Buying bathroom furniture can be a daunting task. It comes in different styles, shapes, and sizes, ranging from small bathroom mirror cabinets to spacey combination vanity units. What suits one bathroom layout may not align with another bathroom's theme and vice versa. So, where do you even begin? I recently tackled this project and discovered that with a little planning and the right information, the process can actually be enjoyable.
In this guide, I'll share my step-by-step approach to measuring and budgeting and choosing the perfect bathroom vanity unit, cabinet, or WC unit. Let's make your bathroom renovation a success
What To Consider When Buying Bathroom Furniture?
Buying bathroom furniture requires you to consider the specific needs of your bathroom, your family, and your lifestyle. So, it's not just about picking out something that looks good or you found on Pinterest. Whether you’re furnishing a small bathroom or a high-moisture family bathroom, here are some essential factors to consider ensuring you choose furniture that fits your space, style, and usage.
How to Choose the Right Size and Dimensions for Your Bathroom Furniture?
Before choosing your bathroom furniture, you need to identify the available space in the bathroom. While large cabinet units offer more storage space and look stylish, they can be a hindrance to compact bathrooms.
Look through the layout draft of your bathroom so you know the required furniture size and dimensions. If you're looking for storage units for a small bathroom or cloakroom, remember to check the door openings to ensure they don't compromise your floor space.
When you are working with limited space, space saving bathroom furniture should be your choice. It is because small bathrooms have unique constraints, and choosing the right small bathroom vanity unit makes sense. Compact bathroom furniture for tight spaces, such as cloakrooms and ensuites, generally has slim profiles to maximize the space, so your choices include modular bathroom furniture, floating vanity units or wall-mounted cabinets to free up the floor space and make it look larger and open.
Here, you can get information about the best bathroom furniture sizes for your bathroom,
|
Furniture Type and Size (mm) |
Suitable Bathroom Type |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Compact/Small (400mm - 600mm) |
Small bathrooms |
Perfect for tight spaces, with wall-mounted or compact storage solutions. |
|
Standard/Medium (600mm - 900mm) |
Medium bathrooms |
Offers a balance of storage and style for average-sized bathrooms. |
|
Large (1000mm - 1500mm) |
Large bathrooms |
Ideal for spacious rooms, providing ample storage and luxury features. |
|
Corner Units (500mm - 800mm) |
Small to medium bathrooms |
Space-saving corner solutions for tighter layouts. |
|
Double Vanity (1200mm - 1500mm) |
Large bathrooms |
Great for master or family bathrooms, offering dual counter space. |
|
Tall Cabinets (300mm - 500mm) |
Medium to large bathrooms |
Vertical storage, perfect for bathrooms with limited floor space. |
|
Wall-Mounted (400mm - 800mm) |
Small to medium bathrooms |
Elevates storage off the floor, creating a sleek and spacious feel. |
|
Freestanding (600mm - 1200mm) |
Medium to large bathrooms |
Flexible placement for larger bathrooms with ample floor space. |
Choosing the Best Materials for Durable Bathroom Furniture
Durability for the high moisture areas is another factor that you should consider. It comes down to choosing the best bathroom furniture in a high-humidity environment. The furniture you choose should withstand humidity and constant exposure to water. Without moist-resistant materials, your bathroom storage units may degrade or warp over time. Melamine Faced Chipboards (MFC) and Medium Density Fiberboards (MDF) are some popular materials used in bathroom cabinets and vanities. Durable MDF bathroom furniture with water resistance can be your preferred choice for a family bathroom.
Here’s a more concise version of the table comparing bathroom cabinets and vanities materials:
|
Material |
Features |
Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
|
MDF |
Affordable, smooth surface, easy to paint, moisture-resistant |
Budget-friendly furniture |
|
MFC |
Durable, scratch-resistant, cost-effective |
Modern, budget-friendly options |
|
Natural Wood |
Durable, unique grain, high-end look but can not withstand moist. |
Premium, luxury bathrooms |
|
Plywood |
Strong, moisture-resistant when treated, durable |
Durable, high-end furniture |
|
PVC |
Waterproof, lightweight, easy to clean |
Wet rooms, moisture-prone areas |
|
Stainless Steel |
Durable, rust-resistant, modern look |
Industrial or contemporary-style bathrooms |
How to Choose the Right Style and Design for Your Bathroom Furniture?
Bathroom furniture offers a way to make your bathroom a more visually appealing space. From classic old-fashioned and antique styles to sharper and sleeker designs with a contemporary outlook, you can find storage units that perfectly match your bathroom's theme.
You will need to create a cohesive look by using matching fittings and fixtures. If you aim for a clutter free look, prefer a minimalist storage solution for the bathroom. This will make your space look sleeker and tidier. Minimalist compact bathroom units are perfect for cloakrooms and ensuites, allowing you to make the most of available space without compromising the style. It’s trendy and has the best bathroom cabinets and vanities style for small bathrooms.
For someone looking to create a high-end look, incorporate gold accent handles for luxury bathroom furniture to instantly elevate the look of the space. You can customize the look of your vanity unit by choosing the gold accent handles or any other of your choices, depending on the overall bathroom theme.
Vintage bathroom furniture is usually a preferred choice for a Victorian-style bathroom. While it may also be used for creating a timeless or classic look, you carefully consider your personal preference when making a choice. Vintage bathroom cabinets and vanities for a classic style is usually a floor standing cabinet-style vanity unit with intricated design elements.
Here, we have discussed various bathroom storage unit styles.
|
Bathroom Style |
Type of Vanity Unit |
Type of Bathroom |
|---|---|---|
|
Modern |
Wall-hung, sleek, minimalist, floating vanity with clean lines. |
Contemporary, minimalist, compact |
|
Traditional |
Classic wooden vanity with ornate details, often with a countertop. |
Classic, family bathroom, vintage |
|
Contemporary |
Freestanding vanity or floating unit with modern finishes (e.g., metal or wood). |
High-tech, sophisticated, spacious |
|
Coastal/Beach |
Light-colored wood or distressed vanity with a rustic look. |
Seaside, relaxing, airy, and bright |
|
Industrial |
Raw wood or metal vanity with a rugged design. |
Loft, urban, exposed brickwork |
|
Farmhouse |
Wooden vanity with vintage touches, often with a washbasin. |
Cozy, country-style, rustic |
|
Transitional |
Combination of traditional and modern vanity units, with neutral colors. |
Neutral, balanced, versatile |
|
Luxury |
High-end vanity with marble or stone countertop, sleek finishes. |
Spa-like, opulent, elegant |
|
Rustic |
Reclaimed wood vanity with natural, earthy tones. |
Cabin, countryside, wood accents |
|
Scandinavian |
Minimalistic, light wood or white vanity with simple design. |
Bright, open, functional |
|
Art Deco |
Bold, geometric vanity with luxurious materials like lacquered wood or glass. |
Glamorous, elegant, vintage-inspired |
|
Victorian |
Ornate, antique-style vanity with detailed carvings and porcelain. |
Vintage, classical, opulent |
|
Bohemian |
Colourful, eclectic vanity with creative patterns or rustic materials. |
Artistic, free-spirited, unconventional |
Maximizing Bathroom Storage and Functionality with the Right Furniture
Bathroom furniture is all about storage space. Whether you have a family bathroom, a private en-suite, or a cloakroom, you always need some space to store bathroom essentials. Vanity units and mirrored cabinets are the most widely installed bathroom storage units. They can be the best functional storage solution for family bathrooms. WC units and combinations, on the other hand, are space-saving bathroom storage solutions that offer space optimization without reducing functionality.
Choosing the Best Sink and Countertop Materials for Your Bathroom Vanity
When choosing a vanity unit for your bathroom, pay special attention to the sink and countertop materials. Durable sink and countertop materials for modern bathrooms include granite, marble, and quartz. All of these are excellent choices for both functionality and aesthetics. Wall-hung and pedestal sinks are quite common in contemporary bathrooms. They offer additional countertop space and spacious cabinets underneath. You should prefer a pre-assembled sink and countertop if you are looking for a unit that is easier to install as a DIY. An easy-to-install vanity unit saves you time and money at the same time. For a high end look, prefer premium countertop material while ensuring it complements your bathroom style.
Here, we have a table discussing the best countertop materials for bathroom vanities.
|
Material |
Use |
Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
Granite |
Countertops |
Durable, heat-resistant, luxury look |
|
Marble |
Countertops |
Elegant, timeless, unique veining |
|
Quartz |
Countertops, Sinks |
Low-maintenance, durable, non-porous |
|
Ceramic |
Sinks |
Affordable, easy to clean, classic look |
|
Porcelain |
Sinks |
Smooth finish, resistant to stains and scratches |
What Are Different Types of Bathroom Furniture
1. Vanity Units:
A bathroom vanity unit UK is a modified version of a standard wash basin that combines storage as well, designed to provide both functionality and style. Available in freestanding and floating vanity units, these pieces offer ample storage beneath the sink. In the UK, a typical size of the vanity unit ranges from 400mm for small bathrooms to 1000mm for large bathrooms or anywhere in between.
Small vanity units are suitable for cloakrooms and ensuites while medium and large vanity units are ideal for large spaces. Beside functionality, vanity units can make a perfect style statement in the bathroom. Floorstanding vanity units are ideal for traditional bathroom settings, while wall-mounted vanity units suit modern bathroom interiors. For compact spaces, slimline freestanding vanities provide a contemporary look, perfect for small bathrooms.
Here we have a table discussing different types of bathroom vanity units.
|
Type of Vanity Unit |
Description |
Advantages |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Freestanding Vanity Units |
Standalone units available in various sizes and designs. |
- Easy to install. - Wide range of styles and finishes. - Offers generous storage space. |
Medium to large bathrooms. |
|
Wall-Hung Vanity Units |
Mounted on the wall, creating a floating effect and freeing up floor space. |
- Creates the illusion of space. - Ideal for modern designs. - Easier to clean underneath. |
Small or minimalist bathrooms. |
|
Corner Vanity Units |
Designed to fit into the corners of bathrooms, making the most of unused space. |
- Space-saving solution. - Maximizes corner areas. - Compact and functional. |
Small or irregularly shaped bathrooms. |
|
Double Vanity Units |
Feature two sinks and spacious countertops, ideal for shared bathrooms. |
- Provides dual functionality for couples or families. - Offers ample storage. - Enhances luxury. |
Large family or master bathrooms. |
|
Cloakroom Vanity Units |
Compact units designed for cloakrooms or small bathrooms. |
- Space-efficient. - Combines storage with a small basin. |
Cloakrooms, en-suites, or compact bathrooms. |
Bathroom Cabinets
When vanity units fall short of your storage needs, bathroom wall cabinets offer a stylish and practical solution. These come in both floor-standing and wall-hung bathroom cabinets, allowing for flexible installation. Bathroom sink cabinets with fitted sinks are another convenient option, as are bathroom mirror cabinets, which are popular for their ability to maximize space. Bathroom tallboys offer vertical storage to help save space, which is ideal for compact bathrooms.
Here’s a detailed table about bathroom cabinet types and advantages.
|
Type of Bathroom Cabinet |
Description |
Advantages |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Corner Cabinets |
Designed to fit into corners, maximizing unused space. |
- Space-saving. - Utilizes awkward corners. - Compact and functional. |
Small or irregularly shaped bathrooms. |
|
Mirror Cabinets |
Combines a cabinet with a mirrored front, offering dual functionality. |
- Provides storage and mirror in one. - Saves space. - Enhances the bathroom’s aesthetic. |
Bathrooms with limited wall space. |
|
Recessed Cabinets |
Built into the wall for a flush, seamless look. |
- Space-efficient. - Sleek and modern design. - Ideal for minimalist bathrooms. |
Contemporary or space-constrained bathrooms. |
|
Tall Cabinets |
Vertical cabinets offering maximum storage in a compact footprint. |
- Ample storage for towels and essentials. - Great for vertical spaces. |
Small bathrooms requiring extensive storage. |
|
Medicine Cabinets |
Small cabinets designed to store medicines and first-aid items, often wall-mounted or recessed. |
- Keeps medicines organized and secure. - Compact and functional. |
Bathrooms requiring organized storage for medications. |
Bathroom Furniture Packs and Fitted Bathroom Furniture or Combination Vanity Units
Combination furniture, also known as fitted bathroom furniture and combination vanity units integrates a sink, cabinet, and toilet in a single unit. Perfect for small bathrooms or cloakrooms, these units are designed to save space while providing all the essentials in one cohesive piece. Choose from various finishes and styles to match modern and traditional bathrooms.
WC Units
Back-to-wall WC units offer a streamlined way to install a toilet, concealing the cistern and providing additional storage above. These units are compact, making them perfect for both small bathrooms such as cloakrooms and larger spaces. So, if you are looking for a toilet with concealed cistern, a BTW WC unit is a must have choice.
Small Bathroom Furniture
For small bathroom storage, consider small bathroom cabinets or compact vanity units in wall-hung or tallboy style. We offer an extensive range of cloakroom vanity units designed to fit into limited spaces. Explore our range of space-saving bathroom storage solutions to maximize every inch of your bathroom.
Here, we have various types of small bathroom furniture and their advantages.
|
Type of Small Bathroom Cabinets and Vanities |
Description |
Advantages |
Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall-Mounted Vanity Units |
Compact vanities attached to the wall to maximize floor space. |
- Saves floor space. - Creates a modern, floating look. - Easy to clean underneath. |
Small bathrooms with limited floor space. |
|
Corner Vanity Units |
Fitted into corners to utilize otherwise unused areas. |
- Space-saving. - Perfect for compact layouts. |
Bathrooms with awkward or tight layouts. |
|
Slimline Cabinets |
Narrow storage cabinets designed for small spaces. |
- Provides essential storage without bulk. - Fits in tight spaces. |
Bathrooms with limited width. |
|
Cloakroom Vanity Units |
Smaller-sized vanities designed for cloakrooms or compact bathrooms. |
- Combines sink and storage. - Ideal for tight spaces. |
Small cloakrooms or guest bathrooms with minimal space. |
|
Narrow Freestanding Cabinets |
Tall, thin cabinets with a small footprint, ideal for storing toiletries or cleaning supplies. |
- Space-efficient. - Offers concealed storage. |
Compact bathrooms needing vertical storage. |
|
Mirrored Cabinets |
Cabinets with mirrored fronts, providing storage and functionality. |
- Combines mirror and storage. - Saves wall space. |
Small bathrooms needing a mirror and extra storage. |
How to Choose the Best Bathroom Furniture for Your UK Home
Every bathroom has different requirements when it comes to storage furniture. It is important to identify your needs and assess the available space in your bathroom before choosing the right solution. Whether you're looking for the best bathroom furniture UK or seeking inspiration from a bathroom furniture buying guide, careful planning ensures you make the best choice.
Step 1. Assess Your Bathroom Storage Needs Before Buying Furniture
Before going out shopping for your family bathroom furniture in the UK, make sure you first identify your needs and requirements when it comes to storage. Simply ask yourself a few questions to consider the bathroom storage ideas discussed in this buying guide. Here is how to assess you bathroom storage needs.
-
How much storage space do you require?
-
Is it a family bathroom or a regular en-suite?
-
What type of furniture do you want to install?
-
What type of theme and style do you want to portray?
Figure out your answers before choosing bathroom furniture. Your storage requirements will help you decide the type of vanity unit or cabinet to install. A standard vanity unit in any size ranging from 500mm to 1000mm may be suitable for a standard bathroom. If you need more storage a double sink vanity unit may be an ideal choice for you.
Step 2. Measure for Bathroom Furniture
Most interior designers suggest considering your bathroom layout plans before shopping for a particular fixture. Alternatively, take accurate measurements of the length, width, and height of your bathroom and the location of plumbing outlets to get an idea about the available space.
Therefore, you must learn how to measure for bathroom cabinets and vanities and order the right size. Following these bathroom furniture measurement tips can save you from purchasing furniture that doesn’t fit
With the extensive range of furniture sizes available, you can find one that matches your requirements. For those with space constraints, small bathroom furniture UK options are a great choice. If the layout demands it, you can also opt for custom-built bathroom furniture for a few extra pounds. Open shelves and tall cabinets can also be a valuable space-saving solution if you have a congested bathroom.
Step 3. Match Bathroom Furniture Style for a Cohesive Look
Bathroom furniture can play an important role in the look and feel of your bathroom. Therefore, you must consider the overall theme of the bathroom when buying a vanity unit. Interior designers suggest preferring a storage unit that complements the overall theme and helps you create a coordinated look.
A sleek and minimalist vanity unit or a cabinet can be an ideal choice for modern bathroom furniture ideas. Traditional bathroom furniture UK is perfect for creating a classic or vintage inspired look. Regardless of the type of stylish bathroom storage solution you choose, ensuring they integrate seamlessly into the space is important.
Step 4. Choose the Perfect Colour for Your Bathroom Furniture in the UK
With the never-ending range of bathroom furniture designs and colours, bathroom furniture UK can fit into any interior atmosphere. All you need to do is select a colour that matches the palette of your bathroom for a seamless look.
Incorporate contrasting colour schemes if you want the storage unit to stand out. Most people use high-gloss grey bathroom vanity units, grey elm cabinets, and matt black bathroom furniture UK against an all-white background for a bold and modern output
Here's a table with different vanity unit colours and their suitability for various bathroom styles and settings:
|
Vanity Unit Colour |
Best Suited For |
|---|---|
|
White |
Bright, modern bathrooms; creates a clean and spacious feel. Ideal for contemporary or minimalistic designs. |
|
Black |
Adds sophistication and elegance; works well in both modern and traditional bathrooms, especially in larger spaces. |
|
Gloss Grey |
Contemporary and sleek; perfect for modern bathrooms, particularly those looking for a high-end, reflective finish. |
|
Grey Elm |
Rustic or natural themed bathrooms; ideal for creating a calming, wood-inspired atmosphere with a warm, organic touch. |
|
Satin Grey |
A subtle, elegant option; works well in modern and contemporary bathrooms, offering a soft sheen that’s easy to maintain. |
|
Blue Green |
Creates a unique, calm aesthetic; great for coastal, spa-inspired, or nature-themed bathrooms. Offers a refreshing, vibrant look. |
In addition to colour, finish of the bathroom vanity unit can also affect the overall look and feel of the space. Bathroom furniture is available in a variety of finishes each having its pros and cons. Gloss finish is a popular choice that offers sleek, shiny look and reflects light often preferred for smaller bathrooms. Matt finishes on the hand, providing a sophisticated appearance that is easier to clean and maintain. Satin finishes offer a soft sheen that is without too much shiny nor dull creating a striking balance.
Here we have a table with the most popular bathroom furniture finishes in the UK.
|
Bathroom Cabinets and Vanities Finish |
Best Suited For |
|---|---|
|
Gloss Finish |
Ideal for modern, sleek designs; offers a shiny, reflective surface that makes spaces appear larger and brighter. Best for contemporary or minimalist bathrooms. |
|
Matt Finish |
Perfect for creating a subtle, non-reflective look; ideal for traditional or rustic bathroom styles. Offers a sophisticated, understated appearance that’s also easy to maintain. |
|
Satin Finish |
Provides a soft sheen that strikes a balance between glossy and matte. Best for those seeking a refined, elegant look in both modern and traditional bathrooms. Offers a low-maintenance yet stylish option. |
Step 5. Plan Your Bathroom Furniture Budget
How much it costs to install bathroom furniture in the UK depends on various factors such as style, size, material, and brand. A standard vanity unit may cost around £200-£300. On the other hand, luxurious options are available anywhere around £400 to £1000 or more. Always consider your budget when buying a vanity unit. You will also need to add installation cost on top of the vanity unit price when planning for the bathroom storage solution budget.
Explore the table and learn how to plan your bathroom furniture budget.
|
Bathroom Furniture Item |
Description |
Price Range |
|---|---|---|
|
Wall-Hung Vanity Unit |
Sleek and modern design, wall-mounted for a floating effect. Available in various sizes and finishes. |
£200 - £600 |
|
Free Standing Vanity Unit |
Traditional and contemporary styles, provides ample storage with a freestanding design. |
£150 - £550 |
|
Cloakroom Vanity Unit |
Compact and space-saving designs for smaller bathrooms or cloakrooms. |
£150 - £400 |
|
Bathroom Mirror Cabinet |
Mirrors with integrated storage, perfect for organizing personal items in the bathroom. |
£100 - £300 |
|
Tall Storage Units |
Tall, slim cabinets ideal for extra storage without occupying much floor space. |
£120 - £450 |
|
Medicine Cabinets |
Storage units designed to keep medicines and personal items organized. |
£60 - £180 |
*Prices don’t include installation cost
Tips To Make the Most of Your Bathroom Furniture
Buying and installing bathroom furniture is one thing; utilising the added storage space is another. Despite the wide and spacey storage cabinets, some people struggle to keep their bathrooms neat and clutter-free. Here's how to maximize the available space with your storage units.
- Organise the shelves with daily-use items - Arranging frequently used items such as towels, soaps, and other skincare items allows easy access. You can also add some indoor plants to breathe life into the room.
- Keep the countertop neat and empty - Countertop basins act as the focal point of the entire bathroom. Try to keep the area as neat and clutter-free as possible.
- Store the family supplies in tall cabinets - Family bathrooms need some extra storage space, and tall cabinets have got it covered. Keep the basic family essentials in these wall-hung cabinets for hassle-free access.
How to Care for Your Bathroom Furniture
A. Cleaning and Upkeep Tips
Regular upkeep and maintenance are necessary to make your bathroom furniture look as elegant as ever. Make sure to follow these cleaning tips and protect the furniture from ageing and deterioration:
- Avoid using harsh cleaning agents that may leave scratches and cause deterioration of your furniture.
- Prefer cleaning the furniture with warm, soapy water and drying it with a cloth.
- Even if your bathroom cabinets and vanities have moisture protection, don't keep them wet for too long. If they are splashed with water, dry them with a clean cloth.
- Don't forget to clean the inside of your cabinets every once in a while to prevent moss from building up.
B. Proper Storage Tips
- Store your toiletries and extra supplies in your under-the-sink vanity unit.
- Utilize the cabinet door space for hanging small supplies. You can install a magnetic memo board inside or mount them using double-ended tape.
- Store your first-aid essentials or medical box inside the mirrored cabinet.
- Use cabinet racks to organise the toiletries and bathroom essentials.
- Organize the open shelves or tall cabinets with trays and baskets to prevent clutter.
Ending Thoughts
Buying bathroom furniture for your home can be a complicated process for first-time buyers. From taking measurements and finalising the layout to sourcing the ideal fixtures that create the perfect outlook, every step requires extensive planning and research. However, by following our bathroom furniture buying guide, you can be at ease knowing that you have all the information in hand to make an informed choice.
