If you’re like most people, when you think of a bathroom vanity, you think of a short, compact piece of furniture.
But why are bathroom vanities so short? Traditionally, bathroom vanities were kept at roughly 32 inches so that small children could reach the sink.
And is there any way to change it? In this blog post, we will look at the standard size for bathroom vanities and explore some possible reasons behind it.
We will also discuss how you can get around the standard size if it doesn’t work for your bathroom. So read on to learn more!
Table of Contents
Bathroom Vanities: What Are They for?
Most people know that bathroom vanities are pieces of furniture that go in the bathroom.
But what exactly are they for?
Bathroom vanities are typically used to hold a sink and have loads of storage space underneath toiletries and towels. They can also hold a mirror or medicine cabinet above the sink.
Bathroom vanities come in a variety of styles, materials, and sizes. The most common material for bathroom vanities is wood, but it can also be made of metal, glass, or stone.
As for the size, that’s where things get a little bit more complicated.
Why Are Bathroom Vanities so Short?
Traditional standard height
The traditional standard height for bathroom vanity is around 30 inches to 32 inches.
However, the average height of an American adult is about five and a half feet or 66 inches.
This means that most people have to stoop down to use the sink in a standard bathroom vanity.
So why are bathroom vanities so short? That’s because the standard height of a bathroom vanity is 32″ compared to that of comfort height vanities that measure 36″ tall.
Why are the vanities so short?
There are a few possible reasons why the standard height is lower than the comfort height.
Accessible for small children
Traditionally, bathroom vanities were kept at the height of roughly 32 inches so that small children could reach the sink.
A child can still access the sink if the vanity is 36 inches tall, but only with the assistance of a step stool.
To be used in conjunction with a mirror.
The following reason is that bathroom vanities are typically designed to be used in conjunction with a mirror.
And since most mirrors are hung at around eye level, which is about five and a half feet or 66 inches, it makes sense that the standard vanity would be the same height.
Suitable for small spaces
Another reason for the short height of bathroom vanities is that they are designed to be used in small spaces.
Bathrooms are typically smaller than other rooms in the house, so it makes sense that the vanity would be shorter in order to save space.
Accessible for people of varying builds and heights
This is the standard bathroom vanity height for other businesses such as hotels and business offices because they are easily accessible to people of varying builds and heights.
Accessible for people with wheelchair
Another reason is that they need to be accessible for people who use wheelchairs.
If the vanity were any taller, it would be difficult for someone in a wheelchair to use.
Easier to use
The last reason is that a shorter vanity is easier to use.
It’s much easier to reach the sink and the storage space in a shorter vanity than in a taller one.
So if you’re looking for a bathroom vanity that’s easy to use, you may want to stick with the standard size.
Comfort Height as the New Standard Height
The new standard comfort height vanity
Comfort height bathroom vanities are vanities that reach approximately 36 inches high. This is the height of the standard kitchen countertop.
They’re referred to as ‘comfort’ height because most people can typically work comfortably at a countertop that’s 36 inches in height.
By raising the height of your modern vanity, you may improve your sink and countertop for an ergonomically superior experience.
What are the reasons for the new standard?
More comfortable for most people
The first reason is that the new standard is more comfortable for most people.
As we mentioned before, the average height of an American adult is about five and a half feet or 66 inches. This means that most people have to stoop down to use the sink in a standard bathroom vanity.
But with a comfort height vanity, they can use the sink without stooping down. This makes brushing your teeth and washing your hands and face easier because you don’t have to bend as far to reach the sink.
This is much more comfortable for most people, and it’s one of the main reasons why the new standard exists.
It’s easier on your back.
Another reason why the new standard exists is that it’s easier on your back.
If you have to stoop down to use the sink, it can put a lot of strain on your back.
But with a comfort height vanity, you don’t have to stoop down, so it’s much easier on your back. The new height promotes a more healthy posture and reduces the strain on your back.
It looks more stylish.
The last reason the new standard exists is that it looks more stylish.
Taller vanities are more modern, and they can make your bathroom look more stylish.
Considerations
If you’re looking for a kid’s bathroom, comfort height vanities aren’t ideal.
If you’re in a debate because of the kids, go with something in between 32″-36″ to compromise, or go with a comfort height vanity and get them a stool to stand on.
Or, for kids’ bathrooms, you can install standard height vanities while using a comfort height vanity for the master bath.
Which Vanity Height is for You?
Things to consider
There is a wide range type of bathroom varieties. Before you purchase or build a vanity, there are several things to consider, including the following:
Available space
The first thing to consider is the available space in your bathroom.
If you have a small bathroom space, you may not have enough space for a taller vanity. In this case, you’ll need to stick with traditional vanities.
But if you have a large bathroom, you may be able to get away with a taller vanity.
Your height
Another thing to consider is your own height.
If you’re tall, you may prefer a taller vanity to don’t have to stoop down to use the sink.
But if you’re shorter, a standard height vanity may be more comfortable for you.
The height of your family
If you have kids, you’ll need to consider their height.
Taller vanities may not be ideal for kids’ bathrooms because they may not be able to reach the sink. In this case, you’ll either need to get a shorter vanity or get them a stool to stand on.
Your bathroom layout
You’ll also need to consider the layout of your bathroom.
If you have a double sink vanity, you may need to get two taller vanities so that each person has a comfortable height.
But if you have a single sink vanity, you may get away with a shorter vanity.
Plumbing
If you have an older home, the plumbing may not be able to accommodate a taller vanity. Rerouting your plumbing is an expensive and challenging job that takes time and effort.
In this case, you’ll need to stick with a standard height vanity.
Existing Features
Another thing to keep in mind is that if you have existing features in your bathroom, you may need to get a vanity design that matches them.
Like the plumbing, mirrors, cabinet doors, electrical switches, and power outlets are challenging and costly things to change.
Flow of traffic
You’ll need to consider the flow of traffic in your bathroom.
If you have many people using the bathroom at the same time, you may want to stick with a shorter vanity so that people aren’t constantly running into each other.
Shallow vanities allow you to open doors and drawers easily and make the flow of foot traffic easier.
But if you have a small bathroom or if traffic isn’t an issue, you may be able to get away with a taller vanity top.
Personal style
Personal preference is also significant since you are the one who will use the vanity.
Some people like a higher vanity, while others prefer a lower one.
You’ll need to decide what kind of look you want in your bathroom before buying a vanity.
Budget
Finally, you’ll need to consider your budget.
Taller vanities are generally more expensive than shorter vanities, so if you’re on a tight budget, you may need to stick with a standard height vanity.
However, if you have a little more flexibility in your budget, you may be able to find a taller vanity that fits your needs.
What is the Standard Size of a Bathroom Vanity?
Width
Your bathroom vanity width will solely depend on whether you get a single or double sink cabinet. The average of the bathroom vanities is between 24-inches and 72-inches.
The average bathroom vanity width for single-sink cabinets ranges between 30 and 48 inches, while the average width for a double vanity ranges between 60 and 72 inches.
Depth
A bathroom vanity is an excellent location to keep a few bathroom goods. As a result, your vanity depth must allow you to store such items as extra toothpaste, toilet paper, and towels.
Bathroom vanities range in depth from narrow depth vanity of 17 to 24 inches, with a typical vanity being 21 inches deep.
Type of Vanity Heights
- Standard: The standard height of a bathroom vanity is 32 inches or around 2.5 feet.
- Comfort: The comfort height for bathroom vanity is 36 inches or 3 feet.
- Vessel and floating: The comfort height for a vessel sink vanity is 29-30 inches, with a standard height for these same vanities floating around 25-26 inches. For installation, keep in mind that vessel sinks themselves will add 5-6 inches.
Which Bathroom Vanity Height is the Best Fit for You?
Now that you know everything about bathroom vanity sizes, which one will be the perfect vanity for you?
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Your height
- The height of your family
- Your bathroom layout
- Plumbing
- Existing features
- The flow of traffic
- Your budget
After considering all of these things, you should have a better idea of what size bathroom vanity will work best for you.
FAQs
Are bathroom vanities getting taller?
Bathroom vanities are gradually getting taller, with the standard size being around 32 inches or about two and a half feet. The average comfort height for bathroom vanities is 36 inches or three feet.
What do you do if your vanity is too short?
If your bathroom vanity is too short, you can try to find a taller one that fits your needs. You can also try to reroute your plumbing or stick with a standard height vanity.
How long should my bathroom vanity be?
The average length of a bathroom vanity is between 24 and 72 inches. The average width for a single-sink cabinet ranges between 30 and 48 inches, while the average width for a double vanity ranges between 60 and 72 inches. The typical depth for bathroom vanity is 21 inches deep.
Why are bathroom cabinets shorter than kitchen cabinets?
Bathroom cabinets are shorter than kitchen cabinets because they typically don’t need to store as many items. Bathroom vanities are also usually used by multiple people simultaneously, so a shorter vanity helps avoid traffic jams.
How high is too high for a vanity?
There is no such thing as “too high” for a vanity. The height of your vanity will depend on your personal preferences and needs. You can get vanities in all different heights, from standard to comfort to vessel and float.