Searching for the perfect basin for your bathroom is a very important decision and with so many to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming to say the least. But as you can probably guess, we are a huge fan of basins and helping people find the right option for their space! So, to help you make your life easier, we've put together this guide to bathroom basins.
Have an idea about what you're looking for already? Jump to the sections of this article using the links below.
Choosing a Bathroom Sink
Bathroom Sink Materials
Bathroom Sink Sizes
Types Of Bathroom Sink
How Do I Choose A Bathroom Sink?
The right bathroom sink for your home will largely depend on the layout of your current bathroom. There are a few key things you'll need to consider:
- The size of your bathroom.
- The location of other fixtures such as your toilet and shower.
- The location of your existing basin plumbing.
- How you want your sink to look.
- Budget
What is The Best Material For a Bathroom Sink?
Ceramics
The most common material for a bathroom sink is going to be ceramic. This includes fireclay ceramics and vitreous china.
Ceramic sinks are popular as they are available in many different shapes and are easy to clean. With high demand for this type of sink, you'll be able to find ceramic sinks at a variety of different price points to suit any budget.
Solid Surface
Solid surface basins are distinguishable by their clean lines and lack of seams. They have a modern, minimalist look and are also very easy to keep clean.
Metal Finishes
Basins can also be constructed from metals including stainless steels and aluminium. These striking finishes can really help your bathroom stand out from the crowd and will look great if you want to create a modern space. However, it should be noted the striking finishes of these sinks do need some extra care to continue looking their best.
What Size Bathroom Sink Do I Need?
There is no real standard or average size for a bathroom sink. The size you need will be dependent on how much space you have in your bathroom and how you want your basin to look.
If you're fitting a basin in a cloakroom, you'll want something small & compact. If you're fitting a sink in a large family bathroom, you'll have a much greater range of sizes to choose from. If you're looking to install a countertop basin, pay close attention to the size of your vanity unit to ensure the basin will fit.
Types Of Bathroom Basin
If you've made a decision about the style of basin you're looking for then the links below will offer up some more information, plus our experts here at Drench have highlighted their recommended products for each basin type.
Full Pedestal Basins
Semi Pedestal Basins
Wall Hung Basins
Countertop Basins
Wash Stand Basins
Corner Basins
Semi Recessed Basins
Inset Basins
Cloakroom Basins
Let's explore each type in more detail.
Full Pedestal Basins
Full pedestal basins are very popular in the UK. The basin is attached to the wall with these basins and the pedestal is only there for cosmetic reasons to hide the pipework. As they are a popular style you will have a great selection of different designs to choose from.
Semi Pedestal Basins
Another popular basin type, semi pedestal basins attach to the wall with a pedestal to hide the plumbing. Like a wall hung toilet, these basins give the illusion of extra space so are great for smaller bathrooms.
Wall Hung Basins
Wall mounted basins are a great space saving tool when fitting a new bathroom. Because they aren't touching the floor they create an illusion of greater space in your bathroom, and help to make it less cluttered. Wall mounted basins are usually fitted with either a chrome-plated bottle trap underneath, or with a matching white ceramic semi-pedestal. The latter has become increasingly popular because it is easier to keep clean than a polished chrome bottle trap, whilst still giving a stylish wall-hung look.
Countertop Basins
Also known as vessel basins or sit-on bowls, countertop basins are often the choice of the contemporary or minimalistic bathroom design. It usually sits on top of a worktop or shelf and is paired with a tall basin tap or wall mounted basin taps. Since countertop basins are not built for a distinct purpose, such as saving space or fitting into a corner, they are available in all sorts of stunning shapes, sizes, finishes and designs.
Wash Stand Basins
Usually traditional in design, wash stand basins are a great way to create the illusion of extra space in your bathroom. With a frame that doubles as a place to hang your towels, they will help you create an elegant, minimalist bathroom. As the plumbing is exposed on this basin type, you will need to purchase a bottle trap.
Corner Basins
Just as the name suggests, the corner basin has been designed to fit into a right angle corner in almost any room. They are ideal for cloakrooms or smaller bathrooms where the only available space is in the corner of the room. Available in both wall-mounted and floor standing forms, the corner basin is a practical and affordable solution for your space.
Semi Recessed Basins
Semi-recessed basins are crafted for use with ledges, shelves or with coordinating bathroom furniture. The front of the basin usually has a smooth and rounded edge with the reverse specifically cut to fit easily into where it’s needed to sit. The end result is that the basin looks like a seamless part of the furniture. These basins are available in a wide selection of different sizes and shapes.
Cloakroom Basins
Cloakroom basins are a fantastic space saving solution for the smaller toilet or guest bathroom. Usually consisting of a 1 or 2 tap hole basin and a half pedestal or chrome bottle trap, the cloakroom basin is a perfect choice if you’re a bit short for space. As this basin type is smaller, you will need to pair it with a smaller basin tap to all you to comfortably wash your hands.
Ready to start shopping for your dream bathroom basin? Visit our basins & sinks page here where you'll find our full range of products from leading brands and handy filters on the left hand side to help you find the right options. If you're still not sure which basin is right for your and your bathroom, we're happy to help you. You can reach us via Live Chat or email or speak to us on the phone by following the links our Help Hub page.
