Types of Wash Basin – A Complete Guide for Modern Bathroom

Choosing the right wash basin or sinks is an important part of creating a bathroom that works well and looks good. It might seem like a small detail, but you use it every day—for washing your hands, brushing your teeth, and more. That’s why it should be easy to use and the right size for your bathroom.

These days, wash basins come in so many styles and designs. You’ll find everything from fancy countertop basins that add a modern touch to simple wall-mounted ones that are great for saving space. Whether you like a stylish, modern look or prefer something more traditional, knowing the different types of basins can help when choosing the right one for your bathroom.

This guide will walk you through the popular basin designs and help you find one that fits your home and style.

12 Different Types of Wash Basin Designs

1. Wall-Mounted Wash Basins

Wall-mounted wash basins are like magic sinks that float on your wall! They're great for small bathrooms because they don't sit on the floor. These types of wash basins will make your bathroom feel bigger. It's also super easy to clean the floor under them. You can even decide how high up you want it. If you like a simple & modern style, you might like these types of basins!

2. Countertop Wash Basins

Countertop wash basins are like the cool, stylish stars of the bathroom!  They sit right on top of your bathroom counter, kind of like a fancy bowl. You can find them in so many different shapes, sizes, & what they're made of. So, you can pick one that shows off what you like.

Do you want a smooth, round one? Or maybe a sharp, square one? It's up to you! Just keep in mind that you'll need a taller water tap to go with these. These types of basins stand out!

Also Read: Difference Between Wall Mount and Table Top Washbasin

3. Inset (Drop-in) Wash Basins

Inset wash basins are like the friendly neighbors of the sink world – they fit right into a hole in your countertop and just show a little edge around the top. This makes everything look smooth & neat.

These types of wash basins are really useful and easy to wipe clean because there aren't any tricky corners. If you want a sink that's dependable & looks good, this is a great pick for any bathroom.

4. Undermount Wash Basins

Want a super sleek and sophisticated look? Undermount basins are your answer! These sinks are put in under your countertop. So, when you look at the counter, it looks like one flat surface that goes right into the sink. This makes cleaning very easy – you can just push water or crumbs straight into the sink! Also, these types of wash basins help show off how pretty your countertop is.

5. Pedestal Wash Basins

The pedestal sink has its own support, like a single pillar holding it up. These types of wash basins have one leg holding them up. The sink itself sits on top of that leg. The leg makes it look nice & also hides the pipes. You can find these sinks looking very fancy or very simple. They look good in a bathroom, but you don't have any space on the sides to put your soap.

6. Semi-Pedestal Wash Basins

Can't decide between a wall-mounted & a pedestal? Semi-pedestal basins give you the best of both worlds! They hang on the wall but have a shorter cover (the shroud) that hides the pipes without touching the floor. This different type of wash basin gives you a cleaner look than a standard wall-mounted one while still keeping things airy.

7. Corner Wash Basins

Got a tiny or oddly shaped bathroom? Corner basins are your superhero! They fit right into the corner of your bathroom. This is really smart because it uses space that might otherwise be wasted.

You can hang them on the wall or with their own stand. These types of wash basins might be a bit smaller, but they are super helpful for making the most of a small bathroom.

8. Integrated Wash Basins

Imagine your wash basin & countertop becoming one smooth piece! That's the magic of integrated basins. They're molded together, usually from materials like solid surface or acrylic. This different type of wash basin looks super modern, is incredibly easy to clean & there are no annoying little gaps where dirt can hide.

Also Read: Small Wash Basin Ideas for Compact Spaces

9. Farmhouse Wash Basins

These types of wash basins add a rustic charm to your bathroom. Butler sinks, or farmhouse basins, are deep & rectangular with an exposed front.

While they’re typically used in kitchens, smaller versions for bathrooms are becoming more popular for a unique & stylish look. This type of basin definitely adds character!

10. Vanity Units with Integrated Basins

Need storage? Vanity units are your best friend! They combine a wash basin with cabinets or drawers underneath. Many come with an integrated basin, making everything look seamless & organised. This different type of wash basin is super practical for keeping all your bathroom essentials tucked away.

11. Double Wash Basins

Sharing a bathroom? Double basins are a game-changer! Two separate sinks side-by-side mean no more elbowing each other during the morning rush! You can find double basins in countertop, inset, & undermount styles. These types of wash basins are a must-have for busy households.

12. Slimline Wash Basins

For the tiniest of spaces, slimline basins are the answer. They have a shallow depth, making them perfect for cloakrooms or small ensuites. They often have a sleek & simple design. This different type of wash basin proves that even small spaces can be stylish & functional.

What Your Wash Basin is Made Of (The Material Magic!)

The material of your wash basin is super important for how it looks, how long it lasts, & how easy it is to clean. Let's peek at some popular choices:

●     Classic Ceramic (Porcelain & Fireclay): Ceramic is the most-used material for wash basins. It's strong & water/stain-proof. Plus, these types of wash basins are not too expensive.

●     Luxurious Stone (Granite, Marble, Travertine): If you like a natural & fancy look, stone sinks are beautiful. Every stone sink has its own special look. You just need to be a bit careful with them to keep them looking nice.

●     Cool Glass: Glass sinks can give your bathroom a modern & cool look. They are available in various colours. Also, these types of wash basins are smooth. Hence, they're easy to wipe clean. You need to ensure to be gentle with them, so they don't chip.

●     Strong Steel: Stainless steel sinks are good if you want a modern, strong look. They're easy to clean & won't rust or get too hot.

●     Easy-Clean Acrylic & Solid Surface: These are smooth materials that don't soak up water & are easy to wipe clean. They can also be made into smooth, all-in-one designs. Plus, they aren't too heavy, and you can usually fix small scratches. 

●     Factory-Style Concrete: If you like a rough, simple look like in a factory, concrete sinks are good. These types of wash basins are strong, but they can drink up liquids, so you might need to put a special cover on them.

Matching Your Basin's Look (The Finish Factor!)

The way your wash basin looks on the outside is like the last little detail that makes everything in your bathroom look good together. Think about the other metal things, like your water tap & shower. Do you want them to look the same?

●        Shiny Glossy: This is very common on ceramic sinks. It shines & reflects light, & it's easy to wipe clean.

●        Soft Matte: If you want a more modern & quiet look, matte finishes are good. You can find them on different kinds of sinks.

●        Rough Brushed: You often see this on steel sinks. It helps hide your fingerprints & watermarks.

Key Considerations Before Choosing the Right Basin

Picking a sink isn't just about how it looks. Here are some important things to think about:

●        Looks vs. How You'll Use It: That cool-looking sink might not be the best for washing your hands every day. Think about who will use it & what they need it for. A shallow bowl sink might splash a lot!

●        Size is Important: Make sure to choose the perfect size of wash basin that fits your bathroom and isn't too big or too small. Also, check if it's deep enough so the water doesn't splash everywhere.

●        Space for Your Stuff: If you choose a sink that sits on or in the counter, think about how much space you'll have left for your toothbrush, soap, & other things. Cabinets under the sink are great for storage.

●        Keeping It Clean: Some sinks need more cleaning than others. Think about how much you want to clean. Smooth sinks are usually the easiest to wipe down.

●        Will It Work With Your Pipes?: Make sure the sink you like will connect to the pipes you already have in your bathroom. You need to analyse where the taps will go. How about the drain? Wall-mounted & pedestal basins need a bit of extra planning to hide those pipes.

Choosing the right type of wash basin is an important part of creating a bathroom you’ll love. Take time to explore all the different styles & options. Think about the material, the finish, and how you’ll use the basin every day. All of this will help you find the perfect fit for your modern home.

So, enjoy the process & get ready to wash your hands in style!

FAQs Related to Different Types of Basin

What are the 2 main types of wash basins?

If we had to pick two really broad categories, we could say:

●     Basins with their own support: Pedestal & semi-pedestal basins.

●     Basins that need something else to sit on or attach to: Wall-mounted, countertop, inset, and undermount basins.

Which type of wash basin is best for home use?

There isn’t one type that’s best for every home—it depends on the size of your bathroom, your style, & how you plan to use it. That said, inset basins are a great all-round choice. They’re easy to clean, practical, & look nice in most bathrooms. Vanity units with built-in basins are also very popular because they give you extra storage space underneath.

Which material is best for bathroom basins?

Ceramic is one of the most popular choices. It’s strong, easy to clean, doesn't stain easily, & is usually affordable. Other good options include solid surface materials & stainless steel, depending on the look & features you want.

How do I choose the right basin design for my bathroom?

Think about these things:

●     How big is your bathroom? Choose space-saving types of wash basins like wall-mounted or corner ones if it's small.

●     What's your bathroom style? Pick a design & material that match your overall look.

●     Do you need storage? A vanity unit might be the way to go.

●     What's your budget? Prices can vary a lot.

●        How will you use it? Consider the size & depth.

●     Will it work with your pipes? Make sure the plumbing will line up.

What are the advantages of a wall-mounted basin?

●     Saves space: Great for small bathrooms.

●     Looks modern & clean: Gives a minimalist feel.

●     You can choose the height: Makes it comfy for everyone.

●     Easy to clean under: No awkward corners to reach.

●     Makes the room feel bigger: By showing more floor.

Which type of wash basin is best for a small bathroom?

For small bathrooms, wall-mounted sinks & corner sinks are often the smartest choices. That's because they are great at saving floor space. By being attached to the wall or fitting neatly into a corner, they leave more room to move around in a tight area.

What size basin is best for a small bathroom?

If your bathroom is small, try to find a sink that's about this wide: 16 to 20 inches. Also, think about how deep it is – not too big, but still good for washing your hands. Sinks that are thin or made to save space are the best for small rooms!