Bathroom cabinets are an essential part of any bathroom remodel or new construction. They provide much-needed storage space while also contributing to the overall style and aesthetic of the room. When budgeting for new bathroom cabinets, it’s important to understand what factors impact the costs so you can plan accordingly. Here is an overview of the key considerations when determining how much bathroom cabinets cost.

Cabinet Quality and Materials

The quality of the cabinets and materials used is the biggest factor impacting cost. Basic, builder-grade cabinets made from laminates and particle board tend to be the most affordable option, while solid wood cabinets with dovetail joinery are premium options. Some key factors determining quality include:

Wood Type – Particle board, MDF, plywood, and solid wood options like oak, maple or cherry. Solid wood is most expensive.
Door/Drawer Fronts – Wood, laminate, thermofoil, metal and glass options. Solid wood is most costly.
Hardware – Basic plastic vs. premium metal knobs and pulls.
Features – Soft-close hinges, dovetail joinery, butcher block countertops. Generally increase cost.

High-end bathroom cabinets often cost $600+ per linear foot installed, while budget options could be under $200 per linear foot.

Installation Factors

In addition to the cabinet cost itself, installation factors significantly impact the total project budget. DIY installation using stock cabinets from home centers is most affordable. Full-service installation with custom-built cabinets tends to be the most expensive option. Some variables include:

Stock vs Custom-Built – Stock cabinets available for immediate purchase are cheaper than custom.
DIY vs Pro Install – DIY is cheaper but requires skills and tools.
Modifications Required – Complex projects or retrofits may require plumbing or electrical modifications.
Delivery/Service Fees – Whether delivery, design help or installation is included or separate cost.

While DIY installation can save 50% or more on labor, complex projects are better left to professionals. Expect to pay at least $2,000+ for full professional installation.

Cabinet Measurements

The total linear feet of cabinets required is a major cost determinant. For example, a small 25 sq. ft. bathroom may only need 10 linear feet of cabinets, while a large master bath may require 30+ linear feet. Measure existing space carefully to determine cabinet needs. Standard widths are:

Vanities – 24″-72″ wide
Upper cabinets – 12″, 18″, 24″, 30″, 36″ wide
Deep cabinets – 3″-12″ deep
Tall cabinets – 84″-96″ high

Allow 15-25 linear feet for a mid-sized bathroom or 35+ feet for a large luxury bath. More cabinets equals higher costs.

Number of Cabinets/Pieces

In addition to linear feet, the total number of individual cabinet pieces or “boxes” impacts costs. For example, a double vanity requires two cabinet bases versus one. Some key variables:

Vanity Cabinets – Single vs double sink vanity?
Upper Cabinets – Just above toilet or full surround with uppers over vanity too?
Tall Cabinets – Floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinet or tall linen cabinet?
Other – Separate mirrors, medicine cabinets or shelving add more boxes.

More cabinets means more materials, construction and installation costs. Even small bathrooms often need 5+ cabinet pieces.

Vanity Top Materials

The material used for the vanity countertop is a big cost factor. Tile, laminate, and cultured marble vanity tops can be added to stock cabinets affordably. Solid surface, natural stone, and quartz counters range from $50-$200+ per sq. ft. installed. Key variables:

Material – Ceramic tile, laminate, cultured marble, solid surface, quartz, granite.
Fabrication & Install – Countertops usually installed separately after cabinet installation.
Edge Profiles – Fancy edges like ogee cost more than basic square edge.

Vanity top costs can add $500+ to a bath remodel easily. Keeping consistent countertop materials as cabinets helps contain costs.

Design Complexity

Simple cookie-cutter layouts with standard sizing and placement of cabinets are most affordable. On the other end, curved or angled vanities, fully custom designs and intricate built-ins will increase project costs. Some elements adding complexity:

Custom Sizing/Shapes – Requires custom cabinet construction.
Integral Sinks/Tops – Sink molded into countertop costs more.
Integrated Storage – Drawers, rollouts, laundry bins or other integrated storage.
Accent Materials – Contrasting finishes for doors/drawers or mixed materials.

While custom designs are pricier, they allow tailoring the space to your needs. Balance functionality with budget.

Location Variables

Regional variables like cost of living and labor rates can impact costs for materials and professional installation. For example, expect to pay more for identical cabinets in New York than in Tennessee. Some key considerations:

Contractor Rates – Varies by region and local market conditions.
Sales Tax – Materials taxed differently by state/city.
Shipping – Costs more to ship cabinets long distances.

While geographic variables are hard to avoid, comparison shopping and timing projects for slower seasons can help manage costs.

Bathroom Size

Larger bathrooms require more materials and labor across the board, increasing total project costs. Key size factors:

Square Footage – More area means more cabinets and countertops.
Storage Needs – Larger households require more linen and storage cabinets.
Number of Sinks – Double vanities cost more than single sink.
Occupants – Guest baths can utilize more basic cabinets than master suites.

Ideally limit bathroom cabinets to essential needs. Multi-purpose cabinets and smart storage solutions help maximize usefulness without overbuilding.

Other Considerations

Lighting – Undercabinet, mirrors, and accent lighting add costs.
Plumbing Fixtures – Quality faucets, drains, toilets and accessories impact budget.
Glass/Mirrors – Beveled edges and intricate frame designs increase costs.
Medicine Cabinets – Mirrored vs simple cabinetry affects pricing.
Backsplash Tile – Can be simple or an intricate focal point.

Carefully balance splurges on focal elements with more budget options on secondary items.

Bathroom Cabinet Costs: Key Takeaways

When creating a bathroom cabinet budget, keep these key tips in mind:

Expect to pay $100-$600+ per linear foot depending on materials and quality.
Add at least 20% for professional installation services for project totals closer to $500-$1000+ per linear foot.
Measure existing space carefully to allow 15-30+ linear feet for most bathrooms.
Limit number of individual cabinet pieces to essential needs only.
Quality solid surface or stone countertop materials can add $1000+ to a bath remodel budget.
Balance splurges on statement finishes orfocal elements with budget choices on secondary cabinets.
Comparison shop and review qualifications to find best value professionals.
Careful planning and smart storage choices allow stretching your budget further.

Investing in quality bathroom cabinets you enjoy looking at and using daily is worth every penny. With careful planning and budgeting, you can build your dream bathroom storage without breaking the bank. What cabinetry elements matter most to you for your next bathroom project?

How to Choose Bathroom Cabinets for Style and Function

Selecting new bathroom cabinets involves balancing style, functionality, and budget. Follow these tips to choose cabinets that are beautiful, durable, and customized to how you use your space.

Consider the Architectural Style You Want

The overall look of your bathroom should guide the style of cabinets to choose. For a contemporary bath, sleek frameless cabinets in glossy finishes make a statement. Traditional baths look best with classic shaker style doors and ornamental hardware. Make sure new cabinets align with the desired aesthetic.

Choose Durable, Water-Resistant Materials

The high moisture environment of bathrooms is tough on cabinets. Select water-resistant materials like moisture barrier plywoods or waterproof thermally fused laminates. Avoid particleboard. Stick with durable surface materials like high-pressure laminate or thermofoil rather than real wood that can warp.

Decide on Door Style

The type of cabinet doors substantially impacts the look. Classic options like shaker, inset, or raised panels offer a traditional vibe. For modern flair, opt for slab doors or a frameless, full-access look. Glass doors uppers lend a spa-like air.

Select Finish that Withstands Wear

Bathroom cabinets suffer constant humidity, splashes and contact. Choose a low-maintenance finish that hides wear well, like thermofoil or laminate. For wood cabinets, a polyurethane finish is most durable. Stay away from painted cabinets which show fingerprints and chips.

Evaluate Storage Needs

Consider how you use your bathroom to select the right mix of cabinets. Include drawer bases for organizing toiletries. Add upper cabinets over toilets or the vanity for towels and toilet paper. Opt for a floor-to-ceiling pantry or tall cabinet for linens.

Decide on Specialty Storage Features

Think through specialty storage needs as well. Internal roll-outs in cabinets organize tiny items. Built-in hampers keep laundry organized. Charging stations store electronics safely. Pull-out spice drawers are great near bathtubs.

Choose High Quality Hinges and Hardware

Look for soft-close hinges as the slamming of standard hinges damages cabinets over time. Sleek metal knobs and handles enhance the look and feel of any cabinets. Sturdy, full-extension drawer glides make contents accessible.

Splurge on the Countertops

Quality countertop materials like quartz or granite elevate the whole look of the bathroom. While more expensive, natural stone counters add luxurious visual impact that lasts for decades with proper sealing and care.

Work Closely with Professionals

Work with an experienced kitchen and bath designer to optimize cabinet layout and select the perfect combination of storage, materials, and finishes tailored to your unique needs. Invest in professional installation for added resale value and peace of mind.

Choosing the right bathroom cabinets takes some planning, but the result is years of enhanced style and optimized storage. Take time to consider how your family uses the space to invest in cabinets that match both form and function. With strategic selections, you can stay on-trend while keeping within your budget.

Bathroom Cabinet Material Options

When selecting bathroom cabinets, the material and finish you choose impacts cost, durability, and aesthetics. Consider these popular material options to match construction to your project needs and style preferences.

Plywood

Constructed from thin sheets of solid wood glued together and laminated with a resin coating, moisture-barrier plywoods like Baltic Birch offer durability at a moderate price point. Pros include strength and water resistance while cons are susceptibility to scratches and dents. Best for contemporary or transitional cabinet styles.

Solid Wood

Available in species like oak, maple, and cherry, solid wood cabinets are the gold standard for high-end bathrooms. Naturally beautiful wood grain patterns and ability to be custom crafted offset the higher cost. Requires greater maintenance than engineered wood products. Works with almost any style from modern to traditional.

Laminate

Laminate utilizes decorative paper fused to particleboard or MDF substrates via heat and pressure. The plastic laminate coating resists moisture, scratches, and impacts well. Easy to clean. Very budget-friendly material, but lower durability and quality than solid wood. Best suited to contemporary or cottage styles.

Thermofoil

With thermally adhered vinyl sheets wrapped around MDF substrate, thermofoil is highly water resistant and easy to clean. Seamless cabinet surfaces limit moisture penetration. Very durable overall but can show seams or bubbles over time. Cost-effective choice for modern baths.

Engineered Quartz

Quartz composite made from crushed stone and resins create an ultra-durable and stylish countertop surface. Highly scratch, stain, and moisture resistant. Wide color and pattern options available. More expensive than laminate but more affordable than natural stone. Works in any style bathroom.

The right cabinet material comes down to finding the ideal balance of form and function for your needs. Conduct thorough product research and comparison shopping to make the most of your bathroom cabinetry investment.

Choosing Bathroom Cabinets: To Custom Build or Buy Stock?

When planning a new bathroom, one of the biggest decisions is whether to use stock or custom-built cabinets. Weighing the pros and cons of each option helps determine the best choice for your project.

Key Benefits of Stock Cabinets

More Affordable

Stock cabinets available at home centers tend to cost 25-50% less than custom cabinetry bought through designers. Limited sizing options allow manufacturing efficiencies.

Offer More Immediate Availability

Since stock cabinets are mass-produced in standard sizes, you can purchase them right off the showroom floor. Custom-built cabinets usually involve 4-8 week lead times.

Offer More DIY-Friendly Installation

Stock cabinets are designed for novice DIY installation. Modular sizing, cam locks, and partial pre-assembly allow homeowners to install themselves.

Provide Good Value for Simple Layouts

Stock cabinetry works well for straightforward floorplans with standard sizing and placement. Limited customization also constrains costs.

Key Benefits of Custom Cabinets

Accommodate Unique Layouts

Custom cabinets are built from scratch for each project, allowing complete personalization of sizes, placement and finishing. Great for complex layouts.

Provide Quality Construction and Materials

From plywood boxes to soft-close hinges, custom cabinetry utilizes higher grade materials and carpentry standards than stock pieces.

Allow Personalized Style Choices

Fully customize door styles, finishes, hardware and built-ins to perfectly match your vision. Far more flexibility than stock options.

Offer Exact Fit to Space

Every unit built specifically to your bathroom’s dimensions ensures a flawless fit and optimized usage of space.

Resale Value

Higher quality materials and construction of custom cabinetry add resale value to your home. Uniqueness also appeals to buyers.

For bathrooms with standard layouts, stock cabinetry makes an affordable choice to complete your project quickly. If designing a luxurious spa-bath or maximizing challenging spaces, custom cabinetry provides the perfect fit. Assess your budget, timeline, and design goals to determine if custom build or stock cabinets align best.

Tips for Installing Bathroom Cabinets

Installing bathroom cabinets on your own can save significant cost over professional installation. Follow these tips to ensure cabinets are hung securely, level, and ready to enjoy for years to come:

Carefully review manufacturer’s installation instructions for required tools, needed supplies, and step-by-step directions.
Assemble cabinets fully before hanging to allow access to interior spots like cabinet backs. Tighten cam locks securely.
Ensure wall surfaces are clean, smooth, and sturdy enough to support cabinet weight. Wall anchors or blocking may be needed on drywall or tile.
Use a level and pencil to mark perfectly straight reference lines for the wall cabinet tops and base cabinet bottoms.
Place shims below the wall cabinet locations to hold pieces in place temporarily during fastening.
Drill pilot holes to prevent wood from splitting. For most cabinets, attach with #8 or #10 panhead screws into studs or anchors.
Alternate driving screws on opposite sides/corners to pull cabinet flush and level on the wall. Check level often during fastening.
Base cabinets should be attached through back panels into studs, resting flat on the floor. Shim if needed before securing completely.
Fill gaps with additional shims where necessary to make flush with walls. Avoid over-tightening.
Allow caulk or filler to dry completely according to manufacturer instructions before priming and painting.
Add knobs, shelves, and other hardware accessories carefully using proper fasteners for each component.

With careful planning and attention to detail, you can achieve professional results installing bathroom cabinets yourself. Focus on precision measurements, patience during mounting, and high-quality finishing for flawless results.

How to Care for and Clean Bathroom Cabinets

Regular cleaning and proper care keeps bathroom cabinets looking like new for years beyond the initial installation and protects your investment in their quality construction. Follow these maintenance tips:

Use microfiber cloths and mild detergents to gently clean surfaces. Avoid harsh cleaners which degrade finishes faster.
Thoroughly dry cabinet exteriors and interiors after wiping down to minimize moisture damage, especially on bare wood.
Organize cabinet contents to prevent spills or bottles leaking onto shelves. Use liners to protect surfaces.
Open doors and windows after steamy showers and baths to allow humidity to dissipate instead of penetrating cabinets.
Inspect hinges, glides and hardware periodically. Tighten or replace components as needed to maintain function.
Reseal wood cabinet finishes annually using appropriate products to protect from humidity and water damage in the bathroom environment.
Avoid placing small appliances like curling irons or hair dryers directly on cabinets when hot to prevent scorching.
Use knobs and handles gently. Don’t hang wet towels or clothes directly on doors to prevent loosening or warping.
Consider lighting and glass choices to reduce UV damage to cabinet finishes and materials over the lifetime of the bathroom.
For airflow, keep cabinet contents from pressing tightly against backpanels. Allow space for circulation.

With some basic care and maintenance, quality bathroom cabinets should last at least 10-15 years. Tend to minor upkeep issues promptly to get the longest possible life from your cabinetry investment.

Bathroom Cabinet Organization Ideas

Strategic organization of bathroom cabinet contents prevents clutter and makes your daily routine more efficient. Consider these tips to maximize your storage:

Designate shelves or drawers for specific

How Much Do Bathroom Cabinets Cost?