Bathroom Sideboards: Dimensions, Solutions, and Ideas

October 7, 2025

A bathroom sideboard is a mid-height storage unit specially designed for the bathroom climate with sealed edges and moisture-resistant surfaces.

A well-planned sideboard provides essential bathroom storage for towels, cosmetics, and toiletries without overwhelming the room visually. Successful self-assembly and long-term durability depend on matching dimensions, the right choice of materials, and proper installation.

Dimensions and Room Planning: Finding the Right Size

Bathrooms frequently have a restricted floor plan. Therefore, the depth of the unit is the most critical factor. A narrow sideboard with a depth of 30 cm or 35 cm deep is ideal for long, narrow bathrooms or alcoves next to the washing machine. If more space is available, a carcase that is 45 cm deep offers considerably more volume for bulky terrycloth towels.

When it comes to width, the measurement depends on the available wall area. Common compact models are 70 cm wide, 75 cm wide, or 80 cm wide. For spacious family bathrooms, a unit that is 100 cm wide or 110 cm wide provides ample storage surface for multiple people. Those looking to explore various formats will find numerous variations among chests of drawers and sideboards.

Materials and Fittings for Damp Rooms

The bathroom is the ultimate climate test environment in any home – constant shifts between warm steam and cool draughts demand robust materials. The carcase is typically made from chipboard or MDF, which must be melamine-coated. When assembling, ensure that the edge banding (often 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm thick) is undamaged so that moisture cannot penetrate the core board.

Furniture hardware must also withstand this environment:

Hinges: A concealed cup hinge (usually with a 35 mm drilling diameter) holds doors securely. An integrated soft-close mechanism (damping) prevents doors from slamming loudly.
Drawers: For cosmetics, a full-extension runner is recommended because the drawer extends 100%, keeping the rearmost area fully accessible. A single-extension runner only opens the interior to about 75%.
Legs: Height-adjustable furniture legs made of plastic or aluminium protect the carcase from standing water on tiled floors.

Tools and Preparation for Assembly

Self-assembling a sideboard is generally manageable for DIY enthusiasts within one to two hours. Prepare the following tools beforehand:

Cordless screwdriver with matching bits (typically PZ or PH for cross-head screws)
Wooden mallet for knocking in dowels
Spirit level for levelling the carcase
Impact drill and masonry drill bits (6 mm or 8 mm) for wall mounting

Important: Always secure mid-height furniture to the wall using an anti-tip bracket, especially when multiple drawers might be pulled out simultaneously.

Visual Solutions and Colour Concepts

Beyond functionality, the surface finish defines the impact on the room. White furniture looks hygienic and visually expands smaller rooms. To add accents, choose darker shades. An anthracite sideboard or a matt black sideboard provides a bold contrast against light bathroom tiles. Material combinations such as black-and-white or wood decors (e.g. Wotan oak) also bring warmth to tiled interiors.

For a particularly low-maintenance and easily wipeable front, high-gloss sideboards are a practical option, as water droplets run off smooth surfaces effortlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a standard sideboard in the bathroom?

Yes, provided the edges are neatly sealed and no raw board cores are exposed. Maintaining sufficient ground clearance (using furniture legs) is essential to avoid damage from mopping water. Regular ventilation is a requirement. Those planning on a budget can choose cost-effective sideboards and upgrade them with suitable replacement furniture legs.

What depth is ideal for compact bathrooms?

For very narrow rooms, a depth of 30 cm to 35 cm is optimal. This preserves clearance to move around while easily accommodating toiletries and rolled towels.

How should I care for melamine-coated bathroom units?

Wipe away water splashes promptly after showering with a dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaning agents, as these can scratch the protective surface layer.