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How to Choose the Best Medicine Cabinet

A medicine cabinet is a great fixture to add to your bathroom and can be both stylish and practical. Your medicine cabinet will be a frequently used fixture in your daily routines, so choosing the right one is important. But how can you know which cabinet is best for you with so many available styles and features?

You want a medicine cabinet that works, holds your bathroom essentials, looks right with your decor, and lasts. This guide will help homeowners like you make wise choices — whether you are remodeling your master bath, upgrading a powder room, or planning a complete bathroom renovation.

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Table of Contents

Some Considerations Beforehand

Before selecting your medicine cabinet, think ahead and ask yourself a couple of questions. This proactive approach can save you time, expense, and headaches. The following are key questions and factors to consider. Reflect on each one as you begin your search.

1. How many items will live in the medicine cabinet?

Consider the various everyday toiletries you have, including first-aid supplies, grooming tools (such as hair dryers or curling irons), and prescription medication. Do you have any large bottles, tubes, jars, or oddly shaped containers that will need to fit?

2. Will you need to store large items or just small ones?

Tall bottles, sprays, or oversized skincare packaging need taller shelves; small cosmetics need compartments or shelf dividers.

3. How often do you use those items?

If you open your cabinet multiple times a day, features like soft-close hinges, lighting, and accessibility are important to make those routines easier or more comfortable.

4. What is the lighting in your bathroom like?

Is the space dark, or do you have enough natural light and ambient lighting to make your bathroom brighter? A cabinet with built-in lighting or room for a lighted medicine cabinet can make a significant difference.

5. How close are other fixtures and hardware?

For example, is there a light fixture above the mirror, or are faucets or mirrors going to interfere? Do you have any wall obstructions (such as pipes, studs, electrical outlets, or wiring) that limit recessing?

6. What is your aesthetic style in the bathroom?

Do you prefer a modern, classic, or transitional look? Your preferred style will influence mirror framing, finish, edge type, and accessory features.

7. Do you want “smart” features?

Smart home integration, adjustable magnifying mirror attachments, or motion‐sensor lights are options to consider if you value convenience and modern functionality.

Answering these questions upfront will narrow your options and make your selection process much more efficient.

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Sizing

Getting the dimensions right is maybe the most technical and most important step in choosing a medicine cabinet. Medicine cabinets come in various sizes, so measuring your space accurately for a proper fit is essential.

The Importance of Accurate Measurements

If the cabinet is too small, you may get frustrated with cramped space or the inability to store needed items. Too large, and it may look out of proportion, interfere with lighting, faucets, or doors. Accurate sizing also avoids expensive mistakes like having to cut into tile or drywall again, relocating electrical, or replacing lighting.

framed medicine cabinet

How to Measure

Here is a step‐by‐step process:

  • 1. Width of Vanity: Measure your vanity top from side to side. The medicine cabinet width should be equal to or slightly narrower than the vanity width. For example, a 30-inch vanity usually works well with a 24- to 30-inch-wide medicine cabinet.
  • 2. Height Available: Measure from the top of the faucet (or sink rim) up to any ceiling or existing light fixture. Also, measure from the top of the light fixture down to the top of the sink; this determines the vertical clearance to prevent the cabinet from bumping or interfering with the lighting.
  • 3. Wall Depth / Stud Space: If you plan to use a recessed medicine cabinet, measure the wall’s depth—stud spacing, piping, and electrical lines. Many walls have 3½-inch-deep cavities (typical 2×4 walls), but older homes or homes with special framing may differ.
  • 4. Overhang Clearance: For surface-mounted or semi-recessed cabinets, how far will the cabinet stick out from the wall? Ensure doors have room to swing open fully without hitting faucets, towel bars, or doorways. Also, verify that mirrors or any mirror sides will be usable and won’t obstruct sinks.
  • 5. Height of Users: Consider who uses the space. Are children using it? Are tall adults using it? If you are expecting to frequently use an adjustable magnifying mirror, ensure the height makes sense.
  • 6. Lighting and Mirror Positioning: If there is over-mirror lighting, measure to ensure that the cabinet does not block or interfere with the lighting. Plan for the ideal mirror height so that the broader mirror reflects properly, avoiding glare.
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Suitable Dimensions by Bathroom Size

Here is a step‐by‐step process:

Suitable Dimensions by Bathroom Size
Bathroom Size / Use Typical Vanity Width Recommended Medicine Cabinet Width Height Range
Small powder room or half bath (one sink, limited wall space) 24–30 in 20–24 in 24–32 in
Standard family bathroom (single sink) 30–36 in 24–30 in 30–36 in
Double sink or large vanity 60–72 in 30–36 in over each sink, or one 48–60 in wide cabinet 36–42 in
Master bathroom or spa-style Any large vanity Tall vertical cabinets or stacked storage Up to ceiling if space allows; typically up to about 42–48 in for usability
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Storage and Dimensions

Now that you know how to measure your bathroom space, the next step is to think about storage capacity and how the interior of the cabinet is built or organized so you can make the most use of the available space.

Storage Options

  • Use height-adjustable shelves. Moving shelf positions allows for storing tall bottles and smaller items together without wasted space.
  • Include interior mirrors or door back hooks to hold frequently used items (like toothbrushes or razors)—these free up shelf space.
  • Divide shelves by purpose: cosmetics in one section, medications in another, grooming tools somewhere separate.
  • Consider pull-out trays or small bins for small toiletries so nothing gets lost in the back.
  • Think about interior lighting (LED lighting strips or lights inside the cabinet). These help you find things when the room lighting is dim.
  • If you want to incorporate an adjustable magnifying mirror inside or attached to the cabinet door, make sure there is space for swing or extension.
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Measuring Tips

To help you maximize storage and prevent missteps as you measure your bathroom, here are a few tips:

Kohler Collage medicine cabinet

Use Mock Ups

Mark where the cabinet edges will go with painter’s tape on your wall; simulate door swing with cardboard.

Measure Items You Store

For example, measure how much space your tallest bottle, or your widest cosmetic case, takes up. Compare that to shelf heights and interior width.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid with Size and Fit

Here are some issues that some homeowners often overlook or run into when trying to find a medicine cabinet for their bathrooms.

  • Choosing a cabinet that is too large and blocks light fixtures or makes the space feel cramped. Compare the width/height measurements of adjacent elements before making a purchase.
  • Buying a deep surface mount cabinet without checking how far it protrudes. The cabinet can hit into faucets or impede cleaning. Always check depth specs.
  • Ignoring structural limitations when considering recessed or semi recessed cabinets. There must be enough wall cavity space, no pipes/electrical in the way, and appropriate framing.
  • Selecting hinges or mirror doors that swing into windows, walls, or impede doorways. Visualize full swing angles before deciding, perhaps with masking tape mock ups.
  • Overlooking door handles, frame edges, or side trim that adds to the overall width. The finished width might be more than just the mirror/glass.
  • Choosing fixed shelves when you may need flexibility later. Opt for adjustable ones, even if you may not use that flexibility initially.
  • Forgetting about future changes. If you change lighting or replace fixtures later, will the cabinet still fit?
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Choose an Installation Type

After determining the ideal width and height of your medicine cabinet, the next step is to select a suitable medicine cabinet installation type. Before choosing the installation type, it is essential to understand what your space can accommodate. For example, if cutting into the wall will be a problem, you may be unable to have a recessed cabinet.

Installation Styles Explained

Here are the primary installation types for medicine cabinets, their trade offs, and what home situations favor each.

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Surface Mounted

The cabinet is attached to the wall surface; no wall cavity is needed.

  • Pros: Easiest to install, lower cost, works where the wall structure is shallow, wide selection of styles
  • Cons: Protrudes from the wall, may look bulky, depth may interfere with other fixtures
surface mount medicine cabinet installation
recessed medicine cabinet

Recessed

The cabinet sits between wall studs; the front is flush or nearly flush with the wall surface.

  • Pros: Sleek, clean look; saves space in narrow bathrooms; less protrusion; built-in appearance
  • Cons: Requires cutting into the wall, may need to relocate wiring or plumbing; more costly; potential for moisture if the wall is not properly sealed

Semi Recessed

The cabinet is partially in the wall, part protruding — generally, the front is flush, the body extends forward.

  • Pros: Compromise between surface and recessed; offers increased storage without full wall cutting; easier install than full recess
  • Cons: More expensive than surface; lower storage capacity than full surface models; still need some wall work
semi-recessed medicine cabinet
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Determine Hinges

Next, think about the hinges for your medicine cabinet, specifically which side you would prefer them on and how you would like them to open. You can install most cabinets with the hinges on either the left or right side, which determines the door swing orientation.

Hinges affect function, durability, and feel, and different types of hinges will vary in all these categories. Here are the pros and cons of the different types of hinges medicine cabinets use:

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Standard Hinges

These open at about 107 110 degrees. Provide reliable performance and are affordable. These hinges suffice for most standard mirror doors.

  • Pros: cost-effective, simple, proven design.
  • Cons: may limit how far the door opens, might block the side wall or lighting in tight spaces.

Wide Throw Hinges

Designed to open up to almost 180 degrees, allowing full access.

  • Pros: full door swing gives unobstructed access to the interior; helpful when the cabinet width is large.
  • Cons: requires space on the side for a wide swing; more expensive; sometimes more complex to install or adjust.

Soft-Close Hinges

The door closes gently, slowly, and quietly.

  • Pros: protects the mirror and cabinet from slamming; adds a premium feel; beneficial in homes with children or frequent use.
  • Cons: higher cost; hinges sometimes need maintenance (spring tension); repair parts may cost more.

Here is a quick overview of how to decide on what hinges to get:

  1. If your budget is tight but you want good functionality, go with standard hinges.
  2. If door swing isn’t a concern (no space constraints), consider wide-throw hinges.
  3. For a premium feel and to protect the mirror and door from slamming, soft close hinges really shine.

You may want a combination (for example, wide throw + soft-close doors) depending on your budget and usage.

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Materials & Durability

Materials determine how the medicine cabinet will withstand moisture, time, and daily wear. Here are common materials and their pros and cons.

Materials & Durability
Material Strengths Trade Offs Best For
Solid Wood Frame / Cabinet Box (e.g., oak, maple, natural hardwood) Very durable; repairs are possible; finish can be refinished; feels premium Tends to cost more; some woods are susceptible to warping if humidity gets high; requires quality sealing or protection Traditional or highend bathrooms, when you want a warm, natural texture, when you’d like to maintain and refurbish
Engineered Wood / MDF More stable under controlled moisture; lower cost; lots of finish options Edge swelling is possible if the humidity is too high; less durable under abuse; the joints are weaker over time Midtier remodels; when budget matters but you still want good style
Metal (Stainless Steel, Aluminum, etc.) Very durable; resists rust if properly finished; modern look; easy to clean Can show fingerprints; sometimes cooler appearance; reflective edges need care Contemporary or industrial style bathrooms; areas with high moisture; humid climates
Plastic / Acrylic / Polymer Lower cost; very inexpensive; lightweight; resistant to water on surfaces Can scratch; plastic looks cheap; less structural stability; hinges and doors may be less sturdy Rental bathrooms; temporary fixes; as secondary/overflow storage, where style is less critical
Mirror Glass & Finishes For framed vs frameless mirrors, beveling, edge treatments: aesthetics matter; mirror quality, clarity, and resistance to corrosion at edges matter Cheap mirrors can distort; edges can fog or oxidize; beveling adds cost; mirrors are heavier and add weight to hinges When the bathroom mirror cabinet is front and center, a visual focal point, matching other mirror elements in the room

Also consider interior materials: glass shelves vs. metal vs. wood. Shelving material should resist moisture, be easy to clean, and be strong enough for what you will store.

When thinking about durability, maintenance, and longevity, think about your priorities and rank which factors are most important to you.

  • Moisture resistance
  • Ease of cleaning
  • Structural strength (doors, shelves, edges)
  • Finish quality

Choose a material that scores high in those areas, look for medicine cabinets in those materials within your budget, and consider how much use the cabinet gets daily.

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Choosing a Design

Once you have the dimensions, installation type, and materials you want, the next step in selecting the best medicine cabinet is to choose a design to match your personal style.

First, choose the shape of the new cabinet based on your design goals and measurements. Medicine cabinets may be standard rectangles or have curved sides. Generally, more contemporary-style cabinets have an angular shape, while more traditional or classically styled cabinets have curved edges.

Second, choose between the different framing options you have for your medicine cabinet.

Framed vs. Frameless Mirrors

framed medicine cabinet

Framed Mirrors

Framed mirrors add visual weight and traditional detail; frames can be wood, metal, or composite.

frameless medicine cabinet

Frameless Mirrors

Frameless cabinets or mirrors give minimal, clean lines. Beveled edges resemble a decorative frame without adding extra bulk.

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Lighting Features

Cabinets may come with built-in lighting (side, top, or integrated into the mirror), lighting inside the cabinet, or be compatible with nearby fixtures. Lighted medicine cabinets enhance visibility for tasks such as grooming, applying makeup, and shaving. Mirror lighting also helps reduce shadows around the face.

verdera lighted cabinet and mirror
Kohler Archer medicine cabinet with adjustable interior mirror

Adjustable Mirrors / Magnifying Mirrors

An adjustable magnifying mirror in a medicine cabinet is a small, built-in mirror, often found on the inside of the cabinet door, that provides a magnified reflection for detailed grooming tasks. If you are interested in this type of mirror, ensure that the cabinet design can physically support it without interfering with door swing or storage.

Smart Home Integration

Cabinets with features such as built-in Bluetooth speakers, USB charging ports, touch sensors, demister pads, or motion sensors can be integrated into a smart bathroom setup. Check wiring and power source availability and ensure that all of the components are safe.

Kohler medicine cabinet in bathroom | what size medicine cabinet | Weinstein Collegeville

Finishes and Trim Style

Consider the finishes of various fixtures, such as towel bars, faucets, and lighting fixtures. Matching these finishes creates a cohesive look that enhances the overall aesthetic.

Additionally, the trim profile you choose can significantly alter the perception of size within the room. For instance, flat profiles tend to create a more minimalist look. At the same time, beveled or decorative trims can add depth and interest, making the space feel either more expansive or intimate.

Moreover, mirror edge treatments also play a crucial role in determining the sophistication of a design. Beveled edges can evoke a classic elegance, polished edges provide a sleek and modern feel, while raw edges can introduce an organic, rustic touch to the environment.

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Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Medicine Cabinet

Here are some additional tips that come from our years of experience helping homeowners find the ideal medicine cabinets for their bathrooms, to elevate your selection from good to great.

  • If lighted interiors are possible, choose them: Lighted interiors help with visibility inside the cabinet, so early morning routines are easier.
  • Incorporate features for modern living: USB ports, hidden outlets, and charging stations inside the cabinet preserve counter space and avoid the need for extension cords.
  • Think long term and pick designs that can adapt: For example, adjustable shelves, reversible hinge orientation, and door swings that can be swapped.
  • Match style with your overall bathroom aesthetic: Tile color, vanity style, mirror shape, and hardware finish. A cabinet that fits stylistically elevates the room.
  • Prioritize durability in high moisture environments: Cabinets near bathtubs or showers require fully sealed wood or more moisture-resistant materials.
  • Inspect the edge quality of the mirror: If it is frameless, the glass should be polished and sealed. For framed designs, check the joints and finishes.
  • If in doubt, bring measurements, photographs, and a list of your bathroom essentials to a showroom: Visualizing and knowing your inspiration helps avoid mismatches in scale or style.
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Visit Weinstein Collegeville to Choose the Best Medicine Cabinet

Your best medicine cabinet is waiting. At the Weinstein Bath & Kitchen Showroom in Collegeville, you will find a wide selection of bathroom mirror cabinets, lighted medicine cabinets, premium mirrors, and accessory features. Our experts know about every hinge type, material finish, installation style, and high-performance options like smart home integration and built-in lighting.

Make an appointment or drop in. Bring your measurements, a list of your bathroom essentials, and any inspiration photos. Let the team help you choose a medicine cabinet that fits your space, style, and lifestyle. Your investment will pay off every morning you open your cabinet, and everything is just where you want it.