Single Sink vs Double Sink Vanity: How to Decide

The Morning Rush Question

If two people are getting ready at the same time and fighting over one sink, a double vanity sounds like the obvious answer. But it's not always that simple. Before committing to a 60 inch double-sink vanity, you need to consider your bathroom dimensions, your plumbing, and whether you'll actually use both sinks — or just collect clutter on the second one.

This guide breaks it down honestly so you can make the right call.

What Counts as a Single vs Double Sink Vanity?

A single sink vanity has one basin. It can range from 24 inches all the way up to 48 inches wide — the counter space just has no second cutout.

A double sink vanity has two basins. At Modern Vanity, our 60 inch vanity ($1,299 CAD) is our double-sink option — two undermount ceramic sinks, a full quartz countertop, matching backsplash, and a shared cabinet below.

When a Single Sink Vanity Makes More Sense

Your bathroom is under 60 inches wide

A double vanity requires a minimum wall width of about 60 inches — and that's tight. You also need clearance on both sides and enough room to move around. If your primary bathroom wall is 55 inches or under, a single sink is the practical choice. Use our measuring guide to confirm before ordering.

You use the bathroom at different times

Be honest: do you and your partner actually get ready simultaneously, or does one person shower while the other is already downstairs? Many couples who install a double vanity find they still use it one at a time. In that case, you've paid more and used up wall space for a feature that doesn't change your routine.

You want more counter space, not more sinks

A 48 inch single-sink vanity ($999 CAD) gives you a wide counter with one sink — meaning more usable flat surface for hair tools, skincare, and toiletries. Two sinks on a 60 inch counter divide that space, giving each person less room than a single 48" counter would.

Your plumbing is on one side

Adding a second sink means running a second drain and supply line. If your existing plumbing is stubbed in on one side of the wall, extending it to a second sink adds cost and complexity. Factor in the plumber's bill when comparing a single versus double option.

When a Double Sink Vanity Is Worth It

You have kids or a busy household

Two adults plus kids sharing one bathroom in the morning is a real bottleneck. A double sink — or a primary bath with a double vanity — genuinely solves that. This is the scenario where the investment pays off fastest.

Your bathroom can fit it properly

The 60 inch double vanity needs at least 62–66 inches of clear wall space (accounting for trim and door swing), and ideally 30+ inches of floor clearance in front. If your primary bathroom comfortably fits that, go for it.

You're renovating a primary suite

If you're doing a full primary bathroom renovation and the room is a proper size, a double vanity is a worthwhile upgrade — both functionally and for resale. A double-sink primary bath is a selling feature in the GTA market.

Two people have very different routines

One person does a full skincare routine with 12 products on the counter. The other just needs a sink and razor. A double vanity with dedicated counter space for each person eliminates bathroom friction entirely.

The 60 Inch Double Vanity: What You Get

Our 60 inch vanity includes:

• Two undermount ceramic sinks
• Full quartz countertop — Pure White or Carrera
• Matching backsplash
• Shared cabinet with soft-close doors and internal shelving
• All mounting hardware

Available in White, Grey, and Blue. At $1,299 CAD, it's a complete set — no sourcing a matching countertop or second sink separately. Faucets are not included; see our faucet compatibility guide for what works with our sinks.

Storage: Single vs Double

A single 48 inch vanity and a double 60 inch vanity have different cabinet configurations. The double has more total cabinet width, but that space is typically split between two doors with a fixed centre divider — meaning you get two medium compartments rather than one large one. For storing bulky items (hair dryers, large cleaning bottles), a single vanity with one open cabinet can actually be more flexible.

If storage is your primary concern, a single wider vanity might serve you better than a double.

Cost Comparison

The $300 difference is the vanity itself. Add plumbing costs if you're adding a second rough-in, and faucets for both sinks (budget $150–$400 per faucet). Total installed cost of a double vanity is meaningfully higher — make sure the function justifies it for your household.

The Bottom Line

Choose a single sink vanity if: your bathroom is under 60 inches wide, you use the bathroom at different times, or you want maximum counter space over maximum sinks.

Choose a double sink vanity if: your bathroom has the space, two people genuinely get ready simultaneously, or you're renovating a primary suite for resale value.

Browse all sizes at modernvanity.ca/vanities, or read our full Bathroom Vanity Buying Guide for more sizing and planning guidance. Have more questions? Visit our FAQ.