Bathroom Basin Buyers Guide: Pedestal, Counter-top & More

Whether you’re renovating an existing bathroom or are adding the finishing touches to a new toilet, your basin will be one of the most important purchases you make. Not only will you make use of it each day, but it will play a role in determining the overall style of your space.

In this guide to buying a bathroom basin, we’ll touch upon everything you’ll need to know before choosing your basin. From the choice of styles to the selection of materials, this will ensure you choose the ideal basin for your budget, needs, and style.

Choosing Your Basin

Types of Basins

Before you can replace or install a basin, you’ll benefit from understanding the different styles available. From space-saving wall mounted basins to ultra-modern inset basins, there is a style to suit almost any space.

Wall-mounted

Ideal if you’re installing a basin into a small bathroom or toilet, these are fitted onto the wall with the pipework being visible beneath. Unlike other types of basins, this allows you to make use of the space beneath and often makes the space feel less ‘tight’.

If you’d prefer your pipework to be hidden, this can be done with either a semi pedestal or a purposely designed cabinet. But if you envision having a cabinet beneath your basin, you’d be best suited choosing a counter-top basin.

Pedestal

As you may suspect, these basins have a full-height pedestal beneath. But the basin itself is still fixed to the wall and it is this that supports the basins weight. The pedestal’s sole purpose is to hide any pipework.

Whilst many favour the tidiness of a pedestal basin, it will prevent you from using the space beneath. You may be able to buy a shelving unit that surrounds the pedestal, although you may struggle to find one to suit your exact dimensions.

Counter-Top

Placed on top of a vanity unit, these basins are great when space is limited. What’s more, this type of basin isn’t fixed to a wall and is therefore typically a little easier to install than others.

If you’re looking to create a sleek and minimalistic bathroom or toilet, a counter-top basin is the perfect choice. They also look more premium than other types of basins due to how commonplace they are in hotels.

Inset

Although similar to a counter-top basin, an inset or recessed basin is set into your vanity unit itself. Whilst this may reduce the available storage space slightly, it provides you with an ultra-modern aesthetic.

Semi inset basins are also available. These will usually have around 70 – 80% of the basin recessed into the vanity unit whilst the remining amount hangs towards you. These allows you to indulge in the modern style whilst not compromising on size.

Corner

Suited for the smallest of bathrooms or toilets, these basins allow you to truly maximise the use of your space. Typically available as either wall hung or pedestal styles, you can choose whether to have storage space beneath or not.

The major drawback of corner basins is their size. This is as they usually have a far lower capacity than other basins, a result of them having to sit within a tight corner whilst not protruding too much.

Common Basin Materials

Having chosen the ideal style of basin, which material is best for you? From timeless ceramic to bold copper, there are a variety of materials to pick from. Each offer their own advantages and disadvantages to consider before you buy.

Ceramic

A timeless choice that can be found in most homes, ceramic is a stylish, resilient, and easy to clean material. The most noteworthy downside of ceramic basins is their tendency to chip or crack, although this can be avoided with some care.

Marble

Sure to become a centrepiece of your bathroom or toilet, each marble basin will have unique veining and colouring. But whilst marble is beautiful, it is one of the most expensive materials and more susceptible to staining due to it being porous.

Steel

Although more commonplace in kitchens than bathrooms or toilets, stainless steel basins are becoming increasingly trendy. As you may expect, steel is incredibly tough and hygienic. But these basins also offer a uniquely industrial aesthetic.

Copper

If you’re looking for a basin that will leave visitors in awe, then a copper sink will not disappoint. Their bold colouring and natural aging make them more unique as time passes. However, they are vulnerable to sharp utensils and strong acids.

Corian

A composite material that unites acrylic polymers with natural minerals, Corian basins are an affordable option that are readily available in a huge number of colours. That said, Carian is likely to scratch and this is most noticeable on darker colours.

Completing Your Basin

Once you've chosen your basin, you'll need to consider a few 'finishing touches'. These will not only add to the auesthetic of your newly installed basin, but also ensure it works as required. Whilst we hope our guide provides you with all the answers required, a plumber will be able to recommend the required fittings for your basin.

Taps

As important as your choice of basin is the tap you pair it with. But with basin taps being available in a variety of styles and with a range of features, it can prove challenging to know where to begin.

The ideal tap for your basin will depend upon the style you've chosen. If you're buying a wall-mounted, pedestal, or inset basin then a traditional pillar tap is ideal. But if you've chosen a countertop basin then consider a wall-mounted or high-rise pillar tap for a modern twist.

When choosing your basin taps, you'll also have a choice of brands. If you're in search of a premium option that doesn't compromise on quality or style, then RAK Ceramics or Grohe are a great choice. For the more budget concious, we would recommend the likes of Synergy or Trisen.

Waste

An essential component of any basin, your waste is responsible for ensuring water drains with ease as well as allowing you to block the sink with a plug. Your waste is also adjoined to your overflow, which ensures your sink doesn't flood your bathroom should a tap be left on.

When buying a waste, you'll usually have a choice of either a slotted or unslotted waste. A slotted waste is necessary when you have an overflow whilst an unslotted waste is required when you do not have an overflow.

Ready to Pick Your New Basin?

With your newfound knowledge of basin styles, materials, and fittings; you can now choose the perfect basin for your project. Whenever buying a basin, it's important to find a balance between functionality, style, and cost. But if you need a hand choosing your basin, get in touch with our award-winning team.