In the interior of a bathroom, we value not only convenience, but also aesthetics. An important component of a properly organized space is a cabinet under the sink, without which it is impossible to imagine a decent bathroom. Today, stores offer cabinets, pencil cases and cabinets of various sizes, designs and designs, which is why it is sometimes difficult for customers to make a choice. Let's talk about what bathroom cabinets are and what you should pay attention to when evaluating a particular model.
Why do you need a bathroom cabinet?
The choice of this or that furniture, its size and features depend primarily on the functions that this thing will perform in your home. Let's not forget that the lion's share of apartments are equipped with very small bathrooms, barely able to accommodate plumbing fixtures and basic necessities. All the more meticulously we have to consider every thing that we will squeeze into a limited space. You should think carefully about why you need a cabinet specifically in your bathroom.
- For storing hygiene items.
Under-mirror shelves, lined with all kinds of bottles, tubes and jars, visually make the room smaller, creating the impression of clutter. By putting away small things in the cabinet and leaving only smooth, clean surfaces in sight, we visually move the cramped walls apart, and the bathroom looks much neater and well-groomed. On the shelves and in the drawers there is space for shampoos and creams, cosmetics and washcloths, as well as packages of washing powder, cleaning products and other small items needed in the household. - To hide the pipes and sink siphon.
A siphon sticking out in plain sight makes a depressing impression, so it is best to hide it behind the doors of an elegant cabinet, which is installed directly under the washbasin. - To create a stylish interior.
The aesthetic component of a modern living space is no less important than its functional part. A well-chosen cabinet, in harmony with the rest of the decor, contributes to the overall impression, supporting the chosen design style.
To choose a cabinet that meets your expectations, you need to know the main features and varieties of this type of furniture.
Floor standing cabinet without sink AQUAL Emily 75 cm white
Types and designs of bathroom cabinets
Plumbing companies offer consumers all kinds of cabinets, so choosing furniture that suits you is not difficult. Let's look at the main differences in design that appear depending on the location and method of installation of the cabinet.
Types of cabinets according to installation location
Depending on what space in the bathroom layout is allocated for the cabinet, you can choose a wall-mounted or corner model.
Wall cabinet
This is the most common option, suitable for any bathroom. It is quite spacious and does not require the selection of a special sink; it fits well into the layout. A huge number of different sized models allows you to choose a wall cabinet for any bathroom.
The most popular are models with a tabletop width ranging from 40-60 cm, since they most easily fit into the dimensions of a typical bathroom. In a spacious bathroom, you can install a wider and more spacious cabinet with a wide countertop or a whole set of a cabinet under the sink, a linen cabinet and a pencil case. It’s very easy to check whether the chosen model will be convenient to use: stand next to the cabinet and stretch your arm forward - the back wall should be located no further than the middle of your palm.
Wall-hung cabinet without sink IKA Gamma 80 cm white
Corner cabinet
In the corner of the bathroom, a cabinet is usually installed in order to make the most efficient use of space. One can argue whether corner furniture is actually as compact as they claim, but it has one undeniable advantage - originality. The corner cabinet brings a non-standard, fresh vibe to the interior. However, do not forget that the choice of sinks in this case is not particularly large, and the capacity of corner shelves is noticeably less than straight ones.v
Types of cabinets by installation method
There are several ways to install a cabinet in the bathroom, which are reflected in its design features.
- On four legs.
This is the most popular type of bathroom furniture today. Furniture legs are strong and stable enough to support the weight of a cabinet, countertop, sink, and items stacked inside. At the same time, the space under its bottom remains open, moisture does not accumulate under it and mold does not form. - On two legs.
The front of the cabinet is supported by two ordinary furniture legs, and the back part is rigidly attached to the wall. This installation method is most often used in cases where the countertop is made of natural stone and is significantly heavier than the cabinet itself. A heavy tabletop threatens to tip over, so it is attached to the wall to evenly distribute the weight load. - On a solid or semi-open base.
Cabinets with a plinth are more stable than those with legs, but this design is very rarely used today. The fact is that the closed space between the floor and the bottom is poorly ventilated. A humid and warm environment promotes the proliferation of microorganisms, and under their influence the material of the cabinet gradually loses its strength. In addition, the appearance of mold threatens the development of respiratory diseases. - Hanging cabinets.
An elegant and modern solution is a cabinet hung on the wall. It looks especially harmonious in combination with wall-hung sanitary ware, but can also form a quite attractive ensemble with floor-standing models. The absence of legs is a big plus, making it easier to clean the bathroom. In addition, the free floor under the cabinet creates the impression of a spacious room, even if the bathroom is actually small. However, for hanging you need a solid wall that can support the weight of the structure, or a special installation frame. - Cabinets on casters.
The mobile module, which can be easily moved within the bathroom if necessary, is very convenient in some cases, for example, when bathing children in the first year of life. However, such furniture is only suitable for spacious rooms as an addition to a stationary cabinet installed under the sink.
Wall-hung vanity unit IKA Lyon 40 cm white/natural wood
Sink cabinet: differences in materials
The vast majority of cabinets are made from chipboard and MDF or combinations thereof. No matter what finish the material is protected with, in the warm and humid climate of the bathroom it will eventually begin to deform and swell. In this regard, cabinets made of solid wood are much more reliable and durable. But also more expensive.
The material is impregnated with moisture-resistant agents. The edges are covered with a profile made of polyvinyl chloride fiber. The individual elements of the cabinet are made of stainless steel, impact-resistant glass or plastic.
The materials used in the manufacture of washstands also differ. They largely depend on the type of installation of the sink:
- Built-in. The washbasin bowl is a separate removable element.
- Invoice. The washbasin is installed on top, like a countertop.
- Hanging. Suspended above the base without touching it.
In the first case, the sink is usually made of earthenware. The characteristics of this material are well known: resistance to stains, ease of cleaning, fragility.
There is a much wider choice for countertops and wall-hung sinks. In addition to faience, it is also cast polymer, marble, granite, quartz agglomerate, glass, onyx and even wood:
- Marble brings the luxury of a solid stone product to the interior. It has several color variations. But marble chips easily and also tends to retain permanent stains on its surface.
- Granite also looks solid and is not at all afraid of high humidity and temperature changes. The material is quite diverse in colors and textures.
Hanging cabinet - Cast polymer or duralit is lightweight and relatively cheap. The sink and countertop are poured into a single mass. The polymer is highly resistant to mold, durable and environmentally friendly like natural stone. However, the finish is easy to scratch.
- Strained glass. The material is quite strong. It is resistant to mildew in bathroom conditions. This cabinet is easy to care for.
- Quartzite offers a huge selection of colors. It is resistant to high temperatures, does not react with acids, and is resistant to shock.
Sink installation method
A sink built into the cabinet tabletop can be installed in one of the following ways.
- Drop-in sink.
A hole is made in the countertop into which the sink is installed. This is the classic and most popular installation method, which attracts with its simplicity and reliability. The sink is recessed into the countertop, and the joint is treated with sealant to prevent leakage. The top edge of the sink can be recessed flush or raised slightly above the countertop. - Overhead sink.
Most often, this method is chosen for installing designer plumbing fixtures of non-standard shape. A hole is made in the countertop for the drain pipe and a sink is installed on top. It seems as if the bowl is simply standing on the cabinet. The advantage of this method is the non-trivial design of the kit. In addition, the insertion site does not require sealant treatment. It is necessary to carefully calculate the height of the cabinet and sink so that the top edge does not create inconvenience when washing. - Semi-built-in sink.
This method is becoming increasingly popular as it combines the advantages of mortise and built-in installation. The hole in the countertop and front panel is cut so that the sink is only partially immersed in the cabinet. Often the front edge of the sink protrudes beyond the cabinet body. This is very convenient because while washing you can stand close to the edge of the bowl. In addition, the semi-built-in installation method makes it possible to rationally use the space of a small bathroom, since the width and depth of the cabinet can be quite small. - Double sink.
If you have a spacious bathroom and a large family, a double sink will be a real lifesaver. When getting ready for work or school in the morning, family members won’t have to stand in line waiting for the washbasin to become free. In addition, two sinks look great in a long countertop, giving the room a respectable look. Two sinks can be built in using any of the above methods.
Materials, sizes and shapes of sinks for bathroom cabinets
Different materials are used to make a sink.
- Natural stone (onyx, marble, travertine, granite) looks noble. Such products are highly durable and hygienic, but they are heavy and expensive, and also require delicate care.
- Only shockproof glass is used. It can be transparent or matte, and also painted in various shades.
- Ceramic bowls are most often in demand. They are presented not only in white, but also in other colors. They are easy to care for.
- Artificial stone can serve as an alternative to natural stone. Compared to it, it is lighter in weight, affordable and easy to maintain. The color design can satisfy the most demanding taste.
- Copper and bronze are used if it is necessary to implement a design solution.
The shapes of sinks are: round, oval, rectangular, square and asymmetrical.
Based on the size of the bowl, there are 3 groups:
- large with a length of 75 cm and a depth of 48-61 cm;
- medium ones are characterized by a length of 55-75 cm and a depth of 35 to 48 cm;
- small ones have the following parameters: length 40-45 cm, depth 12-35 cm.
If space allows, then you should think about installing a cabinet with two sinks. This is especially useful in a large family.
A double sink will add style and originality to your bathroom design.
Completeness
Many manufacturers of plumbing fixtures make cabinets for bathrooms, focusing their design on popular models of their own sinks. You can even choose a vanity that already comes with a sink, or choose the right sink while purchasing the furniture. This usually happens when you make a purchase in a specialty store or the plumbing department of a large market.
If you purchase bathroom furniture in a furniture store or order its production in a workshop, then you will have to select the sink separately, and order the insert according to the size and shape of the bowl. The most difficult case is when a sink, cabinet and stone countertop are ordered separately. All these elements must be well adjusted to each other, and this should be done by an experienced specialist who knows how to work with different materials.
Vanity unit with sink TOPLINE Milano 65 cm white
Materials used to make the cabinet
Cabinets are made from several types of materials. The most popular material in Russia is laminated wood boards, better known as MDF and chipboard. Products made from them have good performance properties and reasonable prices. MDF is more expensive, but lasts longer than chipboard. To give the product better aesthetic and performance properties, the facades are coated with varnish or film.
A cabinet made of natural wood is rightfully considered a luxury item. This material is rarely used for bathrooms, since the ratio of price and performance properties leaves much to be desired. Under the influence of moisture and temperature changes, wood becomes deformed and swells. This can be avoided by using a protective coating of varnish or oil, which must be renewed periodically. Experts recommend using wooden cabinets for spacious bathrooms with a good ventilation system.
Plastic is the most suitable material for bathroom cabinets. It does not react to high humidity and temperature changes, and is inexpensive. Its plastic properties allow you to create any shape, which is why plastic products are often used to implement futuristic design projects. In addition, plastic can come in thousands of different shades.
For decoration, a pattern is applied to plastic facades
It is possible to use metal-glass structures. These products have the highest aesthetic properties. The combination of glass drawers and glossy or chrome-plated metal fixtures will be the perfect complement to a minimalist design. For facades, it is better to choose frosted glass so that items stored in the cabinet are not visible.
Accessories for cabinets also come from different materials. Handles made of chrome or brass metal are considered the most durable and durable. Plastic fittings, painted in different shades, wear out over time and lose their attractiveness.
Selection of materials
Since the cabinet will be in the bathroom, materials that are not afraid of high humidity should be used for its manufacture.
Pressed wood boards
Most often, pressed boards are used to make sink cabinets - chipboard, laminated chipboard or MDF. Modern surface sealing technologies and synthetic resins used to glue wood particles together significantly increase the moisture resistance of these materials. You can firmly count on at least 5-7 years of furniture operation. MDF boards are more resistant to moisture than laminated chipboards, and even more so chipboards, but the cost of the products is slightly higher. The method of protecting the surface is of no small importance: painting makes the furniture more resistant to moisture than covering it with film.
Wood
Bathroom cabinets are often made not from solid wood, but from glued board, due to which the furniture walls become resistant to warping and swelling. In addition, before processing, the wood is impregnated with a composition that increases moisture resistance. Pre-treatment significantly extends the life of wood in difficult conditions. If we add to this the magnificent appearance, luxurious shade and texture of natural wood, then it definitely wins in comparison with pressed board. However, the price of such a cabinet cannot be called affordable. In addition, it is still advisable to take care of good ventilation in the bathroom so that the furniture lasts longer.
Plastic
At first glance, a plastic cabinet is an ideal option for a bathroom. It is absolutely unaffected by moisture, looks great, can easily be subjected to any surface treatment, imitating a wide range of natural materials. However, the plastic is not very durable, and after a while its surface becomes covered with small scratches, which is why the product takes on an unkempt appearance. In addition, the strength of the plastic facade is low, and an accidental kick or hand can lead to an unsightly crack or chip.
Stainless steel
Cabinets made entirely of steel have a specific appearance. Despite the excellent performance qualities, such furniture looks alien in the design of an ordinary bathroom, and there are still not so many fans of the loft or industrial style that stainless furniture is in widespread demand.
Forged steel
Forged steel vanity units and shelves are extremely beautiful, durable and hygienic. However, forged furniture looks organic only if it has the same worthy surroundings. It is made to order in single copies, and there are no forged products in the mass market segment.
Glass
It’s also difficult to call a glass cabinet a product for the mass consumer. At the same time, glass furniture best suits the conditions of the bathroom: this material is not susceptible to the negative effects of humidity, and is easy to clean and disinfect. When making it, it is better to use frosted or colored opaque glass so that the cabinet doors can reliably hide the contents. You should be prepared to carefully care for your furniture: traces of water and soap suds will be clearly visible on the shiny glass surface. After each wash, the surface of the cabinet will have to be thoroughly wiped to restore its impeccable shine and cleanliness.
Photo gallery
We present to your attention a successful selection of 35 photo ideas for the design of vanity units in the bathroom.
And also video:
Bathroom cabinet fittings
When choosing a cabinet, you should carefully study the fittings, paying attention first of all to the material of manufacture and the quality of workmanship. We advise you to immediately abandon furniture with plastic handles coated with a metal coating: after a few months, not a trace will remain of the beautiful shine, and a dull base will be visible from under the shiny but fragile layer. A convenient and reliable bathroom cabinet can be equipped, depending on your needs:
- metal moisture-resistant handles;
- stainless steel hinges;
- roller guides for drawers;
- door closer for soft closing of the door;
- laundry basket made of metal mesh;
- towel holders, etc.
LED lighting of the interior space of the cabinet is possible, making it easier to find the necessary little things.
Cabinet with sink AM.PM Gem S 75cm 3 drawers white gloss
Some practical tips
- When choosing a cabinet for a small bathroom, pay attention not only to the dimensions of the body, but also to the span of the door and the reach of the drawers. There should be enough free space in front of the furniture so that the doors can be opened without interference without touching nearby objects.
- The color and finish of the cabinet should be in harmony with the wall cladding and the overall interior design. If you are not sure that you can independently choose furniture of a suitable shade and style, choose a neutral white color and a laconic, discreet finish.
- If the cabinet will hide plumbing, make sure that the pipes can be easily reached for repairs if necessary.
- Find out in advance whether the sink siphon will interfere with the drawers or shelves of the selected cabinet model.
