How to Choose a Bathroom Sink

When it comes to bathroom sinks, fashion and function are not mutually exclusive. High traffic baths and posh powder rooms alike can benefit from chic design and innovative features.

Take some time to research your options for products that look and work as you want them to. With so many styles, shapes and finishes available, choosing the right sink for your space can be a challenge.  For tips for finding the perfect sink for your style and space, look no further.

Start with the Size

The trendiest looking sink on the planet won’t do your bathroom any good if it doesn’t sit where you need it to fit. Remember, with or without a vanity, the sink must still be placed within easy reach of the water supply connections. It’s useful to map out exactly where the sink will be and how much room you have to work with before ordering anything.

• Measure your counter space, or know the exact measurements of the vanity, before selecting a sink.
• If you’re looking for a pedestal sink in place of a vanity, mark down the floorspace you have available before ordering, to measure against the dimensions of the sink.
• When looking at an undermount sink, be sure to note the size and shape of the cutout in the vanity. Measure the distance between the cutout and the backsplash, as well as the holes for the faucet, to be certain the sink will fit with room for installation to spare.

Remember to consider depth when choosing a bathroom sink and faucet combination.

• Vessel sinks call for faucets that are tall enough to clear the lip of the bowl.
• Shallow sinks require a faucet flow that won’t cause over-splash, which usually means a lower-set spout. High, gooseneck faucets look elegant, however, the falling water can create a lot of splash-back that might leave a mess on your countertop when paired with a shallow sink.

Installation Types

Start by measuring your space, then decide how your sink is going to be mounted. It’s possible to replace just the sink as long as the new piece fits your existing cabinet or vanity. If you’re doing a complete remodel, your options are limited only by your budget and the size of your bathroom.

Drop-In

Drop in sinks rest over the edge of a pre-cut hold in a cabinet or vanity. The sink edge is lifted over the countertop to help keep the water inside, as well as help support and anchor the sink in place.

• They are easy to install - simply place in the countertop opening and secure it!
• Available in many shapes, sizes, finishes, and faucet configurations.

Wall Mounted

Wall mounted sinks have no cabinetry support around them. They bolt into the wall and connect directly to the water supply. They can be found in flat wall arrangements, or are available to be fit into space-saving corner units.

• More of the floor is exposed, which visually expands the available space, and is a breeze to clean.
• Offers a unique, uncluttered, minimalist look.
• Good option for small bathrooms.
• Limited surface area and no storage space, depending on the style of sink.
• Available in many shapes, sizes, finishes, and faucet configurations.

Pedestal

The classic style of the pedestal sink offers a traditional, elegant look to any bathroom. There is no counter space with a pedestal sink, and the base of the sink is usually made of the same material as the sink itself for design continuity.

• Stylish design element, offering a very versatile look for any theme.
• Good option for powder rooms.
• Available in one- or two-piece design.
• Limited surface area and no storage space.
• Available in many shapes, sizes, finishes, and faucet configurations.

Undermount

An undermount sink is installed below the cutout in the cabinet or vanity top. It is characterized by a flat countertop that is easy to wipe clean, with the sink out of sight. There is no edge to define the sink profile, as with a drop-in sink, because the sink is mounted with clamps and bolts to the underside.

• No faucet holes included on these sinks — faucets are mounted to the vanity top or wall.
• Maximizes available counter space.
• Flush design makes cleanup easy.
• Available in a full range of shapes, sizes, and finishes.

Vessel

With a vessel sink, the traditional look of a water basin has been energized by the more modern freedoms of material and plumbing advancements. The inside and outside of vessel sinks have a unique bowl design, either in finish or in shape, and the sink sits on top of the countertop or vanity, rather than inside of it.

• Stylish design element - very customizable to match any decor.
• Requires specific faucet types to account for additional sink height.
• Available in many shapes, sizes, and finishes.

Vanity Sink

Vanity sinks are usually made to fit the cabinet they sit on. The base and the walls of the sink are one solid piece that is fitted to form the top of the cabinet. There may or may not be storage underneath, such as shelving or drawers, depending on the style of cabinet.

•  Easy to clean.
• Placed directly atop a vanity or console base.
• Available in many shapes, sizes, finishes, and faucet configurations.

Faucet Holes

Every sink has a faucet configuration to match, so it’s good to have an idea of what kind of faucet you’re looking for as you select a sink (or vice-versa.) You’ll have three options to choose from for most any sink you consider: Single-hole, or the three-hole options of a 4” centerset, or a widespread hole placement.

• A single-hole sink will only accommodate a single-hole faucet.
• Three-hole sinks can be useful for widespread faucets, with individual temperature controls for hot and cold water, or the narrower centerset or bridge faucets.
• A single temperature handle, a soap dispenser, or even a spray wand could be installed to complete the look.
• They can also be used with a one-hole faucet and an escutcheon plate to hide the extra, unused holes.

Sink Material

Choose a sink with the shape, material, and finish to complement your decor. From classic to trendy, there are options for every taste.

Cast Iron Sinks - A heavier and long-lasting option, cast iron sinks are made of a formed metal frame that is then layered over with a porcelain enamel made from melted glass. They are strong, resistant to dings and scratches, and offer a clean, glossy finish.

Vitreous China Sinks - The timeless look of white porcelain is durable, easy to clean, and elegant. These sinks now come in a variety of colors, from creams to vivid reds, so you can still customize your spaces without breaking from tradition.

Engineered Stone & Granite Sinks - Tough as stone but finished and glazed to be smooth, granite sinks provide a hint of the natural world to any bathroom. Depending on the design, they may look like unfinished rock or be more solid colors, but these sinks are sealed and just as hygienic as fireclay or porcelain and chip and dent resistant.

Fireclay Sinks - Fired and sealed at a high temperature for strength, fireclay sinks offer the smooth, rounded look of porcelain with the durability of cast iron.

Glass Sinks - A very custom look, with unique shapes and imprinted designs that stand the test of time behind the layered glass. Look for tempered and sturdy glass sinks, and keep in mind that they are inherently fragile and can’t take much of a beating. They are great for master or guest baths.

Stainless Steel Sinks - Hearty and tough, affordable stainless steel sinks can be scrubbed clean and still retain their shine. They’re most often found in kitchens because of their stain-resistance, but they work just as well in modern bathrooms.

Sink Styles

Modern Sinks - For a modern design, look for smooth, straight edges and rounded, simple bowl shapes, such as ovals or squares.

Traditional Sinks - The architectural and utilitarian design of traditional sinks offers a timeless silhouette that lends well to formal or classic bathroom motif.

Antique Sinks - Curved and ornate, antique sinks often incorporate hand-etched or painted elements and details that look fragile and decorative even when they’re highly functional.

Trend Watch

Two For One - Another take on the His & Hers trend, this style puts the faucets side by side to share a single sink basin. This saves a little on plumbing while adding to the usefulness of the bathroom, and the streamlined look helps open up the room.

Vintage - Bathroom renovations don’t happen all that often, so sometimes the enduring classics are the best bet. Vintage styles are about the unique finds and the repurposed designs, like cleaned up yard-sale mirrors or a hand-weathered, custom painted vanity. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to a room that won’t go out of style.

Open Up Your Space - When you can do without the under-sink storage of a vanity or cupboard, wall mounted sinks with simple support frames offer a modern, minimalist look with lots of uncluttered floor space. The console sink is a great direction for powder rooms or half-baths, allowing you creative freedom with a smaller, quicker project.

A Touch of Color - Monotone bathrooms are definitely a thing of the past, and not in a good way. Whether the walls are all classic white or all trendy black, don’t forget to bring in a little bit of color to add visual interest. Matte gold faucets or shower trim offer cheerful contrast and shine, and sinks can be found in a range of colors beyond the traditional egg shell white.