Remaking your whole bathroom can be a daunting process and a time-consuming task. If you are looking for a quick and easy way to give your bathroom a refresh with cabinets and shelves, then choosing new and exciting bathroom furniture and wood shelves is the perfect option, while also being budget-friendly if you only have a limited amount to spend.
When choosing materials for the bathroom, choosing something moisture-resistant is a top priority. According to the experts, the average bathroom lifespan is 10 years; the better the materials used, the longer it will last.
The primary reason for investing in a bathroom vanity cabinet over a pedestal sink is storage. Most vanities have a bottom cabinet format, while others incorporate drawers. Here are a few pros and cons of each style to consider.
Drawer Shelves
The main benefit of drawer storage is that it's easier to organize. Adding simple drawer dividers is a great way to keep things in order in your vanity, whether you're storing face cloths or makeup.
The challenge with drawer storage is that it has limitations. Larger items will require external storage.
Deep cabinets allow for plenty of storage but lack the same organization as a drawer. While it may be easier to hide a child's bath toys or extra bottles of shampoo, smaller toiletries can easily fall into disarray.
Open wall shelves
Open shelving in bathroom vanity cabinets is a relatively new trend that fits with the Scandinavian look and Hygge movement. The benefit of open shelving is that it creates the illusion of more space in a small bathroom by removing barriers.
The main challenge is that everything is out in the open. For those who like privacy in their storage or struggle to keep things tidy, this look may not be ideal.
When it comes to quality, solid wood cabinets are built to stand the test of time. However, while their durability is ideal for kitchens, they aren't always the best option for bathrooms.
Solid wood will inevitably expand and contract as a result of changing temperatures and humidity levels. This fluctuation can cause the wood to warp over time or cause cracks in the paint. If you're set on using solid wood, prioritize humidity control in your bathroom and opt for a stained finish rather than paint.
Plywood shelves
Plywood is one of the best materials for a bathroom vanity cabinet. Plywood is formed by layering pieces of wood with an adhesive and putting a sealant overtop. Plywood is stable and steadfast and doesn't experience the same expansion and contraction as solid wood, making it a great moisture-resistant choice for the bathroom.
That being said, not all plywood is created equal. Look for a cabinet supplier who uses high-quality plywood that's sealed well and built for bathroom use. Many high-quality, ready-to-assemble cabinet makers use plywood in their construction for both bathroom vanities and kitchen cabinets.
Bamboo cabinets
Bamboo is becoming increasingly popular in the home renovation world, thanks to its sustainability and versatility. Bamboo is a grass rather than a wood, so it grows faster than many material resources used in contracting and home design. Bamboo looks good in modern kitchens.
While bamboo is not waterproof, it is moisture-resistance and doesn't swell like traditional wood when exposed to moisture. According to the architecture and design team at Allplan, well-maintained bamboo can last 50-80 years.
That being said, bamboo can be higher maintenance than solid wood or plywood cabinets. Excess moisture, if left unchecked, can cause discoloration over time. Additionally, as bamboo is still a burgeoning trend, you can expect to pay more for this option.
MDF shelves
If possible, you should avoid MDF and particleboard cabinets in the bathroom, as both of these materials are susceptible to water damage. Particleboard also lacks the structure needed to support a heavier countertop or sink material.
MDF and particleboard tend to be the budget option for cabinets. However, it's not appropriate for long-term bathroom furniture.
