Sink in the bathroom: types of washbasins + nuances of choosing the best design

Today it is difficult to surprise someone with the technical equipment of a bathroom - the choice of expensive multifunctional equipment exceeds demand. Perhaps this is why more and more attention is being paid to the design of plumbing fixtures.

An ideal bathroom sink should combine visual appeal with high performance. It is important that the washbasin is easy to use for all family members. How to choose plumbing fixtures that meet all of the above requirements?

We will help you resolve this issue. The article provides a detailed classification of sinks, describes the features of using different models, and also gives practical recommendations for choosing the shape, material and style of the washbasin.

Types of bathroom sinks

Choosing the right plumbing fixture is indeed becoming more and more difficult. There are hundreds of magnificent models from well-known brands on the market, and the moderate cost of sinks is not a barrier to purchase. Even in economy class you can find an original and comfortable model.

Let's look at the most common types to get a general idea of ​​the huge range of household sinks, and in particular, the design features of these irreplaceable bathroom interior items.

Selecting a model by installation method

New plumbing fixtures are usually purchased when the decor in the bathroom is completely changed: a major renovation is being carried out or simply refreshing the lining of the walls and floors.

And although the interior of bathrooms is more conservative and is changed less often than the surroundings of a bedroom or living room, from time to time property owners have a desire to update the appliances, decoration, and technical equipment of the bathroom and toilet.

Furniture collections for bathrooms, which also include sanitary ware, are becoming increasingly popular. Items decorated in the same style form a harmonious and complete ensemble

Based on the installation method, sink models for installing washbasins are divided into wall-mounted and floor-mounted.

Wall-mounted types can have different designs:

• mounted model or console;
• half tulip

In fact, they differ only in the nuances of design. For example, a regular wall-mounted model does not have additional masking elements for pipes and a water seal, while the lower part of the half-tulip allows you to hide the connections behind the ceramic base.

It differs from a full-fledged tulip in that the “leg” is also attached only to the wall and ends before reaching the floor.

Wall-mounted models are often used in small bathrooms, when a lack of free space forces every centimeter of space to be saved. A washing machine is usually installed underneath them.

Floor modifications are such only conditionally. This is explained by the peculiarities of their installation: the sinks are still fixed on the wall, just some part - the “leg” of the tulip or pedestal - is placed on the floor. Some manufacturers call floor sinks integrated into furniture (such as “Moidodyr”).

Also, according to the installation method, there are two types of plumbing fixtures:

• built-in - are part of a set and are usually mounted on a bedside table or tabletop;
• autonomous — fixed separately, on special brackets or studs.

Each type has a set of advantages and some disadvantages that relate to the nuances of installation.

As you can see, the diversity of the model range makes you think about the choice. However, in addition to appearance, you should definitely pay attention to the fastening elements. This is especially true for wall-mounted devices mounted in a brick, concrete, aerated concrete or wooden wall.

Heavy sinks are not fixed to thin partitions, however, in exceptional cases, special mounting brackets are hidden inside the false wall - a metal profile or factory installation.

On our website there is a series of articles describing installation technologies for different models of washbasins, we recommend that you read:

1. Bathroom sink with pedestal: installation and connection technology
2. Wall-hung bathroom sink: step-by-step installation instructions
3. Countertop sink in the bathroom: how to choose + installation guide

Classification according to installation location

Most shells can be safely classified as frontal type. This means that they are attached to one wall. They are opposed to corner models, the installation of which requires two walls, that is, a corner. Plumbing fixtures have fundamental differences in installation, although they may look similar in appearance.

Compact corner models, which are often used for installation in a small toilet, can also be installed in the bathroom if frontal fixation is not possible

Previously, the entire range of corner washbasins was reduced to simple, stand-alone white sanitary fixtures, which belonged to the economy class.

Today these are sinks of various shapes, colors and design methods, among which you can find integrated models.Corner solutions with a cabinet are more practical than single bowls suspended on brackets.

Sometimes a regular front-facing sink is installed in a corner using diagonal installation. To do this, use an installation fixed at an angle of 45°. But this solution is only possible for large bathrooms.

Models of washbasins by material of manufacture

The main segment of sanitary equipment is occupied by ceramic products. This is not surprising, since they have a whole range of suitable qualities.

Advantages of ceramic sinks:

• strength and resistance to mechanical damage;
• environmental cleanliness;
• resistance to chemical cleaning agents;
• pleasant appearance;
• model diversity.

Earthenware and porcelain products withstand temperature changes well, are absolutely not hygroscopic, therefore they last for decades and are ideal devices for use in bathrooms.

The disadvantages of ceramics include their relatively heavy weight, which is inconvenient for installation, and the possibility of chipping when hit by a heavy object.

Among the range of bathroom sinks on the market, you can find both economical earthenware products and exquisite porcelain models.

In addition to ceramics, other materials are also used in the production of washbasins: glass, artificial and natural stone, various kinds of polymers, metals and even wood.

Of course, wooden and stone designer sinks are not suitable for an ordinary urban interior. They are chosen by people with incomes who can afford a luxurious interior in the appropriate style.

Ceramic models remain the classic solution, which is why well-known plumbing manufacturers focus on their production. Look original in the bathroom glass sinks - they are appropriate in both a compact and a spacious bathroom.

Design nuances: shape, color, size

If you plunge into the variety of models presented by foreign and domestic companies, you can find absolutely any washbasin. Along with standard classic models, they produce exclusive versions of the most unusual shapes and colors.

Designers have long moved away from traditional shapes - oval and rectangular - and are bringing to the market amazing models with truly fantastic configurations

In addition to snow-white shells, you can find products in all shades of the rainbow, and they can be matte and glossy, plain and patterned, with shiny splashes and even 3D images.

The variety also extends to sizes. Along with compact models with a width of 30 cm, three-dimensional meter-long devices resembling mini-baths are sold. Read more about choosing the right sink size in this article.

In contrast to single modifications, they began to produce double washbasins. Some of them are placed separately on the tabletop, others are a single whole.

There are also paired models of different heights - for families with children or people with disabilities.

Of course, the choice of one model or another is influenced by the interior design as a whole. You cannot install a stainless steel sink in a classic “royal” bathroom or place a painted tulip washbasin among the “cosmic” surroundings. Everything should be selected according to the chosen style or general direction.

Recommendations for defining style

In addition to neutral models that occupy the main sales segment, there are original stylized options on the plumbing market.Most often they are an element of a bathroom set, which usually includes a bathtub and some pieces of furniture.

There are also shells that are a work of art in themselves. These are individual masterpieces that are often made to order and not for large-scale production.

Collectible, stylized bathroom fixtures are the best that the modern market can offer. However, products of original design are distinguished not only by their appearance and high quality, but also by their unaffordable cost for many.

Products from the mid-price segment are also at their best, so if you wish, you can find a retro-style washbasin at a reasonable price.

Modern interiors gravitate towards simpler, uncomplicated content. However, if you wish, you can find models in the Baroque, Rococo, Art Nouveau, Art Deco styles - each of them is good and interesting in its own way.

For lovers of industrial and technical interiors, there are also many interesting proposals made from different materials, so anyone interested in creating an extraordinary environment in the home can find their own bathroom sink.

What factors influence the choice of sink

Before settling on the model you like, you need to find out whether it is suitable in all respects for a particular interior.

The main points that must be taken into account are the following:

• bathroom area;
• wall strength;
• interior design features;
• family wealth.

If at least one of the parameters does not match, you will have to find a more suitable replacement.

As you can see, the range of sinks for equipping washbasins has no limits. Every year, popular manufacturers release new collections that are more comfortable, beautiful and impeccable in all respects.

They focus on all segments of society, so among the many offers you can always find a unique crystal model or an economical earthenware sink.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Interesting models, useful recommendations, interesting ideas for bathroom design are presented in the following video.

Journey into the world of ceramic sinks:

About popular models among users:

Pros and cons of glass models:

Collectible wooden sinks:

Video series of original models:

When choosing a sink you like, try to impartially evaluate both the visual appeal and the technical side. The design must be combined with the impeccable functionality of the washbasin, otherwise the purchase will turn out to be a beautiful but inconvenient piece of equipment.

Also, when choosing, do not forget that the faucet must be combined with the sink in terms of installation method, size and style.

Looking for the perfect sink for your bathroom? Or maybe you have some useful tips on choosing such plumbing equipment? Please leave comments on the article, ask questions and participate in discussions. The contact form is located below.