Explore the world of wash basins!
Selecting the perfect basin for your bathroom can be pretty intimidating given the choices available in the market today. From stainless steel to ceramic, wall-mounted to corner sinks, and more, you can select the bathroom basin that matches your needs, bathroom style, and of course budget!
This article covers some of the basics of wash basins including the materials, proper size, and of course the popular types to choose from!
What’s a Wash Basin?
A wash basin is a type of sink that is commonly added to the bathroom. It often has hot and cold water taps attached to it. Washbasins are used for washing your face, and hands, brushing your teeth or shaving. Wash basins are available in different sizes, styles, colors, and materials. So it is essential to consider these factors into consideration when selecting the one for your bathroom.
Factors to Consider When Selecting The Wash Basin Sink
The ideal basin selection will largely depend on the layout of your bathroom. But you need to consider the following factors as well:
- The Size of your bathroom.
- The location of plumbing fixtures.
- The location of other bathroom fixtures like toilet and shower.
- The Material for the basin.
- The color, design, and style of the basin.
- Your Budget
Best Material For Wash Basin
Ceramics
Ceramics make the most common materials for bathroom basins and include types like fireclay ceramics and vitreous china. What makes this classic sink a popular choice is the availability of different shapes, styles, and budget. Plus they have a strong surface and are super easy to clean and maintain. Ceramic basins are resistant to chipping and scratching and can withstand everyday usage well.
Stone
Stone as a material is usually heavy but makes a luxurious choice for basins. Stone-made basins are pretty durable, renewable and give a natural look to the bathroom. Stone basins are also easy to clean and maintain.
Glass
Glass basins are perfect to add a modern and stylish touch to the bathroom. Plus, these make an ideal choice for bringing maximum light to the space. Glass makes a durable and impact-resistant choice for the basins. Plus, contrary to the common impression, they don’t scratch or stain too.
Metals
Metals like stainless steel and copper give an elegant finish to the basin. These materials are durable and make a perfect choice for adding a modern, contemporary, or rustic look to the bath space. But the metal wash basins may get stains and scratches easily.
Perfect Size For Washroom
There is no standard or average size for the wash basin. The ideal size depends on how much space you have in the bathroom and how you would like the basin to look - color, design, and style-wise!
For example, in a compact bathroom space, you can add a small size basin i.e.round or corner basin. And for fitting a sink in a spacious bathroom, a medium or large-size basin or twin basin style will make an apt choice. Also, for installing a tabletop or countertop basin, consider the size of the vanity unit to ensure it doesn’t look out of space.
Popular Types of Wash Basins
Here are 9 popular types of wash basins to select from:
Full Pedestal Basins
Full pedestal basins make a popular and traditional choice for a wash basin. The basin here is attached to the wall and the pedestal works as a cosmetic feature to hide the pipework. You can select a pedestal basin from various materials, colors and designs!
Half Pedestal Basins
Half or semi-pedestal basins are attached to the walls with a small pedestal that helps hide or camouflage the plumbing. Similar to wall-hung toilets, these basins provide an illusion of extra space and make a great choice for smaller bathrooms.
Wall Hung Basins
Wall-hung basins make a practical space-saving choice for designing a new bathroom. It adds a clean and clutter-free look to the bathroom plus gives an illusion of more space as well. Wall-mounted basins are mostly fitted with ceramic semi-pedestal or a chrome bottle trap underneath. The ceramic half-pedestal wall-hung basins are easy to clean and maintain and give a stylish touch to the bath space.
Countertop Basins
Countertop basins are gaining popularity for modern, contemporary, and minimalistic style bathrooms. Also known as table top basins, vessel basins, or sit-on bowls; these are fitted on top of a bathroom vanity worktop, shelf, or surface and have a tall basin tap or wall-hung basin taps attached to it. Since these are not added for specific purposes like saving bathroom space or fitting into a corner, you can select one from attractive shapes, sizes, designs, and finishes.
Under Counter Basins
Under counter basins are designed to sit flush with the basin or vanity countertop. This adds a seamless look to the bathroom. Undermounted basins are mostly made with marble or stone and allow the counter surface to take the spotlight!
Semi Recessed Basins
Semi-recessed basins are created to use with shelves, ledges or with any chosen bathroom fixture. The front of the semi-recessed basin features a smooth and rounded design and the back is designed to fit into where it is needed to get attached. The final result is the basin appears like a seamless part of the chosen ledge or furniture.
Washstand Basins
Washstand basins have a traditional look to them and are best for creating an illusion of more space in the bathroom. The frame or design of these basins acts as a place to hang the towels and other bathroom accessories. Since the plumbing is exposed in this basin, you need to add a bottle trap to it. The washstand basins are perfect for creating an elegant, vintage or minimalist look in the bathroom.
Corner Basins
As the name suggests, the corner basins feature a design that can make them fit into any corner of any room. Ideal for compact bathrooms or cloakrooms, these basins save a lot of space and make a simple, sleek, and affordable solution. You can select these from popular choices like wall-mounted and floor-standing ones.
Prime Features of a Top-Quality Wash Basin
Consider these key features or characteristics when buying the right type of bathroom basin:
Durability
A quality wash basin should include a durability feature. Choose one that is crafted from quality materials and is apt enough for frequent usage.
Easy Maintenance
Ideally, opt for a wash basin that is easy to clean and maintain. Look for prime features like smooth edges, non-porous surfaces, etc that make it easier to clean it with a cloth and non-abrasive cleaning solvent.
Non-porous Surface
Select the wash basin that has a non-porous surface. A similar type of finish helps remove dirt and clean the surface easily. Non-porous surfaces don’t stain or fade as much as porous materials, which ensures your basin looks new even after regular usage for many years.
Proper Drainage
A good quality wash basin should include a built-in drainage feature. Check for the drainage capability when selecting the basin so that the wastewater and other substances get drained smoothly.
Good Quality Fittings
Ensure that the fittings you plan to add to the wash basin are of high quality. The taps, faucets, water supply pipes, drainage, and end connectors should be fitted properly for better functionality. At the time of installation, make sure that the basin is installed correctly and that there is enough space around the sink for cleaning and other purposes.
Frikly offers a premium collection of sanitaryware, washbasins, and other bathroom accessories that can make your bathroom design efficient and impressive
