This Is Everything You Should Keep In Mind As You Shop For A Bathroom Sink

We're going to say something that you've probably never thought of before: a bathroom sink is actually part of your decor. While it is true that it's a functional element in your washroom, nowadays, with all of the colors, styles, and materials available, a basin can really steal the show. And with so many sink styles out there, it wouldn't be surprising if you started to feel overwhelmed. That's why we're here with a few basic deets to help you narrow things down, along with these points to consider.

First of all, think about the size of your bathroom, and which sink style would make the most sense. Console sinks and trough sinks tend to take up a big chunk of wall space, while undermount bathroom sinks or self-rimming sinks can fit into an existing vanity. Or you can go with a pedestal sink that requires less room. After all, you don't want a basin that will take up your entire bathroom.

Stephen Paul for Hunker

Another important factor to consider: How do you use your space? Do you need a lot of counter space to display your daily primping essentials? Then an undermount or self-rimming styles might be worth considering. Do you envision giving a small pet a bath in your bathroom sink? Or will a gaggle of little ones be using this space? Then a trough sink could be a good fit.

If you're looking for more technical information on bathroom sink plumbing, refer to our comprehensive homeowner's guide below:

When perusing bathroom sink ideas, you might marvel at all of the different styles that are on the market. Let's break them down together.

Console sinks have been around for decades and they look as if they're set into their very own table, supported by two or four legs. A trough sink is another oldie but goodie that tends to be associated with farmhouses and industrial spaces, but with its length and sturdy material, it's a practical option for high-traffic bathrooms. Console sinks are also the preferred choice for small bathrooms.

For small bathrooms, you also can't go wrong with a pedestal bathroom sink or the tried-and-true wall-mounted. Keep in mind that with a wall-mounted sink, you'll be forgoing the storage that a bathroom vanity might offer. In which case, you'll want to explore storage options you can add to your lavatory.

As for something with a sleek look, you can always choose a vessel sink, which typically sits on top of the countertop. A vessel sink can be made of any material but glass, natural stone, and ceramic are a few of the most popular materials. Vessel sinks can be incorporated into a bathroom vanity, or can be freestanding.

While less typical, a corner sink can be the magical solution you're looking for in a small space. Corner sinks are generally wall-mounted, without a vanity or storage. The benefit, of course, is that they doesn't take up any floor space.

An undermount bathroom sink sits below the counter surface, creating a streamlined look with your countertop, and hiding the rim of the sink. In recent years, undermount bathroom sinks have been thought to improve the resale value of your home.

Similar to an undermount bathroom sink, a drop-in sink is contiguous with your countertop or vanity top, however the lip of the sink is visible. Undermount sinks are a popular option as they require less hassle to install than an undermount sink, which may require more customization.

If you've got a tiny lavatory, you know that sink is prime real estate. While we mentioned above which sinks generally work for small spaces, for a more comprehensive overview, see our guide to small bathroom sinks below:

Your sink shouldn't be an afterthought in your bathroom design — in fact, a distinctive sink can really help tie your bathroom theme together. Search the following links to peruse sink ideas tied to your bathroom style:

Once you've narrowed down the style of bathroom sink that you want, there are a head-spinning array of materials to choose from. Ultimately, it will come down to the look and feel of your space, as well as how much maintenance you're willing to commit to. And of course, there is that pesky thing known as a budget to consider.

Vitreous china (like the undermount sink in the beautiful gray space above designed by Arent & Pyke), stainless steel, and solid surface bathroom sinks are easy on the pocketbook and require fairly little maintenance, since they get high marks on durability, and are resistant to wear, tear, and stains. While concrete, marble, and onyx sinks rate high on the style-o-meter, they can also be costly and require lots of maintenance (read: low on longterm durability).

Ceramic sinks are also a standard choice — we're talking about your basic, white basin that will go with any bathroom style.

If you're after a glass sink (which can offer clean lines and modern vibes), those typically come in the vessel style, which sits atop a countertop or bathroom vanity — just keep in mind that in order to keep that pristine look, it needs to be clean and free of water spots.

Bathroom Sink Fixtures to Consider

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As for bathroom sink fixtures, it's quite simple: you'll need a faucet.

The type of bathroom sink faucet you choose will be contingent upon the style of sink you choose. There are really only two options: either you can opt for a wall-mounted facuet or a deck-mounted faucet.

You'll also have a ton of finishes to choose from. Polished chrome is a traditional and more durable option, while brass, champagne, copper, or bronze are trendier alternatives. You can also choose antiqued or brushed metal if you are going for a farmhouse or vintage look.

Stephen Paul for Hunker

Now that you're overflowing with bathroom sink ideas, may we suggest going shopping? These are some of our favorite destinations to browse.

By the way, don't forget about good old hardware stores, where you can view the sinks and fixtures in person.

​Rejuvenation​

If you're on the hunt for a bathroom sink ​and​ vanity combo, head on over to Rejuvenation. You'll discover plenty of styles to choose from, all with retro, classic touches that particularly fit vintage-inspired spaces.

​Kohler​

Can you ever go wrong with Kohler? We say absolutely not, and we could not recommend their bathroom sinks more. As an industry standard for decades upon decades, you'll rest easy if you shop here for undermount, pedestal, or vessel bathroom sinks. Kohler also supplies fixtures like faucets.

​Bellacor​

This website is a designer darling because of the myriad of options. Drop by here if you're looking for bathroom sinks with serious style (oooh, gold leaf!) or if you need a highly specific size or type of sink for your bath.