How to Measure for the Perfect Bathroom Vanity
The right bathroom vanity transforms both the look and function of the room. But even the most beautiful vanity will cause problems if it doesn’t fit the space well. Doors can hit the wall, drawers can block the bathroom door, or plumbing may not line up. Learning how to measure for a bathroom vanity is essential to choosing one that fits your needs and space while avoiding costly mistakes.
Tools You’ll Need
Gather these tools before measuring your bathroom vanity to avoid mistakes.
✔ Tape measure
✔ Pencil
✔ Painter’s tape
✔ Sketch pad or graph paper (to note measurements and mark clearances)
✔ Phone (to photograph notes and tape mock-ups)
Step 1: Know Your Bathroom Type
It’s easy to fall in love with a stunning vanity only to realize later it was designed for a completely different type of bathroom. The cabinet that’s perfect for the primary bath can dominate a powder room, and a small vanity can feel lost in a spacious bath.
Before learning how to measure for a bathroom vanity, let’s focus on your bathroom's type, its functional needs, and the available vanity sizes and options that best suit the space.
Powder Room
In a powder room or half bath, space is often limited — and clear walkways matter most. Average vanity depth is 18"–24", but in a compact space, a shallower vanity designed for small spaces keeps the room feeling open and easy to move through.
Jack and Jill (Shared Bathroom)
A Jack and Jill bathroom sits between two bedrooms with doors leading in from each side. Serving two people, storage, and function are the priorities. Double vanities between 59"and 84" provide room for two sinks, counter space, and storage drawers.
You might even consider using two individual vanities instead of a single long unit for enhanced functionality, personal space, and style.
Primary Bathroom
Your home’s primary bathroom typically has the most space — and the perfect chance to create a statement. Large double vanities between 72" and 120" provide generous counter space and storage, or consider the impact of two matching single vanities. Evaluate your available space and consider extras like storage towers, linen cabinets, or a seated vanity area if the layout allows.
Step 2: Measure Wall Space
The next step in how to measure for a bathroom vanity is to measure the usable wall space where your vanity will sit. Start by clearing and checking the area: open your bathroom and shower doors fully to make sure they won’t hit the vanity once it’s installed. If the toilet shares the vanity wall, allow at least 18" from the center of the toilet to the cabinet edge for comfortable clearance.
Vanity width: Record the open space from side to side, making sure the vanity will clear any doors, obstructions, or molding. Measure at the floor and again about 32" high (roughly countertop height). If the numbers are different, use the smaller measurement to make sure the vanity will fit comfortably.
Vanity depth: Measure 30"–36" out from the opposite wall, tub, or shower to mark the clearance you’ll need for comfortable standing room. Then measure the distance from that mark back to the vanity wall — that’s the maximum depth for your vanity without crowding.
Vanity height: Measure from the floor to any windows, mirrors, or light fixtures above the vanity space so you know how tall your new vanity and faucet can be without crowding the wall.
Write down all measurements and make a quick sketch of the wall showing doors, molding, nearby fixtures, and any outlets or switches. You’ll add plumbing details in the next step.
Pro Tip: Always measure twice to ensure accuracy.
Step 3: Check Plumbing Placement
Once you have the dimensions of a bathroom vanity that will fit your space, sketch in your plumbing measurements and locations. Measure from the nearest side wall to the center of the drain, and note the drain height from the floor. Mark the location of the water supply valves.
Knowing whether your plumbing is centered or offset will determine where your sink (or sinks) should sit — and can affect both the size and style of vanity you choose.
Pro Tip: Moving plumbing gets expensive. For an off-center drain, consider a modular or customizable vanity with adjustable cabinet doors and drawers so everything will line up without relocating pipes.
Before moving on, sketch in the plumbing, then take photos of the space, your sketch, and your notes. Having this with you will make shopping easier and help you avoid mistakes.
Step 4: Determine Ideal Vanity Height, Width, and Depth
With your notes and sketch ready, consider the dimensions of a bathroom vanity that will work for your space.
- Height: Standard height is about 32" (ideal for kids and guest baths). Comfortable height for most adults is 34"–36" (popular for primary bathrooms). Floating vanities should be positioned so the bottom is 10"–12" from the floor. If you need seated access, consider a floating vanity or a modular style with an open section for knee space — this can make the counter more comfortable to use while seated.
- Width: Use the smallest wall measurement from Step 2, leaving 1–2" clearance from walls or molding. Include ½"–1" countertop overhang per side.
- Depth: Standard bathroom vanity depth is 18"–24". Choose 18"–20" for small baths or up to 24" for large spaces.
Matching the measurements of your space to the dimensions of a bathroom vanity ensures an excellent fit and comfortable use.
Step 5: Plan for Door and Drawer Clearance
Even with perfect measurements, a vanity that blocks movement will be frustrating to use. Check that your vanity doors and drawers can open fully without hitting the bathroom door, toilet, or nearby walls.
Use painter’s tape to mark the vanity footprint on the floor and “open” the drawer and door swings to be sure it feels comfortable before you commit.
Bonus: Floating Vanities & Vessel Sinks
Floating vanities offer a sleek, modern look that makes small bathrooms feel more open by exposing more floor space. Floating double vanities often combine style with storage.
When installing a floating vanity, keep the bottom edge about 10–12" off the floor for toe clearance and visual balance.
When choosing a vessel sink, remember that the sink sits on top of the countertop. Choose a vanity base that’s a few inches shorter than the standard height. Aim for a combined height (vanity + sink) that keeps the sink rim comfortable to reach, typically 34"–36" for most adults.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to measure for a bathroom vanity, you can prevent costly installation mistakes and choose a beautiful piece that works flawlessly in your space. Once you’ve found the perfect vanity, make sure your bathroom mirror is properly sized to balance and complete the look.
FAQs
How do you replace a bathroom vanity?
Replacing a bathroom vanity usually involves removing the old cabinet, disconnecting plumbing, and installing the new piece in the same location. Because plumbing and leveling are critical, most homeowners hire a professional for this step to ensure a perfect fit.
What is the standard height of a bathroom vanity?
The standard bathroom vanity height is about 32". For most adults, the comfort height of 34"–36" is more ergonomic — and a popular choice for primary bathrooms.
How deep is a bathroom vanity?
The standard bathroom vanity depth ranges from 18" to 24". Choose a shallow option (18"–20") for small spaces and a deeper style for larger bathrooms that need extra storage.
What sizes do bathroom vanities come in?
Bathroom vanities typically range from 24" to 72" wide, with options even larger for extra-spacious bathrooms. Double vanities generally start at 59" wide, but modular styles can extend well past 100" for a truly custom layout.
How do I choose the right bathroom vanity?
To choose the right vanity, start with accurate measurements of your space and plumbing placement. Then consider your storage needs, the vanity style, and the finish options that will complement your bathroom design.