7 Bathroom Vanity Colors Designers Hope to Never See Again

Whether you’re undergoing a major renovation or just refreshing your bathroom vanity with a new coat of paint, staying on top of the latest trends can help guide your decisions. According to designers, natural colors and finishes are making a big comeback, while cold, artificial finishes are being left behind. Think of avoiding gray wood stains, high-gloss finishes, and sterile white tones.

Ultimately, personal style matters most—if you love it, it doesn’t matter if it’s “out of style.” However, if you’re aiming to update your vanity to match current trends, here are seven outdated bathroom vanity colors designers recommend you avoid.

Bright White
Bright white vanities were all the rage in the 2010s during the all-white-everything era, symbolizing minimalism and cleanliness. Today, though, they can give off a cold, clinical vibe, according to interior designer Elizabeth Drake. Instead, try warmer whites or creamy off-whites for a softer, more modern feel that brings a calm, inviting atmosphere to your space.

Gray
Gray had a major surge in popularity in the 2000s and 2010s, appearing everywhere from flooring to furniture and even bathroom vanities. However, designers now say that gray’s time has passed. That said, not all grays are out of style. Cool-toned grays and gray wood stains are what should be avoided, but warmer gray shades like greige and mushroom are still trending.

Cherry Wood Stains
Cherry wood stains are widely regarded as outdated, with designers agreeing that they no longer belong in modern bathrooms. Once a staple in traditional design, these reddish finishes were popular in the ’90s but are now considered old-fashioned. As Drake suggests, lighter woods like oak or maple bring a much brighter, welcoming feel to a bathroom.

Orange-Toned Finishes
Orange-toned finishes—whether in paint or wood stains—are also on their way out. These hues now appear artificial and dated, says interior designer Caroline Kopp. To stay on trend, opt for natural wood finishes or muted colors in soft, cool tones like blues or earthy greens for a fresh look.

High-Gloss Black
Once considered sleek and modern, high-gloss black vanities are now deemed outdated and impractical. Not only do they appear dated, but their glossy finish also shows fingerprints easily, making them high-maintenance. For a modern, high-contrast look, consider a satin or eggshell black finish or incorporate black in other design elements, such as walls, fixtures, or countertops, paired with natural wood accents for a timeless feel.

Dark Brown Espresso Finishes
Espresso wood finishes are also past their prime, as their heavy, almost opaque appearance can make the vanity feel overly artificial. Lighter wood tones are popular, but if you prefer darker finishes, opt for rich, chocolatey hues like walnut or teak. The key to keeping dark wood modern is allowing the wood grain and texture to remain visible, giving the piece a more natural and authentic look.

Dusty Pinks
Dusty pinks and mauves, often gray-toned, are another outdated choice for bathroom vanities. Once a trend in the ’90s, these shades now feel outdated. Instead, opt for warmer, softer pinks or even subtle, barely-there pinks for a sophisticated and more mature take on the color.