Expert Buying Guide: Choosing the Perfect Modern Bathroom Vanity Unit for Your Home

Whether you want to give your bathroom a new outlook or simply improve the storage capacity, consider installing a modern bathroom vanity unit. 

It not only cleverly conceals unsightly plumbing lines but also offers front-facing storage that can help to declutter the room. 

Unlike traditional pedestal wash basins, our bathroom vanity units are available in a wide range of styles, materials, and shapes, giving you the freedom to renovate your bathroom to your personal tastes. 

To get started on your bathroom remodel, check out our comprehensive guide to buying vanity units.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Perfect Modern Bathroom Vanity Unit

As someone who's shopping for bathroom furniture, there are several factors like size, style, material, and storage that you will need to consider before making a satisfactory purchase. 

Size and Shape

Vanity units come in a variety of sizes and shapes. So, the first thing you should consider before buying them is the space available in your bathroom. 

Does your bathroom have enough free space to fit in your desired vanity without compromising access to the rest of the room?

If you have a large bathroom, a double sink vanity unit would be suitable for your bathroom storage solutions as it provides maximum storage capacity along with a pair of sinks for better access. 

For a small and congested bathroom design, you should prefer a cloakroom vanity that fits easily into available space and leaves sufficient room to move around. 

Style and Design

Typically, vanity units are differentiated into two types based on their style:

  1. Traditional
  2. Contemporary

Traditional vanities exhibit a timeless classic appearance that keeps them in trend no matter the year or age. 

Whereas contemporary vanity units feature a sophisticated and minimal outlook that's more geared toward the overall ambiance of the room rather than the design.

When purchasing a vanity unit as a bathroom storage solution, you must consider the overall bathroom decor and the prevailing theme. 

Get a vanity that aligns with and uplifts the existing bathroom interior.

Modena 1200mm Floor Standing Vanity Unit 4 Door With Double Basin - Multicolor & HandlesModena 1200mm Floor Standing Vanity Unit 4 Door With Double Basin - Multicolor & Handles
Modena 1200mm Floor Standing Vanity Unit 4 Door With Double Basin - Multicolor & Handles

Storage Needs

Choosing the right bathroom vanity unit requires careful consideration of your current and future needs. 

You can start by making a list of items you need to store in the bathroom. Are the storage needs going to increase in the future?

Once you have a clear understanding of your storage needs, you can begin exploring different types of vanity units available. Look for units that offer ample storage space, such as cabinets, drawers, and shelves. 

Consider the size and layout of your bathroom to determine whether a single or double vanity unit will work best.

Material and Finish

Vanity units come in various material finishes, but since bathrooms are moisture-laden areas, be vigilant while choosing the right one. 

Not only should your bathroom furniture material be resistant to moisture, but it should also withstand heavy countertops made from granite, marble, and quartz.

Instead of using solid wood, go for waterproof MDF board or plywood as your vanity unit material, as it can effectively bear the humid climate of a bathroom. 

Keep away from ready-made vanity cabinets when you don't know the exact material they are made of.

In the case of subpar material construction, the cabinets might sag or break down under the weight of the countertop due to excessive contact with water and steam. 

However, PVC cabinet fittings are comparatively reliable and cost-effective.

Exploring the Different Types of Modern Bathroom Vanity Units

At Royal Bathrooms, we believe our customers have varying bathroom storage and style preferences. 

That's why we offer an extensive range of modern bathroom vanity units to suit and cater to your requirements. 

In this section, we'll take a closer look at the five subcategories of vanities available, along with the benefits and the unique ranges within them.

Vanity Unit Type Benefits Ranges
Cloakroom Vanity Units Space-saving, designed for compact spaces Como, Modena, Mayford & Turin
Floor Standing Vanity Units Classic look, ample storage Turin, Elena, Cesar, Milan, Marbella & Modena
Wall Hung Vanity Units Sleek, modern, free up floor space Turin, Cesar, Modena, Marbella, Milan & Modena
Freestanding Worktop Vanity Units Storage and large worktop area Turin, Milan & Modena
Wall-mounted Worktop Vanity Units Space-saving, versatile design Turin & Milan
*For more detailed descriptions and benefits of each vanity unit type, please refer to the corresponding information below.

1. Cloakroom Vanity Units

Sizes Available: 400mm
Handle Options: Chrome, Black, Gold
Colours Available: Gloss white, Indigo Grey Gloss, Grey Elm, Hale Black, Satin White, Satin Blue, Satin Green, Light Oak. 
Features: 1 Shelf, 1 Door
Ranges:
Cloakroom vanity units are available in Como, Modena, and Mayford ranges. Como features modern design compact vanity units with minimalist details, making it the perfect option to add a minimalist, contemporary feel to the bathroom. The Modena range, on the other hand, has a timeless design that fits seamlessly in any bathroom décor. Its high-end satin finish gives it a designer look. The Turin vanity has a modern design boasting soothing, natural-looking finishes that create a unique style statement in a small bathroom.

2. Floor Standing Vanity Units

Sizes Available: 500mm, 600mm, 800mm, 1200mm
Handle Options: Chrome, Black, Gold
Colours Available: Gloss White, Indigo Grey, Grey Elm, Hale Black, Matt Electric Blue, Satin Green, Satin Grey, Satin White, Satin Blue , Matt Coastal Grey
Features: 2, 4 drawers, 1 sink, 2 sink 
Ranges:
The Turin range of floor-standing vanity units features a sleek and contemporary design with a high-gloss finish, while the Elena range offers a more classic style with elegant, curved edges and a luxurious finish. The Cesar range is characterized by its minimalist and modern look, with clean lines and a matte finish. It has an option to choose between gold and black handles. The Milan range boasts a unique blend of modern and classic elements available in unique coastal grey and electric blue colour. The Marbella range offers a touch of luxury with a polished marble top and a rich oak finish. Finally, the Modena range is defined by its simplicity, with a luxurious minimalist design and mid-gloss satin finish.

3. Wall Hung Vanity Units

Sizes Available: 500mm, 600mm, 800mm, 1200mm
Handle Options: Chrome, Black, Gold
Colours Available:  Satin Blue, Satin White, Satin Grey, Coastal Grey, Gloss White, Hale Black, Electric Blue, Grey Elm, Indigo Grey, 
Features: 1, 2 and 4 drawers
Ranges: 
Turin wall-hung vanity units are characterized by their simple, clean lines and contemporary design, making them a great choice for minimalist bathrooms. Cesar, on the other hand, has a more luxurious feel with their high-end finishes and attention to detail, making them a popular choice for those who want to create a spa-like atmosphere in their bathroom. 
Modena, a modern bathroom vanity unit, is known for its luxurious minimalist style and high-end functional design, with ample storage options and a focus on practicality. Marbella wall-mounted vanities feature a sleek, glossy finish and a bold, striking design, making them a great choice for those who want to make a statement with their bathroom decor. Finally, the Milan bathroom furniture range offers a mix of contemporary and classic styles, with elegant finishes and traditional design elements that give them a timeless appeal.

4. Freestanding Worktop Vanity Units

Sizes Available: 500mm, 600mm, 800mm, 1200mm
Handle Options: Chrome, Black, Gold
Colours Available: Hale Black, Gloss White, Indigo Grey, Grey Elm, Coastal Grey. 
Features:  2 doors, 2 drawers
Ranges: 
Turin vanity units have a contemporary design with clean lines and a minimalist style, while the Milan range has a more classic design with elegant finishes and decorative details. Turin units typically have a more streamlined look, while Milan units feature unique coastal grey and electric blue finishes with your choice of black, chrome, or gold handles. 

5. Wall-mounted Worktop Vanity Units

Sizes Available:  500mm, 600mm, 800mm, 1200mm
Handle Options: Chrome, Black, Gold
Colours Available:  Hale Black, Electric Blue, Gloss White, Indigo Grey Gloss, Grey Elm, Matt Coastal Grey, Matt Electric Blue 
Features: 1,2 and 4 drawers 
Ranges: 
The Turin and Milan wall-mounted worktop vanity units are both modern bathroom storage solutions with sleek and contemporary designs. However, there are some notable distinctions between them. The Turin unit has a wider worktop area and larger rectangular basin, providing more space for washing and grooming. The Milan unit, on the other hand, has a more compact worktop and a smaller sink, making it a better choice for smaller bathrooms or a cloakroom. Overall, both ranges offer a stylish and functional storage solution for modern bathrooms.

Choose the Vanity Unit that suits your Space Requirements

We have compiled a handy comparison chart highlighting the key features and benefits of every bathroom storage solution type and range to help you make an informed decision to choose the right vanity unit.

Vanity Unit Type Key Features Space Requirement Available Ranges
Cloakroom Vanity Units Compact, space-saving Small bathrooms, cloakrooms Como, Modena, Mayford
Floor Standing Vanity Units Classic design, ample storage Small to large bathrooms Turin, Elena, Cesar, Milan, Marbella, Modena
Wall Hung Vanity Units Modern, sleek, free up floor space Small to large bathrooms Turin, Cesar, Modena, Marbella, Milan
Freestanding Worktop Vanity Units Large worktop area, ample-storage Small to large bathrooms Turin, Milan
Wall-mounted Worktop Vanity Units Space-saving, versatile design Small to large bathrooms Turin, Milan

Modern Bathroom Vanity Units Installation Tips

Perhaps, the ideal way to install a Modern Bathroom Vanity Unit is to hire a professional plumber. But if you are a DIY person wishing to get hands-on experience with the installation and save extra costs, here are some vanity unit installation tips you needouble vanity unitd to follow:

  1. Turn off the water supply to your bathroom to prevent leakage during installation.
  2. Mark out the dedicated space where you want to vanity unit installation. Make sure there’s enough space on all sides for easy access while fitting it.
  3. Once you have the marking ready, find the correct position. The countertopshould be positioned perpendicular to the bathroom wall at a 90-degree angle.
  4. Attach the wall studs on these markings, where the plumbing pipes will fit later.
  5. While attaching the vanity countertop, make sure to apply a sealant to the edges and corners of the vanity to achieve a secure fitting.
  6. After the bathroom vanity unit is correctly mounted and positioned, connect the water lines to the faucets and set the drainage pipe in place.
Modena 600mm Satin Blue Floor Standing Vanity Unit 2 Door With Semi Recessed Basin - Multiple HandlesModena 600mm Satin Blue Floor Standing Vanity Unit 2 Door With Semi Recessed Basin - Multiple Handles
Modena 600mm Satin Blue Floor Standing Vanity Unit

Bathroom Vanity Unit Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance are important to extend the lifespan of any bathroom fixture, especially vanity units. Besides keeping their strength and durability intact, you'd want your vanity to look as elegant and attractive as the first day. If you want to ensure your vanity stays timeless, adopt the following vanity unit maintenance tips:

  • Prevent Direct Contact with Water
    Even though most vanity units are resistant to water, they are not completely waterproof. This means constant contact with water over an extended period may cause the framework to lose its aesthetic appeal. If you allow water splashes to pool on the surface, it may develop stains presenting an even awful look. 
    Most buyers laminate their bathroom cabinets to prevent stains and deterioration through the water. Laminations come in shiny, matte surfaces to cater to every bathroom's interior decor. Some people also fabricate the vanity unit in a plywood frame with glass shutters to give a modern look and improve durability.

  • Clean up Any Accidents Immediately
    Even if you have used laminated plywood sheets for the bathroom vanity unit, extended exposure to water can still take a toll on the structure. Make sure to clean any water spills and splashes on the vanity countertop to prevent any damage. Use a clean cloth to wipe the surface. This will extend the fixture's lifespan while also making it look as visually appealing as the first day.

  • Brush off Built-up Dirt and Grip Regularly 
    If you have a family bathroom used extensively throughout the day, dirt and debris may build up over time. The germs and bacteria can eat away the foundations of your vanity unit if not dealt with sooner. It usually forms in nooks and crannies that are away from the standard line of sight, making cleaning even more challenging. Thus, regularly brushing off any traces of dirt or grime is recommended to maintain durability.

  • Don't Use Harsh Chemical Solutions
    There are plenty of cleaning agents available in the market, each pledging to make your bathroom squeaky clean. But what about the side effects? Most cleaning solutions carry harsh chemicals that can deteriorate the protective layer or lamination on your vanity unit, making it susceptible to water damage. Using a slightly moist cloth to clean water stains might be a better option for you.

  • Protect Stone Countertops With Extra Care
    If you don’t opt for any Modern Bathroom Vanity Units and choose a stone countertop – you might need to be more careful. 
    Your stone countertop also requires extra attention and care. Most marble and granite stone sinks have a protective coating on top that guards against scratches and stains. 

    However, these stones have a porous structure that can easily get discolored and deteriorate if exposed to harsh cleaning chemicals. Consider using these cleaning agents as little as possible to prevent deterioration.

     

600mm Floor Standing Vanity Unit 2 Door Grey Elm & Countertop Basin - Cube600mm Floor Standing Vanity Unit 2 Door Grey Elm & Countertop Basin - Cube
600mm Floor Standing Vanity Unit 2 Door Grey Elm & Countertop Basin - Cube

Comparing Key Features of  Modern Bathroom Vanity Unit Types: Installation, Maintenance, and Price

The vanity unit comparison chart gives you a complete understanding of each bathroom furniture variant's installation complexity, maintenance requirements, and cost bracket so that you can make an informed decision.

Vanity Unit Type Installation Complexity Maintenance Requirements Price Range Warranty
Cloakroom Vanity Units Easy to moderate Low to moderate £94.00-£146.99 5 Years
Floor Standing Vanity Units Easy to moderate Moderate to high £189.00-£809.99 5 Years
Wall Hung Vanity Units Complex, may require professional help Low to moderate £169.00-£727.99 5 Years
Freestanding Worktop Vanity Units Easy to moderate Moderate to high £159.00-£306.99 5 Years
Wall-mounted Worktop Vanity Units Complex, may require professional help Low to moderate £127.00-£818.99 5 Years

*Keep in mind that these comparisons are approximate and may vary depending on the specific vanity unit and range you choose.

Popular Bathroom Trends and Vanity Units

The trend for aesthetic and exotic bathroom renovations in the UK shows no signs of slowing down. People are investing extensively to transform their otherwise boring bathrooms into spa-like atmospheres that promote relaxation after a long day. One way to achieve this is by choosing a modern bathroom vanity unit with a satin or high-gloss finish from Royal Bathrooms, which adds warmth and texture to the space. We offer a variety of bathroom storage solutions, ranging from traditional styles with high-end detailing to sleek, modern designs.

Royal Bathrooms's range of wall-hung vanity units is a perfect fit for minimalist aesthetics with clean lines and a decluttered space trend. These sleek vanities free up floor space and make the modern bathroom design feel more spacious.

Another popular bathroom trend is the use of dual-sink vanity units in en-suite bathrooms, which provide ample storage space and an attractive look. Check out our Modena and Elena ranges for high-end dual-sink vanities designed according to the latest trends.

Marbella Gloss White 2 Drawer Wall Hung Vanity Unit With Curved Basin - Multiple Sizes & HandlesMarbella Gloss White 2 Drawer Wall Hung Vanity Unit With Curved Basin - Multiple Sizes & Handles
Marbella Gloss White 2 Drawer Wall Hung Vanity Unit With Curved Basin

Conclusion

Selecting a modern bathroom vanity unit isn't just about picking the style you like the most. You must also take into account several factors such as size, storage requirements, number of people using the bathroom, and more. Our buying guide has outlined the tips and factors to consider to help you make an informed decision.  Remember that whether you choose a freestanding or wall hung vanity unit, it should not only be practical and stylish but also durable and easy to maintain. Our bathroom vanity units are designed to be the perfect fit to transform your bathroom into a comfortable and welcoming space that you'll enjoy for many years to come.