Bathroom Measurements You Should Know Before Starting Your Bathroom Renovation

Before you pick the perfect vanity or fall in love with tile samples, there’s one thing every successful bathroom renovation starts with: accurate measurements. Whether you’re designing a powder room or a primary ensuite, knowing your space—and how different elements fit into it—is key to avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring everything flows beautifully.

At Montecana Vanities, we help homeowners and designers bring their dream bathrooms to life. We’re sharing the essential bathroom measurements you should take before ordering vanities, fixtures, or starting demolition.

1. Overall Bathroom Dimensions

Start with the big picture. Measure the total length, width, and ceiling height of the room. This gives you the framework for how much space you’re working with and helps identify possibilities—or limitations—for layout changes.

✅ Pro Tip: Don’t forget to account for doors, windows, or angled walls, which can impact placement.

2. Vanity Wall Measurements

Measure the width of the wall where your vanity will go, from corner to corner or edge to edge. This helps determine if you can fit a single or double, and how much countertop space you’ll have.

✅ Standard single vanity widths: 24", 30", 36", 48"
✅ Standard double vanity widths: 60", 72"

At Montecana, we also offer custom vanities for unique layouts or tight spaces.

3. Depth Allowance

Vanities typically range from 18" to 22" deep (front to back). You’ll want to ensure this doesn’t block walkways or access to other fixtures like the toilet or tub.

✅ Minimum clearance in front of a vanity: 30" recommended
✅ Ideal clearance for comfort: 36"

4. Plumbing Location

Identify where your existing plumbing rough-ins are for the sink drain and water lines. If you’re keeping your plumbing in place, your new vanity must align with those points—or you may need a custom build to make it work.

5. Electrical Outlet Placement

If you're planning to add lighted mirrors, sconces, or outlets in drawers (hello, hair tools!), take note of where existing outlets and switches are. Your electrician will need this info to plan safe and convenient access.

✅ Vanity light placement: ~75"–80" from the floor, centered over the mirror or vanity, or 6"-8" above the mirror. Wall sconces: 65" - 70" from the floor, and 6"-10" from edge of the mirror
✅ Outlet height above countertop: 42"–48"

6. Mirror & Lighting Dimensions

If you already have a mirror in mind, measure the height and width of the space above your vanity. You’ll want to ensure enough room for lighting, especially if you're using sconces or a light bar.

✅ Mirror placement: ~5"-10" from countertop

7. Toilet & Shower Clearances

Even if you’re not replacing these fixtures, take note of how much space they take up and how close they are to the vanity. This will help with traffic flow and spacing.

✅ Minimum clearance around the toilet: minimum 15" from the wall or obstruction to the center of the toilet for residential spaces. Minimum 30" clearance in front of the toilet.
✅ Minimum walkway width: 30"

8. Storage Space Goals

Think about how much storage you need and where it will go. If you plan to include linen cabinets, floating shelves, or recessed storage, measure those areas too. Storage can be built into or around your vanity for a seamless look.

Why These Measurements Matter

Taking detailed measurements before your bathroom renovation helps you:

• Choose the right vanity size and style

• Avoid installation headaches or plumbing misalignment

• Maximize function and flow in small or oddly shaped bathrooms

• Decide between in-stock or custom vanities, based on your space

Visit Montecana Vanities in Coquitlam for Expert Help

Not sure where to start? Bring your measurements to our Coquitlam showroom and let our team help you find or design the perfect vanity. We offer in-stock collections for quick renovations and custom vanities tailored to your layout, finishes, and functionality.

Final Thoughts

A great bathroom starts with great planning. By taking the right measurements ahead of time, you’ll avoid surprises, reduce stress, and set the stage for a smoother renovation.

Need help measuring or planning your vanity layout?
We’re here to help. Visit us in-store or reach out online—let’s build your dream bathroom with precision and style.