Advice on Choosing a Bathroom Vanity

The bathroom typically rivals the kitchen for the most-used room in a house. Everyone - young and old - needs to use the bathroom. That means counter and closet space needs to be used as efficiently as possible. One choice for storing bathroom items is a quality vanity. The bathroom vanity is a small cabinet used to hold toiletry items. Vanities typically have attached or complementary mirrors with them. Bathroom vanities come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and designs, making it easier for you to find the right vanity for your bathroom.

The basic design has a number of small drawers either in a row across the top or down the middle with two cabinets. The design varies widely, however. Double-bathroom vanities are wider with enough drawers for two or more people with significant bathroom items to use. Most people look for a vanity with enough storage for their bathroom needs, using the drawers for everyday items, such as deodorant, toothpaste, and cologne, while cabinet space works well for linens or large toiletry items.

The primary advantage of a bathroom vanity is the addition of storage space to a bathroom. Though most families need to keep a good number of goods in their bathroom, the rooms themselves typically don't have enough built-in storage. Vanities are an inexpensive, yet tasteful, way to add this storage space.

Getting a vanity to match your bathroom design can be a difficult move, however, making bathroom vanities a turn-off to some consumers. Modern, antique, and even country designs are popular, but if you have a bathroom that is a hybrid or less common design, then you may be in for a long search. Vanities also must fit into a space already available in your bathroom, which can limit your options.

When choosing a bathroom vanity, first consider your budget. At the inexpensive end, most people can find vanities for less than $50, but the prices go up to several hundred depending on the quality and size. The material used to make the vanity is the largest factor in determining the cost.

After you have a budget down, measure any possible spaces where you could fit the vanity, leaving about ¼-inch on all sides to account for getting the vanity into place. Now you can narrow your search to vanities that fit your budget and size requirements. Think about each vanity you consider long-term. Ask yourself whether the vanity can grow with your family, especially if you have or plan to have children. Consider whether the vanity will be usable if you alter the style of the bathroom in any way.

To buy a vanity, look in both retail establishments and online. Both places can have deals going that will allow you to get the best possible price for your needs. Factor in associated issues, such as shipping costs for online purchases and transportation needs for brick and mortar purchases. Remember that this vanity is likely something you will want to last for years, so take your time to make the right purchase.