Choosing between a floating vanity (wall-mounted) and a freestanding vanity (floor-standing) is one of the most important style and layout decisions in a bathroom renovation. Both options can look great and provide excellent storage, but the right choice depends on your bathroom size, your storage needs, and the look you want.

This guide explains the key differences, the pros and cons of each style, and how to choose the best vanity for your space.

Quick Summary: Floating vs Freestanding

• Floating vanities are mounted to the wall and leave the floor visible underneath, creating a modern, open look.
• Freestanding vanities sit on the floor like a traditional cabinet, often maximizing storage and offering classic styling.

What Is a Floating Vanity?

A floating vanity (also called a wall-mounted vanity) is installed on the wall and does not touch the floor. This creates a clean, modern appearance and can make a bathroom feel larger by exposing more floor space.

Height advantage: One major benefit of floating vanities is that they can be installed at a custom height. This works especially well if you are very tall or shorter than average, because you can mount the vanity at the height that feels most comfortable. Floating vanities also allow for under-cabinet lighting, which adds a soft ambient glow and a modern, high-end look to the bathroom.

Best for

• Small bathrooms and powder rooms
• Modern and minimalist bathroom designs
• Homeowners who want easier cleaning under the vanity
• Anyone who wants a custom vanity height

What Is a Freestanding Vanity?

A freestanding vanity sits on the floor and typically includes a full cabinet base. This is the more traditional style and is very common in primary bathrooms and family bathrooms because it often provides maximum storage.

Best for

• Primary bathrooms and larger full bathrooms
• Homeowners who want maximum storage
• Traditional or transitional bathroom styles
• Bathrooms where wall mounting is not ideal or desired

Pros and Cons of Floating Vanities

Pros

• Makes small bathrooms feel larger by showing more floor space
• Modern look with clean lines and an open feel
• Easier to clean underneath the cabinet
• Custom installation height for comfort
• Allows for under-cabinet lighting, which creates a soft glow at floor level and adds a modern, high-end look to the bathroom at night

Cons

• Requires secure mounting into studs or proper blocking (not steel studs)
• May offer slightly less storage than some full-depth freestanding cabinets
• Plumbing visibility can matter (the trap and supply lines are sometimes more noticeable depending on design)

Pros and Cons of Freestanding Vanities

Pros

• Maximum storage options (drawers, doors, and large cabinet space)
• Traditional and timeless look that suits many styles
• Often easier installation because it sits on the floor
• Plumbing is typically more hidden inside the cabinet base

Cons

• Can feel bulkier in small bathrooms
• Harder to clean around the base or underneath toe-kick areas
• Standard height (less flexibility compared to floating)

Which Style Is Best for Small Bathrooms?

In most small bathrooms, a floating vanity is the best choice because it makes the room feel more open. The visible floor creates a sense of space, and cleaning is easier.

If you prefer a freestanding look in a small bathroom, consider a smaller width (24–30 inches) and, if possible, a narrower depth to preserve walking room.

Storage Comparison: Floating vs Freestanding

Both styles can offer excellent storage, but they use space differently:

• Freestanding vanities often maximize total storage volume because the cabinet extends fully to the floor.
• Floating vanities frequently use deep drawers and efficient layouts, but may have slightly less total storage depending on design.

If storage is your top priority, compare drawer layouts rather than assuming one style always stores more. Many modern floating vanities include very practical deep drawers.

Does Vanity Size Change the Decision?

Yes. Some sizes naturally pair with certain styles:

• 24–36 inches: Floating vanities are very popular because they keep smaller bathrooms feeling open.
• 42–48 inches: Both styles work well depending on the look and storage needs.
• 60–72 inches: Freestanding is more common for maximum storage, but floating can create a striking modern primary bathroom.

Installation Notes: What to Know Before You Choose

Floating Vanity Installation

• Should be mounted securely into studs or blocking. They should not be installed if the building uses steel studs.
• Proper leveling is important for doors/drawers and countertop fit
• Often best installed by a contractor or experienced installer

Freestanding Vanity Installation

• Typically sits on the floor and is secured to the wall for stability
• Plumbing is usually concealed within the cabinet
• Floor leveling matters to ensure doors/drawers operate smoothly

View our Vanity Installation Guide for full instructions.

How to Choose: A Simple Checklist

• Choose floating if you want a modern look, easier cleaning, or a bathroom that feels more open.
• Choose freestanding if you want maximum storage, a traditional style, or a simpler cabinet base look.
• Consider custom height if comfort matters—floating vanities can be installed at the height that works best for you.
• Measure your space and ensure you have enough clearance for doors, drawers, and walking room.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are floating vanities strong enough?
Yes. When mounted properly into studs or blocking, floating vanities are designed to support the cabinet, countertop, and sink.

Do floating vanities work in primary bathrooms?
Yes. Larger floating vanities can look especially modern in primary bathrooms and still provide excellent storage, depending on the drawer layout.

Are freestanding vanities outdated?
No. Freestanding vanities remain a timeless option and are available in both traditional and modern styles.

Do floating vanities make a bathroom look bigger?
Yes. The visible floor underneath creates an open feel, especially in smaller bathrooms.

Shop Floating and Freestanding Vanities

• Shop Floating Vanities
• Shop All Bathroom Vanities
• Bathroom Vanity Size Guide

Need Help Choosing?

If you’re unsure which style is best for your bathroom, we can help. Visit our showroom in Coquitlam, BC (Metro Vancouver) or shop online with shipping across Canada.