How do I pick the right size medicine cabinet?

The right medicine cabinet size depends on your vanity width, storage needs, and bathroom layout. As a general rule, your medicine cabinet should be 4-6 inches narrower than your vanity to maintain visual balance.

Standard sizing guidelines work well for most Ottawa bathrooms. For a 24-inch vanity, choose an 18-20 inch cabinet. A 30-inch vanity pairs with a 24-26 inch cabinet, while larger 36-48 inch vanities can accommodate 30-36 inch medicine cabinets. Single-person bathrooms typically need 16-24 inches of width, while shared bathrooms benefit from 30+ inches to provide adequate storage for multiple users.

Consider your storage requirements when selecting depth and interior features. Standard medicine cabinets are 4-6 inches deep, which accommodates most toiletries and medications. Look for adjustable shelves to customize storage for tall bottles or small items. If you have limited counter space, a deeper cabinet (up to 8 inches) can store more items but may interfere with lighting fixtures.

Installation height and clearance matter for daily functionality. Mount the cabinet so the bottom shelf sits at eye level for the primary users - typically 60-66 inches from the floor. Ensure at least 4 inches of clearance between the cabinet and any light fixtures above. In Ottawa homes with lower ceilings, recessed medicine cabinets work better than surface-mounted options to maximize headroom.

Measure carefully before purchasing and consider the electrical implications. Check for electrical wires or plumbing behind the wall if installing a recessed cabinet. Surface-mounted cabinets offer more flexibility but project further into the room.

For a professional assessment of your bathroom layout and storage solutions, Ottawa Bathrooms can help you select the perfect medicine cabinet size during your renovation consultation.

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