Every inch of space counts in the bathroom – however, some people forget that includes the height of your bathroom vanity and other fixtures. After all, no matter how stylish the fixtures are, you need to be able to use them comfortably. In this guide, we’ll talk about all the different factors involved in sizing a bathroom vanity, from common height to hanging considerations, and even things like where to put the backsplash, and more.
55 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity with Choice of Top
What to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Vanity
When you’re trying to choose your bathroom vanity, several different factors will be involved in your decision. Most people know that size is on their list, but they’re generally thinking about length and width—the spaces that matter most in that coveted bathroom square footage. Unfortunately, if you don’t also consider the vanity height, you could create back problems or make the vanity difficult to access for the children in the home, for example.
When buying a bathroom vanity, most homeowners will consider things like:
- Size: What size is the vanity, including the length, width, and height? All three of these will factor into choosing the right model for your space.
- Material: The finish of the cabinet and counter will also be part of the decision. It is typical that most people choose wood or wood veneer vanities because they offer a timeless look, but pedestal sinks, metal vanities, and other options are out there.
- Finish: What color or finish do you want? Dark vanities add a dramatic touch but can make the room feel smaller because they appear to take up more space. A lighter vanity could open up the room but may require more frequent cleaning.
- Bathroom Use: This is one that a lot of people overlook. After all, a bathroom is a bathroom, right? Well, not exactly. For example, if you are installing it in a master bath, height for children might not be a concern. However, if it’s a half bath in the hall downstairs that anyone can use, it might be better to choose a lower counter height that is accommodating to everyone.
- Sink: Will you choose to have a standard drop-in style sink or are you going to choose a modern vanity with a vessel sink on top? This will ultimately impact the height of the vanity itself because you’ll have to allow room for the sink in the latter case.
Related: How to Protect Wood Bath Vanities from Moisture
93 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity with Ample Storage
What is Standard Height and Comfort Height Vanity Sizing?
The average bathroom vanity ranges from 30 to 36 inches in height. Because of the influx of families sharing bathrooms after World War II, the normal countertop standard height measurements were on the lower end to accommodate everyone. In the industry, the accepted standard height of a bathroom vanity is 30-32 inches.
Comfort height refers to higher counters to accommodate taller people or provide a more comfortable reach for those who may worry about back problems from too much leaning. Because the standard kitchen counter is 36 inches and a productive workspace, many people update their bathrooms to match. Therefore, if you see a vanity sized at comfort height, it probably measures 36 inches.
And, of course, there are also many sizes in between, including everything from 31 inches to 35 inches, depending on the style and vanity you choose.
Related: What Size Vanity Do I Need for Two Sinks?
59 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in Latte Oak with Radiant Gold Pulls
What is Standard Height for Vanities with Vessel Sinks and Floating Vanities?
Of course, the standard goes out the window regarding new vanity designs like the vessel sink and the floating vanity cabinet. For a vessel sink, you’ll generally want to allow an extra 4-6 inches of height for the sink, depending on the one that you choose. If you select an all-in-one model that includes a sink, check the height of the counter and the height of the vanity, including the sink, to get the measurements.
If you are purchasing separately and want a standard height with the sink included, you’ll need to stick with a vanity that’s 24-28 inches, again, depending on the sink you choose.
For example, a 28 inch cabinet with a 4 inch sink would give you the standard height of 32 inches.
If you want to install a floating vanity, there’s a different factor here. You can’t just choose a vanity that measures 32 inches for a standard fit – what if it’s installed four inches off the floor? That takes you up to 36 inches, which is comfort height, but still taller than you intended.
Related: Why Consider A Floating Bathroom Vanity?
84 Inch Double Vessel Sink Bathroom Vanity with Side Cabinets
What About the Backsplash and Decor?
Typically, you’ll want your bathroom backsplash (if you have one) to sit even at the countertop’s top. The height usually measures about four inches on the standard backsplash, but today some people are installing tiles or other finishes that are six or eight inches high for a dramatic touch. Ultimately, you’ll want to ensure that it fits your vanity installation and doesn’t cause the space to look too large or small.
Decor should generally be hung at eye level, as should vanity mirrors. The height from the vanity cabinet is less relevant here, as the total wall height is the primary concern. It’s the backsplash that needs to line up with the vanity appropriately for the best look.
Related: Bathroom Mirror Lighting Ideas
48 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity in Navy Blue with Choice of No Top
It’s All About What Works for You
When you are installing a new bathroom vanity, the choice will ultimately be yours to make. This information can help you along the way by providing you with valuable insight to assist in choosing the right size for your space. If you are still unsure, feel free to ask for assistance. Your contractor, bathroom vanity retailers, and others will be able to guide you along the way and provide some tips. Even if you end up buying a vanity online that you fall in love with, it might be a good idea to go to your local home improvement store or showroom and see what the different heights look like in person before you decide. Find what you like best, which should be easier now that you know more about buying your perfect bathroom vanity.
Related: The Use of Barn Doors in the Bathroom
60 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity in Driftwood Finish
Resources:
https://www.badeloftusa.com/how-to-guides/what-is-the-standard-height-of-a-bathroom-vanity/
https://homedecorbliss.com/how-high-should-bathroom-sink-be/
https://www.hunker.com/13413405/what-is-the-standard-height-of-a-bathroom-vanity
https://www.cabinetnow.com/how-towhat-is-the-standard-height-for-bathroom-vanities/