The sink is one of the most important parts of a bathroom along with the shower, tub and tiles. It can play a big role as a centrepiece that makes the whole space unique. And while you can use accessories to spruce up your bathroom on a budget, the choice of sink can either make or break the entire setting.
Choosing the right style of sink can be super easy if you know what you’re looking for. But have you thought about materials? Many people choose the go-to option of ceramic, but what if there’s more to it? Today, the market offers so many bathroom sinks options, that you could easily get lost. Here are some of the best sink material options and their features to help you decide which one works for you.
Ceramic Sinks
Ceramic sinks are among the most popular types and used in the majority of bathrooms. This is a type of pottery that is composed of clay, powder and water. Usually, this mixture is sculpted by hand in various shapes and then it’s treated with extremely hard heat until it hardened. The result is a sink with the following features.
Maintenance
Ceramic sinks have a durable surface that is resistant to chipping and scratches. Although it won’t endure falling on the floor, it’s strong enough for everyday use, which makes it so popular.
We all want something that doesn’t require hours of cleaning, doesn’t need any special maintenance and is resistant to stains and bacteria build-up (but only if you clean it regularly and properly). This is a smooth surface that is waterproof and doesn’t have any cracks or crevices, so grime and dirt won’t seep into it. Just wipe off the wet ceramic surface with a clean and dry towel to prevent stains from setting in.
You can use all-purpose cleaning products to give the sink a shine. But if your ceramic sink has a hand-painted design, avoid abrasive cleaning materials. Make sure the ceramic surface is always dry.
Pros
-This is a non-porous and smooth surface that won’t lose its colour over time;
-It’s easy to clean;
-It’s affordable;
-Available in various shapes and sizes.
Wooden Sinks
Teak
If you’re looking for bathroom sinks that are a bit different and made specially to match the unique design of your bathroom, you may consider wood sinks. For instance, you can go with teak that is known for its high-water resistant qualities. It has an attractive raw aesthetic that helps create a warm and natural atmosphere. Teak is a water-resistant hardwood material, so it means that it won’t be damaged easily. It’s also known as a hardwood resistant to mould, fungi and mildew – perfect for wet environments such as the bathroom.
Bamboo
Known as one of the most durable woods, bamboo sinks have the potential to last for a long time with good care. If you’ve ever seen a bamboo tree, you know how easily it endures strong winds. These sinks are available in many attractive shapes and designs thanks to bamboo’s flexible nature. A bamboo sink is also easy to maintain. Be sure to clean it with mild detergents.
Maintenance
If you decide to get a wooden sink, make sure to clean it with non-abrasive cleaning solutions. You want to avoid creating any scratches or cracks where water can get inside the wood and ruin it. Use a mild soap with a clean cloth or medium-soft bristles to clean the surface. Wooden bathroom sinks will become darker over time. This is normal and is one of the wooden sink’s sought-after qualities.
Pros
-Eco-friendly;
-Aesthetically pleasing and unique;
-Compatible with various design (modern, traditional).
Porcelain Sinks
These bath sinks are similar to ceramic once; porcelain is also pottery-based. However, the only difference is that porcelain is known to be much harder than ceramic, while still having a smooth and shiny surface. It’s made by taking refined fireclay mixture and heated under extreme heat in an oven or kiln. It has an extremely low water absorption characteristic.
Maintenance
A porcelain sink is usually very durable and with suitable maintenance, it can last for decades, even up to a century. The mixture of fireclay, glass materials and metal give this type of sink longevity. However, even though it can last long, make sure you prevent unwanted falls of heavy objects on it since it can chip very easily.
Just like with ceramics, avoid using abrasive cleaning products. Use a regular dishwashing soap or a mild all-purpose cleaning product. Once you clean the sink, be sure to wipe the entire surface dry.
Pros
-Durable;
-Low maintenance.
Natural Stone
This material is quite expensive. Natural stone sinks are made from a block or slab of stone that is carved into a sink shape. And due to this production method, you won’t find any natural stone sinks that look the same, which is why this material is so popular among people who value uniqueness.
There are different natural stone sinks to choose from such as granite, onyx, marble, travertine, green jade and sandstone. The installation can be quite tricky since you’ll have to add silicone and oil-based sealers. Also, these sinks can easily get stained (removing them is not too challenging, though).
Maintenance
Stone can last forever, you probably know that. It’s a tough and durable material, but you’ll have to maintain this sink properly so it can stay stain-free and preserve its clean look for longer. Use mild cleaning solutions, a tile stain remover or a specialised stone cleaner product. Avoid highly acidic cleaning materials and abrasive scrubs. Always make sure to wipe it dry.
Pros
-Handcrafted and unique;
-An earthy appearance that fits specific interior designs;
-Resistant to heat.
-Long-lasting (if maintained properly).
