Most vanity problems we see aren't about style. They're about a vanity that's half an inch too wide, a drawer that hits the plumbing, or a door that won't open past the toilet. Five minutes with a tape measure prevents all of it.
First: how we size our vanities
We name every vanity by its countertop width, not the cabinet. A "30-inch" vanity has a 30″ quartz top on a slightly narrower cabinet (about 28″). The top overhangs the cabinet by roughly an inch on each side. Some brands name by cabinet width instead, so always compare the top width when you're shopping around.
1. Measure the wall width
Measure the wall where the vanity will go, at counter height (about 34″ off the floor), not at the floor. Baseboards and walls that aren't quite straight can easily cost you half an inch.
- Open on one or both sides: you have flexibility. Just keep the vanity clear of door trim and the toilet (see step 4).
- Wall to wall (an alcove): the countertop has to fit the opening. Measure at the back wall and at the front – old houses are rarely square. Choose a top that's equal to or slightly smaller than the narrowest measurement. If you're between sizes, our quartz tops can be cut down to fit.
2. Measure the depth
Standard vanities are about 21–22″ deep including the top. In a tight powder room or condo bathroom, measure from the back wall to the door frame or tub edge, and make sure you'll still have room to stand in front of the sink. We recommend leaving at least 21″ of clear floor space in front of the vanity, and 30″ is more comfortable.
3. Check the plumbing
- Note where the drain comes out of the wall (height from the floor and distance from one side).
- Note where the hot and cold supply lines come out.
- If the plumbing comes up through the floor instead of the wall, tell us – it changes which vanities will work.
Most of our vanities leave space behind the drawers for plumbing, but a drain that's well off-centre can clash with drawers. A photo with a tape measure in the shot tells us everything we need.
4. Leave room for the toilet
Plumbing codes generally call for at least 15″ from the centre of the toilet to the edge of the vanity (or any wall). Measure from the toilet flange bolts – the two bolts holding the toilet to the floor – to where the vanity will end. If you're short of 15″, go one size down.
5. Check doors and drawers
Open the bathroom door and the shower door all the way and make sure neither will hit the vanity or the countertop. Then check that the vanity's own drawers will open fully without hitting the toilet, the tub edge or a door trim.
The quick checklist
- Wall width at counter height (front and back if it's wall-to-wall)
- Available depth and clear floor space in front
- Drain and supply positions, with a photo
- Toilet centre to vanity edge – at least 15″
- Door, shower door and drawer clearance
Once you have your numbers, browse by size: small vanities 25″–36″, medium vanities 40″–55″, large single sink 56″–75″ or double sink 59″–75″.
Not sure? Ask before you buy. Text a photo of your space with your measurements to 778-994-4994 and we'll tell you which size fits, usually the same day. Or see the vanities in person at our Richmond showroom – Saturdays 11–4, weekdays by appointment.