Do you have a bathroom vanity? Then you likely use it every morning and evening but pay little attention to it otherwise.
Bathroom vanities have been around for a long time, but they have not always looked like they do today. Believe it or not, the ancestors of modern bathroom vanities used to be quite different, even though they performed a similar function. At The Reno Superstore, we are passionate about all things renovation, so we took a deep dive into bathroom vanities to answer some questions
In this post, we answer questions about bathroom vanities to explore what they are and where they came from.
Let’s dive in.
Questions Answered About Your Bathroom Vanity
Here, we answer questions about bathroom vanities, so you get a better idea of what they are all about.
1. What is a bathroom vanity?
This piece of furniture typically includes a sink and storage space for bathroom supplies and toiletries. Bathroom vanities come in various styles, sizes, and materials, ranging from traditional wood cabinets to modern, minimalist designs made with metal or glass. They can be freestanding or built into a wall, and may also include mirrors and lighting fixtures.
2. Where did bathroom vanities originate?
Before indoor plumbing was standard, bathrooms did not exist! Instead, people had a ‘vanity table’ in their bedrooms. This was basically a table with a built-in basin or bowl where people washed their hands and faces. Usually, a pitcher filled with water would be kept there.
With the invention of indoor plumbing (and, hence, the bathroom), the vanity table was eventually transformed into a bathroom vanity, with the addition of a dedicated faucet and sink.
3. Was it always known as a bathroom vanity?
Bathrooms, as we know them today, did not exist until the Victorian era. In other words, they weren’t separate rooms. And when they did exist, they were purely functional, with little thought given to decoration. Since vanities were more common in bedrooms than bathrooms, they weren’t always called that. Indeed, there were no bathroom vanity tops or even faucets.
It was initially called a ‘toilet table’, with some early records showing it to have been invented in 1762 by Thomas Chippendale, a renowned cabinetmaker in London, England. It began to be referred to as a dressing table over the course of the following few years, and eventually a vanity table.
It’s amazing to see how the modern invention of plumbing has changed vanities from what they used to be.
4. How big can a vanity get?
The most common widths range from 24″ at their smallest to 72″ at the largest. Of course, you can have one custom-made to whichever size you want, depending on your needs.
Please take note that bathroom vanities come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it is crucial to measure the area of installation accurately prior to purchase. Need help? Get in touch with the renovation experts at the Reno Superstore
5. Is there one type of bathroom sink that can be installed with any type of bathroom vanity?
If you have bought a bathroom vanity and are not sure which type of sink will go with it, choose a vessel sink. This type of sink works well with any type of bathroom vanity, regardless of its style.
One thing to keep in mind is to install the vessel sink on the solid surface of the bathroom vanity top. Also, make sure the surface is smooth and level. Otherwise, it won’t fit your vessel sink properly and may be installed lopsided.
If you are installing it yourself, ensure the sink’s drain hole aligns with the vanity’s. Not doing so will result in spilled water, damaging your vanity. If you have problems with the alignment, you may need to drill a new hole to accommodate the vessel sink. To ensure the perimeter of the newly-installed sink is water-tight, use a silicone sealant around its perimeter.
If you are unsure about the installation process or don’t want the hassle, contact the affordable and top-notch installers at The Reno Superstore.
6. Is the countertop attached to the vanity, or is it available separately?
This is commonly confused. The answer is both. While some vanities come as one unit, others need to be assembled and come as two separate pieces: the countertop and the vanity.
It is important to keep in mind that the countertops typically have an overhang of one or two inches if you are ordering them separately. So, be sure to take precise measurements.
7. What materials are used to create bathroom vanities?
Bathrooms can be exposed to a lot of moisture. This requires using products that can withstand regular contact with water. Bathroom vanity cabinets are typically made of wood or medium-density fibreboard (MDF), which can withstand high levels of humidity and moisture.
Additionally, highly water-resistant materials like granite and quartz are frequently used to make bathroom vanity countertops, as are other materials.
Bathroom vanities add both functionality and style to this private space. There are many factors to take into account when choosing the ideal bathroom vanity for your home, including the type, materials used, and sizes available. Always consider your style preferences in addition to the bathroom’s overall design. If your bathroom vanity needs an upgrade, why not look at some of the newest designs and styles? Visit our website to look through the many bathroom vanities we offer and find the ideal one for your space.