It's easy to get mixed up when talking about basins and sinks. These terms can be used interchangeably, but they have some technical differences. In this article, we’ll make everything clearer for you. We’ll also go into detail about where you might find a basin or a sink at home.

What is a sink?

Sinks are fixtures in shared spaces like kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms. They're used for washing hands, cleaning dishes and brushing teeth. Every sink has two main parts: the sink itself and a drain. There’s also a tap, which is sometimes bought separately. 

You'll find sinks in all sorts of styles and shapes to fit different needs and preferences.

Where can I install a sink?

• Kitchen: The kitchen is often the busiest part of the home, with constant activity and dishes accumulating. The sink is installed directly into the countertop for easy use and access.
• Bathroom: Bathroom sinks are smaller and more decorative, fitting into vanity units or countertops. Depending on your space and needs, they might have a single or double basin.
• Laundry: The laundry is another key area for cleaning. Laundry sinks are used for bathing pets and handwashing clothes. This kind of sink is usually made of durable stainless steel that doesn’t scratch easily.

What is a basin?

Much like a sink, a basin is a fixture normally found in bathrooms. They’re usually made out of durable ceramic and come with different wastes than a kitchen sink. Basins may also be over or under-counter.

Where can I install a basin?

Because of their shape and material, basins are usually found in bathrooms. Here, they are usually installed on top of a vanity or countertop. 

What is the difference between a sink and a basin?

The big difference between a basin and sink comes down to their use and design. 

A sink will be more comprehensive in its design — the classic faucet-drain combo. These are usually more heavy-duty and are found in kitchens, bathrooms and laundries. Basins are usually shallower and made from non-porous hard materials such as ceramic. They live in the bathroom and are used for brushing teeth and washing hands.

Mystery solved!

In short, a sink is the go-to for outfitting a kitchen or laundry room. A basin might be the better choice for a bathroom.

Understanding the difference between these two will simplify and speed up your renovation process, enabling you to make better decisions about functionality and design. Knowing the difference can also help with proper installation and avoid potential confusion during the renovation process. 

If you need more help, don’t hesitate to reach out to the friendly team at Yabby today. Or, if you know what you’re looking for, check out our range of kitchen and bathroom products!