The Best Vanity Chairs

Buying Guide

Vanity tables go back centuries, once having been associated with royalty. The basic elements of a vanity table are simple. The vanity table itself provides the surface for setting beauty items like makeup and hairbrushes. A mirror allows you to see what you’re doing. But for shorter vanity tables, you’ll also need a comfortable chair to finish off the look.

You may get ready while standing in front of your bathroom mirror, but vanities do have their benefits. If you’re working on perfecting the perfect smoky eye or pouty lips, being able to sit rather than stand will make the time-consuming process easier. Some vanities are built into bathrooms, but traditionally they were set up in a bedroom or sitting area.

For the type of vanity table designed to have you seated in front of it, it’s important to find a chair that’s the right height. Vanity chairs are usually built for the height of a typical vanity, but you’ll want to measure the dimensions to make sure you’ll be at the height you want.

While comfort is important, many homeowners prioritize having a handy place to store the vanity chair so it won’t be in the way between uses. Many can be slid underneath the table to keep your floor space clear.

• Vanity chairs come in different varieties. You’ll find some that are set up similar to a piano bench but smaller, and often with cushioning for comfort. You’ll also find vanity chairs that have seat backs and even swivel to let you turn to face away from the vanity table if needed.
• Not all vanity chairs are limited to use with your vanity table. Some are versatile enough to be used as a makeshift end table by simply setting a tray on top of it.
• Although you’ll see plenty of chairs that promise comfort, balance that against the importance of having a vanity seat that can easily slide underneath. You may find that comfort isn’t as important as freeing up space.
• The sturdiness of the chair’s legs is important. Some can be wobbly, so you’ll want one with solid legs that are strong enough to support whoever is sitting in the chair.
• Some vanity tables allow you to adjust the height, which will give you a little leeway when you’re looking at dimensions.
• Pay attention to the padding on the bottom of the chair legs. Some have anti-slip pads on the bottom, while others are built to prevent scratching your floors as you move the chair around.