Picking the perfect vanity isn’t just about style – it’s about choosing the right size for your space. Whether you’re working with a small bedroom corner or a spacious dressing area, choosing a vanity size that matches your layout and daily routine is essential for comfort and function.

A vanity that’s too wide can crowd the area, while a selection that’s too tall or shallow can make getting ready feel awkward. Knowing which height, depth, and width are best for your space makes all the difference. Keep reading for a breakdown of the measurements to consider when choosing a makeup vanity size so you can enjoy a perfectly proportioned setup.

Choose the Right Vanity Height & Stool Height

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Vanity height plays an important role in how comfortable your getting-ready setup feels on a daily basis. Most makeup vanities are designed for seated use, with standard tabletop heights ranging from 28 to 32 inches. If your vanity doesn’t come with a stool, measure from the floor to the tabletop’s underside, then choose a seat approximately 8 to 12 inches shorter than that height. This gap between the top of the seat and the tabletop’s bottom ensures enough legroom for a comfortable, ergonomic fit. Stool heights generally fall into three categories:

• Small Stools (15 to 17 Inches): Choose these stools for lower vanities or compact setups with limited space.
• Standard Stools (17 to 19 Inches): The most common height range, these stools are a versatile selection compatible with most vanities.
• Tall Stools (19 to 21 Inches): Choose these stools for taller vanities or if you prefer a slightly more elevated seating position.

If your vanity includes a mirror or built-in lighting, be sure to account for the full height of the piece – these features can bring the total vanity height up to 50 or even 60 inches. To ensure a proper fit, measure the wall where you plan to place the vanity, ensuring there’s enough vertical clearance around shelves, windows, or wall sconces. Leave a few inches of space above the mirror to keep the area feeling open and visually balanced.

Choose the Right Vanity Depth

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Vanity depth affects both how functional the piece feels in daily use and how much floor space it occupies. The right depth makes a big difference in how comfortably the vanity fits in your space, especially in tighter areas like corners. To find the best fit, consider how much space you have available, how you plan to use the vanity, and how much surface area you’ll need. If you’re working with a compact setup or want to maximize floor space, choose a stool that can tuck fully underneath the vanity when not in use. For deeper vanities, pick a stool or chair with a seat height that allows you to reach the back of the surface while seated.

• Narrow Vanities (Less Than 15 Inches): These vanities are great options for small bedrooms or tight spaces. Choose a narrow vanity if you need a compact footprint and don’t mind a reduced surface area.
• Standard Vanities (15 to 25 Inches): The most common depth range, these vanities fit comfortably in most bedrooms. Select a standard option if you want enough space for daily essentials without sacrificing too much floor space.
• Deep Vanities (25 Inches or More): Deep makeup vanities are best suited for dedicated dressing areas and spacious bedrooms. Choose a deep vanity if you’d like extra surface area for beauty tools and organizers or decorative items.

No matter which vanity depth you choose, leave at least 24 inches of clearance in front of your stool or chair in order to get in and out of it comfortably when it's in use. If your vanity includes drawers for storage, account for extra space in front of your piece to fully open them.

Choose the Right Vanity Width

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Vanity width determines how much wall space your selection will take up, which can affect your room’s layout and the amount of storage space you have to work with. When choosing a vanity width, consider where you’ll place your piece and how much open wall space you have available.

Start by measuring your available wall space. Factor in how close your selection will be to other furniture, and be sure to check for nearby outlets if you plan to plug in lighted mirrors or styling tools. Leave a few inches of space on either side of the vanity to avoid overwhelming your space and to maintain visual balance.

• Small Vanities (Less Than 30 Inches): Small vanities are a smart choice for compact bedrooms or dressing areas. Choose this size if you're short on space or are only looking for minimal vanity storage.
• Medium Vanities (30 to 50 Inches): Medium vanities are the most common and versatile size. They strike a balance between functionality and space-saving design, making them an excellent pick for standard bedrooms. Choose this size if you want enough tabletop room for your daily essentials without overcrowding your layout.
• Long Vanities (50 Inches or More): These vanities are best for spacious bedrooms or large dressing areas. Choose a long vanity if you have room to spare, or want extra surface space for decor or your getting-ready essentials.

Tip!

Check out 13 of the Best Makeup Vanities for Getting Ready to browse some of our top selections.

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