Before you started exploring a bathroom remodel, counters seemed simple. Now that it’s time to pick one, the materials, styles, and prices are all over the place. Is this an area where it’s okay to pinch a penny, or does mid-to-high-range pay off?
Countertops are essential to daily routines and habits. We also don’t usually replace them more often than every decade or two. Keep reading to discover how to choose a bathroom countertop that’ll withstand the next 20 years.
How to choose a bathroom countertop: Key considerations
Don’t treat choosing a bathroom counter like you would a kitchen. For one, you will likely require less material, meaning the budget won’t be as much of a concern.
Daily wear is quite different, too. Kitchen counters are exposed to hot pans and sharp knives. With bathrooms, our primary concern is moisture resistance–plus a few other features.
Maintenance.
The #1 cost-saving tip is to be realistic about your habits and lifestyle. If you think there’s a chance the barrel of a hot curling iron could make contact with your counter on a regular basis, say so. The same applies to cleaning and, in some cases, sealing.
The most durable bathroom countertops typically require the least maintenance. Luxury materials like marble are fussy. Budget materials like solid surface can scorch. Always ask what you’d have to do to keep the countertop in good repair.
Other design features.
Undermount sink, or vessel? Dramatic color cabinets, or soothing neutral? Everything from the tone of the hardware or faucet to the shower tilework can be enhanced by the right countertop.
If you’re remodeling your entire bathroom, try ranking the desirability of your ideas. That way, the must-have cool-toned quartz doesn’t end up getting sacrificed to preserve the rest of your design.
Durability.
The countertop material you choose will ideally be moisture-resistant and appropriate for humid areas. Some wood can swell and warp. Softer stone can be etched by water.
Quartz and granite are the most popular options for reasons we’ve already discussed. However, it’s the durability each offers that sets them apart from wood, laminate, and softer stones.
Which is better for a bathroom countertop, quartz or granite?
Both granite and engineered quartz are beautiful, highly durable bathroom countertop materials. The main difference is maintenance. Granite countertops will require periodic resealing. However, they add a more luxurious touch to bathroom designs.
Quartz countertops have practically no maintenance requirements. Because they’re an engineered combo of resin and natural minerals, you can achieve a more precise aesthetic.
Plus, quartz and granite can be similarly priced. The choice between the two often comes down to design preference. The organic opulence of granite, or uniformly designed, untroublesome quartz.
Is marble good for a bathroom countertop?
Marble has more maintenance requirements than other natural stones like granite. It’s less moisture resistant, requires special cleaning formulas, and etches much more easily than others.
However, the natural patina it gains over time is beloved by many. It’s a classic beauty that may endure longer in less heavily trafficked bathrooms. While marble sinks dropped sharply in 2026’s home design trends, marble countertops are still a popular choice.
What’s trending in bathroom countertops?
A type of organic maximalism is very popular in counters right now. Thicker countertops with bold natural patterns are already well-represented in remodels.
What you can expect more of in the future is custom edges. Homeowners are exploring more traditional countertop edge styles featuring bevels and scallops.
See the best bathroom countertop materials in person at your local Designery.
Still stuck on how to choose a bathroom countertop? A professional designer can help. The Designery offers more than 50 different types of quartz, as well as natural granite you won’t find anywhere else. We can help you design, customize, and install the most attractive, durable countertop for your space.
“I can’t say enough good things about The Designery. They have an excellent reputation, do things the right way, and clearly care about quality and people. Everything I’ve seen about their work and their team reflects professionalism, attention to detail, and great design. I’d confidently recommend them to anyone looking for a company they can trust."
Trey, Designery client
Book a free discussion with a designer, or stop by one of our showrooms to start viewing your options.
