Bathroom Renovation — FAQ
Can I surface-mount a recessed cabinet?
Only if it's explicitly dual-mount. Pure recessed cabinets lack the finished edges and depth for surface mounting. Attempting to surface-mount them exposes raw edges and creates a 2-inch gap between door and wall. The Venlus and both IDYLLOR models support both methods.
What's the standard size for medicine cabinets?
Most bathrooms use 16x24-inch cabinets for single-sink vanities and 20x30-inch for double vanities. Our budget picks max out at 18x28 inches. Measure your available wall space—allow 2 inches of clearance on each side for door swing and trim.
Do budget medicine cabinets come with mirrors?
All tested models except the Houseables include mirrors. Budget doesn't mean mirrorless—our top pick Venlus includes a full 16x24 glass mirror. Mirror quality varies; avoid anything under 1/8-inch thickness to prevent warping and distortion.
How deep should a medicine cabinet be?
Standard depth is 4-5 inches. Deeper cabinets (6+ inches) fit bulk items but protrude awkwardly when surface-mounted. Our tested range spans 4.72 to 5.5 inches. For recessed installs, verify your wall cavity depth—2x4 studs provide 3.5 inches, requiring a shallower cabinet or furring strips.
Are plastic medicine cabinets durable?
ABS plastic cabinets resist moisture better than wood and weigh 60% less than metal, making DIY installation easier. They won't rust but can crack if overtightened. In our tests, plastic models held 30 pounds per shelf—sufficient for medications and light toiletries but not heavy bottles.
Can I install a medicine cabinet myself?
Yes—surface-mounting requires only a drill, level, and stud finder. Recessed installation demands drywall cutting and stud avoidance; it's intermediate-level DIY. Our easiest install was the IDYLLOR plastic at 22 minutes surface-mounted. Always check for electrical wires and plumbing before cutting into walls.
