Floating vanities are a popular choice for small bathrooms, where they free up floor space. They’re also a perfect fit for current trending styles. Choose a traditional vanity, and you may get more storage, a look that ages well, and reduced installation costs.

Keep reading as we share more about floating vs. traditional vanities, with the pros and cons of each.

Key takeaways:

  • Floating vanities suit contemporary styles. Freestanding vanities are timeless classics.

  • If you’re looking to get more storage out of your bathroom remodel, a traditional vanity is likely better.

  • If you want floor space and spa-like style to brighten up a small bathroom, check out a floating vanity.

 

Floating vs. traditional vanities: 5 key differences

Both vanities offer storage, whereas a pedestal sink does not. But the difference between how much storage each can accommodate is just one of several differences. 

1. Floor space

Floating vanities are mounted directly to the wall, so they take up no floor. Traditional vanities, also called freestanding vanities, are pieces of furniture that sit on the floor.

2. Storage

For all their floor space-saving, floating vanities typically offer less storage than a comparably sized freestanding vanity. 

3. Cost

Floating vanities may require costly plumbing relocation. Many also report having to buy a higher-end model. Many of the budget ones look budget and aren’t as durable.

4. Cleaning

Cleaning the floor under a traditional vanity can be moderately difficult to nearly impossible depending on its design. With floating, you can mop the entire floor, no sweat.

5. Style

Traditional vanities come in a broader variety of styles and can be customized to practically any specification. Floating vanities suit more contemporary and modern styles. 

 

Floating vanity pros and cons for your bathroom remodel

People love a floating vanity because it can make a small bathroom look bigger. That’s just one factor to weigh against its potential disadvantages. 

 

Floating Vanity Pros:

  • Clean look that is perfect for minimalist and spa-like styes
  • Makes mopping much easier
  • Instantly brings an old bathroom into the present day
  • Can show off more high-quality or statement flooring

 

Floating Vanity Cons:

  • May need to change the drain and water supply location
  • Professional installation is key to stability
  • Cheaper vanities may have lower weight limits, making them less reliable

 

 

The pros and cons of traditional, freestanding vanities

If you’re looking to sell, potential buyers love to see a traditional vanity. They know it’ll be much easier to refinish or replace if they choose.

Traditional Vanity Pros:

  • Widest range of styles to fit every design theme
  • Scalable storage, highly customizable
  • Timeless look and feel
  • More straightforward installation

 

Traditional Vanity Cons:

  • Can feel heavier or more cramped in small bathrooms
  • Cleaning underneath can be complicated 

 

Floating vs. traditional: Which vanity is best for small bathrooms?

Floating vanities are widely considered the best choice for a more spacious look and feel. You’re even more likely to comfortably fit a double sink vanity thanks to the free space below. 

However, many opt for a hybrid solution. A floating vanity with custom storage on the floor underneath lets you leverage the modern aesthetic without sacrificing function. Leaving a gap between the two can still create the illusion of more space.

No matter your pick, aim for quality materials and professional installation.

Great design is more than just aesthetically pleasing. It improves durability, function, and the quality of your everyday life. If you’re ready for a bathroom remodel, you don’t have to find a designer, supplier, craftsperson, and contractor. You only need to call The Designery. You get to see materials and finishes in person at one of our showrooms and plan your project with a professional designer. Our team helps procure what you need from there, including installation.

“They were extremely helpful in assisting with a thoughtful, complimentary design for the bathroom tile, vanity wood selection, countertop, and bathtub tile. I highly recommend them for design projects!”

Michael, The Designery client

Bring your remodeling questions to a pro–it’s free to discuss.