Your bathroom vanity can make or break your remodel—here’s how to choose wisely.
Imagine spending thousands on a bathroom remodel only to realize your new vanity is too large, clashes with your décor, or doesn’t offer the storage you need. It’s a common mistake—and one that can turn excitement into frustration fast.
This post will walk you through essential bathroom vanity selection tips so you can avoid regret and make the right choice for your space, style, and lifestyle. Whether you're updating a powder room or remodeling a master bath, these tips will help you feel confident in your decision.
And if you’re planning a full renovation, Bathtub Made New can help with expert bathroom remodeling services tailored to your home and budget.
1. Measure Your Space—Then Measure Again
Before falling in love with a vanity online or in a showroom, measure your available space. Twice.
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Width, depth, and height all matter. Be sure to factor in door swings, drawers, and walkways.
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For small bathrooms, consider a narrow-depth vanity or a corner unit to save space.
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In larger bathrooms, you can go bigger—but don’t overdo it. A vanity that overwhelms the room will feel cramped, not luxurious.
Always leave at least 18–24 inches of clearance in front of the vanity for comfortable use.
2. Know Your Plumbing Layout
Your existing plumbing setup can significantly impact your vanity choices.
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Floor-mounted vanities are standard and easier to install with traditional plumbing.
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Wall-mounted (floating) vanities look sleek and modern but often require moving plumbing lines.
If you’re not relocating plumbing, be sure to choose a vanity that aligns with your current drain and water supply positions. Moving plumbing adds cost—worth it in some cases, but not all.
3. Think Function: Who’s Using the Bathroom?
The perfect vanity should reflect how the bathroom is used every day.
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Is it a shared space? A double-sink vanity might make sense for couples or families.
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Is it a powder room? Prioritize style over storage.
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Will kids or seniors use it? Consider a lower height or ADA-compliant options.
Use plays a huge role in size, height, and layout. Your vanity should make daily routines easier—not more complicated.
4. Storage: What Do You Really Need?
A beautiful vanity that doesn’t hold your essentials isn’t really functional. Think about what you need to store:
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Towels, hair tools, toiletries, cleaning supplies?
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Consider a combination of drawers and cabinets to keep everything organized.
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Floating vanities can create an open, modern look—but offer less storage.
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Open shelving adds design interest but requires tidy habits.
Balance visual appeal with function, especially in family or guest bathrooms.
5. Match the Vanity Style to Your Design
Vanities set the tone for the entire bathroom. Match your vanity’s aesthetic to the style of your space:
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Modern: Clean lines, minimalist hardware, high-gloss finishes
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Traditional: Decorative legs, ornate handles, warm wood tones
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Transitional: A balance of classic and contemporary
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Rustic: Natural wood, matte finishes, farmhouse flair
Also consider moisture-resistant finishes like laminate, thermofoil, or sealed wood. These materials will hold up best in humid environments.
6. Choose the Right Countertop and Sink
Your countertop and sink aren’t just functional—they’re focal points.
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Quartz is low-maintenance and durable
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Marble offers elegance, but it stains easily
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Granite is durable but may require occasional sealing
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Solid surface options are budget-friendly and seamless
As for sinks:
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Integrated sinks are easy to clean
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Vessel sinks offer a bold look
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Undermount sinks are popular for their sleek finish
Choose based on your lifestyle and maintenance preferences—not just looks.
7. Don’t Forget the Hardware and Fixtures
Even small details like faucet finishes and cabinet handles make a big difference.
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Match hardware to your faucets and light fixtures for a cohesive look
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Or go bold with mixed metals for a trendy style
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Choose durable, rust-resistant finishes for longevity
Upgrading these details can elevate a standard vanity into something special without adding major costs.
8. Work with a Remodeling Pro (Optional—but Recommended)
If you're remodeling your entire bathroom or changing plumbing locations, professional help can save you time, stress, and money.
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Bathroom remodeling professionals can help you visualize layouts
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They’ll ensure plumbing, electrical, and spacing all comply with code
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You’ll avoid costly mistakes like choosing a vanity that doesn’t fit
At Bathtub Made New, we help homeowners through every step of the process—from design to installation. Whether you’re looking for full remodeling or just want help selecting the right vanity, we’re here to guide you.
Final Thoughts: Your Vanity Is an Investment
A well-chosen bathroom vanity brings beauty, function, and value to your space. By keeping measurements, plumbing, users, storage, and style in mind, you’ll make a smart choice you won’t regret.
Want help bringing your vision to life? Get in touch with our team today to start planning your perfect bathroom. Visit our contact page and let’s create a space that works for you.