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The basic equipment of your bathroom

The water runs over your hands in a soft stream into the new bathroom sink. You didn’t make the decision lightly, because you wanted a sink that blended harmoniously into your bathroom. Now you happily wash your hands in it for the first time. The water temperature is now much easier to adjust, and as you turn off the tap and watch the last of the water run down the drain, you are pleased that there are no water stains left on the new material. This guide will tell you how to find an easy-care and attractive bathroom sink that suits your bathroom.

A bathroom sink that fits in your bathroom

In total, you spend about a year of your life in the bathroom. It goes without saying that you want to feel comfortable there. With a sink, you can even reduce the amount of time you spend in the bathroom – if you adapt the bathroom sink to your needs.

Smaller hand basins in the guest bathroom require less cleaning time than large bathroom sinks, and a basin with shelves on the sides makes it easier for you to put on make-up in the morning. If you have children, they can adjust the water temperature themselves at a suitable bathroom sink. This means you will be asked for help in the bathroom less often.

Washbasin variants according to your needs

Wash basins are available in different versions, each with different advantages. We have put together an overview for you and will tell you when each wash basin variant is suitable:

Washbasins for free wall mounting: the classics

A single bathroom sink on the wall is a common sight in most classic bathrooms. The good thing is that you can usually install them yourself and they also fit in very small bathrooms. If you want to hide the drain of a bathroom sink when wall-mounting it, you can use a sink cabinet. This also gives you additional storage space for towels or toilet paper.

Built-in washbasins for vanity units: the modern look

Built-in washbasins are installed in a vanity unit or a vanity unit. Because the washbasin is less prominent, the result is a reduced, clear line. This works particularly well in modern bathrooms. The storage space that a built-in washbasin gives you can also be used effectively in small bathrooms. Because the drain pipes are not visible with this type of washbasin, you can create a tidy atmosphere in your bathroom.

If you decide to go for a slightly wider vanity unit in addition to your built-in sink , you will have a practical shelf next to the bathroom sink that you can use for different soaps, for example. In larger families, when several people are brushing their teeth in the bathroom at the same time, two sinks are a good idea. With built-in sinks, your bathroom will not look cluttered, even if you decide to have several built-in sinks.

Countertop washbasin: a touch of extravagance

Visually, countertop washbasins are somewhat reminiscent of the wash bowls used in the past, but are much more elegant. Countertop washbasins can be installed on a dresser or an open shelf. The advantage of the round, bulbous shape with a high edge is that the shelf next to the washbasin stays dry.

For example, you can store towels there instead of hanging them on a hook. If you have children who like to play with water in the bathroom sink, countertop sinks are also a good choice, because the deep basins allow them to splash around without spilling anything. If your small child cannot reach the basin by themselves, a step stool for children will help.

Washbasin with or without overflow protection: the advantages

Many bathroom sinks have a small hole in the upper part. If you forget to leave the tap running when the plug is in, the excess water can drain through this small hole, the overflow protection, and there will be no flooding. If you have children in the household, this type of overflow protection is recommended, as they often forget the time and the running water when they are playing.

If you want to make cleaning your bathroom sink easier , then do without the overflow protection. Sinks without the small hole look like they were made from a single piece and offer no chance for germs to build up.

This is what it’s made of: Bathroom Sink materials

In addition to their shape, washbasins also differ in their material. Different materials have different advantages – you can find out what these are in the following overview.

Ceramics give lime no chance

Ceramic is often used for washbasins because it is very hygienic. Thanks to a coating, water runs off ceramic well. This makes the material easy to clean and limescale has a hard time sticking to it. This makes ceramic a very easy-care option. In addition, the classic material is resistant to scratches and can also withstand stronger cleaning agents.

Cast stone is a visual highlight

If you would like a natural look in your bathroom, cast stone washbasins are a good choice. They are available in a marble or granite look, for example. The latter variant is more grey and is reminiscent of a fountain. The heavy cast stone is used primarily for countertop washbasins.

Glass is transparent and comes in a variety of colors

One of the main advantages of glass for washbasins is the design options. Glass can be easily colored, for example in an attractive mint green. This washbasin is then semi-transparent. This airy design has a particularly lightening effect in small and dimly lit bathrooms. Some models of glass washbasins can also be equipped with an LED backlight , allowing your washbasin to glow in different colors depending on your mood.

Mineral cast marble is very break-resistant

Mineral cast marble, often just called mineral cast, is visually almost indistinguishable from ceramic. If you want to add drill holes to your washbasin later, for example for special fittings or special brackets, this is particularly easy with mineral cast marble. Mineral cast is also light and extremely break-proof, which makes it a very safe material for washbasins.

Professional washbasin installation made easy

It is important that you choose the right faucet to match your new sink, which is often chosen separately. Most sinks today are designed for practical single-lever mixers. If you buy a sink with three holes, you will also need a washbasin faucet with separate hot and cold water.

Once your new sink has arrived, you can start installing it straight away. Here’s how it works:

• To replace an old sink with a new one, you should first turn off the water.
• Then you dismantle the old sink and remove the siphon and the drain insert.
• To install the new bathroom sink, hold it against the wall at the desired height with the help of a helper. Around 85 cm measured from the floor is usually a good average. If there are wheelchair users or a lot of tall people living in the house, you can of course install it lower or higher. Mark the right place for the fixings.
• Then pre-drill the holes.
• Before you finally attach the sink to the wall, use a spirit level to make sure it hangs completely straight.

Tip: Custom work is often required, especially for recessed washbasins. For this purpose, hire a tradesman or a gas and water installer.

Seven tips for cleaning your bathroom sink

For a clean and hygienic bathroom, you should clean your sink at least once a week. If you live in a household with multiple people, we recommend cleaning it more frequently. We have a few tips for you here. However, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

1. You can easily remove limescale with the juice of a lemon.
2. Discoloration can be easily removed with baking soda. To do this, apply the powder to the affected area, sprinkle a little water over it and leave it to work for a few minutes. Then wipe the mixture away with a soft cloth.
3. If your drain is clogged, pour four teaspoons of baking soda and then half a cup of vinegar into the drain. Wait a few minutes for the baking soda to work. Then flush with warm water and the drain will be clear again.
4. Soda also helps if the drain is not clogged but just smells unpleasant.
5. To clean the overflow, put some scouring cream on an old toothbrush. If a lot of limescale has built up in the overflow, dip a cloth in a mixture of vinegar water and lemon and stuff it into the hole overnight.
6. Especially on ceramics, use soft cloths and a gentle cleaner such as dishwashing liquid. This will help you avoid scratches.
7. If you use a bathroom cleaner, rinse with some warm water and then wipe the sink and fittings dry with a lint-free towel . This will prevent water stains.

Conclusion: This bathroom sink suits you

A washbasin that is tailored to you and your needs will bring you joy and reduce the time you spend in the bathroom – to get ready in the morning or to clean the bathroom. Here is a summary of important information about washbasins:

• For small bathrooms, you can use simple wall-mounted washbasins. Alternatively, a recessed washbasin can look nice on a small vanity unit. Glass has an airy and relaxing effect, while ceramic is classic in small bathrooms.
• Impressive countertop washbasins are designed for large bathrooms . Together with an open shelf or a sturdy chest of drawers, these will be an eye-catcher in your bathroom. Countertop washbasins made of cast stone also have a special look.
• For family bathrooms, a longer vanity unit with two built-in sinks is a good idea so that several people can wash their hands or brush their teeth at the same time. Alternatively, you can also opt for a splash-proof countertop sink. Mineral cast marble is particularly easy to clean and shatterproof.