You may call it a face bowl, a washbasin, or a hand basin, but your bathroom sink is an integral and practical focal point of any bathroom. If you are interested in the fine aspects of your bathroom's aesthetic treatment, it is wise for you to familiarize yourself with the different types of bathroom sinks available.
Depending on the type of bathroom sink you have currently installed in your bathroom, or if you are considering an upgrade to your bathroom fixtures, you may discover a sink that is the perfect complement for your style and decor.
Bathroom sinks are usually made of one or more of the following materials -
- Porcelain
- Ceramics
- Fireclay
- Stainless steel
- Cast polymer
- Cast iron
- Copper
- Stone
- Tempered glass
- Composite
There is a tremendous amount to learn about bathroom sinks before making your decision. Keep reading for all the details that you need!
Explore Your Sink Basin Options
When you choose a sink, it's not only essential to consider the style, but how the material will perform and add aesthetic value to your bathroom over time. Let's uncover some more about many popular sink basin types based on construction material.
Porcelain Sinks
Porcelain sinks are elegant, sophisticated, and can be found in pedestal, under-mount, wall-mount, and vessel-style for bathrooms. Most sinks are either solid porcelain or the sink is made from cast iron or steel and coated with porcelain on the outside, for a durable, beautiful finish. Porcelain sinks can last up to 30 years, and cost as little as $80, and as much as $800 for high-end sinks. Choose this type of sinks for bathrooms and kitchens.
Ceramic Sinks
Ceramic sinks are similar to porcelain, but they retail between $50 and $300 on average and up to $1,000 for designer basins. Ceramic sinks are inexpensive, visually appealing, and one of the most common types found in household bathrooms. Be careful with a bathroom ceramic sink as they can be chipped or cracked, but overall they are clean-looking at built tough.
Fireclay Sinks
Check out fireclay sinks for your bathroom if you don't mind a limited range of color options or sizes. Sinks made from fireclay are durable, resistant to chipping, but are susceptible to staining if you're too relaxed about cleaning and maintenance. Take a close look at a fireclay sink, and you'll discover that it appears similar to enamel-coated cast iron. The price for fireclay sinks ranges from $150 to $1,000.
Stainless Steel Sinks
Sinks made from stainless steel may have a utilitarian look to them and are commonly found in commercial spaces and institution lavatories, rather than apartments or houses. Stainless steel sinks are desirable because they are resilient, are relatively inexpensive, but they may be subject to dents and cracks. Prices for most stainless steel sinks range between $100 to $500.
Cast Polymer Sinks
If you want an inexpensive option, consider a cast polymer sink which will set you back between $100 to $300 on average. You can still get a bathroom sink that looks luxurious like ceramic or porcelain, but at a lower cost, and without sacrificing durability and resistance to chipping and stains.
Cast Iron Sinks
One of the most durable and dependable sink types around is made from cast iron. Prepare to spend anywhere from $300 and up to $3,000 for a high-quality cast iron bathroom sink. Typically these sinks are installed in kitchens and have an apron or farmhouse-style.
Copper Sinks
An inexpensive and attractive option for the bathroom is a copper sink, which averages a low-end price of $150 and an average price of $400. Custom copper sinks may retail for as much as $2,000. Choose a copper sink if you desire a basin that is easy to maintain has antibacterial properties and has a visual appeal that porcelain or glass sinks can't touch.
Stone Sinks
Sinks made from natural stone are trending for bathrooms and chic home decor, as stone is long-lasting, highly attractive, and easily customized. Stone sinks should be appropriately sealed to reduce the chance of cracks, chips, and staining, as well as improve their longevity. Prepare to spend a minimum of $300 and up to $1,000 or more for high-end stone basins.
Tempered Glass Sinks
Glass is a medium that lends itself to many beautiful creations, including custom bathroom sinks with sophisticated details. Inexpensive tempered glass sinks are easy to clean, but still susceptible to chips, cracks, and degrading over time. Typically tempered glass is used to make vessel-style sink basins and retail between $50 to $150 on average. Designer tempered glass basins may retail for $450 and up.
Composite
Composite sinks have the faux appearance of luxury but without the hefty price tag. Homeowners appreciate these durable and attractive sinks which retain their color well, are heat-resistant and are built tough to resist chips and dents. Average prices for composite sinks range from $150 to $350, with more expensive options between $500 and $900.
Get In Touch With The Perfect Sink Style
If you are in the market for a bathroom sink, you are sure to come across a few different types of fixtures, in various shapes, mounts, and materials. Bathroom sinks fall under the following categories:
- Pedestal
- Wall-Mounted
- Countertop
- Corner
- Tabletop
- Undermount
- Drop-In
Bathroom sinks are often found with a round, rectangular, or oval-shaped basin.
A primary bathroom sink retails between $20 to $70. Mid-priced bathroom sinks may set you back between $450 to $750 depending on the materials, and high-end sinks may command a price tag of $1,200. Installation of a bathroom sink by a professional may cost between $200 to $500, depending on the plumber's rates for labor, type of sink, and installation style.
No matter if you need a bathroom sink for your master bedroom, a guest room, or a powder room, it is advisable to understand what type of sink would be the best fit. Based on the space allotted, budget, aesthetic treatment, and expected use, you can better decide on the ideal bathroom sink for your home. Maybe you need a sink with storage options, or you prefer a sink that fits seamlessly with an industrial decor? Perhaps you want a sink with a basin made from more durable materials, or you want to upgrade and install a bathroom sink with luxury details?
Pedestal Sinks
Pedestal sinks are ideal for bathrooms with limited space, and they may be mounted to a wall or free-standing. Pedestal sinks are aesthetically pleasing because the necessary plumbing is hidden within the basin, and the basin drops down a bit.
Wall- Mounted Sinks
Wall-mounted sinks may show off a bit of the plumbing, but this can be a desirable feature, especially for bathrooms with a minimalist, classic, or industrial look. A wall-mounted sink hangs off of the wall and is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized bathrooms.
Counter-Style Sinks
Counter-style bathroom sinks or vessel sinks offer a bit of storage space at the sides, as the basin often is designed to rise above the countertop. You can find sinks in this style made from stone, glass, petrified resin, or other attractive materials.
Corner Sinks
Corner sinks are mounted in the corner of a bathroom, with the plumbing fixtures exposed at the bottom, and the sides of the sink touching two walls. If you like this style of sink, it typically fits for a small bathroom that could use a contemporary touch.
Tabletop Sinks
Tabletop sink styles are an excellent option for a luxurious custom bathroom. Often, the basin for a tabletop sink is rectangular and is raised above the line of the countertop space. Tabletop sinks may be attached to vanity or counter with storage.
Undermount Sinks
An under-mount sink is a classic and beautiful style of bathroom fixture. You'll find that the sink basin is below the level of the counter space, and it has a gradual deepening concave at the bottom. Install this style of sink and have plenty of room for your bathroom accessories.
Drop-in Sink
A drop-in sink basin can be dropped into a cut-out in a sink counter or vanity space, and it maintains a more classic look for a bathroom with a self-rimming design. This style of the basin is placed in the center of a counter for ample storage space at the sides.
What is the Difference Between Porcelain and Ceramic Sinks?
Ceramic sinks are made from clay, which is hardened, heated at high temperatures, and has a surface that is resilient and resistant to chipping, scratching, and damage from impact. Porcelain is a type of ceramic that is made from fireclay, is somewhat durable, but it is vulnerable to staining and chipping. Ceramic sinks are typically smooth, hard, and sealed so that dirt doesn't easily penetrate the surface. Porcelain sinks are usually white and require more frequent cleaning to prevent the buildup of grime and soap scum.
Check out this beautiful ceramic above-the-counter bathroom sink on Amazon.
Check out this attractive wall-mounted sink on Amazon.
Do Ceramic Sinks Scratch Easily?
Ceramic sinks are built tough and beautiful, but care should be taken when cleaning them to prevent removing the protective coating. Vinegar should not be used as a cleaning agent since the acids within can harm the surface of the sink. It is ideal to use a soft sponge or durable cloth, instead of a rough bristle brush to clean a ceramic sink. As long as a ceramic sink is not regularly exposed to an abrasive cleaner or harsh solutions, the coating should keep the basin looking beautiful and scratch-free for up to a decade.
Do Porcelain Sinks Chip Easily?
Porcelain is a little more delicate than sinks made from stainless steel, highly polished stone, or ceramic. Although porcelain is a type of ceramic, sinks made from this material are more susceptible to chipping. Especially if you have a bathroom sink that is ceramic and glazed or hand-painted, extra care should be taken when cleaning your sink to prevent scratches, chips, or damage to the decorative and protective coating.
What is the Best Material For a Bathroom Sink?
Many bathroom sinks are made from porcelain or ceramic, but sinks made from stainless steel, tempered glass, and limestone or marble are high-quality materials that are sought-after and durable. Stainless steel sinks are resistant to corrosion, bacteria, germs and don't quickly degrade when scrubbing with harsh cleaning agents and tools. Stone may be porous construction material, but marble and limestone are naturally resilient, resistant to shattering, and can withstand daily use.
Check out this chic and resilient bathroom sink on Amazon.
Check out this sophisticated glass bathroom sink on Amazon.
What Are Cheap Bathroom Sinks Made Of?
If you are looking for a budget-friendly bathroom sink, you will be interested in purchasing a basin made from ceramic, tempered glass, or composite. If you are looking for a bathroom sink with a modern touch of luxury, but desire a reasonable price tag, bamboo is a sustainable and inexpensive material for sinks.
Check out this inexpensive bathroom sink on Amazon.
What Are Bathroom Countertops Made Of?
Thanks to advancements in technology and human-made materials, many bathroom countertops that appear to be high-end are made from laminate, cultured marble, or granite. Countertops for traditional bathroom sinks are often available in wood, marble, tile, or quartz.
Check out this sleek stainless steel bathroom sink on Amazon.