Pros and Cons of Floating Bathroom Vanities

If you are planning a Toronto bathroom renovation, chances are that you have run across floating bathroom vanities. These wall-hung, ultra-modern-style bathroom vanities are growing more and more well-liked due to their fashionable appearance and minimalist advantages. Yet are they what your bathroom is looking for? In this step-by-step, we’ll reveal the advantages and disadvantages of floating bathroom vanities so you may make a thoughtful choice prior to diving into your next bathroom makeover project.

Floating vanities can bring a stylish and contemporary feel to any bathroom, but they aren’t for everyone. In the following sections, we’ll dive into the advantages and disadvantages of these vanities, including their impact on storage, installation, and maintenance. By the end, you’ll know if a floating vanity is the perfect fit for your Toronto home.

What is a Floating Bathroom Vanity?

A floating bathroom vanity is a contemporary, wall-hung fixture that does not sit on the floor as old-fashioned vanities do. Rather, it is mounted onto the wall, keeping the area below it free. This provides a sleek, minimalist appearance that is suitable in both small and spacious bathrooms. The most important distinction between a floating vanity and a regular vanity is that the base or legs are concealed, providing the illusion of a “floating” design.

These vanities serve not only design purposes—though they’re surely attractive enough as well—but functional ones as well. The gap at the base provides better ability to clean the area since it’s simpler for dust and grime to simply be wiped up from the surface. Additionally, the layout may make the space in your bathroom look greater as well, useful especially for cramped Toronto residences wherein making space was crucial. Whether you’re renovating your Toronto condo or upgrading your family bathroom, a floating vanity can help create a sleek and modern atmosphere without compromising on style.

The Pros of Floating Bathroom Vanities

1. Sleek, Modern Design

One of the biggest advantages of floating bathroom vanities is their contemporary, stylish look. These wall-mounted vanities create a clean, minimalist aesthetic that can completely transform the feel of your bathroom. Whether you’re updating your Toronto condo or your family home, a floating vanity adds a modern touch that complements any decor style. The design eliminates bulky cabinet bases, offering a sophisticated, streamlined appearance.

2. Space-Saving Benefits

Floating vanities are ideal for giving the illusion of having more space in your bathroom. Because the bottom of the vanity is left open, it gives the impression of making the room larger, and smaller bathrooms appear larger and less cramped. This makes them ideal for Toronto homeowners, where most bathrooms in condos or smaller houses can use the added sense of openness. Regardless of whether you have a compact bathroom or just prefer to get the most out of your space, a floating vanity maximizes the space without compromising on style.

3. Easy to Clean

Another advantage of floating vanities is cleanliness. Because the vanity is floated off the floor, you don’t have to worry about dust and dirt accumulating under the base any longer. With the open floor space, it is easy to quickly and efficiently clean, which is ideal in a wet environment like a bathroom. This is the ideal solution for homeowners who want a low-maintenance, functional solution for their bathroom renovation.

4. Adjustable Designs

Floating bathroom vanities provide a lot of design possibilities, so it is simple to find one that fits your needs and style. From different materials such as wood, metal, or stone to different finishes and sizes, the options are limitless. If you want a rustic, industrial, or modern sleek look, there is a floating vanity to suit your Toronto home’s style. With all the options out there, you can design a vanity that is a reflection of your own style.

The Disadvantages of Floating Bathroom Vanities

1. Needs Solid Wall Support

One of the biggest disadvantages of floating bathroom vanities is that they require solid wall support. Because these vanities are attached to the wall instead of sitting on the floor, the wall has to be strong enough to hold the weight of the vanity and any other items that are stored within. In certain older homes or condos, the walls might require reinforcement to ensure a stable installation. If your bathroom walls are not designed to support this, the installation can become more complicated and expensive.

2. Limited Storage Space

Although floating vanities provide a trendy appearance, they tend to have less storage than traditional vanities. With the open area below, you’ll lack the same out-of-the-way storage possibility that a full, floor-supported cabinet creates. If your bathroom requires ample storage for towels, toiletries, and cleaning agents, you may find a floating vanity impractical. But it is possible to make the most of storage space with floating vanities by opting for models with drawers or supplementing with innovative storage solutions somewhere else in the bathroom.

3. Greater Installation Costs

Floating bathroom vanities typically come with higher installation costs compared to traditional vanities. Because the vanity must be mounted to the wall, this requires more work to ensure it is securely attached, which may involve additional labor or wall reinforcement. Additionally, the plumbing may need to be adjusted to accommodate the vanity’s design. In Toronto, where labor costs can be higher, you’ll want to consider these extra expenses when planning your renovation budget.

4. Not Suitable for All Bathroom Configurations

Floating vanities might not be suitable for all bathroom configurations, especially in bathrooms featuring atypical wall structures or those that do not have enough space to fit the vanity. For instance, in the case of a bathroom that has a sloping ceiling or a unique floor plan, the installation of a floating vanity can be problematic. In these situations, a more conventional, freestanding vanity would be more suitable.

Is a Floating Bathroom Vanity Right for Your Toronto Home?

Determining if a floating bathroom vanity is the ideal choice for your Toronto residence hinges on a number of factors, such as your bathroom dimensions, style, and budget. Let’s dissect it so you can make an educated decision.

1. Think About Your Bathroom Size

Floating vanities are ideal for small bathrooms as well as big bathrooms. In tighter rooms, they provide a feeling of spaciousness by making more floor space visible, which is particularly handy in most Toronto apartments and condos where square footage is at a premium. If your bathroom is larger, a floating vanity can still add to the contemporary look without cluttering the room. But if you have a very tiny bathroom with not much wall space, a conventional vanity could be a more feasible choice to provide sufficient storage space and functionality.

2. Consider Your Design Aesthetic

Floating vanities are perfect if you’re looking for a streamlined, contemporary look. Floating vanities can suit modern styles like minimalist or industrial designs, which are popular in most Toronto residences. If your style is more traditional or country, a floating vanity may not fit your ideal. You want to coordinate the design of the vanity with your bathroom style to achieve a unifying look.

3. Evaluate Your Storage Requirements

If your bathroom has a lot of storage needs, remember that floating vanities will often not provide as much storage as a standard model. Although they will have some open storage areas or drawers, they will not have the full cabinetry that a typical vanity has. If you’re storing lots of things, including towels, toiletries, or cleaning agents, look to a floating vanity with built-in storage or additional solutions elsewhere in the bathroom. Otherwise, an older-style vanity might be your better option.

4. Check Your Budget

Even though floating vanities improve the appearance of your bathroom, they might not only cost more overall but, more importantly, are often significantly higher to install. If you have a tighter budget for the renovation, this additional cost can be something to take into consideration. In Toronto, where materials and labor can be quite expensive, be sure to include the cost of wall reinforcement and professional installation, if needed. If budget is a concern, you may be able to find less expensive vanity options that provide modern, trendy designs. 

5. Think About Your Wall Construction

To install a floating vanity, your bathroom walls must be strong enough to hold the weight of the vanity. This is particularly true for older Toronto homes, where reinforcement of the walls may be necessary. If your walls are not strong enough, this would result in extra cost and hassle when installing. Make sure to hire an expert to determine if it is feasible to have a floating vanity installed in your bathroom.

How to Choose the Best Floating Vanity for Your Bathroom

Choosing the proper floating bathroom vanity can make or break your bathroom makeover. To assist you in making the perfect decision, below are important considerations:

1. Size and Bathroom Layout

As you select a floating vanity, matching its size with that of your bathroom is important. In small bathrooms, choose an efficient floating vanity that takes up minimal space yet provides functionality. For larger bathrooms, bigger vanities with additional storage or double sinks, if necessary, are available. Think about your bathroom configuration and wall space too. If you have less wall space or an irregular shape for a room, you may need to select a smaller, more versatile vanity to work within the room.

2. Material and Finish

There’s a large range of materials and finishes for floating vanities. Wood is a favorite for a warm, natural appearance, while metal or glass can provide a modern, sleek look. For Toronto residences, where appearance is a major factor in bathroom design, take the overall style of your bathroom into consideration when selecting the material. If you desire a modern, clean appearance, use high-gloss finishes or sleek, minimalist designs. For a more country or vintage look, opt for natural wood vanities with matte or textured finishes.

3. Storage Solutions

Not all floating vanities have the same level of storage, so it’s crucial to determine how much space you require. If your bathroom lacks storage, select a vanity with built-in drawers or shelves to keep items organized. Most floating vanities include handy storage options, such as secret drawers or open areas that can fit baskets or compact storage bins. Consider what you’ll be storing—towels, toiletries, or cleaning agents—and make sure the vanity provides sufficient space for it all.

4. Plumbing and Installation Factors

Check the plumbing in your bathroom to ensure that it will be able to support a floating vanity before you buy it. Since the vanity is wall-mounted, the plumbing must be adjusted to fit the design. It’s a good idea to hire a professional plumber or contractor to ensure everything is installed properly. For Toronto homes, where older buildings may have different plumbing setups, it’s especially important to consult with an expert before making any decisions. Also, keep in mind that the installation process can be more involved than standard vanities, so include extra time and expenses for proper installation.

5. Budget and Style Preferences

Floating bathroom vanities are priced differently based on their material, size, and design. Establish a realistic budget that suits your renovation objectives. Although floating vanities provide a luxurious appearance, there are various options at different prices to cater to different budgets. Determine what features are most important to you—whether it is style, functionality, or both—and select a vanity that meets your preferences with your budget.

Also Read this: Best Bathroom Flooring Options for Canadian Homes

Floating Vanity Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance of your floating bathroom vanity keeps it in working condition and looking fabulous for years. As these vanities are mounted on the wall, it’s necessary to clean them and inspect them for wear and tear from time to time. Below are some tips for maintaining your floating vanity in perfect condition:

• Regular Cleaning: Regular cleaning of your floating vanity is essential to keep it in its sleek form and avoid dirt accumulation. Because the area below is open, cleaning the floor under is simpler, but don’t forget to clean the vanity surface itself, too. A soft cloth and a mild, non-abrasive cleaner will not scratch the material. On wooden vanities, think of using a wood-safe cleaner and conditioner to help protect the finish and keep it from drying out over time.

• Inspect for Loose Mounting: With time, the holding brackets for the floating vanity get loose from the continual weight and usage. It is advisable to check the vanity from time to time to make sure it’s firmly fixed on the wall. In case you observe any movement or instability, have a professional tighten or re-fix the vanity. Making sure the vanity is mounted correctly is also advisable in older Toronto homes with varying wall construction.

• Check Plumbing Connections: As floating vanities are fixed against the wall, there is no cover for the plumbing connections. Check for any leakage or wear marks on the pipes or faucet joints regularly. If you spot any drips or wet spots, it’s important to fix the problem at once to avoid water damage. If needed, hire a professional plumber to check that the plumbing is sound and working fine.

• Shield from Moisture Damage: Bathrooms are humid environments, and though floating vanities are meant to accommodate humidity, take precautions to shield the materials. Ventilate your bathroom with an exhaust fan or a window to avoid moisture accumulation. For wood vanities, use a water-repellent finish to avoid warping or staining due to water exposure.

• Store Storage Organized: An orderly floating vanity not only appears nicer, but also performs better. Because these vanities usually have limited storage, keeping everything in order will enable you to fully utilize the available space. Employ baskets, bins, or divider drawers to maintain toiletries, towels, and other bathroom necessities tidy and accessible.

Conclusion

In summary, a floating bathroom vanity can be a fashionable and practical addition to your bathroom, providing contemporary style, space-saving convenience, and cleanliness. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to consider the advantages and disadvantages, particularly in terms of storage requirements and installation expenses. If your bathroom layout and budget align with the requirements, a floating vanity could be the perfect fit for transforming your space into a sleek, contemporary oasis. Whether you’re remodeling your Toronto home or upgrading your bathroom, carefully selecting the right floating vanity can enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

FAQs