How Do I Choose the Best Countertop Basin?

To choose the best countertop basin, homeowners should measure the space where the new fixture will be placed, then select the shape and material which will best compliment that particular bathroom and its function in the house. Large counter spaces are excellent for displaying artistic bowls made from uncommon materials. These types of basins are often found in guest bathrooms which are used for special occasions. Double basin counters comfortably fit simple shapes with a twist of color, such as blue or red oval bowls. These sinks are modern and functional for the more frequently used family bathrooms that may require frequent cleanings.

A countertop basin is a sink which is designed to appear to rest on the top of a bathroom counter. Traditional basins sit below the surface of the counter and are sealed along the upper lip to form a watertight barrier between the edge of the counter and the basin material. This new, more modern type of bathroom decor is typically made from ceramic, glass, or marble, and can be found in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to match any style of decor.

The first step in selecting the right countertop basin for any bathroom is to measure the area where the new fixture will sit. Most bathroom countertops provide a single or double basin opening. Single basin counters are usually 61 inches (155 centimeters) in width, while doubles are 73 inches (185 centimeters). Some homes may have custom counters with slightly larger or smaller dimensions if they are built directly into the available vanity area of the bathroom. The width of the top will determine the size and shape of the basin purchased.

The homeowner can then select the shape of the basin once he knows the available space in which he will be working. A countertop basin can take any shape, whether cast to resemble a sea shell, a fountain, or a bird's egg. These shapes are usually round, oval, or square when examined at their most basic level. Single drop countertops can support larger, more elaborate basins. Homeowners with this type of space available may wish to select a bowl which resembles a piece of artwork sitting on their countertop that surprises guests with its dual functionality as a sink.

Double basin countertops are often the best areas for presenting clean lines and tasteful symmetry. A unique basin material, such as copper or cultured marble, can be accentuated by the common but elegant shape of a simple bowl. This simple shape, when doubled, also presents an opportunity for a bold splash of color in a bathroom painted in muted tones of white or gray. Ceramic countertop basin bowls can be purchased in unexpected colors like red, black, blue, and green. Clear glass bowls can be mounted on top of colored LED lights set into the mounting ring which, when turned on, shine bright colors directly through the basin.

The homeowner may wish to keep his cleaning routine in mind when selecting the materials for the new basin. Artistic basins, which may be cast from copper or marble, though beautiful, can also require special chemical solutions to clean. These materials can also be stained easily, which may make them a poor choice in bathrooms that are used frequently by multiple members of the household. Ceramic is a common material choice for this type of bathroom fixture, and cleans easily without holding stains. Homeowners may wish to place these basins in their family bathrooms, and save their more expensive fixture purchases for their guest washrooms.