When shopping for a medicine cabinet—especially when your vanity has limited storage—it's tempting to go bigger. After all, more space means less clutter. But can a medicine cabinet actually be wider than the vanity? There's no hard rule, because this really comes down to a trade-off between aesthetic balance and practical storage needs.
Ⅰ. Sizing Tips: Prioritize Visual Balance
The most common advice is to keep the medicine cabinet the same width as the vanity, or slightly narrower. If it’s too wide, it can throw off the symmetry of the space and look awkward.
Here are some common size pairings:
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Small vanities (18–24"): Pair with a 16–20" cabinet.
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Medium vanities (30–36"): Pair with a 24–30" cabinet.
- Large vanities (42–48"): Go with a 36–40" cabinet or two smaller ones for symmetry.
- Extra-large vanities (60–72", usually double sink): Install two smaller cabinets, one over each sink.
Ⅱ. Need More Storage? No Problem.
If maximizing storage is more important than sticking to symmetry, you’ve got options. A wider medicine cabinet can still work—you just need to be intentional about layout.
1. Rebalance Your Layout
If your medicine cabinet is wider than the vanity, it doesn’t have to look out of place. Try:
- Centering the vanity under the cabinet, so everything aligns visually.
- Adding decor to one side of the cabinet (like a small plant🎋 or floor lamp🕯) to soften the imbalance.
2. Supplement with Other Storage Solutions
The medicine cabinet doesn’t have to carry all the storage weight. Consider:
- Standalone storage cabinets (freestanding or wall-mounted)
- Over-the-door organizers (like Cabidor Storage Cabinet Behind Door)
- Corner shelves or open wall racks
These let you stick to a proportionate medicine cabinet while expanding your usable space.
Ⅲ. Other Details to Keep in Mind
1. Adjustable Shelving = Better Use of Space
Choose a medicine cabinet with adjustable shelves. They adapt to whatever you’re storing—whether it’s:
- Skincare bottles
- Shaving gear or electric toothbrushes
- Everyday meds or small tools
More flexibility means more efficient use of space.
2. Measure Everything Precisely
It’s not just about matching the vanity width. You need to check wall space too:
- Are there wall sconces, outlets, or windows in the way?
- Is there enough clearance between faucet and lighting?
- Is the cabinet height right for all users?
3. Surface-Mount vs. Recessed Cabinets
- Surface-mount: Easier to install but protrudes from the wall. In tight bathrooms, wide surface-mounted cabinets can cause collisions—use with caution.
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Recessed: Sleeker and saves space but needs pre-planning to avoid pipes and wires inside the wall. Professional installation is usually best.
Final Thoughts: Choose What Works for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. If you love your medicine to be wider to match your storage needs, just go for it.
The real question is: Will this setup work for you, every day? Is it comfortable? Convenient? Clutter-free?
If the answer is yes, then you're making the right choice.
Got questions or thoughts? Drop a comment or reach out!