Choosing a vanity starts with a tape measure. Vanities come in a set of common sizes, and knowing them makes it much easier to see what fits your bathroom, whether a double sink is realistic, and how much storage you can gain. This guide covers the standard widths, heights and depths, and the space to leave around the vanity.
Standard vanity widths
Vanities are usually sold in increments of 6 inches. The most common widths are:
- 24 inches: small bathrooms and powder rooms. One sink, a door or two, little counter space.
- 30 inches: a common size for hall bathrooms. One sink with a bit more counter on each side.
- 36 inches: one sink with useful counter space and storage, often with drawers on one side.
- 48 inches: a roomy single-sink vanity, or a tight double. Many people prefer one sink with generous counter space at this width.
- 60 inches: the usual starting point for a comfortable double-sink vanity.
- 72 inches: a double vanity with space between the sinks and more drawers.
In-between widths (such as 42 or 54 inches) exist, and custom or semi-custom vanities can be built to almost any width, which helps in older homes where the wall isn't a standard size.
Measure the space, then subtract. Leave room for the door swing, the toilet and any trim. If the vanity sits between two walls, plan a small filler so drawers and doors can open without hitting the wall.
Standard vanity heights
- Standard height: about 30 to 32 inches. The traditional height, common in older homes and still used in children's bathrooms.
- Comfort height: about 34 to 36 inches. Closer to kitchen counter height and easier on the back for most adults. This is now the most popular choice in new and remodeled bathrooms.
Heights are measured to the top of the counter. A vessel sink (one that sits on top of the counter) adds several inches, so pair a vessel sink with a lower vanity to keep the rim at a comfortable height.
Standard vanity depths
- Standard depth: about 21 inches from the wall to the front of the cabinet, with the countertop overhanging slightly.
- Space-saving depth: about 18 inches or less. Useful in narrow bathrooms and powder rooms. Look for sinks designed for shallow vanities.
- Deeper vanities: about 22 to 24 inches give more counter and storage where the room allows.
When does a double sink fit?
Two sinks need more than twice the width of one. Each person needs elbow room and some counter space.
- 60 inches is the practical minimum for a double vanity that two people use at the same time.
- 72 inches gives a more comfortable distance between the sinks and space for drawers in the middle.
- Many designers recommend about 30 inches between the centers of the two sinks and at least 15 inches from the center of each sink to a side wall.
If the space is 48 inches or less, one sink with more counter space is usually more practical than two cramped ones.
Clearances around the vanity
Building codes set minimums, and design guidelines recommend a bit more for comfort. Typical figures you will see:
- In front of the vanity: at least 21 inches of clear floor space by common code; about 30 inches is recommended for comfort.
- Sink center to side wall: at least 15 inches.
- Next to a toilet: the toilet usually needs at least 15 inches from its center to the vanity or wall, with 18 inches recommended.
- Door swing: make sure the bathroom door and the vanity doors and drawers can open fully without hitting each other.
Local codes vary, so confirm the numbers that apply to your home during design.
Storage and layout choices
- Doors versus drawers: drawers make it easier to see and reach things; doors fit taller items. Many vanities combine both, with the plumbing behind the doors under the sink.
- Floating (wall-mounted) vanities leave the floor open, which makes a small bathroom feel larger, but they need solid wall support.
- Linen towers and side units add storage on a wider wall.
Countertop and sink
The vanity top is often the same stone you'd consider for a kitchen: quartz, granite or marble, with an undermount sink. A top cut for your exact vanity size can also cover small wall irregularities and allow for an integrated backsplash.
Quick checklist
- Measure wall width, available depth and where the drain and supply lines come out of the wall.
- Pick the width, leaving room for doors, the toilet and a filler if needed.
- Choose standard or comfort height.
- Decide one sink or two (60 inches or more for two).
- Check clearances in front of the vanity and beside the toilet.
- Choose storage, then the top and sink.
Bring your measurements and a photo of the bathroom to one of our showrooms. We can show you vanities in person and help you choose a size and layout that fits.