Bathroom vanities come in many different shapes, sizes and configurations, and choosing the right one can have a major impact on both the appearance and functionality of your bathroom.

Some vanities maximize storage. Others make a small bathroom feel more open. Some are designed around a single sink, while larger models can accommodate two. You'll also find everything from traditional freestanding cabinets to sleek floating bathroom vanities.

So, which type is right for your bathroom?

In this guide, we'll explain the different types of bathroom vanities, their advantages, where they work best and what you should consider before choosing one.

The Main Types of Bathroom Vanities

Bathroom vanities can generally be categorized by how they're installed and designed.

Some of the most common types include:

• Freestanding bathroom vanities

• Wall-mounted or floating vanities

• Corner vanities

• Console vanities

• Single-sink vanities

• Double-sink vanities

• Compact vanities

• Furniture-style vanities

Let's look at each type in more detail.

1. Freestanding Bathroom Vanities

A freestanding bathroom vanity sits on the floor and typically resembles a cabinet or piece of furniture.

It's one of the most familiar and versatile vanity styles and can work with traditional, transitional, contemporary and modern bathroom designs.

Freestanding vanities are available in a wide range of:

• Widths

• Colours

• Countertop materials

• Drawer configurations

• Cabinet layouts

• Sink configurations

Why Choose a Freestanding Vanity?

One of the biggest advantages is storage.

Depending on the model, a freestanding vanity can provide a combination of drawers and cabinet space for towels, toiletries, cleaning products and everyday bathroom essentials.

They're particularly useful in family bathrooms where maximizing storage is important.

Best For:

• Family bathrooms

• Guest bathrooms

• Primary bathrooms

• Traditional interiors

• Transitional bathrooms

• Bathrooms requiring additional storage

Freestanding doesn't necessarily mean traditional. Many modern bathroom vanities also use freestanding construction with clean lines, minimalist hardware and contemporary finishes.

2. Wall-Mounted or Floating Bathroom Vanities

A wall-mounted bathroom vanity, commonly called a floating bathroom vanity, is attached directly to the wall rather than sitting fully on the floor.

This creates visible floor space underneath the cabinet.

The result is a clean, streamlined appearance that has become especially popular in contemporary bathroom design.

Why Choose a Floating Vanity?

Floating vanities can make a bathroom feel visually lighter because more of the flooring remains visible.

This makes them particularly appealing for smaller bathrooms and condos.

They can also make the floor underneath easier to access during routine cleaning.

Explore CC Supply's wall-mounted bathroom vanities for different sizes, finishes and configurations.

Best For:

• Modern bathrooms

• Contemporary bathrooms

• Condos

• Small bathrooms

• Minimalist interiors

• Bathrooms where visible floor space is desirable

Installation is important with this type of vanity. Because the cabinet is supported by the wall, appropriate structural support and secure mounting are essential.

3. Corner Bathroom Vanities

Bathrooms don't always have a convenient open wall for a traditional vanity.

That's where a corner bathroom vanity can help.

Corner vanities are designed to use an area that might otherwise remain unused, making them particularly useful when you're working with an unusual bathroom layout.

Why Choose a Corner Vanity?

The primary advantage is space efficiency.

Instead of occupying the middle of a wall, the vanity fits into a corner and can leave more room for movement and other fixtures.

Best For:

• Powder rooms

• Very small bathrooms

• Guest bathrooms

• Unusual layouts

• Bathrooms with limited wall space

However, don't choose a corner vanity based on width alone. Check the cabinet depth, sink position, door clearance and plumbing before purchasing.

4. Console Bathroom Vanities

A console vanity typically has a more open structure than a traditional cabinet vanity.

Instead of a large enclosed base, it may feature exposed legs, open shelving or a lighter furniture-style frame.

This creates a more open and airy appearance.

Why Choose a Console Vanity?

Console vanities can provide a strong decorative element without the visual weight of a large cabinet.

They're particularly attractive when you want the vanity area to feel open rather than storage-heavy.

Best For:

• Powder rooms

• Transitional bathrooms

• Contemporary interiors

• Vintage-inspired bathrooms

• Bathrooms where extensive enclosed storage isn't necessary

The trade-off is storage.

If you keep a large number of toiletries, towels or cleaning products in the bathroom, a vanity with drawers and enclosed cabinets may be more practical.

5. Single-Sink Bathroom Vanities

A single-sink vanity has one sink and is available in sizes ranging from very compact cabinets to much larger vanities.

This is one of the most versatile configurations because the remaining countertop and cabinet space can be dedicated to storage and preparation space.

Advantages of a Single-Sink Vanity

Compared with placing two sinks in the same cabinet width, a single sink can provide:

• More usable countertop space

• More drawer space

• More cabinet storage

• Simpler plumbing

• Greater flexibility in smaller bathrooms

Single-sink vanities work especially well in powder rooms, guest bathrooms and bathrooms primarily used by one person at a time.

6. Double-Sink Bathroom Vanities

A double-sink bathroom vanity includes two separate sinks within one vanity.

They're particularly popular in shared primary bathrooms because two people can use the vanity area at the same time.

Why Choose a Double Vanity?

A double vanity can make busy morning and evening routines more convenient.

They're particularly useful for:

• Couples

• Shared primary bathrooms

• Larger family bathrooms

However, two sinks require more space and plumbing than one.

They also occupy countertop and interior cabinet space, so consider whether two sinks or additional counter/storage space would be more valuable to your household.

Larger vanity sizes, including many 60 inch bathroom vanities, are often considered when homeowners want a more spacious sink configuration.

7. Compact Bathroom Vanities

Not every bathroom has space for a standard-size vanity.

Compact vanities are specifically useful for smaller spaces where maintaining comfortable movement is the priority.

They may use:

• Narrow cabinets

• Reduced depths

• Smaller sinks

• Wall-mounted construction

• Space-efficient storage layouts

Best For:

• Powder rooms

• Condos

• Basement bathrooms

• Small guest bathrooms

• Narrow bathroom layouts

Compact doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing style. Smaller vanities are available in many of the same finishes and designs as larger bathroom cabinets.

CC Supply also carries compact options, including 16 inch bathroom vanities, for bathrooms where space is particularly limited.

8. Furniture-Style Bathroom Vanities

Furniture-style vanities are designed to look more like standalone pieces of furniture than conventional bathroom cabinets.

They may feature:

• Decorative legs

• Detailed cabinet fronts

• Distinctive hardware

• Wood finishes

• Traditional profiles

These vanities can become a strong focal point in the bathroom rather than simply blending into the cabinetry.

Best For:

• Traditional bathrooms

• Transitional bathrooms

• Luxury bathrooms

• Character homes

• Bathrooms where the vanity is a major design feature

When choosing a furniture-style vanity, remember that appearance shouldn't come at the expense of functionality. Check the usable storage and plumbing clearance inside the cabinet.

Bathroom Vanity Types by Size

Installation style isn't the only way to categorize bathroom vanities.

Vanity size is equally important.

Here are some commonly available widths:

Vanity Size	Often Suitable For	Typical Sink Configuration
16–24 inches	Powder rooms, very small bathrooms	Single
30 inches	Small bathrooms	Single
36 inches	Small to medium bathrooms	Single
48 inches	Medium bathrooms	Usually single
60 inches	Larger/shared bathrooms	Single or double
72 inches+	Large primary bathrooms	Often double

These are general guidelines. Always use the exact dimensions and specifications of the individual vanity when planning your bathroom.

Bathroom Vanity Types by Storage

Two vanities with the same exterior dimensions can provide completely different amounts of usable storage.

That's why cabinet configuration matters.

Drawer Vanities

Vanities with multiple drawers make smaller items easier to organize and access.

They're useful for:

• Makeup

• Skincare

• Hair accessories

• Grooming products

• Small toiletries

Cabinet Vanities

Large cabinet compartments work well for:

• Towels

• Cleaning products

• Toilet paper

• Larger containers

Combination Vanities

Many homeowners prefer a combination of drawers and cabinets because it accommodates both small and bulky bathroom essentials.

Before purchasing, check how much interior space is occupied by the sink and plumbing.

Bathroom Vanity Types by Style

Once you've determined the correct size and installation type, you can focus more closely on appearance.

Modern Bathroom Vanities

Modern vanities often feature:

• Straight lines

• Minimal hardware

• Flat cabinet fronts

• Neutral colours

• Floating construction

Transitional Bathroom Vanities

Transitional designs combine contemporary simplicity with traditional details.

They're particularly versatile because they can work with both classic and updated bathroom interiors.

Traditional Bathroom Vanities

Traditional vanities may feature:

• Decorative cabinet doors

• Furniture-style legs

• Detailed hardware

• Classic finishes

Natural Wood Bathroom Vanities

Wood and wood-look finishes introduce warmth and texture into spaces dominated by tile, porcelain and stone.

They can work in modern, Scandinavian-inspired, transitional and traditional bathrooms depending on the cabinet design.

Freestanding vs. Floating Bathroom Vanity: Which Is Better?

One of the most common decisions homeowners face is choosing between these two styles.

Feature	Freestanding Vanity	Floating Vanity
Appearance	Furniture/cabinet-like	Clean and streamlined
Floor visibility	Less	More
Small-space appeal	Good	Excellent
Cleaning underneath	Depends on design	Generally easier
Installation	Depends on model	Requires secure wall mounting
Design style	Very versatile	Popular in modern spaces
Storage	Varies by model	Varies by model

Neither type is automatically better.

The right choice depends on your bathroom layout, storage needs, wall construction and design preferences.

Single vs. Double Bathroom Vanity

Another important decision is the number of sinks.

Choose a single-sink vanity if:

• The bathroom is smaller

• One person typically uses the vanity at a time

• You want more countertop space

• Storage is a priority

Consider a double-sink vanity if:

• Two people regularly use the bathroom simultaneously

• The bathroom has enough space

• Separate sink areas would improve your routine

Don't assume a double vanity is automatically better simply because the bathroom is large. Sometimes a large single-sink vanity provides more useful counter and storage space.

How to Choose the Right Type of Bathroom Vanity

Before deciding, consider these seven factors:

1. Available Space

Measure width, depth and height—not just wall width.

2. Bathroom Layout

Check clearance around the toilet, shower, bathtub and doors.

3. Storage Needs

Decide what needs to live inside your vanity before choosing the cabinet configuration.

4. Plumbing

Check the position of your water lines, drain and P-trap.

5. Number of Users

A shared primary bathroom may have very different requirements from a powder room.

6. Installation

Wall-mounted and freestanding vanities have different installation considerations.

7. Design

Finally, choose the colour, countertop and style that complement the rest of your bathroom.

Starting with function and finishing with appearance can help you avoid choosing a beautiful vanity that doesn't actually work in your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common type of bathroom vanity?

Freestanding and wall-mounted vanities are two widely available configurations. Which is more suitable depends on the bathroom layout, storage requirements and preferred design.

What type of vanity is best for a small bathroom?

Compact and wall-mounted vanities can work particularly well in small bathrooms. Corner vanities may also be useful when the room has limited conventional wall space.

What is a floating bathroom vanity?

A floating vanity is mounted to the wall rather than sitting fully on the floor. The visible floor underneath creates a lighter, more open appearance.

What's the difference between a floating and wall-mounted vanity?

In bathroom design, the terms are commonly used to describe the same general type of vanity: a cabinet mounted above the floor and secured to the wall.

What is the difference between a vanity and a bathroom cabinet?

A bathroom vanity is generally designed around the sink and countertop area, while bathroom cabinets can also refer to separate storage units that don't contain a sink.

What size bathroom vanity should I choose?

Choose a size that provides enough counter and storage space without restricting movement through the bathroom. Measure the available width and depth and check clearance around doors, toilets, showers and other fixtures.

Are double vanities better than single vanities?

It depends on how the bathroom is used. Double sinks can be convenient for two simultaneous users, while a single sink may provide more countertop and storage space.

Explore Bathroom Vanities at CC Supply

The best bathroom vanity is the one that fits your space, storage requirements and daily routine—not simply the one that looks best in a product photo.

Whether you're looking for a compact vanity for a powder room, a modern floating vanity or a larger cabinet for a primary bathroom, start by measuring your space and identifying how you want the vanity to function.

Then compare installation type, storage, sink configuration, countertop and design.

Explore CC Supply's bathroom vanity collection to compare different sizes, configurations, colours and styles for your next bathroom project.