Small Cloakroom Basins
Every cloakroom will never be complete without a basin. This plumbing fixture is used mainly for hand-washing. They have taps that supply hot and cold water, and a drain to remove used water. Small cloakroom basins are ideal because they don’t take up too much space. Considering its primary purpose, it would not be practical to have a very large basin.
A cloakroom can be easily transformed by changing the kind of basin that it has. Not only is a cloakroom basin easy to install, but it is also an inexpensive way to upgrade the look of the cloakroom. A modern cloakroom basin no longer has faucets, but instead, it has infrared sensors that can detect the user’s hand and will turn on automatically.
Types of Cloakroom Basins
There are seven common types of small cloakroom basins, and these are:
- Self-rimming—The type that is mounted above the counter.
- Under mount—The type installed underneath the countertop.
- Pedestal—This one has a base, which is used to hide the plumbing and supply lines.
- Vanity—This type is composed of a basin and countertop, placed on a cabinet.
- Wall-hung—This can be installed at whatever height, directly on the wall. This is one of the most common types of cloakroom basins.
- Console—Similar to the pedestal, but with two or four legs supporting the basin.
- Vessel—This type of basin rests on top of the counter, vanity, or console and provides proper clearance above the sink rim.
Materials Used and Styles
There are several materials that are used to make cloakroom basins. There are stainless steel, ceramic, copper, granite, plastic, concrete, wood, terrazzo, plus enamel over steel or cast iron, stone and soapstone. Stainless steel basins are preferred because they are not costly and they are also long-lasting. Ceramic and enamel over steel is also popular as they are strong and can withstand hot or cold temperatures. However, ceramic is better since it does not corrode. Plastic basins are often made of thermoplastics that are injection molded or high-end acrylic.
Small cloakroom basins usually have three basic styles: compact, modern, and traditional. These basins also come in various shapes. There are oval, round, semi-circle, square, rectangle and hexagonal basins. Given the number of small cloakroom basins in the market, it is best that you scout for the one that best suits your space and requirements.
Modern Cloakroom Basins
Nowadays, most public restrooms feature automatic basins. These basins have motion sensors that detect a user’s hands moving under the tap. Only then will water go out and it will also stop automatically. While this modern basin may be more expensive initially, they save money in the long run. Less water will be used compared to manual sinks. Also, they promote a cleaner and more hygienic restroom. These modern cloakroom basins may be a bit bigger in size than the usual small basins, and are often seen in hotels, shopping malls, and airports.