How to Measure for Bathroom Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Measuring for bathroom cabinets isn’t the kind of task you want to rush. A few millimetres off, and you’re looking at doors that don’t open properly or a unit that simply won’t fit the wall space you’ve got. It’s not complicated - but precision matters. A quick glance at the layout, a tape measure, and some patience are all you need. Still, there’s a method to it, and following it can save you a lot of headaches later.

Why Measurements Matter More Than You Think

Not only is accurate measuring the foundation of a seamless installation, but it also ensures you’re not stuck with awkward gaps or cabinets that overwhelm the room. Bathroom spaces are usually tighter than most, meaning every centimetre counts. You could have a stunning vanity picked out, but if you haven’t accounted for plumbing, door swings, or ceiling angles, it’s all for nothing.

And it’s not just about the width and height. Depth plays a huge role too - go too deep, and you lose comfortable floor space. Go too shallow, and the unit may feel more decorative than functional.

Preparing the Space Before You Measure

Before you even pick up a tape measure, the space itself needs evaluating. Are there pipes, electrical outlets, or skirting boards in the way? These elements dictate where your cabinets can and can’t go.

Sometimes, it’s worth considering storage options that work with your space rather than against it. For example, you can maximise space with mirror cabinets, which gives you storage without eating into valuable floor area.

Clear the area of anything that might skew your readings - loose items, bath mats, even towels on a rail. Then, stand back and look at the space as a whole. It’s easier to visualise the right size when you’re not distracted by clutter.

Step 1: Measuring the Width

Start with the wall space where the cabinet will sit. Measure from one boundary to the other - whether that’s wall-to-wall or between two fixed objects like a shower screen and a toilet. Take the measurement at multiple points: the top, middle, and bottom of the wall. Old walls can be uneven, and a single reading might give you a false sense of precision.

If the wall isn’t straight, go with the smallest measurement. It’s better to have a slight gap on one side that can be filled or covered than to order a cabinet that won’t slot in.

Step 2: Checking the Height

Height is about more than how tall the cabinet can be - it affects usability. Imagine bending over a basin that’s either too low or too high; both scenarios are uncomfortable. While your cabinet choice may dictate the height, it’s smart to confirm the available vertical space, especially if you’re combining it with a mirror or shelving above.

For more guidance on ideal vanity heights, it’s worth reading up on how to choose the perfect height for a bathroom vanity.

Step 3: Measuring the Depth

Depth is easy to overlook, but it defines the amount of floor space you’re giving up. A deep cabinet might offer more storage, but it could make the room feel cramped - particularly in a smaller bathroom.

Measure from the wall out to the maximum point you’re willing to extend into the room. Then, test it. Stand in front of that space and mimic movement - bending down, turning around - just to see if it’s comfortable.

Step 4: Factoring in Doors and Drawers

Cabinets with doors or drawers need clearance. It’s not just about whether they open fully, but whether they do so without hitting something else - like the shower screen or the edge of a bath. Mark out where those doors would swing and measure the space needed.

Step 5: Considering Plumbing and Fixtures

Pipes can be tricky. Sometimes they’re recessed in the wall, other times they run along the surface, stealing a few centimetres you might not have accounted for. Always note the positions of any visible pipes, taps, or valves. And don’t forget your waste outlet - it’s better to plan around it than deal with modifications later.

Step 6: Double-Checking and Sketching

One round of measurements isn’t enough. Go back, measure again, and see if the numbers match. It’s worth sketching the layout, too - a quick diagram with width, height, and depth marked out. Add any obstructions or key fixtures so you have a clear reference when shopping.

When to Go Custom

Some bathrooms simply don’t fit standard cabinet sizes. Sloped ceilings, tight alcoves, or unconventional layouts often call for custom solutions. While custom work can be pricier, it ensures every inch of the space is used effectively and that the end result looks intentional, not improvised.

Bullet Checklist for Accurate Measuring

• Clear the space of any obstacles before measuring.
  
• Take three width measurements - top, middle, bottom - and use the smallest.
  
• Confirm height while factoring in mirrors or shelves.
  
• Measure depth with comfort and movement in mind.
  
• Check door swings and drawer clearance.
  
• Note all plumbing, pipes, and electrical points.
  
• Repeat measurements and create a quick sketch.
  

Final Thoughts

Measuring for bathroom cabinets is about precision and foresight. Not only does careful measuring help avoid costly mistakes, but it also gives you confidence when selecting units that fit seamlessly into your space. Take your time, check the details twice, and consider how every choice affects the overall layout. A few extra minutes with the tape measure now will save you from a lot of frustration when installation day arrives.