How to Install a Bathroom Vanity and Sink

Disconnect the water lines from the valves. You’ll need to catch some water when you disconnect the lines. Use a utility knife to cut the caulk or sealant that connects the sink’s backsplash to the wall.

Remove the screws that hold the bathroom vanity to the wall and pull it out. If you need to repair drywall or repaint any sections of the wall that were damaged when you removed the vanity, this is the time to pick up a putty knife or paint brush and touch up the wall.

Mark out the new position with the width and height of the new bathroom vanity. Use a stud finder to locate and mark the studs within this outline of the vanity. If your new bathroom vanity has a solid back, measure out the position of the pipes on the wall and translate those measurements to the back of the vanity. Cut pipe holes with the correct size hole saw.

Slide your bathroom vanity cabinet into position, lining it up with the marks you made earlier. You can remove the doors from your new vanity to make installation easier, if needed. Check that it’s level and use shims to adjust the height if necessary.

Once the bathroom vanity is level, drill pilot holes into the nearest studs and attach with screws. If you don’t have studs to drill into, you’ll need wall anchors to secure the vanity. Use the correct anchor for your wall. You can find anchors that work for drywall, tile or plaster.

If the bathroom vanity doesn’t come with an attached counter, you can secure t vanity top to the cabinet with a thin bead of caulk. If you removed the vanity doors, reinstall them now.

Apply a bead of caulk along the edge where the backsplash meets the wall. Use a caulk finishing tool or a rubber-or nitrile-gloved finger dipped in water to push the caulk into the gap between the bathroom vanity and the wall.

Install your bathroom faucet according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Our article about how to replace a bathroom faucet gives you general steps for installing the new fixtures. Be sure to put down a rope of plumber’s putty underneath the sink drain ring.

Attach the P-trap to the new sink drain line. Apply plumber’s tape in a clockwise direction before attaching the water valve lines. Attach and tighten your bathroom faucet connections and turn the water valves back on. Test your bathroom faucet and check all the connections for leaks.

There's a lot to consider when shopping for a new bathroom faucet. From sink compatibility and valve type to handle style and finish, there are many factors that make a bathroom faucet the perfect fit. Our bathroom sink faucets recommendations will help you make the best choice.