As an expert renovator, I know choosing the right bathroom cabinet is crucial for aesthetics and storage. A well-selected cabinet enhances the space’s functionality, and in the same fashion, complements the overall design of your bathroom. However, many homeowners make avoidable mistakes that will result in regret in the future. In this case, my job is to guide you through the most common pitfalls and provide expert advice in the hope that it helps you make an informed decision on your next bathroom renovation.

Bathroom Cabinets’ Material and Durability

Water-Resistant Materials and Finishes

Since bathrooms are high moisture areas, selecting the right material for your cabinet is essential. Usually, bathroom cabinets are prone to splash and high humidity. Here are the materials you must opt for:

Solid Wood:

Solid wood cabinets are the most durable. It offers a luxurious feel but is highly susceptible to water damage. Thus, it requires proper sealing with oil-based finishes or varnish to prevent swelling and rotting. Wooden bathroom cabinets need regular resealing over the years if necessary.

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard):

MDF is more affordable than solid wood cabinets. It is crack- and split-resistant but can be highly absorbent. Though, do not worry! You need to seal your MDF cabinets either with laminate or acrylic coatings or opt for properly sealed options in the market.

Plywood:

Plywood is constructed from multiple layers of wood veneer bonded together. It is more resistant to moisture infiltration and more durable than MDF. To be extra safe before your purchase, pick a cabinet with a high-pressure laminate (HPL) finish or waterproof veneer coatings.

Bamboo Bathroom Cabinets:

Bamboo is an eco-friendly and sustainable option. Visually pleasing and naturally moisture-resistant, bamboo bathroom cabinets offer a stylish and modern look. Equally important, bamboo cabinets still require oil-based sealants to prevent cracking, wearing, and discoloration. 

 Bathroom Cabinets’ Maintenance Tips

• Regular cleaning: Make sure to wipe down the cabinets regularly to prevent staining and mould.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your bathroom by using extractor fans or opening windows. Ventilation reduces humidity levels in the bathroom hence not damaging cabinets.
• Reapply protective coating: Verify wooden bathroom cabinets and reapply the varnish periodically.
• Avoid standing water: Immediately dry the cabinets after the water splash to prevent absorption.

Types of Bathroom Cabinets

1. Bathroom Mirror Cabinet:

A bathroom cabinet with a mirror combines storage with practicality, it is ideal for small bathrooms and adds a discreet and modern touch to the space. It often includes LED lights, sensor touch lights, and anti-fog features.

2. Bathroom Sink Cabinets:

Bathroom cabinet vanity units combine a sink with storage underneath. They are available in freestanding, wall, and floating styles. 

3. Bathroom Wall Cabinet:

Wall-mounted bathroom cabinets save space and offer a sleek look. They are mounted on the wall and can be positioned at various heights, sometimes slightly above the floor. They are ideal for small bathrooms or minimalistic designs.

4. Corner Bathroom Cabinet:

Corner bathroom cabinets maximize space in smaller bathrooms by utilizing unused corners. They can be freestanding, wall-mounted, or narrow.

5. Bathroom Cabinets Free-standing:

Bathroom free-standing cabinets are easy to install and can be relocated if needed. They provide flexibility in placement and storage. Floor-standing cabinets come in a variety of colors and aesthetics to suit different bathroom styles.

6. Slim Bathroom cabinet:

Slim and narrow bathroom cabinets are ideal for smaller places to limit floor space. They are designed to fit in tighter spaces without compromising space.

7. Floating Bathroom Cabinet:

Floating bathroom cabinets are always mounted off the floor to create a ‘floating’ and airy look. They are often used in modern and contemporary home designs.

8. Recessed Bathroom Cabinet:

These cabinets are a space-saving design that is built into walls, it provides discreet storage without protruding into the bathroom space. Recessed cabinets are usually built-in mirrored cabinets.

9. Tall Bathroom Cabinets:

Tall bathroom storage cabinets offer vertical storage to maximize storage. They are also Ideal for storing towels, toiletries, and cleaning products. They are available in freestanding, wall-mounted, and mirrored, and they come in various colours.

How to Choose Bathroom Cabinets

Bathroom Size and Placement

It is crucial to properly measure your bathroom space before buying a cabinet. Ensure you measure the heights, width, and depth of the space. Also, consider door and furniture clearance for comfortable accessibility. Besides, placement plays a key role in functionality: install cabinets near the sink for convenience but avoid having them next to showers and baths to avoid water damage.

Features and Storage

Modern bathroom cabinets often include smart features such as integrated lighting for a floating effect or better visibility, and charging ports for shavers or electric toothbrushes. Trendy designs focus on minimalistic, matte finishes, natural sustainable, and spa-like touch. Simultaneously, dual cabinets with mirrors are also preferred designs. Maximizing storage is essential for an organized bathroom. Cabinets with adjustable shelves offer flexibility, while organizers help keep toiletries neatly arranged. Similarly, hidden compartments provide discreet storage for personal items.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the wrong bathroom cabinet can lead to different issues. The first common mistake is overlooking quality, as lower-quality materials may deteriorate quickly in a humid environment. Secondly, neglecting functionality is another pitfall, selecting a beautiful cabinet that does not cater to your needs when it comes to storage and preferences. This can create clutter instead of an organized space. Additionally, choosing the wrong size can lead to space constraints or an unbalanced bathroom layout.

Undeniably, some homeowners tend to go for the DIY approach when installing freestanding bathroom cabinets or pre-assembled furniture. While this can work for a normal setup, professional installation is often the best option to ensure secure mounting, proper alignment, and and avoid potential damage to walls or plumbing. Investing in expert help guarantees a long-lasting and high-quality result. Henceforth, our expert team at AV Modern Bathrooms is ready to assist you with tailored solutions to meet your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation at +44 1942 365989, and email us at info@avmodernbathrooms.com, Or visit us at 69-71 Higher Parr Street, St. Helens, WA9 1AD, UK (our main office is in St. Helens, but we proudly serve customers across the North West, North Wales, and parts of the Midlands). Get a free quote for your perfect bathroom renovation that starts at only £3600!