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When it comes to furnishing your home, there are many different furniture pieces to consider. Two popular options for storage and organization are vanities and dressers. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two.
Let’s take a look at both sides in the vanity vs dresser debate so you can choose the right piece of furniture for your bedroom.
What is a Dresser?
A dresser is a piece of furniture used primarily for storing clothes. A dresser vs vanity typically features multiple drawers stacked vertically and is designed to keep your clothing organized and easily accessible.
Standard Dresser Features
- Drawers: Most dressers have between 3 to 9 drawers, which can be of varying sizes. 6-drawer dressers and 8-drawer dressers are popular choices.
- Top Surface: The flat top surface of a dresser can be used to display decorative items, hold a mirror, or place personal items.
- Materials: Dressers are commonly made from wood, but they can also include materials such as metal or plastic. Shop affordable wood dressers now.
Standard Dresser Dimensions
There are various standard dresser sizes, but here are some common dimensions, including the typical dresser height:
- Width: 40-50” inches
- Height: 36-45 inches
- Depth: 16-20 inches
When choosing a dresser, between the vanity vs dresser debate, make sure to measure the space in your bedroom to ensure it fits comfortably without overcrowding the room.
The design of a dresser vanity is often more utilitarian, focusing on storage capacity and functionality. Pieces from Acme Furniture’s Lacey Collection, Aspen Home Furniture’s Transitional Collection, and AICO Furniture’s Glimmering Heights Collection are great choices for your bedrooms.bo
What is a Vanity?
What is a vanity in a bedroom? A vanity is a piece of furniture designed for personal grooming. It typically features a tabletop, a mirror, and drawers or compartments for storing makeup, jewelry, and other personal items.
Standard Vanity Features
- Tabletop: The flat surface is used for placing grooming items like makeup, brushes, and perfumes.
- Mirror: Most vanities come with an attached mirror, either built-in or freestanding.
- Storage: Vanities often have drawers or compartments for organizing grooming supplies and personal items.
- Seating: Vanities usually come with a matching stool or chair.
Standard Vanity Dimensions
Vanities also come in various sizes, but here are some typical dimensions:
- Width: 30-50 inches
- Height: 50-60 inches (including the mirror)
- Depth: 15-20 inches
Make sure you have enough space in your bedroom or bathroom for the vanity and its accompanying chair or stool. Check out vanity sets for your bedroom or bathroom, such as those from Coaster Furniture’s Leighton Collection and Avalon Furniture’s Seville Collection.
Leighton Vanity Desk And Stool
Key Differences Between Dressers and Vanities
When deciding between vanity vs dresser options, it's essential to consider the specific needs and characteristics of the space. These are the key differences between dressers and vanities:
Functionality
Dressers are primarily used for storing clothes and linens. Meanwhile, vanities are designed for personal grooming and organizing makeup, jewelry, and other accessories.
Design Features
A dresser features multiple drawers stacked vertically; no mirror attached. Of course, there are some pieces that come with mirrors, such as Stormy Ridge Collection dresser by A-America and FOA’s Berenice Collection dresser.
On the other hand, a vanity typically Includes a tabletop, mirror, and often comes with a chair or stool. It also has drawers or compartments for storage, such as the Athy Vanity Set and Kaleidoscope Collection vanity set.
Room Placement
You typically find dressers, like the Lettner Collection dresser from Ashley Furniture, in the bedroom. Vanities, such as the Highland Park Collection vanity set by Steve Silver, can be placed in the bedroom or bathroom, depending on your space and preference.
Lettner Dresser
Usage
Dressers are used daily to access clothes and keep the bedroom organized, while vanities are used daily for grooming routines, such as applying makeup, styling hair, and putting on jewelry. Some even have lights on the side of the mirror to illuminate your face better, such as the Aphrodite Vanity.
Choosing the Right Piece for Your Space
Here are four tips to remember when considering whether to choose vanity vs dresser options:
Assess Your Needs
Consider what you need most in your bedroom. If you have limited closet space and need more room for clothes, a dresser is likely the better choice. If you need a dedicated space for grooming, knowing what is a vanity furniture is ideal.
Measure Your Space
Before purchasing a vanity vs dresser, measure the available space in your room. Ensure that the furniture will fit comfortably and allow for easy movement, even with nightstands, armoires, and bedroom benches. Leave at least 2-3 feet of space in front of the dresser or vanity for ease of access.
Consider the size of your bed as well. Whether you have a king bed, queen bed, full bed, or twin bed, there should still be enough room for your dresser and vanity. If you’re furnishing a bedroom for guests, check out what kind of bed is ideal for a guest bedroom.
Consider Your Style
Choose a piece that matches your bedroom decor. Dressers and vanities come in various styles, from modern to traditional, so you can find one that complements your room, such as cottage dressers and rustic wooden dressers.
Storage Needs
Think about how much storage you need. Dressers provide more drawer space for clothes, while vanities offer specialized storage for grooming items. We have 9-drawer dressers for sale and oversized dressers to meet your needs.
Popular Dresser Styles
Here are popular dresser styles to choose from:
Traditional Dressers
These often feature ornate details, such as carved wood and decorative hardware. Traditional dressers are typically made of high-quality wood and have a classic, timeless look, like American Woodcrafters’ Heirloom Triple Dresser, Arch Salvage Collection dresser by ART Furniture, or Marisol Collection dresser by Magnussen Home.
Modern Dressers
They have clean lines and minimalist designs, like the Embossed 6 Drawer Dresser by Donco Trading and the vibrant Summerland Dresser by Legacy Classic Furniture. Modern dressers often use materials like metal, glass, or sleek wood finishes.
Rustic Dressers
These use natural materials and distressed finishes to create a cozy, country look. Rustic dressers often feature reclaimed wood and simple hardware, like the Jax Dresser from Elements International or FOA’s Rockwall Collection dresser.
Coastal Dressers
This type of dresser style brings a breezy, beachy vibe to your bedroom. Coastal dressers often feature light colors and natural materials that evoke the feeling of being near the sea, such as the Franco Collection 5-drawer dresser.
Industrial Dressers
Sporting a rugged, utilitarian look inspired by old factories and warehouses, industrial dressers often combine raw materials like metal and wood. For instance, the Hendrick Collection dresser by Emerald Home Furnishings is a standout choice for those seeking a distinctive style.
Vintage Dressers
If you want a touch of nostalgia in your bedroom, you should opt for vintage dressers. They feature designs inspired by past eras and often include intricate details and antique finishes, such as these pieces from Acme’s Versailles Collection and Picardy Collection.
Popular Vanity Styles
For vanities, here are some styles to consider:
Traditional Vanities
These feature elegant designs with detailed woodwork and large mirrors. Traditional vanities evoke a sense of timeless beauty and sophistication, like the Edalene Collection vanity set.
Modern Vanities
Having sleek designs and minimalist features, modern vanities, such as the Paris Chic Collection vanity desk, often use materials like glass, metal, and high-gloss finishes. You can place them as the focal point of your bedroom or bathroom.
Vintage Vanities
Vanities like the Vendome Collection desk has a nostalgic charm, with designs inspired by past eras. Vintage vanities often feature intricate details and antique finishes.
Glam Vanities
These are all about luxury and sparkle. Glam vanities often feature mirrored surfaces, shiny metals, and plush seating, giving your morning preparations a luxurious feel. Pieces from the Salamanca Collection, Hollywood Swank Collection, and Beaumont Collection can instantly add that sparkle to your bedroom or bathroom.
Contemporary Vanities
They have a sleek, modern design with clean lines and minimalistic features. Contemporary vanities often use a mix of materials like wood, metal, and glass, as seen in the Lismore Vanity Set and vanity desk from the Coleen Collection.
Transitional Vanities
Blending traditional and modern styles, transitional vanities create a versatile and timeless look. They often feature a mix of classic and contemporary elements, like the Regency Park Collection vanity set.
Combining Dressers and Vanities
If you have enough space, you don't even need to choose among vanity vs dresser options. You can incorporate both into your bedroom through a dresser with vanity. This setup provides ample storage for clothes and a dedicated area for grooming. To ensure a cohesive look for dresser vanities, choose pieces that complement each other in style and color.
Layout Ideas
- Side-by-Side: Place the dresser and vanity next to each other along one wall. This arrangement works well if you have a long, narrow space.
- Opposite Walls: Place the dresser and vanity on opposite walls to create a balanced look. Ensure there is enough space in between for easy movement.
- Corner Arrangement: Place the dresser in one corner and the vanity in another to make use of corner spaces effectively.
Side-by-Side Dresser and Vanity Layout
Opposite Walls Dresser and Vanity Layout
Corner Dresser and Vanity Layout
Dressers vs Vanities: Which One to Choose?
Understanding the differences between vanity vs dresser options can help you make an informed decision when choosing bedroom furniture. Dressers provide essential storage for clothes, while vanities offer a dedicated space for personal grooming.
As you consider your needs, measure your space, and choose a style that complements your decor, you can create a functional and stylish bedroom. Whether you need extra storage, a place to get ready, or both, there is a perfect piece of furniture for you.
Shop vanities and bedroom dressers for sale at Local Furniture Outlet.
