Bathroom vanities can cost hundreds, or easily thousands, of euro. But are you actually getting better quality when you spend more?
In the first episode of our new Don’t Waste Your Money On… series, we’re talking about one area where we both think you can save: the bathroom vanity.
We talk about why many off-the-shelf vanities are fundamentally very similar, what we’ve used in our own homes, and how a basic unit can be transformed with paint, new hardware, legs, or a beautiful countertop basin.
We also look at secondhand and antique furniture as an alternative, where it is worth spending your bathroom budget, and the circumstances where we think a properly custom-made vanity is absolutely worth the money.
What we cover:
- Why we wouldn’t automatically spend big on an off-the-shelf bathroom vanity The vanity-sizing mistake we see people make Why going wider can give you much better storage and usable countertop space Our experience with IKEA bathroom vanities How Kate painted her existing vanity How Jennifer upgraded inexpensive vanities with new legs, handles, and statement basins Using antique washstands, sideboards, and secondhand furniture as vanities Countertop basins versus integrated sinks Wall-mounted versus deck-mounted taps Where we’d spend the money instead When a custom vanity really is worth paying for Some of the bathroom and interiors suppliers we use and recommend
Our takeaway:
Save on the box. Spend on the jewellery.
A relatively inexpensive vanity can look far more expensive with a great basin, taps, hardware, or a clever paint finish. And if you eventually decide to replace the unit, some of those elements can move with you.
Products and suppliers mentioned:
- IKEA bathroom vanities Superfront handles and furniture legs Etsy Roberto Tiranti McCarren Supply Deluxe Bathrooms Gran Lusso Fiora Kave Home Ireland Royale Stone
Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines