When it comes to bathroom design, types of bathroom cabinets play a crucial role. They’re not just for storage – they can make or break the look of your bathroom. But with so many options out there, how do you choose? Let’s dive into the world of bathroom cabinets and explore the different types you might encounter.
Vanity Cabinets
Vanity cabinets are probably what you think of first when someone mentions bathroom cabinets. They’re the stars of the show, sitting right under your sink and mirror. Vanity cabinets come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny single-sink units to massive double-sink affairs that stretch across an entire wall.
What makes vanity cabinets special is that they’re not just cabinets – they’re also the base for your sink (or sinks). This means they need to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the sink and countertop, as well as resist water damage.
You’ll find vanity cabinets in two main styles: freestanding and built-in. Freestanding vanities look like pieces of furniture and can be moved if needed. Built-in vanities are permanently installed and often custom-made to fit your space perfectly.
Wall-Mounted Cabinets
If you’re short on floor space, wall-mounted cabinets are your new best friends. As the name suggests, these cabinets hang on the wall, keeping your floor clear. They’re great for small bathrooms where every inch counts.
Wall-mounted cabinets come in many forms. Medicine cabinets are usually placed above the sink and often have a mirror on the front. Open shelving units don’t have doors, leaving everything on display. There are also closed cabinets with doors, just hung on the wall instead of sitting on the floor.
Linen Cabinets
Linen cabinets are tall, narrow cabinets designed to store towels, washcloths, and other bathroom linens. They’re like the bathroom version of a kitchen pantry. Linen cabinets usually have a mix of shelves and drawers, giving you flexible storage options.
When it comes to types of bathroom cabinets, you’ll often find linen cabinets as standalone units, built into a larger vanity setup, or integrated into the wall as recessed cabinets. They’re great for keeping your bathroom organized and your linens easily accessible.
Over-the-Toilet Cabinets
The space above your toilet is prime real estate in a bathroom, and over-the-toilet cabinets make the most of it. These cabinets are designed to fit snugly over your toilet tank, providing extra storage without taking up any floor space.
Over-the-toilet cabinets can be open shelving units, closed cabinets with doors, or a combination of both. They’re perfect for storing extra toilet paper, cleaning supplies, or even decorative items to spruce up your bathroom.
Corner Cabinets
Corners can be tricky spaces in any room, but corner cabinets turn these awkward spots into useful storage. In bathrooms, you might find corner cabinets as part of a vanity setup or as standalone units.
Corner cabinets often feature angled fronts to fit neatly into the corner. Some even have lazy Susan-style rotating shelves to make items in the back easy to reach. They’re a great way to maximize storage in a bathroom where space is at a premium.
Floating Vanities
Floating vanities are a modern twist on traditional vanity cabinets. Instead of sitting on the floor, they’re mounted on the wall, “floating” above the ground. This creates a sense of spaciousness and makes cleaning the floor a breeze.
Floating vanities can be single units or double vanities for larger bathrooms. They’re often combined with other wall-mounted storage for a cohesive look. The floating design gives bathrooms a sleek, contemporary feel.
Modular Cabinets
If you like to mix and match, modular cabinets might be your thing. These are individual cabinet units that can be combined in different ways to create a custom storage solution. Think of them as building blocks for your bathroom.
Modular cabinets is another type of bathroom cabinet that allow syou to create a unique layout that fits your space perfectly. You can add or remove units as your needs change, and combine different types of storage (drawers, shelves, etc.) in one setup. It’s a flexible option that can grow with your needs.
Recessed Cabinets
Recessed cabinets are built into the wall, saving valuable space in your bathroom. The most common type of recessed cabinet is the medicine cabinet, but you can also find larger recessed units for more storage.
Recessed cabinets offer a sleek, built-in look and storage that doesn’t stick out into the room. They’re a great way to use wall space that might otherwise go to waste. Just keep in mind that installing recessed cabinets usually requires some construction work.
Freestanding Cabinets
Freestanding cabinets are like pieces of furniture for your bathroom. They’re not attached to the wall or built-in, so you can move them around if you want to change up your bathroom layout.
Types of freestanding cabinets include:
- Storage towers (tall, narrow cabinets great for small spaces).
- Console tables (lower cabinets that can double as a vanity).
- Bathroom carts (mobile units on wheels for flexible storage).
Custom Cabinets
Sometimes, you just can’t find exactly what you’re looking for in ready-made cabinets. That’s where custom cabinets come in. These are designed and built specifically for your bathroom, taking into account your space, storage needs, and style preferences.
Custom cabinets allow you to make the most of every inch of space, including awkward corners or nooks. You can choose exactly the type of storage you need and match the cabinets perfectly to your bathroom’s style and color scheme. While they’re often more expensive than ready-made options, custom cabinets can be worth it for the perfect fit.
Choosing the Right Cabinets for Your Bathroom
With all these options, how do you choose the right cabinets and materials for your bathroom? Consider the size of your bathroom, your storage needs, your personal style, your budget, and the level of installation you’re comfortable with.
In a small bathroom, wall-mounted or corner cabinets can save space. Larger bathrooms can accommodate bigger vanities or multiple cabinet types. Think about what you need to store – if you have lots of towels, a linen cabinet might be essential. If you have tons of small items, look for cabinets with plenty of drawers or adjustable shelves.
Choose cabinets that match your bathroom’s overall look, whether that’s sleek and modern or rustic and traditional. Keep your budget in mind – custom cabinets are great but can be pricey, while ready-made cabinets are usually more budget-friendly. Also consider installation – some cabinets are easy to install yourself, while others (like built-in or floating vanities) might require professional help.
Remember, you don’t have to stick to just one type of cabinet. Many bathrooms use a combination of different cabinet types to maximize storage and create a functional, beautiful space.
Whether you’re doing a full bathroom remodel or just looking to add some extra storage, understanding the different types of bathroom cabinets can help you make the best choice for your space. Happy cabinet hunting!