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How to Install a Bathroom Cabinet in 8 Steps
You don’t need to sink a ton of time into this high-impact bathroom update
Photo: Pavel Adashkevich / EyeEm / EyeEm / Getty Images
Photo: Pavel Adashkevich / EyeEm / EyeEm / Getty Images
SKILL LEVEL
Simple
COMPLETION TIME
2 hours
COST
$100–$500
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Stud finder
- Screwgun
- Adjustable wrench
- Hole saw
- Level
SUPPLIES
- Screws
- Cabinet
A new bathroom vanity can instantly transform the look of your bathroom while adding much-needed storage and counter space. Luckily, learning how to install a bathroom cabinet isn’t too overwhelming or time-consuming—you’ll only need a helper and a few tools to get it done. Whether you’re replacing your old vanity or installing a brand-new one in your newly built bathroom, here’s what to do.
Prepping to Install a Bathroom Cabinet
Photo: David / Adobe Stock
Take a hard look at the swing distances of your bathroom entrance door, shower surround, and any other cabinetry to make sure you have room for an additional cabinet. Designers who work in small spaces—think: European or Scandinavian style—are used to creatively adapting cabinet bathroom storage. So, it might be helpful to do some research or schedule a consultation with an interior designer before committing to the project if you have a challenging bathroom space.
It’s pretty much a given that you’ll need an extra pair of hands to install a bathroom cabinet, so call in a friend's favor or use your significant other as an assistant when doing this DIY remodel project.
Measure the Bathroom Area
Measure the width and depth of the space where you plan to install the bathroom cabinet. Ensure your desired cabinet size will fit without hindering the door clearance or colliding with other fixtures. There’s nothing worse than getting a new cabinet in your bathroom only to find when you open it that it doesn’t clear the door or slams into the shower as you reach for a fresh bar of soap.
Purchase Your Cabinet or Vanity
There are bathroom vanities to suit any space, so be sure to shop around until you find one you love. You’ll have to decide between a raw, customizable cabinet or a premade, painted bathroom vanity. If you’re upcycling an existing cabinet, sand the cabinet and allow time for the paint to dry before installation.
Disconnect the Sink
Locate the drainpipe under the sink, which has a curved section known as the P-trap. Position a towel or bucket beneath the P-trap to catch any water that leaks from the trap. Loosen the nut at the top of the P-trap and gently pull the trap down from the sink drainpipe. You may need to completely remove the trap.
Disconnect the Water Lines
Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the water lines from the valves. Be prepared to catch any water spillage during this process with a bucket. Cut through the caulk or sealant that binds the sink backsplash to the wall with a utility knife.
Remove the Old Cabinet or Vanity
Next, you’ll need to remove the existing cabinet or vanity to make room for the new model. You can unsecure standalone cabinets that can be removed like furniture, but those with straps or safety screws require a screw gun. For DIY bathroom remodels, you may want to invest in the cost of renting a dumpster since you’ll be disposing of cabinetry pieces.
Repair the Drywall
Once the old bathroom cabinet is removed, you may need to repair parts of the drywall. If you’re new to the process, learn how to repair drywall based on the size of the hole—applying spackle or filling in the hole with a patch kit are a couple of good options. If there’s major damage to the drywall in your bathroom, consider hiring a drywall repair professional to evaluate the best course of action for the issue.
Measure and Mark the Location of the New Vanity
Next, measure and mark an outline of where the sink will be on the wall. Use a stud finder to find and mark the studs within the outlined space. Using a tape measure, determine the position of pipes on the bathroom wall.
If the back of your new vanity is solid, measure the location of the pipes and mark these pipe positions on the back of the vanity. Use an appropriately sized hole saw to cut holes for the pipes.
Install the New Bathroom Cabinet
Place a level on the top of the cabinet and have an assistant ensure the cabinet is straight as you screw it into the studs. For floor-sitting cabinets, secure with straps or screws for stability. Test the new bathroom cabinet for stability by pressing down on it and adding items to ensure it doesn’t tilt or slip.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Learning how to install a bathroom cabinet is a relatively DIY-friendly project that you can accomplish with a few basic tools and an extra set of hands. If you already have the cabinet, or if you are purchasing a prefab model, a handyperson is the ideal pro to hire to install a bathroom cabinet. However, if you want a custom build that perfectly fits your space, consider contacting a local cabinet contractor to help bring your vision to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. While this is a fairly straightforward task to handle without professional assistance, it’s not one that you can do completely on your own. You’ll need a strong person to hold the bathroom vanity level and in place while you screw it into the wall. It’s heavy, so you want to ensure you have help installing it.
While a bathroom vanity doesn't need to be flush with the side wall, it’s best to install it that way where possible. Achieving a flush fit can enhance aesthetics and create a cohesive look, plus it will help conceal and safeguard your plumbing. However, exceptions can be made based on design preferences and available space. Be sure that there’s sufficient clearance for drawers and cabinet doors to open comfortably. Additionally, consider factors like plumbing and room layout when deciding on the vanity's positioning relative to the side wall.
To fill the gap between your bathroom vanity and the side wall, a simple DIY caulk application should do the trick. Applying a bead of caulk along the gap creates a seamless finish while also helping to protect the wall and prevent dust or debris from accumulating in the space.
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