A bathroom vanity unit consists of a sink set into a flat top with storage space beneath. This vital bathroom furniture will complement any washroom or bathroom environment, providing extra storage.
Bathroom vanities come in various designs and sizes, matching different layouts and decors. A vanity unit serves multiple purposes, such as boosting your bathroom’s functionality, increasing its storage capacity, and enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
On the contrary, a bathroom cabinet is a practical storage solution, helping you keep your cosmetics, toiletries, towels, and other essentials organised.
Gone are the days when plain, box-type cabinet designs were the only ones available. The latest innovative cabinet designs combine efficient storage with stunning aesthetics, maximising space and style.
- What Is a Bathroom Vanity Unit?
- What Is a Bathroom Cabinet?
- What Is the Difference Between a Bathroom Vanity and a Bathroom Cabinet?
- Can You Use a Bathroom Cabinet as a Bathroom Vanity?
- How Do I Choose the Right Size Vanity or Cabinet for My Bathroom?
- Bathroom Vanity Vs Cabinet: Which Is Right for Your Bathroom?
Navigate to any section of this post by clicking on the links above.
What Is a Bathroom Vanity Unit?
A bathroom vanity unit is a flat-topped furniture piece that incorporates a sink atop with adequate storage space underneath. This indispensable unit adds essential storage space in an ergonomic way.
A vanity unit is a dual-purpose – sink and storage – fixture that maximises space, especially in small bathrooms. This all-in-one solution is ideal for a small cloakroom, as well as, a large family bathroom.
The classic design has a built-in sink, while some latest models have an over the countertop sink. Since a vanity unit is closed storage, it’s an ideal place for concealing unsightly plumbing lines and other bathroom essentials.
What Is a Bathroom Cabinet?
A bathroom cabinet is an independent storage unit that saves space, providing a better way to organise your bathroom. It can house several essentials, such as personal hygiene products, medications, toiletries, and more.
Bathroom cabinets are available in a wide range of styles and shapes across both traditional and contemporary designs.
Wooden cabinets give a touch of luxury to your bathroom, giving it an enduring appeal. They can hold a range of daily essentials, keeping your bathroom clean and clutter-free.
What Is the Difference Between a Bathroom Vanity and a Bathroom Cabinet?
Some key differences between the two fixtures include:
1. Functionality: While a bathroom vanity serves aesthetic, storage, and grooming functions, a bathroom cabinet serves solely the storage function.
A vanity unit conceals unsightly plumbing pipes and provides storage space, in addition to providing a suitable surface to perform different personal grooming activities.
The primary function of a bathroom cabinet is to provide space for storage. A few models (e.g., storage benches and storage chairs) can be used for seating too.
2. Design: Vanity units are either freestanding or wall-mounted. These units have drawers, shelves, or both. They are available in a vast range of shapes, sizes, and designs.
A bathroom vanity presents considerable design flexibility with an option to install a second sink, resulting in a double basin vanity unit. The storage space and functionality will also increase proportionately.
In contrast, most bathroom cabinets are wall-mounted, with a few models being freestanding. They are available in a range of sizes and designs.
A large bathroom cabinet will have several drawers, shelves, or both, whereas a small bathroom cabinet will have fewer drawers, shelves, or both.
3. Storage Capacity: A bathroom vanity is very streamlined, mostly concealing the plumbing lines. The curve of the sink also reduces the storage area.
Compared to bathroom vanities, bathroom cabinets have significantly higher storage capacity, as plumbing lines do not occupy any space, and the curvature of other fixtures does not reduce the storage area.
4. Installation: The installation of a bathroom vanity can be complex, with a need to make cold and hot water connections to the basin tap. This task will be further compounded in a double basin vanity.
The installation of a bathroom cabinet – freestanding or wall-mounted – is relatively simple, as it does not involve making any plumbing connections.
Two people can install even a large wall-mounted cabinet without professional assistance. But installing even a single basin vanity unit is a complex task and should ideally be done only by professionals.
5. Cost: A bathroom vanity costs much more than a bathroom cabinet, as a vanity houses one or more sinks.
The design of a vanity unit is more intricate compared to that of a cabinet. Therefore, a vanity is more expensive than a cabinet.
Can You Use a Bathroom Cabinet as a Bathroom Vanity?
Since a bathroom cabinet is a plain storage-only unit and doesn’t have a sink, it cannot perform the function of a vanity.
However, a bathroom cabinet can be converted to a bathroom vanity. But it will take a lot of time and effort.
The first step is to remove the top board of the cabinet and all the drawers. Next, mark the location of the pipes at the back of the cabinet and cut out holes.
Also, cut a hole for the sink on the top board. Set the sink and fix the top board of the cabinet.
Connect the basin tap and waste pipe. Caulk the cabinet top that meets the wall. Also, caulk the area between the sink and the top of the cabinet.
The conversion is now complete.
What about the Kitchen Cabinet? Can I Use It as a Bathroom Vanity?
We have all washed our faces and brushed our teeth in the kitchen sink, right?
While many kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities are designed similarly and have identical functions, there are some key differences.
The height and depth of a kitchen cabinet are much more than that of a bathroom vanity. A cabinet that’s a few inches higher may not cause any issues. But the larger depth can be a cause for concern, especially in a small bathroom.
The increase in depth by just a few inches will mean problems like blocking walkways due to insufficient “swing range” for cabinet doors. The door knobs and handles may stick out too far.
Further, the durability and waterproofing properties of the materials used to manufacture bathroom vanities are far better than the ones used to manufacture kitchen cabinets.
Therefore, considering the above factors and with the availability of a vast selection of bathroom vanities across various dimensions and price points, it’s best not to consider a kitchen cabinet for your bathroom. You can easily find the perfect vanity for your bathroom.
How Do I Choose the Right Size Vanity or Cabinet for My Bathroom?
Choosing the Right Size Vanity
1. Bathroom dimensions: This is the most important factor. The standard width of vanity units ranges between 24” and 72”. You can choose a vanity that does not cramp your bathroom or is too small.
But if your bathroom is ultra-small, you can consider a 12” width vanity unit.
2. Storage needs: Storage is another key factor. Consider all the bathroom essentials you want to keep within easy reach.
Making a quick list will help you determine the right size of the vanity for your bathroom based on your immediate storage needs.
3. Budget: The installation cost of a vanity unit ranges between £100 and £200. Installing a double basin vanity unit will cost a lot more.
Premium models and vanity units with bells and whistles can be expensive to install. You must factor in the additional installation cost of these units. So, budget is also a major consideration when choosing the right vanity unit.
4. Materials: Replacing a vanity unit is a labour-intensive and expensive project. Hence, the durability of the materials and product guarantee are worthwhile considerations.
MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) is a sturdy and reliable material. Look for a vanity unit that is fully guaranteed or comes with a 2-year or 5-year guarantee.
Choosing the Right Size Cabinet
1. Bathroom dimensions: Note down the precise dimensions of your bathroom. Select a cabinet that’s neither too big nor too small.
The standard cabinet widths are 24”, 36”, 48”, 60”, and 72”. Even if your bathroom is too tiny for a 24” cabinet, you can buy a 12” width cabinet. That’s not the lowest width, though. The 8” width cabinet is the lowest width we have.
2. Aesthetics: Cabinets are available in an assortment of sizes, colours, and styles. Any style that would complement or contrast with the other elements of your bathroom would be fine.
Since a cabinet can lift your bathroom’s visual style to a higher aesthetic level, consider one that scores high on elegance.
3. Storage: Storage is the main function of a cabinet. Aim to buy a cabinet that can hold all your bathroom essentials, and you still have some space left over. Look for a cabinet that can deliver on order and organisation.
4. Additional features: Bathroom cabinets are no longer plain boxes. They come with additional features, such as built-in mirrors, LED lighting, electrical sockets, adjustable shelves, and more.
Choose a cabinet with features that add a touch of fun to your grooming routine.
Bathroom Vanity Vs Cabinet: Which Is Right for Your Bathroom?
Both bathroom vanity and cabinet are vitally important fixtures to complete a functional bathroom. While a vanity unit scores higher on utility value, a cabinet is not far behind.
Regardless of the bathroom size, a vanity unit is indispensable for performing an essential grooming routine. On the other hand, a cabinet serves one primary functionality: storage. The key advantage of adequate storage is that it can make your grooming activities stress-free.
Hence, you need both fixtures for your bathroom. If you require both utility and storage, you can buy a vanity unit with storage. If you require additional storage space, you can buy a cabinet as it can be installed anywhere in your bathroom.
Shop Bathroom Furniture
Bathroom City’s range of vanity units and bathroom cabinets presents you with the ultimate style and storage solution, ensuring your bathroom is functional and clutter-free. Browse our online store and explore our selection of stylishly designed bathroom furniture. Or, stop by our showroom and check out our latest additions.
Other related articles you might also like to read: