Measure the wall where the vanity will go, then choose a width that leaves space either side for clearance. Common widths run from 18" (46 cm) for a cloakroom up to 72" (183 cm) for a double vanity. Depth is usually 18-21" (46-53 cm) and the counter sits 30-36" (76-91 cm) above the floor.
On this page
Standard vanity widths
| Width | Approx. cm | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 18-24" | 46-61 | Cloakrooms and very small bathrooms |
| 28-32" | 71-81 | Small to average bathrooms, a single sink with some storage |
| 36-42" | 91-107 | Average bathrooms, a single sink with generous counter space |
| 48" | 122 | A large single vanity, or a compact double |
| 60-72" | 152-183 | Double sinks for shared bathrooms |
Most of our bathroom vanities come in a choice of widths, usually 24", 28", 32" and 36" (61, 71, 81 and 91 cm), chosen in the product options. Almost all include the sink.
How deep should a vanity be?
Most are 18-21" (46-53 cm) from front to back, and most of ours are 18.5-21.5" (47-55 cm). In a narrow bathroom, a shallower vanity of 14-16" (36-40 cm) keeps the walkway clear.
What height should a vanity be?
Traditional vanities are about 30-32" (76-81 cm) to the top of the counter. "Comfort height" vanities are 34-36" (86-91 cm), closer to kitchen counter height and easier on the back for taller people. If you choose a vessel sink that sits on top of the counter, allow for the extra height of the bowl.
How much space to leave
- Leave at least 15" (38 cm) from the centre of the sink to a side wall, and 30" (76 cm) between the centres of two sinks. These are the minimums in the US building code; check your local rules.
- Leave at least 21" (53 cm) of clear floor in front of the vanity, and 30" (76 cm) if you can, so doors and drawers open comfortably.
- Check that the vanity door or drawers will not hit the toilet, the bathroom door or a radiator when opened.
Wall-mounted or freestanding?
Wall-mounted (floating) vanities show the floor underneath, which makes a small bathroom feel bigger and is easy to clean under; the wall must be solid enough to carry the weight. Freestanding vanities stand on legs or a plinth and usually have more storage. About two thirds of our vanities are wall-mounted.
Single or double sink?
A double vanity needs at least 60" (152 cm) of width to give each person room. Below that, a single sink with a wider counter is usually more practical.
What about the plumbing?
Check where your water supply and waste pipe come out of the wall or floor, and that they will sit inside the vanity cabinet. Wall-mounted vanities usually need the waste pipe to come out of the wall. We recommend a licensed plumber for installation.
Can I get a different size or finish?
We handle customisation case by case. Email hello@clearhalo.com with the product link and the size you need, and we'll tell you what's possible before you order.
