How to Buy a Bathroom Vanity

Things You Need:

• Tape measure

There are few, if any, pieces of furniture that so greatly impact the feel of a room as a bathroom vanity. The vanity is usually the first thing you, or your guests, notice in the bathroom. A striking vanity can easily redefine a boring bathroom that you'd rather hide from your guests as one of the more interesting rooms in your home.

Buying a Bathroom Vanity:

1. Measure the space you have. Keep the dimensions in mind. Buying a vanity that is too big for the space is obviously a mistake, but also be aware of buying a vanity that doesn't appropriately fill the space. Of course, a small vanity in a large space can be used in your favor to draw attention to the piece.

2. Determine what you want. If your vanity is going to be in your master bathroom, you will probably want a vanity with lots of storage and counter space to make getting ready in the morning easier. If the bathroom will be used by overnight guests or your children, some storage is nice, but you probably won't need a lot. In a half bath, where little storage is needed and many guests will be using it, sacrificing storage space for style might be a good option for you.

3. Choose a style. Choosing the style of your bathroom vanity can be relatively easy, because you likely won't have to match it to other pieces of furniture. Bathrooms are somewhat separated from the rest of the home, so you can diverge from styles that are present in the rest of the home. It might be your chance to try for a modern look, even if the rest of your home is more traditional.

4. Pick your options. Your options are nearly endless. Do you want a double sink to make getting ready in the morning easier? Vessel sinks are striking but can be less functional for preparing in the morning, so consider them for guest bathrooms. Vanities also have a wide range of storage options and faucet styles.

5. Choose your materials. Most bathroom cabinets are wood, but the finishes have a wide range of colors. Bamboo cabinets offer a unique look while also being environmentally friendly. Countertops are usually made of some type of stone, granite being the most popular, but some modern styles use glass.

Tip:

1. Don't let the faucet make or break the deal, if you find a cabinet you really like. Faucets can be easily replaced.