What is Bathroom Vanity?
Dec 24 , 2022
Bathroom vanity is not only an integral part of your bathroom, but it is also an essential feature of a home. From washing, grooming, storage, and decor, it provides multiple functions. If you want to know what a bathroom vanity is and how to choose the best one for your bathroom, you are in for a complete guide.
What is Vanity in a Bathroom?
A bathroom vanity combines a sink and a countertop, complete with faucets, a mirror, and often a storage space beneath it. We can also term it as a fusion of a vanity table, basin, and bathroom cabinet. Unlike a pedestal sink, a vanity gives you functional space and storage in the form of a countertop and shelves. Vanity is multifunctional, making routine activities like washing up, brushing your teeth, shaving, applying makeup, and grooming a lot easier.
The storage capacity is incredibly useful for holding all your grooming and cleaning supplies if added to the vanity. Additional features, such as pull-out racks and drawers, increase the functionality of the vanity even more. You can also decide how many sinks do you need in your vanity.
The vanity conceals the exposed plumbing, giving a tidy look to the bathroom. Additionally, the countertop can also be decorated with accessories that complement the theme of your bathroom.
Difference Between a Vanity and Cabinet
A bathroom cabinet is a storage unit with a door that is either mounted on the wall or standing on the floor. The bathroom cabinet, unlike a vanity, doesn't have a sink or a countertop. The cabinet door is often mirrored and can be installed above the sink. It is also called a medicine cabinet.
On the other hand, vanity is the term used for a bathroom cabinet attached to a countertop and sink, with optional features such as a storage structure or attached mirror.
Bathroom cabinets are similar in style and structure to kitchen cabinets. However, bathroom cabinets differ from kitchen cabinets in terms of size, as the former are shallower. Kitchen cabinets have a taller height and more depth than bathroom cabinetry and are usually installed in a wall-to-wall configuration in a kitchen.
How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity?
Contemplating a vanity design should be a well thought decision, considering its expense. You want a vanity that serves the purpose and adds to the aesthetic of your bathroom. Here are the things that need to be taken into account before finalizing a vanity for your bathroom.
Types of Bathroom Vanities
There are numerous designs and features of bathroom vanities, but they all can be categorized into six basic types.
Under-Mounted Vanity
The neat-looking vanity has a sink mounted underneath the countertop. The integrated sink looks like a part of the design and provides several benefits, such as ease of cleaning and increased counter space.
Floating Vanity
Also known as wall mounted vanities, this type of structure does not touch the floor and is attached to the wall. Although this type of vanity cabinet gives you additional floor space that you might need for other purposes, many homeowners are apprehensive about installing it due to the risk of dislodging.
Bathroom Vanity Cabinet
This type of vanity resembles a conventional cabinet with a sink and countertop attached to a nice sized cabinet with pull outdoors and drawers.
Vessel Vanity
Vanities of this style are a fairly new addition to contemporary bathroom trends. The sink vessel is placed on top of the countertop. The raised sink bowls look aesthetic but do not provide the same ease of use and maintenance as that of under-mounted sinks.
Free Standing Vanity
A vanity standing on the floor with a countertop and sink is a free standing vanity, and is available in a variety of styles. The look of a free standing vanity resembles a traditional chest of drawers.
Pedestal Sink Vanity
A pedestal sink vanity is just a sink with a stand. However, it is a good option for smaller bathrooms and powder rooms.
What Size and Dimension to Buy?
The size and dimension of a bathroom cabinetry should conform to the size of a bathroom. If you have a small bathroom, going for an oversized vanity that appeals to you for its design is not a good idea.
The height of a vanity ranges from 32 to 36 inches, and the width of the cabinets varies according to the space available, ranging from 24 to 60 inches. For a vanity with two sinks, allow at least 36 inches per sink for adequate elbow space. A vanity can have a depth of 17 to 24 inches.
Area Required for a Bathroom Vanity:
We suggest measuring your space to determine the size of the vanity that would be a perfect fit. You must have adequate space so as not to hinder the traffic and opening of drawers and doors. Generally, your countertop must be at least an inch wider than your vanity cabinets, so ensure you have enough room to place the vanity.
Materials for Vanity
The material for the bathroom vanity should be highly resistant to moisture and humidity. You can go for strong and long lasting natural stone material, such as granite or marble. Not only do they resist moisture and stains, but they also give a splendid look to your bathroom. Solid plywood is also a commonly used material for vanities as it is durable and less prone to warping. Other cost effective but less durable options are laminate or particle board vanities.
Color and Finish
The color and finish of your vanity define the look of your bathroom. You can choose the color according to the theme that you want, for instance, a rustic, monochrome, or country-style look. Navy blue, oak, grey, black, white, and espresso are the most trending colors for vanities.
Number of Sinks
The number of sinks in your vanity can vary depending on the particular needs and the size of the bathroom. A single sink vanity is enough for most bathrooms, but a double sink vanity may solve sharing issues if the bathroom is shared. Double sink vanity also gives you extra countertop space.
Storage and Functionality of Vanity Cabinets
Storage is one of the prime functionalities of bathroom vanities, so make sure it is adequate. While buying a vanity, consider cabinet details, drawers, and shelf space to stow away as many things as you can in the vanity.
Cost of Vanity and Installation
The cost of buying a vanity can vary depending on the size, material, and type you choose. The cost can range anywhere from a mere $100 to $3000. A simple bathroom cabinet vanity costs less than an under mount wall mounted vanity or a floating vanity. A customized vanity designed by interior designers is more expensive than mass produced readymade vanities.
The installation of a new vanity can cost you a few hundred dollars. However, custom vanities and vanities for which you have to redesign a bathroom will cost much higher.
Parts of Bathroom Vanity
While the sink, toilet table or counter top, and storage structure surrounding the vanity are its essential parts, it can also have a mirror, attached top medicine cabinets, and faucets. Typically, you would need to buy the mirror and faucets separately, and you can go for hardware that matches the rest of the fixtures in your bathroom.
FAQs:
Is there a difference between a sink and a vanity?
A sink is simply a basin attached to a stand or wall meant for washing up, rinsing, etc. In comparison, a vanity combines a countertop and storage unit along with a sink.
What is the standard height of a vanity?
The standard height of a bathroom vanity is 32". This works well for adults and children alike.
What is a bathroom vanity’s typical height?
On average, the height of the vanity can range anywhere from 30" to 36".
What is the usual depth of a bathroom vanity?
Bathroom vanities are about 18 to 24 inches deep, but the standard depth is 21".
Is a bathroom vanity suitable for décor?
Besides providing function, a vanity adds style to a bathroom. You can decorate it like a dressing table. Place some decor items on the vanity top, such as mini plants, organizing trays, decor pieces, accessories such as soap dispensers, tissue box covers, and storage jars in beautiful designs.
What is a bathroom vanity used for?
A vanity is used for everyday activities such as washing or rinsing, applying makeup, shaving, facial hair grooming, or using a grooming appliance. The cabinets and drawers in the storage unit can be used to store linen, cleaning supplies, toiletries, and makeup.
Are Vanities installed by Plumbers?
The sink, faucet, and pipeline fixtures in the vanity are installed by a plumber. But to install the cabinetry, such as a wall mount unit, a carpenter would be suitable. We suggest hiring a bathroom repair professional to install the complete vanity.
Conclusion
When deciding upon a bathroom vanity, it is recommended to observe and measure your space and then choose a vanity that suits your needs and enhances the look of the bathroom.
