Cloakroom Basins

Small cloakrooms don't leave much room for error, so getting the basin right matters. These FAQs cover the main things to check before buying a slimline cloakroom basin, from size and tap position to fitting and what's included.

 

What size basin is best for a small cloakroom?

There is no single best size, so measure the available space before choosing a new cloakroom sink. Check the basin’s overall width, how far it projects into the room and how much space it leaves around the toilet, door and nearby furniture.

Look at the internal bowl dimensions too, as a compact basin still needs to leave enough room to wash your hands comfortably. Marking the basin’s dimensions on the wall or floor can help you picture how it will fit.

 

What type of basin is best for a small cloakroom?

Corner and wall hung basins can both work really well in smaller cloakrooms. A corner basin makes use of space that might otherwise be wasted, while a wall hung bathroom sink keeps the floor clear and can make the room feel less crowded. A compact vanity unit featuring a basin may suit you better if you need storage, provided it does not restrict movement through the room.

 

Should I choose a left or right-hand tap hole?

In a narrow cloakroom, tap position can make a surprising difference to how comfortable the basin is to use, so go for the side that works best with the layout of the room and your plumbing. Check the product details before ordering, as some basins come in separate left and right-hand versions.

 

Do small cloakroom basins splash more?

They can, particularly when the bowl is shallow or the tap does not suit its size. Check that the spout reaches far enough into the bowl and does not sit unnecessarily high above it.

Water pressure and flow rate also affect splashing, so check the tap’s pressure requirements and pair it with a basin of a suitable depth. That should help keep more of the water where it belongs.

 

Do cloakroom basins come with taps and wastes?

Not always. Cloakroom basin taps, wastes, bottle traps and wall fixings may need to be bought separately, depending on the product.

If the basin has an overflow, it will usually need a slotted waste. A basin without an overflow normally needs an unslotted waste. Our guide to slotted and unslotted basin wastes explains the difference. A wall hung basin may also need a decorative bottle trap if the pipework will remain visible.

 

Is there enough room for soap on a cloakroom basin?

Sometimes, but smaller wash hand basins don't always leave much space around the tap. If you want to keep soap on the basin itself, check the product photos and dimensions first. If space is really tight, a wall mounted soap dispenser or small shelf can keep your cloakroom wash basin clear.

 

Can I fit a cloakroom wash basin myself?

It depends on the basin, the existing pipework and the wall or unit that will support it. Wall hung cloakroom basins need secure fixings that suit the wall and can support the basin’s weight.

You will also need to connect the tap, waste and trap, then test every joint for leaks. If you need to move pipes or are not confident that you can mount and connect the basin safely, use a qualified plumber.