Get the vanity size wrong, and you’ll regret it every single day. Too small, and your bathroom counter is constantly cluttered with nowhere to put your morning essentials. Too large, and you can’t open the bathroom door fully, or you’re squeezing sideways past the toilet.
I’ve seen this mistake too many times in Ottawa bathroom renovations. Homeowners fall in love with a vanity at the showroom without measuring properly. Then it arrives, and it either overwhelms the space or leaves awkward gaps that look unfinished.
Choosing the right bathroom vanity size involves more than picking a width you like. You need to understand standard vanity dimensions, measure your specific bathroom correctly, account for door swings and toilet placement, and match the vanity size to how you’ll actually use the space.
This guide covers everything you need to know about bathroom vanity sizes for Ottawa homes—from tiny powder room vanities to large double-sink configurations for primary bathrooms.
Standard Bathroom Vanity Dimensions
Bathroom vanities come in standard dimension ranges, but there’s more variation than many Ottawa homeowners realize.
Width Options
Vanity width is the most variable dimension, ranging from very small to quite large.
Extra Small (17-23 inches): These tiny vanities fit powder rooms and extremely tight spaces. You’ll find them in older Ottawa homes where a small bathroom was added without much square footage. They’re functional but leave minimal counter space.
Small (24-30 inches): Standard for powder rooms and small full bathrooms. A 24-inch vanity is the most common powder room size. A 30-inch vanity works for small full bathrooms where one person uses the space. These sizes are popular in older Ottawa neighbourhoods where bathrooms tend to be compact.
Medium (36-48 inches): The sweet spot for guest bathrooms and secondary full bathrooms. A 36-inch vanity provides good counter space with a single sink. A 48-inch vanity offers generous counter space and can accommodate a large single sink or even a small double sink if needed. These sizes work well in most Ottawa homes built after 1970.
Large (60-72 inches): Standard for primary bathroom double vanities. A 60-inch vanity is the minimum comfortable width for two sinks. A 72-inch vanity provides better counter space between sinks. Homes in Kanata, Barrhaven, and Orleans built in the past 20 years typically have primary bathrooms sized for these larger vanities.
Extra Large (73+ inches): Custom sizes for luxury primary bathrooms. These work in large renovations or newer high-end homes but are uncommon in older Ottawa properties.
Height Standards
Vanity height has become less standardized over the years as homeowner preferences evolved.
Traditional Height (30-32 inches): Older vanity standard, now considered low by many homeowners. You’ll find this height in Ottawa homes built before 1990. It works well for children’s bathrooms but feels low for most adults.
Standard Height (32-34 inches): Current default height for most vanities. This is what you’ll see in showrooms unless specified otherwise. It works comfortably for average-height adults.
Comfort Height (34-36 inches): Increasingly popular, especially in primary bathrooms. This height reduces bending and provides more comfortable use for most adults. Many newer Ottawa homes feature this height.
Your vanity height affects daily comfort. If you’re tall, a higher vanity prevents backache during your morning routine. If you’re shorter or have kids using the bathroom, lower vanities work better.
Freestanding vanities come at fixed heights—whatever the manufacturer built. Wall-mounted vanities offer flexibility since you can mount them at any height you want.
Depth Measurements
Vanity depth (front to back) is the most standardized dimension.
Standard Depth (18-21 inches): Most common vanity depth. This provides adequate counter space in front of the sink while not protruding too far into the bathroom. It works for most Ottawa bathrooms.
Shallow Depth (16-18 inches): Used in very tight spaces where every inch matters. These vanities sacrifice some counter space to fit in narrow bathrooms. They’re useful in older Ottawa homes with small bathrooms.
Deep Vanities (22-24 inches): Provide extra counter space but need more bathroom depth to accommodate them. Make sure you have adequate clearance in front—at least 76 centimetres—before choosing a deep vanity.
How to Measure Your Ottawa Bathroom Space
Proper measuring prevents expensive mistakes. Here’s exactly what you need to measure before shopping for bathroom vanities.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
Measure wall width: Use a tape measure to determine the wall space where your vanity will sit. Measure from corner to corner, or from one obstacle to another (like from the toilet to the shower). Write this measurement down.
Measure available depth: Measure from the wall where the vanity will mount to any obstacle in front—the doorway, the toilet, or the opposite wall. Subtract at least 76 centimetres for clearance. What remains is your maximum vanity depth.
Check door swing: Open your bathroom door fully and measure how far it swings into the room. Ensure your vanity won’t block the door from opening completely. This is particularly important in small bathrooms where every centimetre counts.
Measure from toilet: Bathrooms codes require minimum clearance between the vanity and toilet. Measure the distance from the toilet centre to the wall where your vanity will go. You need at least 38 centimetres from toilet centre to the vanity edge.
Check plumbing location: Locate your water supply lines and drain pipe. Measure their position on the wall. This matters if you’re replacing a vanity—ideally your new vanity will work with existing plumbing locations to avoid costly relocation.
Note ceiling height: If you have a low ceiling, measure the height to ensure your vanity, countertop, and any tall faucets or mirrors will fit. This occasionally matters in basements and attic bathrooms in older Ottawa homes.
Clearance Requirements and Spacing
Ontario building code requires specific clearances for bathroom fixtures. Following these requirements ensures your bathroom remains functional and comfortable.
Front clearance: You need at least 76 centimetres of clear space in front of your vanity. This allows comfortable standing room and the ability to bend forward. More space is better—aim for 90 centimetres if possible.
Toilet clearance: Maintain at least 38 centimetres from the toilet’s centre line to any wall or fixture. This means if your toilet is 30 centimetres from the wall, you need at least 8 centimetres between the toilet and vanity. Providing 40-45 centimetres feels much more comfortable.
Shower clearance: If your vanity is near the shower, ensure adequate space for the shower door to swing open or for comfortable entry if it’s a sliding door or curtain.
Door swing clearance: Your bathroom door must open fully without hitting the vanity. If space is tight, consider replacing a standard door with a pocket door or a door that swings outward.
Common Ottawa Bathroom Configurations
Different Ottawa home types have characteristic bathroom sizes that influence vanity selection.
Older home powder rooms (Glebe, Centretown): Often quite small, sometimes just 120 x 150 centimetres. These tight spaces limit you to 24-30 inch vanities, and sometimes smaller. Corner vanities work well here.
Older home full bathrooms: Typically 150 x 210 centimetres or similar compact sizes. These bathrooms accommodate 30-36 inch vanities comfortably. Going larger becomes tight.
1970s-1990s suburban bathrooms (Alta Vista, Nepean): Usually 150 x 240 centimetres, allowing 36-48 inch vanities in guest bathrooms and 60 inch vanities in primary bathrooms.
Modern primary bathrooms (Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans): Often 210 x 300 centimetres or larger, easily accommodating 60-72 inch double vanities with ample surrounding space.
Condo bathrooms (downtown, Orleans): Vary widely but tend toward compact. Primary bathrooms may fit 48-60 inch vanities. Secondary bathrooms often require 30-36 inch vanities.
Small Bathroom Vanities for Ottawa Condos and Compact Spaces
Small bathrooms require careful vanity selection to maximize function without overwhelming the space.
17-24 Inch Vanities: Powder Rooms and Tight Spaces
These tiny vanities serve powder rooms and extremely compact full bathrooms. A 17-20 inch vanity is truly minimal, providing just enough counter space for a small sink and perhaps a soap dispenser.
Opt for wall-mounted styles in these sizes when possible. The visual openness helps small powder rooms feel less cramped. For more information about space-saving wall-mounted versus freestanding vanities, see our comparison guide.
Corner vanities work brilliantly in small powder rooms. They utilize space that otherwise goes wasted, tucking the vanity into a corner and freeing up more walking space.
Choose vessel sinks or compact undermount sinks with these small vanities. Overly large sinks overwhelm tiny vanities and leave no usable counter space.
24-30 Inch Vanities: Small Full Bathrooms
These vanities fit small full bathrooms common in older Ottawa homes and downtown condos. A 24-inch vanity is the minimum comfortable size for a full bathroom. A 30-inch vanity provides noticeably more counter space and looks more proportional in the room.
Single-sink configurations are standard at these sizes. You can’t fit two functional sinks in a 30-inch vanity—the sinks would be uncomfortably close together.
Prioritize storage with these compact vanities. Look for models with drawers rather than just cabinet space, as drawers organize small spaces more efficiently. Soft-close drawer hardware is worth the extra cost for durability.
Space-Saving Design Tips
Several design strategies maximize small bathroom functionality.
Opt for narrower depths: If your bathroom is tight, consider an 18-inch-deep vanity instead of a 21-inch-deep model. Those extra 8 centimetres of walking space make a real difference.
Choose lighter colours: White or light grey vanities make small bathrooms feel more open than dark wood tones. This is pure visual perception but it matters.
Add vertical storage elsewhere: Since small vanities provide limited storage, add wall-mounted cabinets above the toilet or beside the vanity for additional bathroom storage.
Use large mirrors: A large mirror above the vanity reflects light and makes the bathroom feel more spacious. Extend the mirror the full width of your vanity for maximum impact.
Consider open shelving: Some small vanities include open shelving instead of closed cabinets. This creates an open feeling while still providing storage. It works well for towels and decorative items but less well for toiletries you’d prefer to hide.
Medium Vanities for Shared Bathrooms
Medium-sized vanities from 36 to 48 inches work well for guest bathrooms, kids’ bathrooms, and secondary full bathrooms throughout your Ottawa home.
36-Inch Vanities
A 36-inch vanity is the most popular size for secondary bathrooms. It provides good counter space on either side of the sink while fitting comfortably in most bathrooms.
This size accommodates a nice centre-mount sink (18-20 inches wide) with adequate counter space remaining. You can place toiletries, a soap dispenser, and other daily-use items without crowding the counter.
Storage capacity is reasonable with two doors and often one or two drawers. This works for bathrooms used by one or two people who don’t keep extensive toiletries.
Visually, a 36-inch vanity looks proportional in most secondary bathrooms. It doesn’t overwhelm small spaces but doesn’t look skimpy in average-sized rooms.
48-Inch Vanities
A 48-inch vanity offers generous single-sink counter space or can accommodate a small double sink if absolutely needed. For single sinks, this size provides excellent counter space—enough for multiple people’s toiletries comfortably.
This size works well for jack-and-jill bathrooms shared by two kids, or for guest bathrooms where you want to provide ample space for visitors’ belongings.
You can specify off-centre sink placement if desired. Placing the sink slightly left or right of centre provides one larger counter space area, which some homeowners prefer.
Storage is excellent at this size. Expect three to four drawers plus cabinet space, providing room for towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and bathroom essentials.
Single Sink with Counter Space
Both 36 and 48-inch vanities work beautifully with single sinks when you prioritize counter space. This configuration suits bathrooms where only one person uses the vanity at a time but you want generous counter space for grooming products, decorative items, or just visual breathing room.
The single-sink-with-counter-space approach looks clean and uncluttered. It works particularly well in Ottawa homes with contemporary or transitional design aesthetics.
For detailed information about choosing between single and double sink vanities, including when each configuration makes sense, check our single sink vs double sink guide.
Large Double Vanities for Primary Bathrooms
Primary bathrooms in modern Ottawa homes typically feature double vanities ranging from 60 to 72 inches or larger.
60-Inch Double Vanities
A 60-inch vanity is the minimum comfortable width for two sinks. It provides two sinks with some counter space between them, though that centre space is limited.
This size works well when you need double sinks but have wall space limitations. Primary bathrooms in homes built in the 1980s and 1990s throughout Ottawa often accommodate 60-inch vanities but not significantly larger.
Expect two sinks positioned roughly 30 inches apart, with 12-15 inches of counter space between them. That’s enough for shared items like a tissue box or a decorative tray, but not extensive counter space.
Storage includes four to six drawers typically, providing adequate storage for two people’s bathroom essentials. Some models include tower cabinets on one or both ends for additional storage.
72-Inch and Larger Double Vanities
A 72-inch vanity provides much more comfortable double-sink spacing. The two sinks sit approximately 36 inches apart, leaving 20-24 inches of counter space between them. This centre space accommodates shared items comfortably without feeling cramped.
Homes in Kanata, Barrhaven, and Orleans built in the past two decades often have primary bathrooms designed for 72-inch vanities. The extra width makes morning routines more comfortable when two people are using the vanity simultaneously.
Storage is generous at this size, with six to eight drawers plus cabinet space. You may have tower cabinets, open shelving, or both. This provides ample room for two people’s toiletries, hair tools, towels, and bathroom supplies.
Some primary bathrooms accommodate even larger vanities—84 inches or more. These work in luxury primary bathrooms where space allows. They provide extensive counter space and storage but require significant wall width.
Planning for Two Users
Double vanities work best when designed with two users in mind from the start.
Individual zones: Each person should have their own clear zone with sink, counter space, and dedicated drawer space. This prevents the “my side, your side” arguments that arise when zones aren’t clearly defined.
Adequate spacing: Maintain at least 30 inches between sink centres, preferably 36 inches. Closer spacing makes the vanity feel cramped when both people are using it simultaneously.
Storage division: Assign specific drawers or cabinets to each person. This prevents the clutter that occurs when storage is treated as communal and nobody claims responsibility for organizing.
Lighting: Install individual lighting for each sink area rather than one central light. This allows each person to have proper lighting for grooming without creating shadows or uneven light.
Outlets: Include electrical outlets on both sides of the vanity, not just one side. This matters for hair dryers, electric razors, and other electrical grooming tools both people might use simultaneously.
Special Considerations for Ottawa Home Types
Different Ottawa home types present unique challenges and opportunities for vanity sizing.
Older Homes (Glebe, Centretown, Sandy Hill)
Century homes in these neighbourhoods typically have small bathrooms that weren’t original to the house. These rooms were often added in the 1920s-1940s when indoor plumbing became standard, carved out of bedroom space.
Bathrooms in these homes rarely exceed 150 x 210 centimetres, limiting vanity options to 30-36 inches in most cases. Powder rooms are even tighter, sometimes requiring 24-inch or smaller vanities.
However, these older homes have charm that you want to maintain. Choose vanity styles that complement the home’s traditional character. A sleek modern floating vanity might look out of place unless you’re doing a complete contemporary renovation.
Plumbing in older homes is sometimes positioned awkwardly. You may need to work around existing plumbing locations unless you’re willing to invest in relocating pipes—a cost that adds significantly to renovation budgets.
Suburban Homes (Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans)
Homes built in these areas within the past 20-30 years have generous bathroom sizes designed for modern vanities.
Primary bathrooms easily accommodate 60-72 inch double vanities. Many newer homes have primary bathrooms large enough for 72-84 inch vanities if desired.
Guest bathrooms typically fit 36-48 inch vanities comfortably. Powder rooms are sized for 30 inch vanities, providing more space than older homes.
The main challenge in these homes isn’t space—it’s choosing a vanity size that looks proportional. Too-small vanities look skimpy in large bathrooms. Aim for vanities that fill the wall space adequately without leaving awkward gaps.
Modern Condos (Downtown, Orleans)
Condo bathrooms vary widely depending on building age and unit size.
Luxury condos often have generous primary bathrooms that accommodate 60-inch vanities. More modest condos typically require 48-inch vanities in primary bathrooms and 30-36 inch vanities in secondary bathrooms.
Powder rooms in condos are usually tiny, requiring 24-30 inch vanities. Some require even smaller vanities or pedestal sinks.
Condo renovations require board approval in most buildings. Before ordering your vanity, confirm what approvals you need and what restrictions might apply. Some condo boards restrict renovation timelines or noise hours, which could affect your installation schedule.
Choosing the Right Vanity Size for Your Ottawa Bathroom
Several factors help you determine the optimal vanity size for your specific situation.
Matching Size to Usage
Think about who uses the bathroom and when. A primary bathroom shared by two people who get ready simultaneously needs a double vanity (minimum 60 inches). A guest bathroom used by one person at a time works fine with a 36-inch single vanity.
Consider storage needs. Do you store many toiletries and bathroom items? Larger vanities provide more storage. If you have linen closets or additional bathroom cabinets, you can choose smaller vanities focused on counter space rather than storage.
Factor in your morning routine. If you spread out hair tools, makeup, and grooming products while getting ready, you need generous counter space. If you use few items and put them away immediately, you need less counter space.
Visual Proportion Matters
Your vanity should look proportional to your bathroom size. Small vanities look lost in large bathrooms. Oversized vanities overwhelm small spaces.
As a general rule, your vanity should occupy roughly one-quarter to one-third of the wall length where it’s installed. A vanity that’s too small leaves awkward empty wall space on both sides. A vanity that’s too large leaves minimal wall space visible.
In small bathrooms, you might need to exceed this proportion guideline—sometimes the vanity occupies most of the wall by necessity. That’s fine when working with limited space.
Budget Considerations
Larger vanities cost more than smaller ones—both for the vanity itself and for installation. If you’re working within a tight budget, choosing a slightly smaller vanity can free up funds for higher-quality materials or countertops.
However, don’t sacrifice functionality to save a few hundred dollars. Living with an undersized vanity daily costs you convenience and frustration that far exceeds the savings.
Professional Vanity Design and Installation
Choosing the right vanity size is crucial, but professional installation ensures it functions properly.
DBK Ottawa has extensive experience sizing and installing bathroom vanities throughout Ottawa, Orleans, Kanata, Barrhaven, and surrounding areas. We assess your specific bathroom, measure properly, and recommend vanity sizes that work with your space and meet your needs.
Our team handles all aspects of installation including proper mounting, plumbing connections, and ensuring Ontario Building Code compliance for clearances and fixture spacing.
For comprehensive information about bathroom vanities including types, materials, and trends, check our complete bathroom vanity guide for Ottawa homeowners.
Ready to start your bathroom vanity project? Contact us for expert bathroom renovation services throughout Ottawa and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard bathroom vanity size?
The most common bathroom vanity sizes are 24-30 inches for powder rooms, 36-48 inches for guest bathrooms, and 60-72 inches for primary bathroom double vanities. However, “standard” varies based on your specific bathroom and needs. Vanity height typically ranges from 32-36 inches, with 34-36 inches being comfort height. Depth is usually 18-21 inches for most vanities.
How much space do I need around a bathroom vanity?
Ontario building code requires at least 76 centimetres (30 inches) of clear space in front of your vanity for comfortable use. You also need at least 38 centimetres (15 inches) from the toilet’s centre line to the vanity edge. These are minimums—more space improves comfort. Aim for 90 centimetres front clearance and 40-45 centimetres toilet clearance when possible for a more comfortable bathroom.
What size vanity fits in a 5×8 bathroom?
A 5×8 foot bathroom (approximately 150 x 240 centimetres) typically accommodates a 36-48 inch vanity depending on the layout and door swing. Measure carefully to ensure adequate clearance in front of the vanity (minimum 76 centimetres) and appropriate spacing from the toilet. In this bathroom size, a 36-inch vanity is safe, while a 48-inch vanity works if your layout allows.
Can I fit a double vanity in a small bathroom?
Double vanities require minimum 60 inches (150 centimetres) of wall width and adequate bathroom depth for clearance. Small bathrooms rarely accommodate double vanities comfortably. If your bathroom is under 210 centimetres wide, a single vanity works better. Focus on choosing a larger single vanity (48 inches) with generous counter space rather than cramming in an undersized double vanity that makes the room feel tight.
What’s the best vanity size for resale value in Ottawa?
For primary bathrooms, Ottawa buyers expect 60-72 inch double vanities in homes built after 1990. For guest bathrooms, 36-48 inch single vanities appeal broadly. For powder rooms, 24-30 inch vanities work well. Match your vanity size to what’s typical for your neighbourhood and home age. An appropriately sized, well-installed vanity adds more value than an oversized vanity that overwhelms the space.
How do I choose between a 60-inch and 72-inch double vanity?
Choose based on available wall space and budget. A 60-inch vanity is the minimum comfortable double vanity size—adequate but slightly cramped. A 72-inch vanity provides notably more counter space between sinks and generally feels more comfortable for two people using it simultaneously. If your bathroom easily accommodates 72 inches and your budget allows, choose the larger size. If space is tight or budget is limited, a 60-inch vanity works fine. For detailed guidance, see our single sink vs double sink comparison guide.
Need help choosing the right bathroom vanity size for your Ottawa home? Contact DBK Ottawa for expert assessment and professional installation. We serve Ottawa, Orleans, Kanata, Barrhaven, and surrounding areas with complete bathroom renovation services.