Vanity desks are coveted pieces of furniture for makeup and skincare enthusiasts. Their spacious, sprawling designs are ideal to lay out beauty essentials — from curling wands to eyeshadow palettes — so you can sit and use them in a relaxed, organized space.
There are countless styles of vanity desks, ranging from simple tables to handcrafted sets that come with light-up mirrors and upholstered stools. The George Oliver Westervelt Vanity Set, for example, is a contemporary spin on backstage-inspired makeup vanities of old Hollywood.
What to know before you buy a vanity desk
What is a vanity desk?
A vanity desk is a desk that functions as a self-contained makeup station. In addition to a spacious tabletop for makeup and beauty tools, vanity desks offer plenty of organization with drawers and shelves.
Deluxe vanity desks include mirrors and stools or chairs. While these are popular, some people prefer vanity desks without mirrors so they can use their own. Bathroom mirrors, including the ones featured in the BestReviews buying guide, are often mounted behind vanity desks.
Level of organization
Vanity desks vary the most when it comes to the level of organization. The simplest designs feature one or two large drawers. Certain vanity desks have modular drawer designs that let you adjust compartment configurations. More complex vanity desks typically have a high level of organization with several drawers or shelves.
Vanity desk features
Popular materials
Vanity desks are usually available in manufactured wood, solid wood and metal. Solid wood offers the best aesthetic according to many people; however, it’s usually the most expensive option and requires regular upkeep with wood care products. Manufactured wood is an affordable alternative to solid wood, but it’s known for having a notably shorter lifespan. Several vanity desks have metal components, such as legs, which are generally stable. Metal introduces an industrial vibe, so it’s not ideal for those seeking classic- or vintage-style vanity desks.
Additionally, some high-end vanities are made with expensive tabletop materials like granite or marble. These are well-received for their fine quality, but as expected, they may cost several hundred dollars.
Drawers
Basic vanity desks have at least one or two spacious drawers, whereas more involved designs feature several. Well-made vanities have drawers that open and close smoothly, but lower-quality vanities may have drawers that are prone to popping out of desks.
If you’re not sure whether fewer or more drawers are better in a vanity desk, consider the level of organization you need. Some people prefer several drawers to separate makeup and skincare products. Others are partial to a couple of spacious drawers that accommodate either custom organization or larger beauty tools like flat irons and curling wands.
Mirrors
Several vanity desks come with mirrors, which take the place of separate makeup or bathroom mirrors. Some have adjustable mirrors that offer more than one viewing angle, while others tilt or hinge outward. Certain vanity desks have light-up mirrors that are dimmable — a feature that comes in handy if you’re applying nighttime makeup looks, doing hair removal or styling hair.
Stools
Vanity desks may come with stools that are usually upholstered and share the same aesthetics as the desk. Most of these stools fit beneath the desk to optimize storage.
While many people prefer to invest in a vanity desk and stool set, others may find it’s better to invest in separate seating. Unfortunately, lower-quality vanity desk sets include stools that are unstable, have low weight capacities or feel uncomfortable. Instead, you can invest in a supportive, cushioned stool or low-back chair that coordinates with the vanity desk.
Vanity desk cost
Basic vanity desks with limited organization cost $75-$200. Well-made vanity desks, including those made with premium materials, cost $300 and higher. Handmade vanity desk sets usually cost $500 or more.
Vanity desk FAQ
Will a vanity desk require assembly?
A. Unless you’re buying an expensive or handcrafted vanity desk, be prepared to assemble it yourself. Most vanity desks come with all necessary components and tools, including mini Allen wrenches. You may wish to reinforce the vanity desks with additional components, like washers or longer screws.
How do you keep a vanity desk tidy?
A. One of the easiest ways to keep a vanity desk tidy is by investing in drawer organization, such as a modular bin system. If you can’t store makeup brushes in drawers, keep them in a mug or cup on the desk. Lastly, toss or recycle old makeup and beauty products to cut down on clutter.
Which vanity desk should I get?
Best of the best vanity desk
George Oliver Westervelt Makeup Vanity Set: available at Wayfair
Our take: An elegant design, this vanity set includes all the essentials for a luxurious makeup station with a desk, light-up mirror and stool.
What we like: The set includes a large, dimmable mirror that lets you adjust makeup looks based on lighting level. The desk features two spacious drawers that can hold large heat styling tools and full-size beauty products. Both the desk and stool have solid wood legs.
What we dislike: There are occasional reports that the vanity set was damaged in shipping.
Best bang for your buck vanity desk
GreenForest Glossy White Vanity Desk: available at Amazon
Our take: A simple, versatile design, this vanity desk doesn’t come with a mirror so you can select the ideal one to suit your needs.
What we like: The long, slender desk fits well in corners and tight spaces, including some bathrooms. It has two long drawers that, at 14 inches deep, fit dozens of makeup compacts and beauty tools. The vanity desk has a modern aesthetic with brushed metal legs and a glossy white table top.
What we dislike: A few buyers indicated the vanity desk wasn’t well-constructed and its drawers didn’t open smoothly.
Honorable mention vanity desk
Roundhill Furniture Sanlo Wooden Vanity: available at Amazon
Our take: Those seeking a classic vanity may appreciate this vintage wooden design with fine details.
What we like: The vanity comes with a three-way folding mirror that allows multiple viewing angles. The desk has four drawers and one shelf for flexible organization. It includes an upholstered stool that tucks neatly beneath the desk.
What we dislike: The vanity is somewhat fragile and may sustain cracks or peeling paint after a few months.
Sian Babish is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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