Shop Products
Houzz Logo Print
webuser_44256442

Where to place outlets in primary bathroom?

HU-44256442
last month

Attached is a photo of my bathroom with outlets that need to be moved. I want to eliminate the middle outlet, and move the outlets by the sinks because right now the faucet handle is right in front of them. I cannot find a stone that matches for backsplash, so I am going to do a tile backsplash using the same black/white tiles that are on the floor (but cut down, so it will look like black/white triangles). I assume I'll make the backsplash 5-6" tall. And then I'll likely be hanging one large mirror above.


So, for the outlets, do I line them up with the sides of the vanity counter, and have them installed low/horizontal so that they are embedded within the tile? I can't do them above the backsplash because that will interfere with mirror. Or, move the left outlet to the left of the vanity counter - but the problem is, if I move the right outlet to the right, it could interfere with the mirror that I plan to hang above my makeup desk. I could probably install the right outlet horizontally and low to the makeup desk (where red arrow is pointing) and still be able to hang mirror above, but the desk is just a standalone desk, and I worry that that could be limiting in the future if I were to replace it for whatever reason. As you can see, I also have an outlet down/right near my makeup desk. (I don't even think I need the one that is on the right above the desk, and mirror might cover it).


My GC suggested two outlets right in the center, but I don't like the look of that. Any help on outlet locations would be much appreciated!





Comments (11)

  • kandrewspa
    last month

    When we remodeled a couple years ago we put the outlets on the sides of the vanity so they were completely hidden. It's not clear to me whether you have enough room to do that on the side next to the lower surface, but it's something for you to consider.

  • mcarroll16
    last month

    I would want at least one outlet between the sinks. That stretch of countertop is where you will want to set hair dryers, curling irons, etc while you using them. Nice not to have the cord stretched across the sink to plug in items. What about 2 outlets in that space? Not centered though. One just to the right of the left faucet handle, one just to the left of the right faucet handle.


  • PRO
    Patricia Colwell Consulting
    last month

    I guess the first step is to check code where you live. Different places have different ones and you need to follow them As for the make up table you will need a plug in probably so leave it and it can hide behind the mirror and only be used when needed .

  • HU-44256442
    Original Author
    last month

    @mcarroll, I’m going to use the outlet to the right of my makeup desk for hair tools. Just wondering the height of outlets and if they should be embedded in tile.


    @kandrewspa I love that idea…I wonder if they can install outlets easily on the sides of the vanity and/or if it’s a significant cost increase…


    code is I need one outlet per sink.

  • HU-44256442
    Original Author
    last month

    also…what if the backsplash is stone, same question re: outlets. I’ve had a hard time finding backsplash - do people like the tile idea? This is the only stone that could *maybe* work because the counter is hard to match (pics below). This black stone is the threshhold for shower. I just thought it was a little harsh, and using the b&w tiles would flow better.





  • kandrewspa
    last month

    DH does our electrical work, so I don't know if there is additional cost for installing outlets in a vanity, but to me it doesn't seem like there should be. It's done with a junction box just like the kind that goes into a wall. But now that you've posted another picture of your vanity showing the left side, I'm not sure you have enough room on that side to be able to use an outlet there.

  • PRO
    BeverlyFLADeziner
    last month
    last modified: last month

    Make a list of what you need outlets for. Here is my list.

    • Hair Dryer
    • Makeup Mirror
    • Water Pik
    • Toothbrush
    • Electric Curlers
    • Electric Brush
    • Electric Shaver






    I'd want a recessed medicine cabinet on the LH side that has an electrical outlet in the cabinet.





    I'd also like the outlets inside the vanity.







  • acm
    last month

    You don't *have* to have a backsplash, especially with a modern look, so you could wait to decide. Or you could just do something neutral like white or a pale gray taken from the counter (or match whatever your wall color will be). I don't know that I'd want a band of dark there.


    My spouse and I like to have soap and toothbrushes in the middle zone (with a hand towel above), so we have pairs of outlets on either end -- there's space to have it above a bit of counter but clear of the faucets, and that's the usual spot. We have a low backsplash, so outlets are above. You basically have to see whether having them above your backsplash would feel too high; code may require them up a bit anyway, for safety, and it's convenient if you don't have to worry about cutting the backsplash.

  • mtvhike
    last month
    last modified: last month

    Why can't you use the same material as the counter top for the backsplash?

    A suggestion: put a receptacle above any tall cabinet you might have to place chargers for toothbrushes, etc. (as long as you can reach that spot). It keeps the counter clutter down.

  • eld6161
    27 days ago

    For a hall bathroom, we installed outlets on either dude of the sink, a single.

    I realized that i sometimes need two hot tools to dry my hair they don't fit in one outlet.

    So, like suggested, figure out your needs. Pretend you are getting ready for the day.

  • mtvhike
    27 days ago

    What do you mean "they don't fit"? The plug is too big for a double receptacle? How much current do your tools use? You might need two receptacles on two circuits.