7 Things to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Vanity Unit
Did you know 39% of the UK homeowners remodel their bathroom within 2 years of buying their house? Most of which include the bathroom vanity units, as it is considered the centerpiece of the loo.
A vanity unit is not only a functional part of your bathroom but also adds a personal touch and style. Let’s review some of the most important things to consider while choosing a vanity unit.
How to Choose the Right Vanity Unit?
When you search for the vanity of your choice, you must assess its style as well as its practicality. A bathroom vanity unit is a combination of a basin with a convenient storage space. You get a ton of choices in the market, but we will help you pick the one you love to cherish in your bathroom for years.
Here is how you choose your perfect vanity unit.
Measurement of Space and Layout
Before you think about your vanity unit, its colour, or the material, evaluate the space available in your bathroom. The vanity unit must fit comfortably in your space without obstructing movement or other bathroom features.
If you have a small bathroom space, go for wall-mounted vanity units. They have a floating appearance and make your space feel bigger. If the space is large, floor-standing vanity units add more presence and storage. This article will help you decide: Floor-Standing or Wall-Mounted Vanity Unit – Which One Is for You?
Another thing that must be kept in mind while measuring the layout is that the doors or drawers do not clash with other elements when opened.
Storage and Functionality Planning
Vanity units are not only for the style; they must be functional. Think about who uses the space and what they need to store there.
Commonly, these items need vanity storage:
Toothbrushes, razors, and skincare.
Cleaning products that need to be hidden away.
Sink units (double or single): For shared bathrooms, double vanity units are perfect, while for compact spaces, singles are ideal.
Pro-Tip: Opt for units that have deep drawers and hidden compartments for a clutter-free organization.
Material for Durability
Bathrooms have a humid environment, which is why your vanity unit should be moisture-resistant. Most of the UK homeowners use vanity units made of:
Solid Wood: These vanity units are strong and durable, but they are generally more expensive than other materials. You will need to seal them to prevent warping.
Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF): This vanity unit is more affordable, has a smooth finish, and is available in many styles. For longevity, choose moisture-resistant versions.
PVC/Laminate: PVC is waterproof and budget-friendly at the same time. However, they are less luxurious in appearance than solid wood or MDF.
Sink Style and Countertops
Most of the vanity units come with integrated or countertop basins. Choose what works best for your needs. Here are some of the options you can choose from:
Inset Basins: These basins are neat, practical, and low-maintenance.
Countertop Basins: They look strikingly good and perfect for modern bathrooms. However, they are only workable if you have a large bathroom.
Double Sinks: If you are in a bathroom or have a busy household, they are perfect for you.
Some of the most popular countertops in the UK are porcelain, Quartz, and stone-effect materials as they are strong and moisture-resistant.
If to want to pair your vanity basins with stone finishes, Royale Stones, your trusted UK supplier, provides premium paving and tile solutions. The versatile indoor stone effect porcelain tiles complement almost all vanity units beautifully.
Plumbing and Installation Compatibility
If you want your vanity units to last longer, do not overlook the practical aspects of your bathroom vanity, which include plumbing.
You need to make sure that the vanity unit you have chosen is compatible with the existing pipework of your bathroom. Freestanding units are more flexible; however, wall-mounted units need adjustments.
If you are looking for easy installation, choose pre-cut models, or for a custom setup, you can also consult a professional.
Pro-Tip: Factor in space for waste pipes, taps, and other under sink storage components.
Choose Colour, Style, and Finish
Your vanity unit is the star of the show in your bathroom, a focal point. Match your design with the overall style of your room.
Popular Vanity Unit Styles in UK Homes
Traditional Shaker-Style Units: Mostly used in whites, creams, and greys.
Contemporary Flat-Front Units: Matte Black, gloss white, or wood effect vanity units are preferred.
Industrial Style Vanities: Metal accents and darker tones.
Pro-Tip: Use light colours for small spaces to open up the space, for instance, bright whites, soft greys, and natural wood tones. If you have a large bathroom, use bold shades like navy or forest green to add drama and depth.
Balance of Budget and Quality
You are going to use your vanity unit for a long time; it is your long-term investment, which is why you should balance affordability with durability, along with aesthetics.
Affordable MDF vanity units are perfect for guest bathrooms and rental properties, while solid wood or composite units work well in family homes where durability matters most.
We also recommend budgeting for bathroom accessories like taps, mirrors, and lighting. Look for reputable UK suppliers like Royale Stones for high-quality finishes and outstanding customer service
Conclusion
While choosing a bathroom vanity unit, do not only look for styles and design, but also find the right balance between design, functionality, and long-term performance. No matter which bathroom you are working on, your guest bathroom or your en-suite, make sure you consider all the aspects, i.e., practical and aesthetic ones.
Choose a moisture-resistant material, figure out your layout, the storage you may need, and a vanity unit that fulfills all your requirements. Royale Stones provides high-quality vanity units that suit your taste and are a huge win as a long-term investment.
Ready to upgrade your bathroom vanity units? Browse our latest vanity unit collections now!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What to consider when buying a vanity?
A: Consider your space availability, plumbing capability, storage needs, material, style, and your overall bathroom layout. Balance every aspect of your bathroom with the vanity style.
Q: How to tell if a bathroom vanity is good quality?
A: Check for moisture-resistant material, smooth drawer operation, robust accessories, and surface finish that won’t chip or peel. See if the manufacturer provides guarantees and the overall rating of the product.
Q: What is the best material for a vanity unit?
A: Solid wood is the best material for vanity units, but they are expensive than other materials. If you are searching for an affordable option that is also of good quality, MDF must be your first choice.
Q: How to pick out a bathroom vanity?
A: First, measure the size of your bathroom, its layout, and the clashes that you may face while opening the door and drawers. Decide what kind of vanity unit you prefer (wall-mounted or freestanding), storage space you need, and the style you prefer.
Q: Is MDF or wood better for a bathroom vanity?
A: Wood is more durable than bathroom vanity units, but costs more. MDF is a good option if you want a cost-effective, durable vanity unit.
