How to Choose the Right Vanity Size for Your Bathroom

Your space plays a big part in choosing your bathroom’s vanity. Going too big can make the area feel cramped, too small and you might find yourself without enough storage or bench space. You want to find a vanity that’s just right, and that depends on the proportions of your bathroom. Once you know the dimensions, you can start looking for the vanity that fits best.

What to think about before choosing a vanity size

These should be the first things you check before you install a new vanity :

Available wall space

Start by measuring the wall space and get an idea for how close it will be to other fixtures. You want to give some breathing room to either side so it doesn’t feel cramped. If you’re replacing an existing vanity you can use it to see if the new one fits the same blueprint, or if you’ll need to make some adjustments.

Distance from toilet, shower and door swings

You want enough clearance to move around comfortably. Make sure the cabinet doors and drawers can open without knocking into anything. It’s also worth double-checking how close the vanity sits to the toilet or shower, especially in tight layouts.

Existing plumbing

If your plumbing is already in place and you don’t plan on changing it, you’ll need to pick a vanity that matches the existing setup. Shifting plumbing around can be done, but it adds time and cost to your renovation.

Storage needs and who’s using the space

The need for storage depends on who and how you’re using the bathroom. A large single or a double vanity size might be best if you’re someone who likes to hide away your toiletries. If it’s used by more than one person, some extra bench space and drawers can help keep things organised.

Standard bathroom vanity sizes explained

Knowing your bathroom dimensions and the sizes of the most common fixtures can help make your decision. Here’s a closer look at the standard sizes to help you find the right fit.

Surface area:

• Single vanity size (600mm–1200mm): Best for smaller bathrooms or where only one or two people are using it. If you only need the basics, 600mm should be enough, while 900mm–1200mm versions give you extra storage and surface space.
• Double vanity size (1200mm–1800mm+): Perfect for families and shared bathrooms, they usually start around 1200mm, with 1500mm and up considered more comfortable options. Double the sinks, more drawer space and less waiting to brush your teeth in the morning.

Depth and height

Most vanities are around 450mm–500mm deep. This gives enough room for your sink and some decent storage underneath. Standard height is around 850mm–900mm, which suits most adults. You can adjust the height if needed for accessibility or taller users.

When to choose a double vanity

In a busy household a double vanity can be a morning rush saver. With two sinks and extra storage, it lets multiple people use the bathroom at the same time. If you’ve got plumbing and the wall space, usually around 1500mm or more, it can be a very handy addition to a high usage bathroom.

Keep in mind, a double vanity is not well-suited to small layouts. Their bulky design makes them best fitted in medium or large open plans.

Finding your next vanity

After you’ve decided on the size of your vanity, you can start to plan the other areas of your bathroom. Need a little help? We offer free design help online to help you pick a vanity and all the other bits you’ll need for your bathroom reno.