In many ways, your bathroom sink can define you. It is one of the central objects of each morning’s preparations—it provides water, a wash basin, and even flushes away shorn facial hair. In the modern world, appearances are everything—they can make or break your personal and professional aspirations. Making sure that you choose the appropriate bathroom sink for your specific needs is a crucial aspect of setting up the most private part of your living space.
Bathroom sinks, because of their ubiquitous nature, can be purchased in a variety of different shapes, styles, and colors. It is important to match them to the rest of your bathroom—a modern stainless steel bathroom sink, for example, will not match a Victorian bathroom with antique furniture.
The first thing to understand is that bathroom sinks can be made from a variety of different materials including: stainless steel, enamel-coated stainless steel, porcelain-coated cast iron, ceramics, plastic, glass, or even soapstone. Once you have chosen what material you want yours to be made of, it is time to pick a faucet and determine what color and style you want your bathroom sink to be.
Modern sinks tend to be made of stainless steel and shaped so that they drain water automatically and do not overflow (they are known as “self-rimming” sinks.) Ceramic and porcelain-coated bathroom sinks are still very much in use, however, and can complement a less modern household with ease. Another popular style of sink is the “Belfast sink”—its traditional appearance tends to charm those with a love for history. The “Farmer’s” bathroom sink can be useful to those who like their sinks deep (these also minimize the “reach over” effect.)
No matter what bathroom sink you decide to purchase, make sure it corresponds to your personal tastes—there is nothing more unpleasant than an ugly sink in a beautiful home.