Check these features when buying vanities besides ‘looking good’.
When buying a bathroom vanity, it’s important to consider more than just style. Some vanities come as base-only, meaning you’ll need to add your own basin and countertop, while others are sold as complete units and ready to install. Pay attention to the configurations available, single or double bowls, wall-hung or freestanding, to ensure it fits your bathroom layout. Don’t forget to check the hardware, like soft-close drawers and handles, as these small details affect how easy it is to use and how long it lasts.
We’ll explore these features in detail below to help you make an informed decision and guide you through your vanity buying journey.
First Things First: Avoid This Common Mistake
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when choosing a vanity is overlooking the importance of size. Measuring your space accurately is essential to ensure the vanity fits well, without overpowering the room or leaving too much unused space. Vanities are available in a variety of sizes, including 750mm, 900mm, 1200mm, and 1500mm, so be sure to select one that complements your bathroom layout.
Wall-Hung or Freestanding: What’s the Difference?
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Wall-Hung Vanities: These are mounted directly on the wall, creating a floating effect. They’re perfect for modern, minimalist designs and make small bathrooms feel more spacious. They also make cleaning the floor underneath much easier.
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Freestanding Vanities: These sit directly on the floor and come in a range of classic and contemporary styles. They offer more storage and are easier to install, as they don’t require wall mounting.
For those needing extra storage, Austpek also offers tall boy vanity designs. These are freestanding units with added height to maximise vertical storage, perfect for bathrooms with limited space.
Choosing Between Single and Double Bowl Vanities
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Single Bowl Vanities: These come with one basin and are ideal for compact spaces. Typically, vanities 900mm and below are designed for a single bowl, as the size is too small to accommodate two basins comfortably.
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Double Bowl Vanities: These feature two basins and are great for shared bathrooms or larger households. Double bowl options generally start from 1200mm in size, as this provides enough width to fit two basins without compromising counter space. They’re ideal for busy mornings when multiple people need to use the sink at the same time.
Soft Close Mechanism
The soft close mechanism allows vanity drawers and doors to close gently and quietly, no matter how hard you push them. It prevents slamming, reducing noise and wear over time. To check if a vanity has a soft close mechanism in a showroom:
- Open a drawer or door.
- Push it gently toward the closed position.
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Lightly push the drawer or door closed and observe if it slows down smoothly without slamming shut.
Drawer Dividers and Organisers
Vanities with built-in drawer dividers and organisers are great for keeping your bathroom essentials neat and accessible. Instead of a cluttered drawer, dividers help separate items like toiletries, makeup, and grooming tools. This makes it easier to find what you need quickly and keeps your vanity looking clean and organised.
Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into the fun part - how the vanity looks! The right design can completely transform your bathroom, adding style and personality to the space. Here’s how to choose one that stands out.
Colours and Finish
The colour of your vanity sets the mood for your bathroom. Classic shades like white create a clean and timeless look, while black adds bold sophistication. For a warm, natural feel, natural oak is a great option. If you’re looking for something unique, some vanities even offer custom options to match your specific style.
Hardware
Handles might seem like a small detail, but they can greatly influence both the look and functionality of your vanity:
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Push Open (No Handle): Push-open vanities don’t require handles. A gentle press is all it takes to open drawers or doors.
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Pull Open (With Handle): Vanities with handles come in various styles, from classic knobs to modern bar designs. They are available in a range of finishes, such as chrome, black, brushed nickel, and gun metal, allowing you to match them perfectly with your bathroom’s color scheme.
Add-ons
After checking all these features, if you’re considering add-ons, integrated mirrors and shaving cabinets are excellent options to complete your vanity setup.
Vanities need to do more than just look good in your bathroom. When buying one, check the size, storage, mounting style and quality features. Don't forget to pair it with the right basin and countertop to complete your perfect vanity setup. Taking time to check these features will help you choose a vanity that both looks great and works well.