Ultimate Buyer's Guide to Vanity Units

With their stylish designs and clever compartments, vanity units can help unlock the tidy, luxurious retreat of your dreams. But with so much choice, how do you find the perfect fit for your space?

From unravelling the types of vanity units, to exploring their benefits – and tips for installation and maintenance – we've got you covered in this ultimate guide.

What is a vanity unit?

A vanity unit is a must-have addition to any bathroom. It’s a practical and functional storage space that serves as a stylish stand for your basin or bathroom sink.

Vanity units not only provide a convenient space to keep your toiletries organised – they can also add a touch of class and sophistication to your bathroom decor.

Different types of vanity unit

One of the most popular features of the vanity unit is its versatility: they’re available in a huge range of different colours, sizes and shapes. Here are the main types of vanity units to know about.

Cloakroom vanity units

These compact units are specifically designed for cloakrooms and smaller bathrooms. They offer smart storage solutions while maximising space efficiency.

Corner vanity units

Ideal for compact spaces, corner vanity units are designed to fit exactly where you’d think – making the most of those unused corners in your bathroom. Their clever design means they provide ample storage without taking up valuable floor space.

Traditional and freestanding vanity units

Perfect for larger bathrooms, traditional and freestanding vanity units come in a variety of sizes and offer generous storage capacity. They often feature elegant designs and add a timeless charm to your bathroom.

Wall-hung and countertop vanity units

If you prefer a contemporary look, wall-hung and countertop vanity units are excellent choices. Wall-hung units are popular for their sleek, minimalistic vibe, while countertop units serve as stylish centrepieces in your bathroom.

Double sink vanity units

For those who require extra space and functionality, double sink vanity units are the ultimate choice. With the luxury of two sinks and ample storage below, they are ideal for larger households or those searching for a touch of luxury.

Why do you need a vanity unit?

Vanity units are a modern day bathroom essential. Here are the four big reasons why.

Storage space

Storage capacity can make or break a bathroom, and vanity units are a brilliantly subtle storage solution. With various compartments and drawers, they provide space for all your bathroom essentials, from everyday toiletries to towels and cleaning supplies.

Clutter-free countertops

With your bathroom items nicely tidied away, you’re left with clean and clutter-free countertops – enhancing the visual appeal of your bathroom and, even more importantly, giving you much-needed peace of mind.

Enhanced bathroom decor

Vanity units are just as much about style as they are storage, and they’re available in a wide range of finishes and colours. Whether you prefer a contemporary or traditional look, there's a vanity unit to complement your design aesthetic and elevate the overall ambiance of your space.

Functionality

With built-in basins, vanity units provide a seamless and functional combination.

What to consider when buying a vanity unit

With so many options to choose from, finding the perfect vanity unit can be a serious challenge. It gets a lot easier, however, if you break your search down into the key factors. 

Size

Before buying a vanity unit, it's crucial to measure your bathroom space accurately, considering the width, height and depth of the area where you plan to install the unit. And don’t forget to factor in the space you’ll need to fully open the unit’s door or drawer.

Our range of contemporary vanity units begin with single door units available in widths of 450mm, going up to double draw units with 1400mm widths.

Material

Vanity units are available in a variety of materials, each with its unique characteristics. Consider the durability, water resistance and maintenance requirements of each material to select the one that suits your preferences and lifestyle.

Colour

Thanks to their popularity, vanity units are available in a range of different colours to suit any bathroom.

We have a huge variety of finishes and colours to choose from at 34 St John. We stock vanity units in pink, blue, green, dust, stone all in a matt finish. We also range many more colours and the same for our gloss-finished and woodgrain units. 

See our full range here. 

Style

Your vanity unit should harmonise with your bathroom decor. Take into account the overall style you wish to achieve – whether it's modern, traditional or a blend of both.

Storage

Whether you’ll be packing away toiletries, towels or any other bathroom essentials, assess your storage needs and consider the types of storage options available with different vanity units.

The storage sizes available to you will of course be largely dictated by your available space and the size of your unit. 

Maintaining your vanity unit

You’ve chosen your dream vanity unit, you’ve got it installed and working well, now you need to keep it like new.

Regular maintenance is essential if you want your vanity unit to stay pristine and functioning optimally for years to come. Here are some quick tips to help you make that happen:

• Clean your vanity unit regularly using mild, non-abrasive cleaners – avoiding harsh chemicals that could cause damage
• Use gentle cleaning tools and avoid abrasive materials that may scratch the surface of your vanity unit
• Be mindful of excess water and moisture around the vanity unit, as both can lead to water damage
• Avoid slamming drawers or doors, and be mindful of the weight placed on the unit to prevent damage or sagging

If you find any issues with your vanity unit, the best way to deal with them is to address it quickly. The sooner you can repair or replace any faulty components, the better chance you’ll have of ensuring that your unit maintains its quality and stands the test of time.