What bathroom sinks to install in 2023? – An in-depth buying guide

Buying considerations for a bathroom sink

When selecting a sink for a master bathroom, keep in mind that you’ll use it often but hardly replace it any time soon. So, it’s worth purchasing a high-quality countertop in which function meets fashion. Take your time to analyze various types of sinks available on the market, paying particular attention to the following finer points.

Size

All your search efforts will fall flat if you turn a blind eye to the minimum space required for your new sink installation. That’s why you should take a measuring tape and check the exact size of your current vanity or map out a zone of the future one. Make sure you can easily reach the water supply connections hidden behind. 

If you are more into pedestal sinks, don’t only focus on the floor space, as their upper part is usually much wider. Giving preference to other types, consider depth to not suffer from splash-backs. 

Style

The style you select all comes down to a matter of preference. If your sink makes for the last piece of the puzzle you are missing to create a stunning bathroom, take a cue from other elements you’ve bought. Thus, a traditional bathtub will pair better with similar vanity, so it’s worth choosing a utilitarian option that offers a classic silhouette. A minimalist bathroom design suggests installing a modern sink with straight edges and a square bowl shape. On the contrary, vintage-inspired space may require an option of weaving in old-world forms to bring a retro feel. 

Mount type

If you are limited neither by a budget nor space available for the sink installation, you may feel baffled when selecting the ideal type. A drop-in option is the best bet to refresh the current vanity or cabinet. For a family bathroom, you can select an undermount sink for its seamless look and easy-to-clean features. A pedestal variant can be your top choice if you strive to give your bathroom a bit of an old-school vibe. To visually enlarge the available space, opt for a wall-mounted sink. 

Storage options

A large bathroom gives full play to your interior design ideas, as you don’t need to worry about space. Thus, you can purchase a drop-in sink for a large cabinet where you can keep all your shower essentials and towels. If your bathroom has a limited footprint, it makes sense to go for a pedestal-style or wall-mounted option to leave a more visible floor area. However, if the latter isn’t your top priority, you can buy a small vanity with an integrated sink top.

Bathroom sink materials

If the sink is the focal point of your bathroom, it should blend perfectly with the décor and color scheme of the space. To add a touch of elegance, choose a timeless classic – white porcelain. This material is also available in a wide variety of hues. 

Want to make a style statement? It’s worth selecting more unusual materials available for bathroom sinks in this case. It can be made of wood or more pocket-friendly variants like glass, stone, or stainless steel. They all come in various colors and shapes to give off a second-to-none feel.

What are the popular types of bathroom sinks?

The lack of square footage, limited budget, and always-there clutter are only a few challenges homeowners have to handle when remodeling their bathrooms. As a sink is a central plumbing fixture, it can make or break the problem-solving process. That’s why selecting the right type is no mean feat. Let’s discuss the most widespread options, highlighting their pros and cons. 

Wall-mounted sinks

As the name suggests, you can fix this fixture directly to the wall; no cabinet or vanity is required to sit it in. That is why a wall-mounted sink is a boon when you are limited in space and budget. If your bathroom stands out with a minimalist style, it can become a perfect fit, especially when the plumbing is hidden behind the wall. However, the absence of a countertop, aka landing area, may deal a nasty blow to your morning routine if you are an active user of skin-care products. 

Drop-in sinks

Willing to pair your brand-new sink with your old vanity? A drop-in sink can fit in any layout seamlessly because of its classic design. It can come with a slim or chubby rim around the edges to prevent water from spilling out. So, if your countertop is made of wood or other water-sensitive materials, it’s a great solution. Such easy adaptability and style versatility lay at the core of the drop-in sinks’ popularity. However, the very rim may turn into a barrier when it comes to cleaning the countertop, so you’ll need to go all out to clean dirt. 

Pedestal sinks

Is your waste pipe under the floor, and you only need to conceal some plumbing fittings? A pedestal sink is a right call to make a splash. This stand-alone option can come in various hues and materials, from marble to copper to porcelain. And you don’t need to settle upon ceramic if it doesn’t speak to you. However, you’ll have to unleash your creativity to deal with the lack of storage space. On top of that, it can be slightly challenging to clean around. 

Undermount sinks

Want to hide all plumbing connections and create a clean look? Pay heed to an undermount sink. It can be installed underneath the countertop into your current vanity and make room for cabinet configuration. Unlike its drop-in counterpart, the undermount option comes without an overhead lip, meaning you won’t have issues with cleaning. Pay attention that it can go well with any synthetic solid-surface countertop (stone, for example), but tile and laminate are a no-no. 

Trough sinks

Do you share your bathroom space with your loved one? Replace your classic single-sink vanity with a dual one to avoid arguing. With a trough sink, it will be a cinch as it can come with two or more faucets. You won’t clutter your space with two separate washbasins, but bring your family hygiene routine to the next level. There is an array of materials and designs to choose from, including wall-mounted and drop-in styles. However, trough sinks are only perfect for large spaces. They may look bulky even in a mid-size bathroom. 

Vessel sinks

Are you eager to refresh your master bathroom without forking over a chunk of money? A vessel sink can be the best way. It provides extra storage space for oral care products and looks impressive, whatever basin option you choose. Your sink can be made of marble, natural stone, wood, or other materials. However, you can’t do without professional assistance to install it as it’s crucial to cut it precisely to mount it on the countertop. 

Bathroom sink installation cost

A whole bathroom makeover is a luxury not everyone can afford, but it doesn’t mean you can’t refresh the space on a budget. Start the transformation journey with a sink replacement, especially if there are some cracks. The thing is that an ill-fitting or damaged fixture is subject to seeps and leaks, provoking mildew growth. 

If your current sink doesn’t match your interior design and looks ugly, search for a new one. As it’s a high-traffic bathroom element, you pay too much attention to this eyesore. 

The national average cost of bathroom sink installation

Don’t know what bathroom sink can fit your budget, including installation costs? If you are about to replace a current option with its brand-new twin, chances are that you can handle this project. You can watch video guides on YouTube to better understand the process. However, even a small difference in shapes and sizes can result in additional issues you need experience and tools to deal with. 

Installing a new sink may set you back $400 if it’s about a standard replacement without extra work involved. This price can be a bit higher or lower, depending on the area you live in. However, if you also need to install faucets and adjust your countertop, you should be ready to shell out about $2.000. 

Types of bathroom sinks and their costs

If you don’t chase the most famous brand names on the market, a new sink may cost you anywhere from $300 to $1,250. This price tag may go up once you decide to upgrade your faucet too. Depending on the style and finish, you can spend between $100 and $800. 

Wall-mounted sinks

Want to save your footprint in your bathroom and create a more minimalist style? Install a wall-mounted sink. It can cost you as little as $150 if you choose a small old-school option with rounded ages. Rectangular ceramic sinks come at a higher price, from $250 to $1.200.

Drop-in sinks

You don’t need to pay over the odds for a top and vanity combo if the latter one still looks good. Purchase a separate drop-in sink instead to give the whole unit a second life. It’s one of the most affordable luxury options, ranging from $270 to $1,300.  

Pedestal sinks

Are you on the lookout for a simple stand-alone hand-washing unit? Consider installing a pedestal sink. Its price will depend on the material you choose. A ceramic one may cost you about $300, but you can also buy a sink made of porcelain or marble. In this case, you may spend up to $1.150.

Undermount sinks

Crave to upgrade your existing vanity with an easy-to-clean sink type? Consider an undermount option. It doesn’t have an overhead lip, so keeping it stainless will be as easy as pie. Undermount sinks have a wide price range, starting at $200. Branded posh variants may cost up to $1.100.

Trough sinks

Willing to put a stop to morning arguing with your partner over a sink schedule? If you have a spacious bathroom, there is an ideal solution. A trough sink won’t break the bank but will allow you to enjoy your morning routine simultaneously. The cheapest option may cost about $300, while more luxurious ones may be sold for $1,600.

Vessel sinks

Are you looking to change the entire vibe of your bathroom? Then consider installing a vessel sink. With hundreds of ultra-modern designs, finding the very one will be easy. And you won’t beggar yourself for it as you can expect to pay between $350 and $1.450 for a high-quality vessel sink. 

What is the average labor cost to install bathroom sinks?

If you are not handy enough to turn a bathroom sink installation into a DIY project, you need to hire a professional. They can either charge for an hourly or flat rate. In the latter case, it’ll be between $380 and $470. This price involves different services, including sealing the sink and connecting plumbing. The costs may increase if you require additional plumbing work like replacing water lines or switching to a three-hole faucet.

Bathroom sink trends in 2023

The pandemic has taught people to search for serenity and inner peace in the comfort of their homes. If you are about to renovate your in-house retreat named bathroom, pay attention to the latest sink trends. This year they will be more important than ever.

• Adaptable fade-resistant stone sinks that can fit any bathroom layout and design
• Easy-to-clean enameled sinks that can resist scratches and fading
• Baked-on glaze porcelain sinks with a high-gloss finish
• Sinks made of natural materials like stones and wood
• Stainless steel sinks combined with marble countertops

Equipping your bathroom with a fashionable sink can make a big difference in the overall atmosphere. Don’t like experiments? Give preference to evergreen trends.