Bathroom cabinets are an integral component of a functional space, housing cleaning supplies, toiletries, and other necessities that keep everything in order.
At first, choosing the appropriate cabinets may seem dauntingly complex – unassembled versus finished cabinets, stock versus custom and hardwood versus softwood all have different qualities and advantages that you need to keep in mind when making decisions about them. Understanding which features matter the most for your project can help guide your decisions effectively.
Size
Bathroom cabinets often get overlooked during home remodeling projects, yet they can have a significant effect on the look and feel of any room. While vanity may be the focal point, bathroom cabinets add additional functionality and style. Here are a few factors you should keep in mind when selecting bathroom cabinets that best meet your needs and aesthetic:
Size (Benches and Vanities)
Bathroom cabinets come in all shapes and sizes to fit into any space perfectly, from small powder rooms to expansive master bathrooms. Single sink vanities with cabinet spaces below are an ideal solution in smaller bathrooms; larger spaces may benefit from double sink vanities that separate sinking with storage areas. Side cabinets can add even more storage without taking up unnecessary floor space.
Height is also an important consideration in selecting bathroom cabinets. While standard cabinet height is 32 inches, many individuals opt for comfort-height vanities which sit closer to 36 inches for ease of reaching items and washing hands.
Though you may not want to switch up your flooring, painting your cabinets can provide a quick way to completely revamp a room’s appearance. Coordinating it with the walls and accent colors in the bathroom will create a harmonious space; neutral tones such as white or cream work well across many design styles for best results.
If you prefer more dramatic touches, opt for bold colors and accent walls. Just keep in mind that darker tones may make a small space seem cramped while light colors will expand it and make the room seem bigger. No matter which hue or finish you select, be sure to choose a high-performance option capable of withstanding moisture and wear-and-tear damage.
Style
Homeowners undertaking bathroom remodel projects tend to overlook how important cabinets can be in creating an overall aesthetic and atmosphere in their space. Cabinetry can have an incredible influence on a room’s design; therefore it is crucial that homeowners select one they love that they will remain contented with for many years.
No matter the aesthetic, there are countless cabinet styles to consider when outfitting a modern or traditional bathroom. Sleek lines and minimal aesthetic work well for contemporary bathrooms; classic white shaker cabinets with wood accents complement transitional or traditional spaces; flat panel doors and vibrant colors work great in midcentury bathrooms designs;
Remodeling projects often include side cabinets as part of their remodeling plans to provide additional storage for toiletries, towels and other items that would otherwise be on display. A side cabinet also makes an excellent way to hide hazardous cleaning chemicals or products away safely if you have children living at home.
Next, choose your cabinet material carefully. For instance, if you want your bathroom to exude lightness and airiness, opt for painted wood cabinets or other natural materials that won’t add too much visual weight – these options work especially well in smaller bathrooms where visual weight reduction may be beneficial.
Other elements that can drastically change the look and feel of your bathroom cabinets include frame style, hardware selection and door styles. Frameless cabinets tend to be preferred due to omitting any exposure of cabinet body; while others prefer inset door styles for their clean lines. Knobs and handles you choose can have an enormous effect on how your cabinets will appear.
As your bathroom is an area that tends to attract moisture, it is crucial that you pay special attention when choosing cabinetry for this room. MDF or particle board should be treated with waterproof sealant before painting them with water-repellant colors such as white.
Materials
Bathroom cabinets provide storage solutions for toiletries, bath linen and other bathroom accessories. As such, they must be durable enough to withstand extremes in heat, moisture and humidity as well as support the weight of countertop materials like stone.
Your cabinet material selection can make a dramatic impactful statement in your bathroom’s look and feel. There are various choices available to you, depending on your style preferences and budget; among them are particleboard, plywood and MDF (medium density fiberboard) cabinets finished off with solid wood door and drawer fronts – these options offer the greatest affordability when renovating on a tight budget. They are available in an assortment of colors and styles.
Stainless steel cabinets offer a luxurious touch to any bathroom, adding an industrial feel. Constructed of durable moisture-resistant material that’s easily wipe-cleanable and comes in various modern colors – but be warned – regular maintenance must be performed to prevent rusting.
There has been a recent revival of beautifully hand-carved wooden cabinets, giving any bathroom design a classic and traditional aesthetic. Wood is an ageless choice that won’t go out of fashion; modern or classic bathrooms alike can use its timeless beauty in design. Although more costly than other cabinet materials, wood stands the test of time as one of the strongest and most durable materials on offer.
MDF cabinets, made of compressed wood treated to resist warping in humid conditions, can be painted to match your bathroom decor and are easier to repair should they become damaged than other forms. However, solid wood may provide greater moisture resistance.
Framed and frameless bathroom cabinets each offer different aesthetics. While some people might prefer framed cabinets as they cover any exposed cabinet bodies with neat lines, others might prefer frameless ones since their doors completely encase the face. No matter your choice, it is essential to understand all your options prior to making any final decisions about materials used in bathroom cabinet construction.
Finish
Cabinets make an incredible statement in any bathroom renovation, yet can also be the costliest component. Before planning your reno project, sit down and assess your finances; create a bathroom renovation budget so that you can narrow down your choices while staying within your means.
Your cabinet selection can make a dramatic statement about the aesthetic of your bathroom space, from updating existing cabinets to creating an entirely new room. Choose colors that harmonize with existing fixtures like the vanity mirror and light fixture to avoid clashing or diminishing its ambience.
When painting cabinets, use semi-gloss or high-gloss paint as this type of finish repels moisture better than flat or eggshell finishes and better covers up dirt than their flat or eggshell counterparts.
When selecting paint for your bathroom cabinets, look for one that is mold and mildew proof. Mold and mildew-resistant coatings come in oil-based or latex formulations; oil-based applications require application of primer before painting is completed while latex options have optional primer additions that could prolong its durability.
Before beginning painting, lay down drop cloths to protect the floors from sanding dust and paint drops. If possible, set up your workstation in a garage or basement so it will be easier for cleaning up afterwards and prevent fumes from irritating your lungs.
Paintbrushes are essential tools in the job, and choosing a high-quality brush that suits the task at hand is essential to success. A soft-bristled brush will offer smoother finish than its coarse-toothed counterpart.
While it might be tempting to experiment with bold hues, keep in mind that your cabinet color will be visible whenever someone enters your bathroom. Stick with neutral tones that appeal to a variety of tastes and styles. If you plan to sell your home soon, keep cabinet colors in mind as they could have an enormous effect on its selling price – as such it’s wise to test out any colors on an old piece of wood trim or cabinet door before applying them over all cabinetry.