Difference Between Kitchen Sink Vs. Wash Basin

The confusion between a sink and a washbasin probably causes many people to think about the differences between them. As a matter of fact, most of us would have thought that they were the same thing. While a kitchen sink and a wash basin might look like the same fixtures, there are some differences that everyone must know.

A closer look at the types of materials, size, installation, and positioning of sinks and washbasins can help you better identify their utility. If you have never found a sink to be different from a washbasin, then you are not alone. Let us put an end to all the doubts you may have about a sink and a washbasin before installing one in your home.

Origins of the Confusion Between Kitchen Sinks and Washbasins

It is reasonable to wonder why you should worry about the difference between kitchen sinks and washbasins. A kitchen sink may look similar to a washbasin at the first glance. Both of them are the same shape, and you use them to wash your hands or dishes. Therefore, anyone would assume that they are the same thing with different names. On the other hand, there are clear distinctions between them that explain how they are different from each other.

What are Kitchen Sinks?

Kitchen sinks or sinks are generally deeper and larger. As the name implies, they are used in kitchens for dishwashing and food preparation tasks like washing raw vegetables. Kitchen sinks are generally made of stainless steel for better durability against heat and heavy utensils. However, ceramic and composite materials are also ideal choices for kitchen sinks in some cases. Sinks can also have multiple bowls and are connected to the plumbing system to provide running water.

What are Washbasins?

Washbasins are smaller fixtures and shallower than kitchen sinks. Compared to a kitchen sink, washbasins are used to wash faces and hands. You can find washbasins commonly in the bathroom as well as near the dining area of a home. The common materials used for making washbasins include porcelain, glass and ceramic. You can install a wash basin on a cabinet or vanity countertop. On the other hand, some installation designs for washbasins include a pedestal base rather than a countertop.

Evaluating the Difference Between Kitchen Sinks and Washbasins

The definitions of kitchen sinks and washbasins provide a glimpse of the differences between them. Unravelling the distinctions between a kitchen sink and washbasins can help you understand their importance as plumbing fixtures. In addition, you can also gain insights on how to choose the perfect sinks or washbasins. Here are some of the notable differences between kitchen sinks and washbasins.

Size and Depth

Kitchen sinks are generally bigger in size and deeper to accommodate utensils and other materials required for food preparation.

Washbasins are smaller in size and shallower, with an aesthetic appeal.

Placement

The ideal place to install a kitchen sink is obviously the kitchen.

On the other hand, you can install a washbasin anywhere. Some of the common locations where you can install a washbasin in your home are the bathroom and the dining room.

Why Should You Use Them?

The purpose of kitchen sinks and washbasins is also to serve as a major point of difference between the most important plumbing fixtures. Kitchen sinks are built for washing dishes and preparing food. Therefore, they are likely to be more resilient to the impact of hot water, cold water, and oil.

Washbasins are considerably simpler in terms of their purpose. The objective of using a wash basin is to wash your hands and face. You can also brush your teeth or shave your beard near a washbasin, depending on the placement of the washbasin.

How Do You Install Them?

Another important difference between a kitchen sink and washbasins is the way you install them. The most common preference for installing kitchen sinks is on countertops or vanities. It is important to ensure that kitchen sinks are installed at a place where they can be easily connected to the plumbing system.

Washbasins are also installed on vanities and countertops. On top of it, you can also find some washbasin designs that you can mount on walls or on a pedestal.

Where Can You Find the Best Kitchen Sinks and Washbasins for Your Home?

Picking a washbasin or kitchen sink might be a tough challenge for anyone who is making the decision for the first time. You can rely on our products to make your life easier and make your home look more beautiful. The choice of a sink or washbasin would ultimately depend on your needs. However, the availability of multiple choices gives you the best chance to pick sinks and washbasins that sit perfectly in your home’s interior décor.

The most popular kitchen sink and washbasin installation styles include wall-mounted, pedestal, drop-in or vessel styles. Wall-mounted sinks or washbasins can be installed directly on a wall. The common styles among wall-mounted sinks and washbasins include oval, circular and rectangular. Pedestal style involves installation of a basin or sink on a tall and narrow base. It is a classic style and imparts an aesthetic look in your bathrooms and dining areas.

Vessel-style sinks are also a top choice for creating visually appealing washbasins with a contemporary and stylish look. You would need specialised faucets for them, along with a countertop for installation that would offer additional space. Similarly, a drop-in style would be more suitable for extending the countertop space near the basin.

Are You Ready to Buy Kitchen Sinks and Washbasins?


The outline of the differences between kitchen sinks and washbasins provides answers to one of the most common doubts in people's minds. Exploring an online store for home furnishings may lead you to new and appealing collections by different brands. At Hippo Homes, you can find a comprehensive collection of sinks and washbasins in different styles for your home. With years of experience in serving customers with the best bathroom and kitchen fittings, we stand out as the best platform to make living more luxurious and better.