How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity Unit: A Buyer’s Guide
A vanity unit does two jobs: it holds your basin and it gives you storage. Get it right and your bathroom feels organised and looks great. With so many sizes, finishes and styles on the market, it helps to work through the decisions in order. Here is how we guide customers in our Mullingar showroom.
1. Measure your space
Start with the width, depth and height you have available. Allow room for doors and drawers to open fully, and for comfortable walking space. Vanity units commonly range from compact 400 to 500 mm cloakroom sizes up to wide 1200 mm double-basin units, so there is an option for most rooms.
2. Wall-hung or floor-standing?
Wall-hung units leave the floor visible underneath, which makes a room feel bigger and is easier to clean. They need a sturdy wall that can carry the weight.
Floor-standing units are often more straightforward to install and can offer more storage, with a traditional look that suits many homes.
3. Drawers or doors?
Drawers give you easier access to everything inside, and work well around the plumbing with a cut-out for the waste. Doors suit taller items and can look more traditional. Many people choose a mix of both.
4. Pick the right basin type
- Integrated basins are moulded into the top, so there are no joins to clean.
- Countertop basins sit on the surface and make a statement.
- Semi-recessed basins save a little depth, which helps in smaller rooms.
Check the tap-hole arrangement, too. If the basin has no tap hole, you will need wall-mounted taps. Browse our taps to match your finish.
5. Choose a finish that suits your style
Painted and woodgrain finishes are both popular. Soft whites and greys keep things light, while deep navy, green or natural oak add warmth and character. Matching handles and taps, for example in brushed brass or matt black, tie the look together.
6. Think about the plumbing
Where the waste and water supply come out of the wall affects which unit will fit. Tell us where yours are, or bring a quick sketch or photo, and we can suggest units that will work without moving pipes.
7. Consider a small bathroom
If space is tight, a compact vanity such as our Tranquil Compact Bathroom Unit is a good place to start. For more ideas, read our small bathroom ideas.
8. Add the right mirror
Your mirror frames the vanity, so choose it at the same time. A backlit option such as our Globe Large LED Bathroom Mirror adds light and a focal point. See our LED bathroom mirror guide for what to look out for.
See the range
We stock a wide choice of vanity units from brands including My Life, HIB, Roper Rhodes, Burlington and Phoenix. Browse the full bathroom furniture collection online, then come and see the finishes in person.
Vanity unit FAQs
What size vanity unit do I need?
Choose the largest unit that fits comfortably while leaving space to move and open doors. For a standard bathroom, 600 to 800 mm is common, while 1000 to 1200 mm suits larger rooms or a double basin.
Are wall-hung vanity units strong enough?
Yes, when fixed properly to a suitable wall. If you are unsure about your wall construction, ask your installer to check before you buy.
Can I fit a vanity unit myself?
Basic fitting is possible for confident DIYers, but plumbing connections should be done by a qualified plumber to avoid leaks and ensure everything works properly.
Want to see these ideas in person? Visit our showroom at Mullingar Business Park, Co. Westmeath, or book an appointment and our team will talk you through your options. You can also get in touch with any questions.
