Overhead bathroom sinks: pros and cons

In just a couple of years, countertop bathroom sinks have gone from little-known to popular and in-demand plumbing fixtures. They are distinguished not only by ease of installation, but also by their original design and wide range. Today on the market you can see sink models from a number of the world's leading manufacturers in a wide variety of shapes. The features and disadvantages of overhead washbasins remain to be studied today.

Installation

You can install a countertop bathroom sink anywhere, and it’s easy to do. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a corner, a ledge or a niche, the only prerequisite is the presence of a tabletop or any other reliable stand for plumbing fixtures.

The overhead bowl is connected in almost the same way as a regular one. Drain hoses are passed through the hole made in the countertop. Installation is often carried out through a hidden installation of drainage in the wall. This is a new, in-demand technology that makes your sink look more impressive.

To add to this benefit, check out the overhead bowl installation diagram to see how easy it really is.

Voting for the best bathroom sink

Which bathroom sink would you choose or recommend?

Bronze de Luxe 10108

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LAUFEN ILBAGNOALESSI ONE 811971

0.00 % ( 0 )

RAVAK Avocado Comfort R

44.44 % ( 4 )

LAUFEN PRO 8.1695.5.000.106.1

0.00 % ( 0 )

Grohe Euro Ceramic 39327000

0.00 % ( 0 )

Laguraty 0001K

0.00 % ( 0 )

CEZARES Laredo on a pedestal

0.00 % ( 0 )

Santeri Victoria with pedestal

0.00 % ( 0 )

AM.PM M90WCC0752WG

11.11 % ( 1 )

Roca Diverta 327116

11.11 % ( 1 )

Cersanit COMO 50

22.22 % ( 2 )

Andrea Onyx 600

11.11 % ( 1 )

What does the installation process look like?

The installation diagram of an overhead sink is somewhat similar to the installation of a conventional kitchen sink. The only caveat is the insert into the countertop, but this feature is in no way considered a disadvantage. When making a slot for a siphon in the countertop, be sure to be careful. Thus, the hole for the siphon on the surface of the cabinet or tabletop must exactly match the size of the drain pipe so that the part passes smoothly through it. It is not worth cutting a large hole so that the pipe does not fall out. The flask with siphon is placed below.

Customer Reviews

Marina, Moscow : “To equip the bathroom, I chose the GV-103FR washbasin. Glass thickness = 12 mm. Perfectly matched the shower cabin with a body made of tinted glass. Looks stylish. A mounting ring is included. There is no anti-overflow system, there are no sides or a hole for the tap, but I’m ready to forgive anything for this appearance!”

Konstantin, Moscow : “To equip a bathroom in a cafe, I was looking for good quality overhead washbasins. I chose ceramic semi-hanging “Roca Diverta” 327110000. Width – 75 cm, depth – 15 cm. I bought three pieces for a tabletop of 3 meters. I attached it to both the wall and the countertop. This is more reliable for a public institution. Product quality is 5+. I recommend".

Evgeniy, Moscow : “We carry out turnkey renovations of premises.” Often clients trust the choice of plumbing fixtures. During my next order for bathroom equipment, I decided to install a round sink-shell. The choice was made in favor of the Italian Artik 140155 made of colored glass. Width and depth are 42 cm, height = 15 cm. The bottom valve is included. The installation is simple, but it looks like a masterpiece! The clients are delighted, which means the job was a success.”

How to install a mixer

Plumbers recommend using one of the three methods presented when installing the mixer:

There are overhead bathroom sinks that have a connector for the faucet, which is where it is installed. It is worth noting that in this case the hole in the mixer is made with a slightly larger diameter than is intended for the pipe.
If there is no hole in the sink, you can embed the faucet into the cabinet or countertop itself.
Another installation option is a wall. You can install the faucet in a similar way to a bathroom faucet, hiding everything unnecessary.

To fasten the mixer, you can purchase a special siphon equipped with a clamping nut, although it is quite possible to do without such an addition.

In principle, you are familiar with the basics of installing a faucet and the features of installing an overhead bowl-sink in a bathroom. As you can see, the work scheme is practically no different from installing classic sinks.

Dimensions and shape

The most popular countertop sink is round. There are most of these models. They are made from all the materials we listed above.

Shells can also be of other shapes:

rectangular;
round;
oval;
triangular;
irregular, asymmetrical.

Overhead sinks are usually small. For classic wall-hung sinks, models with a width of 60–80 cm are common (it’s easy to find sinks over 80 cm, for example, about 1 m wide) - overhead ones are smaller.

There are no standard sizes, but the most common are round models with a diameter of 42 to 50 cm. If you manage to damage the sink, models with this diameter will be easier to find.

Oval sinks are a little less common, and asymmetrical ones will probably be difficult to find if replacement is necessary.

Design

It would also be useful to mention the attractive appearance of overhead sinks. They look unusual, and some even creative. This brings a touch of individuality to the interior of the room and allows you to play up the style. Thanks to the large assortment, choosing a bowl is not a problem. And the most ordinary surface-mounted washbasin becomes a bright accent point in the bathroom composition.

conclusions

When choosing an overhead sink, you need to remember the following nuances:

the key criteria for choosing plumbing should be such parameters as the materials used, dimensions and weight of the overhead structure;
Particular attention should be paid to the shape of the equipment - in specialized stores you can find oval, round, square and rectangular models;
Ideally, the sink should have an antibacterial coating, which can prevent the appearance of pathogenic microorganisms and simplify cleaning;
You should also ask the consultant about the duration of the warranty service and the availability of additional accessories in the kit.

Details of choosing a countertop sink

When selecting plumbing fixtures, some difficulties and nuances arise related to the characteristics of the products. They may be positive or turn out to be a problematic issue due to certain circumstances. Therefore, when buying a sink, you should pay attention to their distinctive characteristics: the material used for manufacturing and the shape of the washbasins. The differences and combinations of these two parameters provide a considerable number of plumbing models for an intelligent choice.

In a showroom or store, you can look through a catalog of furniture and plumbing for the bathroom with colorful photos and full product characteristics. This is an undeniable advantage of buying in a specialized place - the opportunity to look and study the details and characteristics of an overlay sink for a bathroom countertop.

It’s also good that the store will help you make a choice and tell you which material is best today.

Popular models

The rating of popular models - round, oval, square and rectangular - will help you decide which countertop sink is best to purchase.

The best round models

Rating of the TOP 3 best round countertop sinks for the bathroom in terms of price and quality ratio.

Sink 40 cm WELTWASSER Elbach 3003

The countertop washbasin is round in shape, impressive with its attractive design and the presence of a special coating that prevents the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms.

A special feature of this model is the presence of a special glaze, which allows you to easily remove any dirt and lime deposits from the surface of the structure.

Thanks to the high-quality workmanship, the sink will last for many years, as evidenced by the warranty period stated by the manufacturer.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - missing;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 40x40x14.5 cm.

Advantages

modern design;
long warranty period;
convenience and ease of installation;
availability of high-quality coverage;
impact resistant characteristics.

Flaws

the need for careful cleansing;
It is better to entrust the installation to a specialist;
not the cheapest option.

Sink 40 cm MELANA MLN-7026BX

Presented in a laconic and sophisticated design, the round washbasin is simply created to become an impeccable addition to the bathroom interior.

The device is equipped with reliable hidden fasteners and a small hole for overflow.

It allows you to not worry at all about the possibility of accidentally flooding your neighbors if the main hole is closed.

The equipment is supplied together with a warranty card and informative operating instructions in a durable cardboard package.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - available;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 40x40x16 cm.

Advantages

attractive external design;
installation without unnecessary problems;
long operational period;
practicality of the materials used;
Ease of use.

Flaws

extremely simple configuration;
consultation with a specialist may be required;
To maintain its appearance, you need to clean the device regularly.

Sink 35.5 cm Laguraty 5645-3B

A presentable gray-white model, made of high-strength earthenware material, captivating at first glance with its ergonomic shape, low cost and ease of use.

The design is very modest in size and light in weight.

Thanks to this, it will be convenient to place it in a small bathroom where there is no free space for large equipment.

The countertop sink is distinguished by ease of cleaning.

There is no need to use aggressive cleaning agents to remove all kinds of stains.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - available;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 35.5x35.5x13 cm.

Advantages

convenient sink sizes;
harmony of equipment in any interior;
easy surface cleaning;
no visible fasteners;
reasonable price.

Flaws

It is undesirable to use aggressive means;
quite easily soiled surface;
equipment.

The best oval models

Review of the best oval countertop sinks based on customer ratings and reviews.

Sink 55.5 cm Kirovit Gamma 560

A universal model from a trusted manufacturer of high-quality sanitary ware, whose equipment is famous for its high ergonomics, environmental friendliness and clear geometry.

The design is presented in a sophisticated oval shape - it looks dignified and modern.

The washbasin bowl is deep enough, which ensures absolute comfort in everyday life.

There are also free zones where you can place the necessary accessories.

The product is distinguished by its impeccable whiteness, since modern glazing technology was used in the manufacturing process of the device.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - available;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 55.5x36.5x10 cm.

Advantages

possibility of self-installation;
universal classic design;
excellent protection against pathogenic bacteria;
reasonable cost;
long warranty from the manufacturer.

Flaws

fairly easily soiled coating;
the need for regular cleansing;
Additional fasteners may be required.

Sink 48 cm Ceramica Nova Element CN5010

An oval-shaped countertop sink from the middle price category, which can be fixed on top of a countertop or on a cabinet.

The surface structure of the sanitary equipment is glossy - it looks very beautiful and stylish.

However, the structure requires careful and thorough cleaning using mild detergents without abrasive particles.

The design is modern, which means that the device will look good in any interior. This model does not have a built-in overflow.

Specifications:

materials used - sanitary porcelain;
hole for overflow - missing;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 48x35x13 cm.

Advantages

laconic and sophisticated design;
premium build;
relatively low price;
long operational period;
reliable fixation on any surface.

Flaws

some installation features;
the product requires careful cleaning;
It is important to take measurements in advance.

Sink 64 cm Grossman GR-3011

Stylish oval sink made of durable earthenware, designed for countertop mounting.

The design fits perfectly into any interior thanks to its modern exterior design.

You can install it in a house, apartment, country house or country house.

The only significant disadvantage of this overhead model is the impossibility of installation above the washing machine.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - missing;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 65x44x11 cm.

Advantages

successful coating of the product;
manufacturer reliability;
extended warranty period;
versatility of sink installation;
Informative instructions included in the set.

Flaws

not the best solution for large premises;
increased soilability of the product;
The sink needs to be cleaned regularly.

The best square models

Sink 42 cm WELTWASSER Elbach 2177

Square-shaped sink for surface installation, equipped with a miniature overflow hole to avoid unforeseen situations.

Surface-mounted equipment is made of earthenware.

This material boasts high strength, reliability, and the ability to withstand high temperatures and even mechanical stress.

Despite the quality of the material, the manufacturer strongly recommends using mild detergents to clean the product - this will help extend its service life.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - available;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 42x42x12 cm.

Advantages

unusual design design;
the presence of hidden fastenings;
possibility of self-installation;
there is a coating against pathogenic bacteria;
the materials are durable and practical.

Flaws

poor equipment;
the model does not fit any interior;
It is important to fix the structure correctly.

Sink 38.5 cm Laguraty 8277B

An elegant model for a small bathroom, with a thin protective coating against pathogenic microorganisms, which will last without breakdowns, maintaining its original appearance, for many years.

The device can be quickly cleaned of various types of contaminants using a soft sponge and non-abrasive products.

The design will be the optimal solution for an apartment or cottage.

After all, it stands out due to its ergonomics, high level of safety and compliance with high quality standards.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - missing;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 39x39x14 cm.

Advantages

practicality of equipment;
you can do without the help of a professional;
successful delivery package;
durable and strong packaging;
compliance with high quality standards.

Flaws

small dimensions of the device;
the model is more suitable for a small bathroom;
the price is a little high.

Sink 47 cm Laguraty 5222B

A medium-sized square countertop sink, which is well suited for both a spacious bathroom with the ability to install full-sized equipment, and for rooms with a modest area.

The universal model is made of a material popular for the manufacture of plumbing products - earthenware.

The design is also supplemented with an antibacterial coating.

All fastenings are hidden - no unnecessary details or decor are provided.

In addition to the sink, the set includes fastening elements.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - available;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 47x47x14.5 cm.

Advantages

absolute safety of operation;
absence of unnecessary decorative elements;
optimal design dimensions;
light weight of the product;
The sink does not get scratched.

Flaws

plumbing fixtures must be properly cleaned of dirt;
warranty period;
standard equipment.

The best rectangular models

Sink 50 cm Laguraty 8217B

Rectangular countertop sink made of faience, designed for installation on a countertop.

The model is distinguished by its laconic design, optimal dimensions for installation in a spacious bathroom and the absence of foreign elements.

The design looks modern and expensive.

In addition to the earthenware sink, the buyer will find in the kit special fasteners for safe installation of the structure and detailed instructions in Russian.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - missing;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - no;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 50x40x15 cm.

Advantages

impeccable appearance;
careful execution of plumbing;
simplicity and convenience of cleaning;
validity period of the warranty certificate;
Excellent hidden fastenings are provided.

Flaws

not the lowest price;
you need to take into account the dimensions of the room;
The device needs to be cleaned regularly.

Sink 50 cm Roca Mila 32700B000

A neat porcelain model designed to be a successful addition to the overall bathroom interior.

The design has a rectangular shape - there are no additional decorative elements, so the equipment will definitely appeal to lovers of laconicism in modern design.

The device is easy to maintain.

To remove stains or various contaminants, you only need a soft cloth and a drop of detergent without acids or abrasive particles - they can leave scratches on the surface.

Specifications:

materials used - porcelain;
hole for overflow - missing;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - yes;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 50x35x19 cm.

Advantages

optimal dimensions for a medium-sized room;
quick fixation of equipment;
very affordable price tag;
highly reliable materials;
good protective coating.

Flaws

packaging is of average quality;
warranty period;
the importance of proper cleansing.

Washbasin 60 cm WELTWASSER Elbach 2174

An ultra-stylish rectangular washbasin with a minimalist design and low sides.

The design is installed on a tabletop - due to its impressive dimensions, it will be quite difficult to place the equipment yourself, so you should seek help from a professional.

Despite the strength of the material used, the structure should be cleaned carefully.

To remove dirt, it is better to choose soft products that cannot leave scratches.

Specifications:

materials used - earthenware;
hole for overflow - missing;
hole for the mixer - missing;
presence of antibacterial coating - no;
hidden fastenings - yes;
dimensions of the structure (WxDxH) - 60x40.5x11 cm.

Advantages

compliance with high quality standards;
a protective coating is provided;
ideal for a large bathroom;
ultra-modern design;
product durability.

Flaws

impressive dimensions of the structure;
the installation is difficult to cope with without the help of a specialist;
some features of cleaning plumbing.

Attention: what material is best for sinks?

Raw materials and their quality determine the strength, durability and reliability of the product. Special emphasis is placed on the appearance of the sink, since a visual overview of not only the inner surface of the bowl, but also the outer surface is assumed. Therefore, the quality level of earthenware or ceramics, most often used in production, is important. The advantages of overhead sinks for the bathroom include low price and routine care.

Lovers of antiquity prefer copper and brass bowls, which are truly considered exotic. Such products require more careful care, and the process is a hassle. Since regular use of special products is required to maintain the aesthetic appearance of sinks.

Glass washbasins are no less popular. They look stylish, are inexpensive and do not require special care.

There are overhead bowls made of natural and artificial stone. But to install a natural sink, you need to install a special countertop that can withstand the weight of the plumbing.

Some buyers like plumbing fixtures made from an acrylic substitute - it is cheap and easy to care for such a sink.

Materials

The choice of material is where buying a sink begins.

Faience

The most common option, classic for the manufacture of plumbing fixtures. Usually supplied in white, it is inexpensive and easy to clean. Requires caution - it is fragile and may crack if dropped on it with a heavy or sharp object.

Overhead water lily sink

Metal countertop sink

Acrylic

A less common option, but one that deserves no less attention. It is distinguished by its lightness, which allows it to be installed even on thin, fragile countertops. There is a huge variety of flowers. But here, too, you need to be careful—acrylic sinks are more sensitive than ceramic sinks. It can be scratched easily.

Orange countertop sink made of artificial stone

A natural stone

It is considered a very prestigious material, and this is not surprising - stone sinks are expensive and their service life is approaching infinity. They are not afraid of mechanical damage, scratches or cracks. They look original and aesthetically pleasing, especially if they match the rest of the room. The only drawback is they are heavy. Not every cabinet can support a stone sink.

Wall-mounted washbasin

Fake diamond

In terms of performance characteristics, products made from it are not inferior to products made from natural stone. Resistant to damage, beautiful, easy to use. Much lighter than those made from natural stone and cheaper.

Rectangular countertop washbasin

Glass

Quite a rare material, usually used by professional designers.

Surprisingly, a glass sink is no less resistant to damage than any other. It looks great and can become a real decoration for the bathroom.

However, it is expensive and requires complex care, otherwise the surface will become covered with stains and lose its chic.

Frosted glass countertop washbasin

Metal

It is also a rare material, but sinks made from it are cheaper than those made from stone or glass. They look beautiful and exotic in their own way, they can even be multi-colored if the metal is covered with enamel on top. However, they require no less complex care than any glass sink; Only special products and frequent cleaning will help maintain shine.

Countertop washbasin with long countertop

A ceramic sink, a glass sink, a sink made of artificial stone - they are all good in their own way, but only if they fit into the interior and complement it, and do not destroy it. You need to choose the material according to tastes, appropriateness and means.

Countertop sink with shelf

Features of furniture for an overhead sink

Installing a countertop sink in the bathroom is an advantage in itself. Since it requires additional support, here you can choose a cabinet, a tabletop, and a shelf. Specially designed furniture allows you to hide all the “internals” of plumbing fixtures: couplings, tubes, hoses.

Undoubtedly, the property of moisture resistance for furniture is a big plus, because it is intended to be used in a room with increased formation of steam and accumulation of moisture.

The best option for a countertop under the sink is a surface made of natural marble or artificial stone. Special furniture or countertops can usually be purchased as a set at a plumbing store. Most often this is a surface made to standard sizes.

Bathroom cabinets are equipped with special drawers or shelves where you can store everything you need. This way you can free up part of the room, thereby preserving useful space.

Where would this design fit?

An overhead sink is an ideal option for a small room or combined bathrooms. Its compact size and ease of installation in any space, including niches and awkward corners, allows it to be used in bathrooms with limited space. With the help of a properly selected design, you can create an original design for even the smallest bathroom.

If space allows and the bathroom area is large, a countertop sink will be a wonderful decoration; it can be used as an additional washbasin.

Price as an undeniable advantage of overhead sinks

Price is another advantage that cannot be ignored. The cost of a countertop bathroom sink varies and largely depends on the country of origin.

Domestic sinks are the cheapest. For oriental counter-mounted sinks, prices start from 3,000 rubles.

Earthenware products made in Europe will cost several times more, the price range is from 7,000 to 41,000 rubles.

The most expensive option is products from an Indian manufacturer, made of natural onyx, granite, and basalt. For such pleasure you will have to pay from 27,000, not to mention more respectable models belonging to LUXERY-class plumbing fixtures, the cost of which reaches several hundred thousand rubles.

Summing up, I would like to say that over-mount sinks-bowls on bathroom countertops have earned their inherent popularity due to their originality and a lot of advantages.

Choosing the right option

For household purposes, any of the presented products would be the best option. The main selection criteria are the individual preferences of the buyer, the design solution in finishing the bathroom, the color scheme and suitable sizes.

For public bathrooms, it is better to give preference to the following devices:

from high-quality ceramics (sanitary ware, sanitary porcelain);
rectangular shape;
length from 40 to 80 cm;
with an overflow protection system, the ability to install a single-lever mixer.

Ceramic appliances are practical to use, resistant to external damage, and convenient. The anti-overflow function will protect the premises from flooding if a visitor suddenly forgets to turn off the water or the sink drain becomes clogged.