I’ll tell you right up front I DO NOT have anything personal against Lowes, Home Depot, or Menards. Although I can’t say the same for neighbors a few miles away from me who are fighting tooth and ‘nail’ (yes, bad home center pun intended) to keep Menards from building a store in their backyard (they’ve got a bad case of development NIMBY – Not In My Backyard). However, that’s a story for another day.
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So, you may ask, Mike, why are you writing an article warning others to not buy a low-priced bathroom vanity at a home center? And no, it’s not only because my company wholesales higher quality bathroom vanities across the country (just keepin’ it real).
It’s because I hate seeing people make uninformed bathroom product decisions which (after the fact) make them want to pull (their already thinning) hair out. And it’s also because of the following problems many people experience with cheap in-stock bathroom vanities purchased from Lowes, Home Depot, and Menards:
And while I’ll point out 9 reasons in this article you SHOULD NOT buy a cheap home-center, in stock vanity, I’m going to do something even more important than that. I’m going to identify better alternatives you SHOULD research to get a vanity which’ll stand the test of time and be a pleasure to use. Imagine that! Because here’s what many kitchen and bathroom remodelers will tell you about the cabinet buying habits of most consumers.
Yes, bathroom vanities are the ‘Rodney Dangerfield’ (‘er they get no respect) of the cabinet business. But if end up being a last minute buyer, you may be stuck with a cabinet you’ll regret for years to come. So, let’s look at the 9 reasons to NOT BUY a cheap bathroom vanity from a home center.
Let’s face it nobody offers construction products at better prices than Lowes, Menards, and Home Depot.
They negotiate costs down, down, and down. You pay less and less. But how do you think the manufacturers who supply these chains get to these low, low prices? It’s simple. They mass produce products, use cheaper materials made in countries with cheap labor (can you say China?).
So, you may be wondering, how do manufacturers who supply the chain stores drive material costs out of their vanities?
Well go ‘under the hood’ (‘er look inside the vanity). You’ll see plastic corner clips stapled together. You’re literally buying a vanity held together by staples! Ouch!
Or ask a store associate what type of wood is used. It’s often particle board made from wood scraps (from plywood manufacturing) and resin mixed together.
And if you’re planning on staying in your home a while, search for a bathroom vanity made from solid wood construction.
The way home centers get costs down is buying the same color/style vanity in volume. It’s like Henry Ford said when his company was mass producing cars, “You can have any color car you want…as long as it’s black.” This – by its nature – means you’ll find a limited selection so manufacturing quantities go up, and the home center drives prices down.
So, if you want a white shaker bathroom vanity cabinet it’ll comes ‘standard’ with one hardware finish, one top, and one sink design – whether this fits your décor or not.
And yes – while it’s true to you can take it home today, is it really smart to ‘live with a vanity’ for years and years which isn’t your style, or doesn’t match?
If you want selection –order a vanity where you can ‘mix and match’ styles, colors, tops, and sinks.
Clear Advice for How to Choose the Vanity for Your Dream Bathroom!
Get the GuideWith store-bought in-stock vanities corners ARE cut. And one popular place to cut corners and cost (which isn’t apparent to most) is home center vanities use thinner tops (usually 1/2” thick). And the thinner the top, the more likely it’ll chip or crack.
Look for a vanity top which is 3/4” thick. It’s bolder. It’s better. It’s 50% thicker. It’ll stand the test of time.
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Turkey. Stuffing. Sweet potatoes with extra brown sugar. And on Turkey day even my wife is ignoring the warnings of the Jardiance commercial and is letting me kick up those sugars! And for those of you (like me) who find the Jardiance commercial funny, I’ve included it below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aromts0OiHs
And for one day at least, we give ourselves permission to ‘swell.’ We give ourselves permission to add a pound or two and crank up on carbs and sugars.
And while it’s OK (for us personally) to ‘temporarily’ swell on Thanksgiving, our spouses put us back on the ‘straight and narrow’ after the holiday eating extravaganza to get our ‘swelling’ down.
And while it’s possible (with diligence and a nagging spouse/doctor) to reduce our personal ‘swelling’ – if you buy a cheap particle board bathroom vanity which has swelled as a result of moisture in your bathroom, even Jardiance can’t reduce its puffiness…or its A1C (and can wood even have an A1C problem???).
The key with bathroom vanities (just like it is with kitchen cabinets) is to insist they’re built with better materials. Don’t settle for particle board. Insist on all wood construction.
And if you want to eliminate 10 frustrating bathroom vanity problems (including ‘cabinet swelling’), watch this video.
Clear Advice for How to Choose the Vanity for Your Dream Bathroom!
Get the GuideAs mom and dad warned you, you get what you pay for. Cheap vanities come with short warranties (often in the 1 to 5 year range). So, if you’re planning to stay in your home a while don’t get snookered into a product which you’ll be left holding the bag if something goes wrong.
Better quality bathroom vanities have lifetime warranties.
Don’t you want the peace of mind knowing you won’t be footing the bill for a new vanity? And if it does fail, you’ll not only get stuck eating the cost of the vanity, but also the cost to uninstall the old unit and reinstall the new piece. This CAN and WILL be expensive.
Since home centers are constantly driving costs down (and outsourcing the manufacturing to the cheapest vendor willing to sell the business that year), their product offerings change rapidly. As a matter of fact, while reading an article by Camille Johnson of Lotus Home Improvement she commented how frequently her customer selects a store-bought vanity, and then her team goes to the store a week later to buy it and it’s G-O-N-E.
And given how frequently vanities are eliminated from a store’s stock, how good a chance do you think you’ll have finding replacement parts? Yes – I’d put it between slim and none.
So, how can you protect against this problem? Look for cabinet lines which have a long track history. Ask your supplier for better selling styles. The higher the popularity, the better chance you’ll find replacement parts.
A vanity is about more than what you see at first glance (which is the top, bowl, and door/drawer fronts).
The reason many people want a vanity vs. a pedestal sink is they DESPERATELY need better storage. And let’s face it, with most vanities you’re lucky if you have a couple of pull out drawers. The rest of the vanity is a storage nightmare. You can’t find anything. It’s a pain to attempt to sift through the deep, dark crevasses of your cabinet.
And cheap store bought vanities ARE NOT loaded with easy to use drawers and pull-outs which will make it simple to find your stuff.
Look for vanities where ALL shelves adjust and/or pull out. Look for tip-out drawers for toothpaste, combs, and brushes. Don’t be infuriated trying to find what you need or buying the same item over and over because you can’t see what’s in the back. Insist on effective storage.
Clear Advice for How to Choose the Vanity for Your Dream Bathroom!
Get the GuideOK – I know some of you reading this are not the world’s best planners. And if after your contractor started your bathroom remodel they asked, so what vanity did you choose?…and you froze in your tracks, you know I speak the truth.
And then you thought to yourself, “Oh, s###!”
Panic sets in.
You knew you needed a vanity fast.
At this stage the knee-jerk reaction most people have is to haul their rear to a local home center and feel ‘forced’ to buy what they have ‘on the shelf.’ And this may be despite NOT liking the quality, selection, or service.
Well – I’ve got good news for you. Imagine getting thousands of high quality vanity options (including 8 different styles, 8 colors, 2 different bowls, 11 different tops, and multiple hardware finishes) all shipped to you in 1 to 2 days. Crazy you say? Yes, that’s right – but it’s also possible.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website GOLDEN FURNITURES.
Don’t assume you’ve been caught with your proverbial pants down and can’t get a vanity which looks (and feels) solid and is easy to find what you need in it. In a Ripley’s Believe it or Not statement, I’ll tell you it’s possible to find a vanity cabinet you can get NOW and NOT pay through the nose to get it either!
Clear Advice for How to Choose the Vanity for Your Dream Bathroom!
Get the GuideDo you have any ‘door bangers’ in your house? They get mad. They take out their frustration by slamming doors.
Let’s face it, not everyone in your family will treat your cabinets and doors with TLC.
And this is why you’ll want a better quality vanity.
Better cabinets have slow close doors and drawers.
Better cabinets have heavy duty hinges to stand up to your family members who fly off the handle.
Don’t let your family beat the daylights out of your bathroom vanity cabinet. Protect your vanity investment with better quality hinges and slow close operators.
So – does it makes sense to purchase a better quality bathroom vanity for your next project? I’d be interested to learn why or why not below.
And since I know vanity options can be overwhelming, I’d recommend reaching out to a bathroom design specialist for input and wholesale direct pricing.
Call 877-668- or click for a Free Design Consultation. Innovate Building Solutions (and yes, this is my company) wholesales complete bathroom vanity kits, shower wall surrounds, shower bases, and acrylic freestanding tubs nationwide and would be happy to help you.
And if you’re looking for a bathroom remodeling contractor in Cleveland Ohio call our Bath Doctor division at 216-531-. If you’re outside Cleveland (which is undoubtedly most of you) ask for a referral to one of our installing dealers).
Thanks for reading,
Mike
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If you want more advice (with less wacky humor) follow me on LinkedIn @MikeFoti.
Shopping for a bathroom vanity can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're upgrading your bathroom, remodeling, or starting fresh, the vanity is a key component that not only affects the aesthetics but also the functionality of the space. For budget-conscious shoppers, finding a vanity that fits both style and price range can feel like a treasure hunt. So, where do you find the perfect cheap bathroom vanity without compromising on quality?
In this blog, I will take you through the best places, both online and in-store, where you can buy affordable bathroom vanities. I'll also discuss the types of materials that offer the best value, and how to make a choice that balances design, durability, and cost. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to start your search and what to look for when buying a budget-friendly vanity.
A bathroom vanity isn’t just a storage unit or a place to hold your sink. It’s the centerpiece that defines the entire look and feel of your bathroom. From traditional styles with ornate details to sleek, modern designs, a vanity sets the tone. Think of it like the main feature of a kitchen — the thing you notice immediately upon entering the space.
For example, the AL Matte White Wall-Mounted Cabinet is a stunning modern option for those looking to create a minimalist aesthetic. Its clean lines and floating design make the bathroom feel open and uncluttered, perfect for smaller spaces.
When we think of vanities, we also think of storage. Especially in smaller bathrooms, a well-designed vanity can be a lifesaver, helping you keep toiletries, cleaning supplies, and other essentials organized. Cheap doesn’t have to mean lacking in functionality. Consider a piece like the AL White Freestanding Mounted Cabinet, which offers significant storage while maintaining an elegant design.
One of the biggest challenges in remodeling or redecorating a bathroom is balancing style with budget. Many people assume that a low-cost bathroom vanity must look cheap or be of poor quality. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Smart shopping — whether it's at discount retailers, clearance sales, or through DIY refurbishing projects — can land you high-quality vanities at a fraction of their retail price.
For example, the AL White Walnut Wall-Mounted Cabinet strikes the perfect balance between affordability and style. The combination of white and walnut gives a warm, contemporary feel without breaking the bank.
Online shopping has revolutionized the way we furnish our homes, and bathroom vanities are no exception. Shopping online not only gives you access to a wider range of products but often at a more competitive price. With online retailers, you can filter through hundreds of options by price, material, style, and size, making it easier to find exactly what you're looking for without stepping foot in a store.
However, the downside to buying a vanity online is that you can't physically inspect the product before purchase. Make sure to read customer reviews, examine return policies, and check if the store offers free shipping or returns for large items like vanities.
If you're more of a "see it in person" shopper, big-box home improvement stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards are excellent choices. These stores often carry budget-friendly bathroom vanities designed for DIY installation.
Home Depot offers bathroom vanities starting at around $100, making it a perfect spot for those on a budget. They even have budget-friendly modern options, such as white or espresso finishes that are ideal for rental properties or secondary bathrooms.
Local discount furniture stores or outlet centers can be another treasure trove for affordable bathroom vanities. Many of these stores carry overstock from major retailers or gently used, refurbished pieces.
Online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp offer excellent options for finding used bathroom vanities at very low prices. Often, these vanities are still in great condition but simply don’t fit the previous owner’s style anymore.
Many people assume that custom or semi-custom vanities are out of their budget, but that’s not always the case. Smaller local shops and independent cabinet makers often offer semi-custom solutions that allow you to choose basic designs and make small adjustments without paying the full price for a custom build.
Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) and particleboard are two of the most commonly used materials in affordable bathroom vanities. These materials are cost-effective and, when treated properly, can mimic the look of real wood.
MDF: MDF is made by breaking down hardwood and softwood fibers, which are then combined with resin and pressed into sheets. It’s smoother and denser than particleboard, which makes it ideal for painted finishes.
Particleboard: This material is made from wood chips, sawdust, and resin. It’s more affordable than MDF but can be prone to moisture damage if not sealed correctly. A vanity like the AL White Walnut Wall-Mounted Cabinet can use these materials while still providing a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Another way to save money on a bathroom vanity is to opt for a laminate or veneer finish. These finishes mimic the look of real wood or stone but come at a fraction of the price.
Laminate: Easy to clean and available in many styles, laminate finishes can provide the look of wood grain or stone. They’re great for high-traffic bathrooms where durability and easy maintenance are essential.
Wood Veneer: Thin sheets of real wood are applied over a less expensive core, offering the beauty of solid wood without the cost. This option provides a more premium look than laminate but is still more affordable than solid wood.
For those who want a vanity that feels more luxurious but at a lower price point, consider pairing MDF or particleboard cabinets with affordable countertop materials like quartz or cultured marble. These surfaces offer the durability and appearance of higher-end materials like natural stone but without the steep price tag.
MDF and particleboard vanities with laminate or veneer finishes are often the most affordable. These materials are durable, look great, and come in a variety of styles.
Yes, many reputable online retailers offer affordable vanities with detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and return policies to ensure you're happy with your purchase.
Absolutely! Buying secondhand can save you a lot of money, and with a bit of refurbishing, you can transform a secondhand piece into something unique and stylish.
You can find good quality bathroom vanities for as little as $100, but prices will vary based on the size, materials, and where you purchase it.
Yes! A simple vanity can be updated with new paint, hardware, and a countertop to fit your style and save money.
Want more information on freestanding vanity wholesale? Feel free to contact us.