Bathroom sinks

The bathroom sink is often the most used item in the bathroom, they are often central and stand out.  So it is important that you get your sink choice correct.

Fish tank sink

There is more to a sink than personal hygiene and they can provide the focal point for the whole bathroom, so make sure it is in keeping with your overal design. It would not be over estimating the sinks importance to say that many designs are based on the bathroom sink.

As with other bathroom fixtures they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but there are four main types:

Pedestal sinkPedestal - This is the most common type because of its pracicality in use and installation.  The sink rests upon a horseshoe shaped column that acts as a support and conceals the plumbing behind.  The sink can take a circular, oval, rectangular or semi circle shape and is approximately 60cm wide.  The column and sink are usually shaped to match other fittings such as the toilet that are often bought as a set.

Vanity sinkVanity - Bathroom vanity sinks offer a range of sink sizes with the bonus of resting on or being sunk in to a cabinet which provides storage.  Vanities can be wall hung or freestanding but are often part of fitted bathroom units.

Corner ensuite sinkCloakroom or En Suite - These sinks are often chosen as a space saving option, as they are smaller yet functional.  They can be sunk in to unit, freestanding or corner fitting providing versatility with function.

Wall mounted sinkWall hung sinks - Simply sinks that are fixed to the wall.  They have the bonus of freeing up floor space but you need to be clever or not fussy about the pipe work.  Make sure that the wall fixings can take the load as well, sinks a heavy especially when filled with water.

Other considerations other than size or type includes the materials the sink is made from, how many do you need and how the taps will fit. 

Ceramic is by far the most popular and user friendly of materials as they are durable and easy to clean.  Glass and metal sinks can look amazing but often require more cleaning.  Stone is very expensive but marble and granite do look amazing.  Wood is also becoming popular due to its natural look and softer surface which reduces breakages.

If you have a bathroom large enough then it might save time and arguements by fitting two or double sinks, rather than having to form a queue in the morning.  Finally consider the taps; most sinks will have a whole to cater for taps but make sure once in they fit the surround.  You don't want to bashing your hand in to the wall every time you need to turn the tap on.

For more information on taps look at our bathroom taps section.