Bathroom Cabinet Buying Guide: 6 Easy Steps
by Kirill Kutsak , 8 min reading time
Remodeling your bathroom or upgrading your fixtures? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with this bathroom cabinet guide. While serving as a focal point of your bathroom design, these fixtures also provide functional value and play an important role in everyday life.
Let's take a look at six easy steps to help you find the best cabinet for your bathroom.
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Measure Your Dimensions and Layout
- Step 2: Define Your Budget
- Step 3: Choose Aesthetic and Style
- Step 4: Choose the Right Material
- Step 5: Select Functional Storage Features
- Step 6: Check Installation Requirements
- Types of Bathroom Cabinets by Installation
- Types of Bathroom Cabinets by Function
- Types of Bathroom Cabinets by Construction Style
- Best Bathroom Cabinets for Small Bathrooms
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Step 1: Measure Your Dimensions and Layout
Before you start looking into models, it's important to determine the size of your future cabinet.
Measure the width, height, and depth of the available space. Don't forget to account for other fixtures, door swings, and walking clearance.
Consider the cabinet as part of the overall bathroom layout, and position it according to plumbing and electrical lines, as well as other fixtures.
Step 2: Define Your Budget
Setting a budget will help narrow your options and ensure you find a cabinet that meets your needs without overspending.
Not all cabinets are created equal. While low-cost cabinets focus on simple designs while providing the same level of functionality, mid-range and high-end models often include additional features like electrical sockets, LED lighting, or built-in mirrors, along with more customized designs and materials.
Our range of bathroom cabinets spans different price points while maintaining a high level of quality, so you’re sure to find something that suits your style and needs.
Step 3: Choose Aesthetic and Style
Decide between a cohesive look that complements the design of your home or a more unique, expressive approach. We recommend going beyond trends and focusing on what works best for you. However, keep in mind that your choice should harmonize with or contrast against other elements, such as the bathtub and sink, to enhance both individual features and the overall design.
Step 4: Choose the Right Material
Bathroom cabinets are made from various materials, each with its own pros and cons. The general rule is that these materials should be able to withstand high humidity levels. For example, untreated solid wood requires frequent ventilation and humidity control to prevent swelling. Plywood and moisture-resistant MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) offer better resistance to humidity, while laminate is fully moisture-resistant but not as durable as solid wood. Consider your bathroom’s air conditions and aesthetic preferences when choosing the material that suits you best.
Step 5: Select Functional Storage Features
Think about the everyday purpose of your cabinet. How do you want it to function? How many sections do you want it to have? Should they be divided or not? Where will you store your toiletries?
Make a list of the items you want to keep inside to help you visualize the layout. Daily routines can be hard enough on their own, and your cabinet should work for you, not against you.
Step 6: Check Installation Requirements
Consider the installation, as some models may require special methods, especially those with illumination or other electrical features. This is also important for the interior of your cabinet—if you plan to add hooks for your hair dryer or toiletries. Proper installation will ensure your bathroom medicine cabinet functions reliably and serves you well for years to come.
Types of Bathroom Cabinets by Installation
- Wall-Mounted Cabinets – Attached directly to the wall, these units are perfect for small bathrooms and help free up floor space.
- Freestanding Cabinets – Independent units that rest on the floor, offering flexibility in placement and often substantial storage capacity.
- Corner Cabinets – Designed to fit into the corner of a room, these cabinets make efficient use of often underutilized space.
- Over-the-Toilet Cabinets – Cabinets installed above the toilet, utilizing vertical space to add storage in smaller bathrooms.
- Recessed (In-Wall) Cabinets – Built into the wall cavity, these cabinets offer storage without protruding into the room, maintaining a flush surface.
- Under-Sink Cabinets – Located directly beneath the sink, these cabinets utilize the space around plumbing fixtures.
Types of Bathroom Cabinets by Function
- Vanity Cabinets – The most common type, these cabinets often integrate a sink with storage space below. Available in freestanding, wall-mounted, or corner designs, they serve as the primary storage unit in most bathrooms.
- Medicine Cabinets – Typically mounted above the sink or toilet, these mirrored cabinets store smaller items like medications and toiletries while keeping your counter clutter-free.
- Linen Cabinets – Tall and narrow, these cabinets are designed specifically to hold towels, linens, and other bathroom essentials, helping to maintain an organized space.
- Mirror Cabinets – Combining a mirror with concealed storage, these cabinets are ideal for bathrooms where both grooming needs and hidden storage are priorities.
- Open Storage Cabinets – Featuring open shelves instead of doors, these cabinets are great for displaying decorative items or keeping frequently used toiletries easily accessible.
Types of Bathroom Cabinets by Construction Style
- Louvered Cabinets – Featuring horizontal slats (louvers) that allow for ventilation, these cabinets are perfect for humid bathrooms, preventing moisture buildup while adding a classic, airy aesthetic.
- Shaker-Style Cabinets – Known for their clean, simple lines and recessed panel doors, these cabinets offer a balanced design that enhances a wide range of bathroom styles, from traditional to contemporary.
- Beadboard Cabinets – Characterized by vertical grooves on the door panels, beadboard cabinets offer a cozy, cottage-style look.
- Flat-Style Cabinets – Featuring smooth, flat doors with no raised or recessed panels, these cabinets emphasize a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, making them perfect for contemporary spaces.
Best Bathroom Cabinets for Small Bathrooms
- Wall-Mounted Cabinets – Wall-mounted cabinets help open up floor space, creating a more open and airy feel.
- Corner Cabinets – Designed to maximize awkward or underutilized corners, these compact units offer smart storage without crowding the room.
- Mirrored Cabinets – Combining hidden storage with a reflective surface, these cabinets create the illusion of a larger, brighter space.
- Over-the-Toilet Cabinets – Utilize vertical space above the toilet to add storage without encroaching on the limited floor area—ideal for narrow bathrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best material for bathroom cabinets?
The best material depends on your needs, but moisture-resistant MDF or marine-grade plywood offers durability in humid environments.
What is a bathroom cabinet used for?
Bathroom cabinets provide essential storage for toiletries, linens, medications, and other items, helping reduce clutter and enhance the style and functionality of your space.
