink vanities on the other hand are not really space-savers like their single vanity counterpart. However, it’s a time saver.
The double-sink vanity carries two sinks. And this is the best option for large shared bathrooms such as the master's or kids’ bathroom.
As it’s twice the size of the single vanity, the double vanity cabinetry also provides great (twice) storage space.
Bathroom Vanity Colors and Finishes
The most common finishes for bathroom vanities are paint and stain especially as these cabinets have wooden doors and drawers.
These finishes are good for resisting humidity and moisture. And they also add beauty to your home décor.
Painted bathroom vanities
When you apply a painted finish over your vanity, you cover the wood’s natural tone with color.
While white is a color that’ll suit just about any bathroom and cabinet, some of the most preferred bold colors for modern wall vanities include blue and green.
Neutral colors like gray are also widely used in contemporary-styled bathrooms.
Stained bathroom vanities
A stained bathroom vanity, as opposed to a painted cabinet, will allow the natural wooden color to shine through.
You can get a variety of stain finishes to accent your bathroom space.
There are whitewashed and lighter wood tones that make your bathroom a more modern feel and look. And there are dark wood tones like mahogany and cherry to give your cabinet and bathroom a traditional appeal.
Factors to Consider for Your New Bathroom Vanity Dimension
Most times, there are factors other than the dimensions of your vanity and your bathroom space that will play a role in installing your new bathroom vanity. Let’s find out what they are;
Bathroom traffic flow
If you install your bathroom vanity in a position very close to the doors, you may impede foot traffic. So make sure you allow enough space for opening and closing doors.
Vanity plumbing location
Remodeling your bathroom in a way that will make you change the position of your pipes and other plumbing fixtures may prove costly.
And it’s also quite a difficult project to undertake. So you’ll want to install a bathroom vanity that’s similar to your old type (whether freestanding, corner-mounted, or wall-mounted).
And you’ll also want the new bathroom vanity to have similar dimensions. Plus you don’t have to draw out a new location and reroute your pipes because of your vanity.
Existing features in the bathroom
Some other bathroom fixtures like electrical switches, AC outlets, decorative trim, and mirrors may also be difficult and expensive to move around like your pipes and plumbing features. Also, consider the position of your toilet and shower.
So you’ll want to mount your modern wall vanity close to these sites to save you time and money in your bathroom remodel.
Cost and ease of maintenance of your cabinet countertop
If you decide to use any of the exotic countertop materials like quartz, marble, or granite for your vanity, you may want to give a thought to how easy it is to clean the countertop.
You’ll also want to consider the frequency of your usage. Secondly, your choice of a sink could also determine the kind of countertop you can use for your cabinet.
Cabinet storage
The drawers in your vanity may not be enough storage for you and your household. So go for a model that’s versatile and offers a range of storage options.
Yours could include doors, drawers, and an open shelving feature.
Vanity sets
If you’re getting new bathroom cabinetry, will you want to get a complete vanity set (a combination of the cabinets, sink, and countertop), or will getting only the vanity cabinet to be a better option?
How to Install A New Bathroom Vanity Cabinet and Sink: Easy DIY Project
Step 1: Before you install the new bathroom vanity, you’ll have to turn off the water supply line and release the pressure in the line by turning on your faucet.
Step 2: Secure the pipes and plumbing to avoid leaking. And if you want to set up the vanity in a new position, you’ll have to call in a plumber to reroute the plumbing.
Step 3: After doing that, remove the old set, by using a utility knife to cut the seal behind the backsplash.
Step 4: Then tug the sink top out of the wall with great pressure. And separate the sink top from the cabinet using a chisel and hammer.
Step 5: After removing the top, unscrew the back of the vanity. And clean up the area, and fix any damages on the floor or wall if there are any.
Step 6: Look for the wall studs using a wall stud finder before marking the spots (height and width) that you’ll like to attach to the modern wall vanity. Do not lean the cabinetry on the wall as the countertop is wider than it.
Step 7: Next up, measure the vanity dimensions so you’ll know how much space to reserve for your countertop’s overhang.
Step 8: Also measure the distance from the marks on the wall to the pipes before cutting the pipe hole with a hole saw. And if you’re going to mount a corner vanity, reserve some overhang space for the free side.
Step 9: Remove the doors and drawers from the vanity and position them in the marked area.
Step 10: Fill the space between your vanity and the sidewall with a filler strip. The filler strip helps prevent dust and dirt from building up behind the vanity. You may get the filler strip with your vanity package. But if you don’t, you can get it at your local department store.
Step 11: After that, check that all the sides of the cabinets are level and make necessary adjustments.
Step 12: Once the base is level, screw the filler strip into the vanity from inside the frame.
Step 13: Then drill a pilot hole through the cabinetry close to the nearest stud. If your holes are not in line with the studs, you can use a wall anchor that’s made especially for your wall surface.
Step 14: Now, it's time to attach the cabinet to the wall using your screws.
Step 15: Next up, assemble the faucet and the sink drain.
Step 16: Then add a thin film of silicone to the top rim of the vanity. Make sure the adhesive doesn’t get on the body of the cabinet.
Step 17: You can now mount the assembled sink top or countertop on top of the vanity. And press it firmly against the cabinetry so it’s secured in place by the silicone adhesive.
Step 18: After the work is dry, reconnect the water supply line and replace the doors and drawers.
Step 19: Caulk the back edge where the sink top meets the wall, and clean up any caulk that makes the set-up look messy.
Step 20: Now we’re done with our little project. So turn on the water supply line to test if you’ve done a good job and also if there are any leaks.
You may decide to leave the set-up for a day before you can begin using the vanity.
How You Can Extend Your Bathroom Vanity Dimension
So if you’d love to increase the dimensions of your bathroom vanity by adjusting the height so it’s taller, here are a couple of workarounds.
You can remove the countertop from the cabinet and add a new frame with more drawers to the top. Then secure the updated vanity construction by tightening the screws to the wood.
But before you do this, ensure your plumbing supports this change as it won’t be right if your faucet (or faucets) is too close to your sink.
You could also increase the dimensions (height) of your vanity by adding adjustable legs to its base. But make sure to add legs that are compatible with the bottom.
And finally, you can add a wooden foundation to the bottom of your vanity to increase its dimensions. Also, attach it to the floor with a few screws to secure it in place.
Design Ideas for Your DIY Bathroom Vanity
Not sure what or how your DIY vanity should look like?
Here are 10 easy and cool DIY projects to inspire your precious bathroom furniture creation.
1. Contrasting painted cabinet and countertop
There’s something about white that we can’t really explain but we just love it (especially when it’s in a nook we like to admire our beauty).
This double-sink vanity designed by Shanty2chic features white painted cabinetry and sink that matches the white paint on the wall: this creates an inviting aura and peaceful ambiance. And it’ll save you and your roomie more time if it’s a shared bathroom.
But it doesn’t stop there, it pairs the white tone with another neutral tone – black – for the countertop, faucets, and hardware, as well. Impressive!
Another thing we observed is that the drawers are stained to match the natural and organic look of the wooden floor. And if you do not have wooden flooring in your bath, you can match any of the vanity’s woodwork with a prominent fixture in your bathroom.
Check out the tutorial on the Shanty2chic blog.
2. Tuck the vanity in the corner
Next up is the simple DIY rustic bath vanity from a YouTuber.
Here, they used reclaimed lumber to construct a console vessel vanity. So if you’ve got a small bathroom and your aim of owning a wall vanity is to make a good economy of floor space rather than create more storage space, then you can go with this style.
Check out the YouTube video by Sgt Donovan.
3. How about making a mission statement?
Another impressive DIY vanity is this mission-style vanity from Home Dzine.
We love the simplistic nature and how it is professionally done. And as wood is a color that matches virtually every other color, this pairs well with the gray accent on the wall.
To do this, you can recycle that old desk of yours and put it to good use in your bathroom.
Plus with this semi-recessed single-sink vanity style, you’ll be creating more storage space for items like towels, shampoo, and your lotion. And it’ll make your bathroom airier and afford you more room to affix other items.
Check out the tutorial here.
4. Fall in love with this floating bathroom vanity
Another incredible bathroom vanity design from Home Dzine is this modern wall-mounted floating cabinet.
And so you know, it’s a DIY project you can carry out in your own home.
The design is simple and doesn’t have ornate details. This vanity is wooden and it features two wide drawers that’ll provide ample space for storing your bath and beauty products.
Also, both the mirror edges and faucet take on the stained color to complement the wooden cabinetry.
And the single vessel sink and the countertop space add more charm to the white color on the wall. Cool!
Another perk to this floating vanity style is that there will be more ground for your feet to cover.
Check out the tutorial here.
5. Small size, big storage vanity
Does your bathroom feel so small that there’s hardly any room for storing bath items?
Draw inspiration from this DIYer who built a vanity so small it could comfortably fit in a small bathroom, but so big it’s got enough drawers to fit loads of items.
You can construct a similar tall freestanding vanity without open shelves for your nook. This will keep your bathroom looking neat, organized, and spacious.
Here’s how to construct this DIY bathroom vanity.
6. How about going vintage?
If you’re a lover of colorful themes, this painted DIY vanity design is for you.
We love the perfect blend of light green for the base of the old cabinetry, the patterned countertop, and the black metal fixtures including the faucet.
The artistic and textured patterns on the cabinet doors are also very appealing. This is a good display of exquisite craftsmanship.
To replicate this avant-garde style, you can use that old grandpa’s cupboard stashed in the basement. And paint it with a color that will draw attention to your bathroom without looking weird.
You can get the low-down on the Lolly Jane blog.
7. Get a bit of rustic in your bathroom
Rustic items add the quality of earthliness and grandeur to any space they grace their presence.
And since the bathroom is one of the places where we appreciate nature’s creation (our bodies), you can bring these qualities into your bathroom by using your vanity.
The DIYer also went a step further by bringing flowers to the bathroom. Even though those flowers look fake, it shows how much the homeowner appreciates nature.
And the red flower vase makes the nook more romantic. There are so many inspirations to pick from the amazing bathroom vanity.
Check out this excellent DIY vanity work by Shara for more information.
8. 48 inches turned leg DIY vanity
48-inch vanities are highly sought-after.
So if you’d love to have a model like this, why not check out this tutorial by Ana White and build one for yourself?
9. Budget-friendly DIY vanity
If you’d love to have a new bathroom vanity but the cost of getting one seems to be getting in the way, check out this minimalist vanity from BHG.
It’s nothing more than basic but you may agree that this model does elevate the decoration in this bath.
10. DIY vanity for $65
Still talking about budget-friendly DIY bathroom vanities.
Setting this one up costs a mere $65. When you compare that to spending hundreds to thousands of dollars on a vanity set, this one costs nothing.
Check out how it’s done on the Angela Marie Made blog.
