Best Makeup Vanities

Picture this: You’re rushing to get ready for a dinner or event and run into the bathroom to do your hair and makeup. Much to your dismay, you find a hopeless pile of eyeshadows, brushes, and tangled necklaces on your counter that seems impossible to sift through. Looks like you’re going to be late!

This is where a makeup vanity—a dedicated space that offers organization and sanctuary—proves its usefulness. Makeup vanities are a popular solution for the storage of makeup, hair and skin products, and beauty tools and brushes. It can be a luxurious haven where you prepare for the day or complete your nightly skincare routine without taking up valuable bathroom space.

There are so many variations and choices when it comes to makeup vanities that picking the perfect one may seem a difficult feat. Narrowing down your preferences is the first step, followed by learning about makeup vanity materials, features, and pricing.

Makeup vanities aren’t just for adults. A small makeup vanity may blend in with your child’s bedroom furniture nicely, providing a place for self-care items separate from the family bathroom.

What to think about when choosing the best makeup vanity

Location and size

The amount of space you have dictates the size of makeup vanity you can accommodate. Most people place their makeup vanity in a bedroom, bathroom, or closet. The ideal spot for a makeup vanity is against a wall or in an out-of-the-way corner where you have enough room to accomplish your goals. Dimensions vary; some makeup vanities are simple and compact while others are roomy and grandiose. The larger your makeup vanity’s dimensions, the more storage space it likely affords.

Volume of items

If you own a large quantity of makeup and beauty products, consider a large makeup vanity with lots of table space, drawers, and shelves. If your beauty stash is minimal, a small makeup vanity may be your best choice.

Vanity styles and materials

There are a few different makeup vanity styles, each unique in design. These are the most popular:

• Traditional vanity: Traditional makeup vanities are typically made of wood such as pine, teak, or mahogany. The wood may be varnished, painted, or carved. You can also find some newer styles made of manufactured wood.
• Tri-fold mirror vanity: Tri-fold mirror vanities feature three mirrors: a single mirror in the center and two side mirrors. This classic style is attractive and functional, with the angles of the side mirrors providing an enhanced view. Tri-fold makeup vanities may be made of wood, manufactured wood, or durable plastic.
• Modern vanity: Modern or contemporary makeup vanities are styled to be minimalistic, clean, and sometimes even edgy. They have creative lines and angles and often include subtle yet useful additional features. Makeup vanities with a modern or contemporary style may consist of painted manufactured wood, metal, durable plastic, or thick glass. The tabletop may be made of granite or quartz, which can be pricey.

Features of makeup vanities

Mirrors and lights

One of the most prominent features of a makeup vanity is its mirror. Makeup vanity mirrors vary in size and shape but most often come as circles, ovals, or rectangles. Some mirrors have lights lining the perimeter. A well-lit makeup vanities enhance visibility and convenience.

Drawers

The drawers of your makeup vanity are important for storage purposes. Smaller makeup vanities usually boast at least two drawers, while larger vanities may have up to 10 drawers. If you have a lot of beauty items, consider something with ample drawer space.

Tabletop shelves

One of the most useful parts of a makeup vanity is its tabletop, which serves as the workspace where you place makeup and hair tools. It’s also a good place for decorations, pictures, or other items you’d like to keep within your immediate reach. Some makeup vanities feature lifting tabletops that reveal even more storage space underneath.

Large makeup vanities may have shelves for additional space and organization. Shelves are typically situated on either side of the mirror and are great for storing perfumes, lotions, small cloths, and other items.

Stools and chairs

Many makeup vanities include a matching stool or chair. This is a necessary element because you need to sit comfortably as you do your makeup and use your tools. Oftentimes, the stool or chair is small enough to slide underneath the tabletop when not in use. If for some reason your vanity doesn’t include a seat, you could purchase a vanity stool separately that complements what you already have.

Electrical outlets

Some makeup vanities have electrical outlets and even USB ports built in. These are most often built into contemporary makeup vanities with newer designs. Electrical outlets and USB ports are useful for those who want to charge their devices or plug in hair tools. Vanities with these additions are more expensive, so if you don’t want to pay the extra cost, consider adding your own power strip for easy access to an electrical outlet.

Push your stool or chair under your makeup vanity when it’s not in use. This saves space and eliminates a tripping hazard.

Items you might store in a makeup vanity

The options for what you choose to keep in your makeup vanity are endless, and ultimately, it’s up to you. You may even decide to keep a secret snack stash in one of the drawers! Here are some of the most common items found in makeup vanities:

• Curling iron
• Hair dryer
• Makeup
• Lotion
• Hairbrush

Makeup vanity prices

Inexpensive

The most affordable makeup vanities cost anywhere from $100 to $300. These are smaller in size with only a few drawers and shelves. They are primarily made from manufactured wood, which is much cheaper than real wood and widely available. The style in this price range varies but is often modern.

Mid-range

Mid-range makeup vanities cost between $300 and $900. These are larger models made from higher-quality materials such as metal, glass, or wood. Expect to see more features here, like a greater number of drawers and shelves and lights or built-in outlets. Tri-fold mirror vanities and vintage makeup vanities are often found in this price range.

Expensive

The most expensive makeup vanities cost greater than $900. These are the largest in size and made from high-quality wood or manufactured wood that has been painted or layered with additional materials. They often feature more luxurious materials like glass, stainless steel, granite, and quartz.

Tips

• Utilize drawer organizers or small containers to minimize clutter. Store small items in boxes, containers, or other organizers so you can easily find them.
• Consider placing a standing jewelry organizer on your vanity table top. This is not only a great way to organize jewelry, but it also allows for easy access and visibility to your jewelry choices.
• Keep skin products separate from hair accessories and tools. Store lotions, serums, and masks in their own area. The same goes for hair products. This is a hygienic way of storing beauty items.

Avoid placing makeup vanities made of pure wood in your bathroom or near a window that gets a lot of sunlight. The wood could easily warp or become otherwise damaged by shower steam and sunlight.

FAQ

Q. How can I style my makeup vanity?

A. Decorate your vanity’s tabletop with a small vase of flowers, decorative branches, or plants. You can also use perfume bottles, framed photos, or small knick knacks to enhance the aesthetic of your vanity.

Q. How should I clean my makeup vanity?

A. You can likely dust or clean the surface with a microfiber cloth. Use paper towels and glass cleaner to remove dust and smudges from the mirror.

Q. Are makeup vanities worth the cost?

A. Many makeup vanities are designed to provide helpful storage without taking up too much floor space. While they can be pricey, there are makeup vanities for those on a budget, and if you have lots of makeup and accessories, it can prove to be a worthwhile investment.