Countertop Basins

What is a countertop basin?

A countertop basin, also called a sit-on basin or vessel basin, is a freestanding bowl that sits on top of a worktop or vanity unit surface rather than being recessed into it or mounted on a wall. The basin rests on the surface with its full profile visible, which makes it a strong design feature in its own right. Countertop basins require a worktop or vanity unit to support them and a tall basin tap or wall-mounted tap to accommodate the height of the bowl.

Not sure a countertop basin is right for you? Read our bathroom basin buying guide for advice, or browse our full range of basins for further options.

What sizes do countertop basins come in?

Our countertop basins range from 360mm to 615mm in width and 100mm to 490mm in depth. Heights sit between 100mm and 499mm depending on the model. Key sizes available:

360mm countertop basins: the most compact option, suited to smaller vanity units or worktops with limited depth. Available in round and square profiles.
400mm to 490mm countertop basins: mid-range sizes that suit standard 500mm to 600mm wide vanity units comfortably.
520mm to 615mm countertop basins: the largest options, giving a generous washing area. Suited to wider worktops and double vanity setups.

Always confirm your worktop depth before selecting a basin. The basin depth should sit within the worktop footprint with enough clearance at the front to avoid overhang.

What material are countertop basins made from?

All our countertop basins are made from vitreous china, a ceramic material fired at high temperatures to produce a dense, non-porous surface. The glaze is smooth, resistant to staining and easy to wipe clean. It holds up well in humid bathroom conditions without warping, swelling or deteriorating over time. A vitreous china countertop basin, properly maintained, will last decades without losing its surface quality.

What countertop bathroom basin shapes are available?

Our countertop basin range covers four shapes to suit different bathroom styles and worktop configurations:

Round countertop basins: the most popular shape for countertop basins. Soft, symmetrical profile that suits both contemporary and transitional bathrooms. Available in sizes from 360mm to 565mm diameter.
Oval countertop basins: a longer, softer shape that provides more washing space than a round basin of similar width. Available in 490mm and 615mm lengths.
Square countertop basins: angular profile suited to modern, geometric bathroom schemes. Available in 370mm sizes with one tap hole.
Rectangular countertop basins: the longest footprint in the range, giving maximum washing space. Available in 520mm width as a sit-on vessel.

Not sure which shape suits your bathroom? Read our countertop basin buying guide.

What tap do I need for a countertop basin?

Because countertop basins sit raised above the worktop, the tap needs to be tall enough to reach comfortably over the rim of the basin. There are two practical options: tall or wall mounted taps. Tall basin taps are a tall monobloc or pillar tap mounted through the worktop beside or behind the basin. The spout height should clear the basin rim by at least 50mm for comfortable use. Whereas wall mounted taps are mounted directly to the wall above the basin, leaving the worktop entirely clear around the bowl. This works especially well with countertop basins as it creates a clean, uncluttered vanity surface.

Read our bathroom taps buying guide and tap and basin installation guide for full guidance on pairing taps with countertop basins.

What vanity unit do I need for a countertop basin?

The worktop depth should be at least as deep as the basin itself, ideally with 20mm to 30mm of worktop visible at the front. A floor standing vanity unit or wall hung unit with a worktop top both work well. Browse our bathroom vanity units for compatible options or read our bathroom vanity units buying guide for what to look for.

How do I install a countertop basin?

Installing a countertop basin is one of the more straightforward basin installations. Position the basin on the worktop and mark the waste hole position. Drill or cut the waste hole in the worktop. Apply silicone sealant around the base of the basin before placing it in its final position, then connect the waste to the trap and drain below. If using a tap through the worktop, drill the tap hole before fitting the worktop. All waste and water connections should be made or checked by a qualified plumber.

Read our full countertop basin installation guide for step-by-step instructions.