Bathroom Sinks

How to Choose Bathroom Sinks

You might think there would not be much to choose from when it comes to bathroom sinks but actually there are a lot of options. This means you have many choices to make when you decide to change your bathroom sink including all kinds of different styles, shapes, materials, sizes and colors in endless permutations.

You may be replacing your bathroom sink as part of a bathroom remodel, buying a sink for a new cloakroom (or even a new home) or merely replacing your current bathroom sink, but whatever the reason for your purchase here are the steps to choosing the right sink.

1. Set a Budget

Sinks come in all kinds of price ranges. Have a look around online at a few ranges and see the kind of prices you might pay before setting a budget you think is a reasonable compromise between how much you have to spend and the cost of a bathroom sink of good quality. Remember to include replacement faucets (taps) and plumbing items in your budget otherwise you might be in for a shock when you find out how much these can add to the cost. Also think about the cost of a professional bathroom fitter if you are not going to install the sink yourself.

Country style bathroom with contemporary sink

Country style bathroom with contemporary sink

2. Consider the Various Styles Available

Although you may have a particular style in mind such as one of the new stainless steel, stone or vessel sinks – you need to consider each style and how it will fit in the space you have available and the style of the bathroom (and potentially the style of your home – for example, if you have a period house you may decide you want a period bathroom). See Types and Styles of Bathroom Sinks if you are not sure which style to choose.

3. Consider the Type of Usage of the Sink

If the sink will be used in a small guest cloakroom where space is very limited you can buy the smallest sink or washbasin which is only really suitable for hand washing whereas the sink in a family bathroom needs to be larger to accommodate all kinds of potential activities such as shaving, washing and even hair washing. If you have limited storage space in your bathroom you may want a counter top sink which offers plenty of storage to the side and underneath. Also think about who will be using your sink. If kids are involved then you need a sink which will allow for splashing and overflowing water because kids will be kids.

4. Measure the Space Available

Don’t just measure the gap you have but also think about how much space you will have to move about in once all the fittings and furniture are installed in your bathroom. You need plenty of room to be able to bend over the sink to wash your face for example. If you’re not sure try bending over an existing sink and see how much room you need! Usually about 3 to 4 feet between the wall to which the sink is fitted and any other bathroom fixtures will be required.

5. Shop!

Once you know the maximum price, size and style of sink you are looking for have a good look around in local bathroom stores, major DIY retailers and in online stores (where you will often get the best choice of bathroom sinks).