Improving the look of your bathroom can be as simple as replacing your old bathroom vanity countertop. Durability and beauty are both key issues when selecting a bathroom vanity top.
Choosing the right countertop means understanding the benefits of the different materials, figuring out a budget and selecting a look that complements your bathroom's overall style. This guide will help you find the best bathroom countertops for your lifestyle and budget.
- Things to Consider
- Quartz Bathroom Vanity Countertops
- Engineered Quartz Countertops
- Solid Surface Vanity Countertops
- Granite Bathroom Vanity Countertops
- Marble Bathroom Vanity Countertops
- Stone Effects or Engineered Stone Composite
- Laminate Bathroom Countertops
- Concrete Bathroom Countertops
- Care and Maintenance
Things to Consider
When you're looking for the best bathroom countertops, things like size, sink shape and color are important factors. Some points to keep in mind when looking for the new bathroom countertops:
- Budget: As with any new home project, you'll want to keep your budget top of mind. With many types of bathroom countertops available, finding the look you love at the right price point is easy.
- Size: To avoid messy mistakes, always measure your current vanity top and bath vanity before selecting a new one. Vanity tops don't have one standard size, and are cut to match standard vanity sizes. Measure the width at the front and back of the vanity top and measure from the front edge to the back of your old countertop to find out the depth. If you're adding a top to a bath vanity without a top, add about one-inch to the depth measurement.
- Sink shape: When searching for the best countertop for your bathroom, it's important to select one that fits your sink or sinks. Determine if you want an undermount sink, integrated sink (meaning it's part of the vanity top), double sink or another option.
- Faucet: Most vanity tops come with pre-drilled holes for faucets. Decide if you want a widespread, centerset or single faucet. Always check the drillings on your current top as switching the faucet style will involve more work.
- Style: Choosing the best bathroom countertop for your vanity also comes down to style. A modern vanity cabinet may stand out even more with a marble countertop while a classic style vanity may benefit from another material. Choose what works in your space and complements your home's decor style.
- Other upgrades: Will you also be installing vanity side and backsplash? Make sure your countertop is fully installed before doing so.
Quartz Bathroom Vanity Countertops
One of the best bathroom countertops, quartz bathroom vanity countertops are made from composite material that is anti-microbial and ideal for high-traffic, high-use bathrooms.
- Comes in a wide range of natural stone or vibrant tones
- Resists scratches and stains
- Never needs sealing or polishing
- Available ready to install with attached undermount sink
- Built-in Microban anti-microbial protection improves hygiene in busy bathrooms
Cost (relative to other countertop materials):
- Moderate
Engineered Quartz Countertops
Engineered quartz vanity countertops are made from quartz crystals and resin. One of the best types of countertops for bathrooms in family homes, engineered quartz is non-porous and won't absorb liquids.
- High-end, natural stone look
- Available in a wide variety of colors
- Resistant to cuts and scratches
- Water and stain resistant, easy to clean
- Able to withstand heat
Cost (relative to other countertop materials):
- Moderate to high
Solid Surface Vanity Countertops
Solid surface vanity countertops are made of synthetic particles and resins and molded into surfaces that resemble different types of stone. They work very well in main bathrooms that get a lot of use.
- Water and stain resistant, easy to clean, easy to repair
- Can be shaped into seamless countertops
- Sinks can be integrated for a one-piece design
- Consistent color and pattern allow pieces to be easily matched
Cost (relative to other countertop materials):
- Moderate
Tip: Heat tools can scorch the surface so use caution with hair and other grooming appliances.
Granite Bathroom Vanity Countertops
The most durable vanity top of the natural stone options, granite bathroom vanity tops are perfect for high-traffic powder rooms or master baths. Granite is one of the best bathroom countertop materials available.
- High-end designer look
- Superior durability
- Water and stain resistant, easy to clean
- Available ready to install with attached under mount sink (or order sink separately)
Cost (relative to other countertop materials):
- High
Marble Bathroom Vanity Countertops
Marble bathroom vanity tops offer unmatched elegance and impart a regal look to any bathroom design style. Marble is one of the best bathroom countertop materials.
- High-end look in a range of colors
- Heat-resistant
- Pattern matching can be difficult; shades vary from stone to stone
- More porous than granite, susceptible to staining and can be easily scratched
- Should be sealed annually
Cost (relative to other countertop materials):
- High
Stone Effects or Engineered Stone Composite
- One of the most popular types of bathroom countertops, stone effects, or engineered stone, mimics the natural appeal of real stone patterns.
- Surface is bacteria, mold and mildew resistant.
- Made of engineered stone, the material is also resilient against stains and scratches to help preserve its original appearance.
Laminate Bathroom Countertops
Laminate countertops are a budget-friendly countertop choice. This versatile material is often found in kitchens, but can work in bathrooms as well.
- Stain-resistant surface
- Many colors, patterns and styles
- Finishes from matte to high gloss
- Low-maintenance and easy to clean
- Less durable than stone countertops, but easy to replace if damaged
Cost (relative to other countertop materials):
- Low
Concrete Bathroom Countertops
If you're seeking an industrial look for your bathroom, then a concrete slab may be the answer. Concrete projects are custom and can be done by experienced DIY-ers or professionals.
- Modern look
- Can be cold
- Very heavy and may need extra support in cabinet and floors
- Chips and cracks are impossible to repair.
- Replacement is only option if it's damaged.
- Recommend professional installation
Cost (relative to other countertop materials):
- High
Care and Maintenance
Once you've chosen the best countertop for your bathroom, you'll need to care for it to keep it looking like new.
- Different countertop materials have unique care needs. Most, if not all, require cleaning supplies that remove dirt and soap film without scratching or damaging the finish. You can clean most vanity tops with warm, soapy water or a neutral cleaning spray.
- To clean stains off of engineered stone vanity tops, use denatured alcohol.
- Never use a scouring pad or brush on a natural stone or marble vanity top.
- Never use bleach or other harsh cleaners on a vanity top.
- Check your manufacturer's instructions for specifics on how to care for your countertop.
Tip: Certain premium surfaces are covered by a 15-year limited warranty.
Finding the best countertop material for your bathroom vanity is about understanding your lifestyle and budget. With a wide array of countertop options, plus bathroom installation services, we're here to help you get your project finished.
