Available Space: A bathroom vanity can quickly take up a lot of space if it is too big, or look out of place if it is too small. Measure the intended space accordingly, so you don't end up with something too big or too small in the space available in your bathroom.
72 inch vanities are among the largest, with a few people going up to 84 inches or larger when they have the space. You'll want to think about how much space you have to work with. Consider how each size of vanity (48, 60, 72 inches, etc.) will look in the space.
For a single vanity, the most popular widths are 24", 30", 36", 48", and for double vanities the most popular widths are 60" and 72", but start at 48". The standard depth of a vanity is typically around 20", but narrower options are available. The standard vanity height is 32", but ranges from 30" – 36".
A little extra space goes a long way in the bathroom, especially when two people must use it at the same time. NKBA designers recommend a 30″ clearance between the front edge of a fixture, such as a vanity or toilet, and any other fixture or wall. The building code allows for a minimum of 21″.
Measure the width and depth of the vanity cabinet. The vanity top should be 1 inch wider and 1 inch deeper than the vanity cabinet.
Instead, think about the overall size of your new bathroom and plan to install a vanity that will fit comfortably within it. Having a vanity that's too large in a smaller bathroom will make the entire room less functional and comfortable.
If the top is on a free standing vanity (no walls on either side) the top should be 2” LONGER (B) than the vanity to allow for 1” overhang on each side.
What's more, the vanity should be flush against the wall, with no space between the back and the wall itself. The reason for this is to hide and protect your plumbing. Most of the time, plumbing comes through the wall underneath the sink, and the vanity's cabinet keeps it hidden.
Small-Bathroom Vanity Placement
Placing a vanity in a corner takes advantage of every inch of floor space and also allows for storage options on two walls. A recessed cabinet installed into a sidewall is a smart way to capture space that is typically overlooked.
If you do not measure the space correctly, there might be small or large gaps between the vanity and the wall. While installing the vanity, it should be carefully flush against the wall to avoid gaps. Failing to do that could be another reason. You are selecting the inadequate vanity style.
Clearance in front of the vanity: 21" minimum, although 30" is recommended for a total of 51" from the wall.
The standard vanity size for single vanities is between 36 and 48 inches wide, making them a fantastic option for guest bathrooms and powder rooms. When you have an especially small bathroom design, there are even wall-mounted vanities designed to free up valuable floor space.
Consider the Height of the User
If the user is around the 6-foot range, a 32 inch vanity will almost certainly be uncomfortable for them to use. The reverse is true for someone closer to 5-feet. A 36” vanity will most likely be a bit too tall for them.
Replace the Bathroom Vanity Cabinet
For maximum room, replace your vanity cabinet with a cantilevered countertop or with a pedestal sink. Pedestal sinks can be self-installed and cost between $150 and $400. While pedestal sinks give you more floor space, keep in mind that your countertop space will shrink.
How wide should your mirror be over your vanity? As a general rule, a mirror (or combination of mirrors) should be an inch or two smaller than the width of the vanity counter. However, if you have wall lighting either side of your mirror, this can be factored in as part of the framing of the mirror.
Comfort Height: In recent years, taller, comfort height vanities have grown in popularity. Comfort height bathroom vanities measure to be about 36 inches in height, compared to the standard 30-inch or 32-inch.
The standard height of a bathroom vanity is 32 inches or around 2.5 feet. This height has been the standard height for decades and it is very prevalent in older homes.
If you're building in your bath, you've got more flexibility with the depth of tiling around the edge. Make sure your door swings clear of your vanity and that you allow at least 100mm–200mm between a shower screen and vanity for cleaning.
Water control: If water collects on the surface of your countertop, it's important that the surface is as level as possible so the water can pool in place instead of spreading across the surface. That water can drip onto the floor and make the surface unexpectedly slippery.
Bathroom vanity units do not need to be attached to a wall, however, wall hanging vanity units are the most popular design on the market. And in small bathrooms in particular, space might dictate that the bathroom vanity unit will have to be attached to the wall.
If you're wondering if you should get a bathroom vanity backsplash or not, you're not alone. Many homeowners wonder the same thing. And the answer is, if you don't have a pedestal sink that sits against your bathroom wall, you'll likely benefit from having a bathroom vanity backsplash.
One of the best ways to do that is to use silicone caulk. Another way is to use a backsplash or backer rod to ensure the vanity is flush against the wall. Sometimes, the design of the vanity creates a gap, and you cannot close it unless you use other means apart from moving it close to the wall.
Usually, the conventional overhang of a countertop should be placed at 1 to 1 ½ inches above the cabinet. At the same time, the bared and exposed ends of a countertop should usually have a ½ inch overhang. The edges that suffice to a wall should not have any overhang to retain the fit flush to the wall.
Since countertops sit directly on the cabinets, the cabinetry must be installed prior to the final measurements, fabrication, and installation. If an apron or farmhouse sink is being used, it must be installed prior to template process.
1. Purpose. If the counter is to be used for food prep, the standard measurement for the overhang is 1-1/2 inches. This is long enough to provide some protection for your cabinets without forming an obstruction.