When you think of a classic bathroom, chances are you picture your grandma’s house, complete with a sturdy medicine cabinet tucked above the sink. Can’t you just smell it? These cabinets weren’t just for storage of ancient remedies; they were permanent fixtures, built right into the walls of older homes and designed to last for generations.
Today’s medicine cabinets still serve the same essential purpose, offering convenient storage and keeping bathrooms organized, but now they come in a variety of styles, sizes, and features to fit modern needs. Whether you’re looking for a sleek recessed model, a simple surface mount option, or a lighted cabinet that brightens up your morning routine, choosing the right medicine cabinet can transform the look and functionality of your bathroom.
From classic, no frills, budget-friendly options, to the bougiest medicine cabinets money can buy, we’ll walk you through the different types of bathroom medicine cabinets available, key features to look for, and tips for picking the perfect one for your space.
Types of Medicine Cabinets
Recessed Medicine Cabinets
A recessed medicine cabinet is installed directly into your wall, creating a flush, built-in look. This option offers a streamlined, space-saving solution ideal for modern bathrooms. Installation requires cutting into drywall and securing the cabinet between wall studs, so it’s best planned during renovations or with professional help. The clean appearance of recessed cabinets can make small bathrooms feel more spacious and organized.
Surface Mount Medicine Cabinets
If you’re looking for easier installation, a surface mount medicine cabinet is the way to go. Mounted directly onto the wall, it doesn’t require any complex construction. Surface mount cabinets come in a wide range of styles, from frameless, minimalist designs to classic framed options, and can be purchased online for less than $50 to more than $500. They’re perfect for quick updates or when wall structure changes aren’t practical. Check out The Spruce’s guide to 2025’s best medicine cabinets!
Corner Medicine Cabinets
Corner medicine cabinets are designed to maximize underused space, making them ideal for compact or oddly shaped bathrooms. These smart solutions help free up wall and counter space while still offering a bit of storage. Choose designs that complement your overall bathroom decor to maintain a cohesive look. But don’t overthink it–when in doubt, opt for a frameless, mirrored medicine cabinet that fits the space and serves the purpose.
Key Features to Consider
Mirror Options
Many medicine cabinets with mirrors feature full mirrored doors, providing both functionality and a sense of spaciousness. Some offer partial mirror designs for a more decorative appeal. A mirrored cabinet can double as a vanity mirror, perfect for grooming and getting ready.
Lighting Features
Lighted medicine cabinets combine storage with illumination, often featuring LED or traditional bulb options. LEDs are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and provide bright, even lighting – great for makeup application or shaving. Some advanced models even offer dimming or color temperature controls for a custom lighting–and selfie!–experience.
Material and Finish Options
Choose from wood, metal, or composite materials based on your bathroom’s style and needs. Popular finishes include classic white, sleek black, and trendy gold or brass accents. In humidity-prone bathrooms, more water-resistant materials like metal or high-quality treated wood can offer greater longevity than basic composites, like MDF or particleboard, which may warp over time.
Storage and Organization
Wondering how much you can fit? Interior configurations vary widely, but the experts at Lowe’s say standard dimensions are 24 inches wide by 30 inches tall and 4 inches deep. Some models include built-in organizers, baskets, or magnetic strips for smaller items. You’ve also got the option for either fixed or adjustable shelving. Look for a layout that fits your daily essentials while keeping your bathroom clutter-free. It’s not supposed to double as your bathroom’s complete storage solution; aim for a piece that can accommodate any daily meds or vitamins, shaving needs, and toothbrush and toothpaste.
Style Guide
Modern Medicine Cabinets
Think clean lines, frameless designs, and integrated lighting. Modern bathroom medicine cabinets are all about simplicity and function, often blending seamlessly into contemporary spaces.
Vintage and Antique Medicine Cabinets
For a touch of nostalgia, consider vintage-style cabinets featuring intricate details, distressed finishes, or even scour the internet for an antique find to bring a timeless charm to your space.
Specialized Designs
Your bathroom’s mirror has the potential to be a showpiece. While certainly pricier than a utilitarian medicine cabinet, unique shapes like arched, round or even wavy medicine cabinets add personality. If you need serious storage, large medicine cabinets are perfect for family bathrooms, offering multiple compartments and wider mirrors.
Bells and Whistles
Want a medicine cabinet that can do it all? While we haven’t found one that will handle your nightly routine when you’re too tired, there are some with pretty cool features. This luxury line from robern has sleek, dimmable interior and exterior lighting, built in USBs, an electrical outlet, a defogger, and even an audio option!
Installation Guide
Installing a medicine cabinet depends on its style.
- Recessed cabinets require cutting and framing within the wall, making professional installation a good idea unless you’re experienced with drywall and carpentry.
- Surface mount cabinets are simpler — typically requiring only screws and wall anchors.
- Basic tools include a drill, level, measuring tape, and mounting hardware. Always check for plumbing or electrical lines before installation!
Brand Highlights
Quality matters when selecting a medicine cabinet. Brands like Robern, Kohler, and Jensen are known for their craftsmanship, innovative features, and durable designs. Expect a wide range of styles and prices, from affordable essentials to luxury collections like the Kohler Verdera line, featuring cutting-edge lighting and smart storage solutions.
Buying Guide
Before buying, measure your available wall space and consider door swing and cabinet depth. Think about how much storage you need based on your household size and daily habits.
Set a budget that balances quality and affordability. Whether you’re shopping at IKEA, Wayfair, Lowe’s, or specialty retailers, there’s a medicine cabinet that fits your style and space needs.
FAQs
What’s the difference between recessed and surface mount medicine cabinets?
- Recessed cabinets are built into the wall for a seamless look; surface mount cabinets are attached to the wall’s surface.
Will the mirrored doors break easily?
- Even contractor-grade medicine cabinets on the lower end of the price spectrum come with soft-close hinges these days. Many older mirrors run the risk of breaking, but newer models are engineered with more resilient, anti-shatter glass.
How do I install a medicine cabinet?
- Surface mount cabinets are easier to install yourself, while recessed cabinets often require professional help. Check out this video from Home Depot for an in-depth guide.
Can I replace my bathroom mirror with a medicine cabinet?
- Absolutely! Many people swap a plain mirror for a mirrored medicine cabinet to add storage without sacrificing style.
What are the benefits of a lighted medicine cabinet?
- Lighted cabinets improve visibility, enhance bathroom aesthetics, and often feature energy-efficient LED lighting.
How do I organize my medicine cabinet efficiently?
- Use adjustable shelves, organizers, and small baskets to separate everyday items from occasional-use products.
Choosing the right medicine cabinet can completely transform your bathroom, giving you better storage, better lighting, and a more organized start to every day.
Ready to upgrade? Explore a wide range of medicine cabinets, from recessed to surface mount designs, and find the perfect fit for your bathroom makeover today! Not sure where to start with your custom bathroom mirrors? We’re ready to help you!