Bathroom furniture does two jobs at once: it keeps everyday clutter out of sight, and it sets the tone for the whole room. Yet because we only buy it once every decade or so, choosing the right pieces can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks the decision down into a few simple steps, so you can pick furniture that fits your space, your storage needs, and your style.
Start With the Measurements
Before you fall in love with any vanity unit or cabinet, measure your bathroom carefully. Note the width and depth of the space where the furniture will go, and don't forget the details that are easy to miss: where the door swings, where the radiator sits, and where your water supply and waste pipes come out of the wall or floor.
As a rule of thumb, leave at least 60-70 cm of free floor space in front of a vanity unit so you can comfortably stand at the basin. In smaller bathrooms, every centimetre counts - which is exactly where wall-hung furniture earns its keep.
Vanity Units: The Heart of Bathroom Furniture
A vanity unit combines a basin with built-in storage, hiding the pipework inside the cabinet. It is the single most useful piece of furniture you can add to a bathroom. The main choice is between two styles:
- Wall-hung vanity units are fixed to the wall with clear floor space underneath. They make the room feel bigger, are easier to clean under, and give a modern, floating look. They are the go-to choice for small bathrooms and en-suites.
- Floor-standing vanity units sit directly on the floor. They typically offer more storage, require no wall fixing (handy for stud walls), and suit both classic and contemporary bathrooms.
If two people get ready at the same time every morning, consider a double vanity unit with two basins - it is one of those upgrades you notice every single day. And if you prefer natural warmth over gloss finishes, our oak vanity units and countertops pair beautifully with countertop basins.
Mirrors and Mirror Cabinets
A mirror is essential; a good one transforms the room. LED bathroom mirrors provide even, shadow-free light for shaving and make-up, and many models include anti-fog heating pads and touch controls. Position the mirror so its centre sits at eye level, and match its width to your vanity unit for a balanced look.
Storage and Finishing Touches
Once the vanity and mirror are in place, add storage where you need it: shelves, baskets and trays keep toiletries organised, while towel rails and holders keep towels dry and within reach. Small vanity add-ons like internal organisers make even a compact unit work harder.
Materials Matter
Bathrooms are humid, so furniture must be built for moisture. Look for laminated or lacquered boards with sealed edges, soft-close hinges and drawer runners with a corrosion-resistant finish. Wipe-clean surfaces such as high-gloss laminate or painted MDF are the easiest to live with; real wood like oak needs occasional oiling but ages beautifully.
Match the Furniture to Your Bathroom
- Small bathroom or en-suite: a slim wall-hung vanity, a mirror cabinet for hidden storage, and wall-mounted accessories.
- Family bathroom: a floor-standing or double vanity with deep drawers, plus baskets for each family member.
- Modern look: handleless fronts, matt or gloss finishes, floating furniture with LED lighting.
- Warm and classic: oak countertops, framed mirrors, and freestanding storage.
Ready to Choose?
The right bathroom furniture is the one that fits your measurements, survives daily moisture, and makes the room feel like yours. Browse our full range of vanity units, mirrors and basins at Bathroom Store Ireland - and if you'd like a second opinion on sizes or combinations, get in touch. We're happy to help you plan it right the first time.
