Bathroom Vanity Selection

Author:

Tony Brunner

Published:

July 4, 2023

Updated:

October 17, 2023

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Table of Contents

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Selecting a Bathroom Vanity

Below are a variety of scenarios and other things to consider before selecting a bathroom vanity in a remodel project. And be sure to check out the related links.

Your selection of a bathroom vanity is dictated first by the bathroom we are talking about.

Master Bathroom Vanity

The master bathroom is typically occupied by a couple, frequently at the same time. So a functional vanity needs to accommodate two sinks and plenty of storage.

Pro tip: drawers are much better than cabinets for the storage of bathroom vanity items because it is easier to keep everything organized.

Guest Bathroom Vanity

In the guest bathroom, storage is less of an issue because the needs of guests are pretty basic. But twin sinks with a vanity to support them are certainly desirable.

Powder Room Vanity

Ordinarily, the guest bathroom will only be able to accommodate a small single-sink vanity.

Pro tip: Choose a vanity one with a cabinet to keep cleaning supplies handy. And if you want to score style points with a pedestal sink, be sure to have a storage alternative nearby. And please don’t fall for the faddy vessel sink.

Bathroom Vanities for Aging in Place & Universal Design

Our advice on this site is influenced by Universal Design and aging-in-place considerations.

Related chapter: Bathrooms for the Elderly

Floating Vanity

A floating or cantilevered vanity is highly recommended with aging in place and Universal Design in mind. This makes the sink accessible for someone in a wheelchair or who is sitting. Knee clearance should be 27” high and width 30” minimum.

An added benefit of the floating vanity is that there is less opportunity for dust and grime to gather under it. The space under the floating vanity is open. And the finish floor extends to the wall. So, cleaning is much easier. Plus the open space can be used for small, movable storage bins or baskets that can be pushed out of the way for cleaning.

Two Level Vanity

If there is space, consider a double two-level vanity. One side would be lower for wheelchair or seated use. The other would be at standard height.

An alternative to the floating vanity is a floor-mounted desk-type vanity. This can have wheelchair-accessible knee space. You can have a center-mounted sink, a bank of drawers, and/or adjustable shelves on one or both sides. If there is room, a second standard-height vanity could be installed alongside.

Pedestal Sink

Another alternative would be to forego the vanity altogether in favor of a wall-mounted or pedestal sink. You can accommodate the storage function of the vanity in a separate cabinet.

Other Recommendations

Place touchless, lever, or pedal-operated sink valves as close to the front of the vanity as possible.
Make sure there is an anti-scald device at the water heater.