48" VANITY? YOUR MEDICINE CABINET SHOULD RUN 36"–42" WIDE.
48" Vanity? Your Medicine Cabinet Should Run 36"–42" Wide.
Here's TETOTE's exact pick list for that width range, plus the tools and steps for both surface mount and recessed installation.
Sizing a 48" Vanity Correctly
Keep the cabinet about 2 inches narrower than the vanity below it — roughly 1 inch of clearance on each side. That gap is what lets the door swing a full 90° without catching the wall or a side splash.
6 Cabinets Built for the 36"–42" Range
Real prices at the exact width shown, pulled straight from each product page.
How to Install: Surface Mount vs. Recessed
Surface Mount
Mounts on top of the wall — no cutting requiredMark the wall
Hold the lower bracket level at your desired height — typically 60"–66" from the floor to the top of the mirror, and at least 3" above any faucet. Mark your drill spots.
Secure the bracket
Drill at your marks, insert wall anchors if you're not hitting a wood stud, and screw the lower bracket tightly to the wall.
Hang and lock
Set the cabinet box onto the lower bracket, hold it steady, then slide the upper brackets into the top groove to mark their screw spots. Secure the upper brackets with screws.
Recessed Mount
Sits flush inside the wall cavityPrep the wall
Trace the cabinet body onto the wall and cut the opening, checking first for electrical or plumbing lines. Frame the opening with 2x4s for structural support if needed.
Secure the cabinet
Set the cabinet into the wall opening and screw it directly into the studs through the side panels for a solid, flush fit.
Finish the fit
Adjust the door and shelf clips, then check the reveal around the frame for an even, built-in look before final tightening.
Hardware & Tools You'll Use
Frequently Asked Questions
My vanity is 48" — should I go with 36" or 42"?
Either works within the recommended range, but check your specific layout: a 36" cabinet leaves more clearance on each side, while a 42" cabinet maximizes mirror and storage space. Just keep the cabinet at least 2" narrower than the vanity.
Do I need an electrician for the LED models?
Most LED cabinets ship with a plug-in cord for a standard DIY install, with an optional hardwire connection for a cord-free look — that option typically calls for a licensed electrician.
Can I switch from recessed to surface mount later?
Yes — every cabinet in this guide supports both installation types, so you're not locked in if your plans change or you discover plumbing or wiring inside the wall.
What if my wall doesn't have enough cavity depth for recessed mounting?
Go with surface mount instead. It installs directly on top of the drywall using anchors and doesn't require any wall cavity depth at all.