When it comes to designing a bathroom, there are many decisions to be made. One of the most common questions is whether the medicine cabinet has to match the vanity. While there is no right or wrong answer, there are some factors to consider when making this decision. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of matching your medicine cabinet to your vanity and provide some tips for creating a cohesive and functional bathroom design.
Pros of Matching Your Medicine Cabinet to Your Vanity
Aesthetics and Cohesion
One of the main reasons people choose to match their medicine cabinet to their vanity is for the sake of aesthetics. When the two pieces match, it creates a cohesive and unified look in the bathroom. This can be especially important in smaller bathrooms where every design element counts.
Matching your medicine cabinet to your vanity also allows for a more streamlined and organized appearance. When the two pieces are the same color and style, it creates a sense of symmetry and balance in the space.
Storage and Functionality
Another advantage of matching your medicine cabinet to your vanity is the added storage and functionality it provides. Many medicine cabinets come with built-in shelves and compartments, making it easier to store and organize bathroom essentials. When the medicine cabinet matches the vanity, it creates a seamless storage solution that maximizes space and keeps everything within reach.
Cons of Matching Your Medicine Cabinet to Your Vanity
Limited Options
One of the main drawbacks of matching your medicine cabinet to your vanity is the limited options available. When you limit yourself to only choosing from a specific set of vanity and medicine cabinet combinations, you may not find the perfect match for your bathroom design.
This can be especially challenging if you have a unique or unconventional bathroom layout. In this case, it may be difficult to find a medicine cabinet that fits perfectly with your vanity, leading to a less cohesive look in the space.
Cost
Another disadvantage of matching your medicine cabinet to your vanity is the added cost. When you purchase a vanity and medicine cabinet as a set, it is often more expensive than buying them separately. This can be a significant factor for those on a budget or looking to save money on their bathroom renovation.
Tips for Creating a Cohesive Bathroom Design
Consider Your Bathroom Layout
Before deciding whether to match your medicine cabinet to your vanity, consider your bathroom layout. If you have a small or unconventional bathroom, it may be more challenging to find a matching set that fits perfectly in the space. In this case, it may be better to choose a medicine cabinet and vanity separately to ensure they fit and function well in the space.
Choose a Complementary Color or Style
If you decide not to match your medicine cabinet to your vanity, it is essential to choose complementary colors or styles. This will create a cohesive look in the bathroom without being too matchy-matchy. For example, if you have a white vanity, you could choose a medicine cabinet with a white frame or a complementary color like black or gray.
Prioritize Functionality
While aesthetics are essential, it is crucial to prioritize functionality when designing your bathroom. Consider the storage needs of your household and choose a medicine cabinet and vanity that can accommodate all your bathroom essentials. This may mean sacrificing a perfect match for a more functional and practical design.
Mix and Match Materials
Another way to create a cohesive bathroom design without matching your medicine cabinet to your vanity is by mixing and matching materials. For example, if you have a wooden vanity, you could choose a medicine cabinet with a similar wood finish or a complementary material like metal or glass.
Bathroom Essentials to Store in Your Medicine Cabinet
Now that we’ve discussed the pros and cons of matching your medicine cabinet to your vanity let’s explore some essential items to store in your medicine cabinet.
Medications and First Aid Supplies
As the name suggests, the medicine cabinet is an ideal place to store medications and first aid supplies. Keep your prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and first aid essentials like bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers in your medicine cabinet for easy access.
Skincare Products
Your medicine cabinet is also a great place to store your skincare products. Keep your daily essentials like face wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen in your medicine cabinet for easy access during your morning and evening routines.
Dental Care Products
Another essential item to store in your medicine cabinet is dental care products. Keep your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss in your medicine cabinet to keep your bathroom counter clutter-free.
Personal Care Items
Your medicine cabinet is also an ideal place to store personal care items like deodorant, hair products, and makeup. Keeping these items in your medicine cabinet not only frees up space on your bathroom counter but also keeps them organized and easily accessible.
In the end, whether your medicine cabinet has to match your vanity is a personal preference. While matching the two pieces can create a cohesive and organized look in the bathroom, it may not be the most practical or budget-friendly option for everyone. Consider your bathroom layout, prioritize functionality, and choose complementary colors and styles to create a cohesive and functional bathroom design. And remember, the most important thing is to create a space that works for you and your household.
