Corner Basins

A corner hand basin can make an awkward part of the room more useful, especially if you're short on space in your bathroom, en-suite or downstairs toilet. From choosing a small corner basin to checking bowl bowl size and fitting requirements, these FAQs cover the main things worth knowing before you buy.

 

Do corner basins actually save space?

A corner wash basin makes use of wall space that might otherwise go unused and can leave more room around the rest of the bathroom, although exactly how much space it saves depends on its width, depth and how far it projects into the room. They're particularly handy in cloakrooms, downstairs toilets and smaller bathrooms where a standard basin could stick out too far. A wall hung corner basin can free up even more floor space, while a pedestal model will still occupy some of it.

 

Are corner basins too small to use comfortably?

A small corner sink can still be easy to use, as long as the bowl is big enough to actually allow you.to wash your hands. Before buying one, it's worth checking the internal bowl size and depth as well as the overall width. A slightly deeper or more generously shaped corner wash hand basin can make a compact design much easier to use. Before buying, also check that the tap spout reaches far enough into the bowl and that the adjoining walls leave enough space for your hands and elbows.

 

Will a corner basin fit properly into a 90 degree corner?

Corner basins are designed to fit into a right-angled corner, but don’t assume every corner in your bathroom is perfectly square. Measure both walls at the height where the basin will sit before ordering and check the basin dimensions carefully against the product drawing. If the walls are slightly out, ask your installer to check whether the basin will sit correctly. Allow for tiles, skirting and pipe boxing when measuring too.

 

What tap and waste do I need for a corner basin?

Check the number of tap holes before choosing your taps. A one tap hole basin will usually take a basin mixer, while a two tap hole basin needs a compatible pair of taps.

A basin with an overflow will usually need a slotted waste, while one without an overflow normally needs an unslotted waste. Our guide to slotted and unslotted basin wastes explains the difference. Taps, wastes and traps may need to be bought separately, so check the product description before ordering.

 

Are corner basins difficult to install?

Fitting a corner basin can take more care than fitting one against a single wall. Your corner basin must sit neatly in the corner, while the wall or pedestal must support its weight. Access to the tap, waste and trap can also be restricted.

Check whether the basin comes with brackets or other fittings, and make sure the fixings suit your wall construction. Wall hung and pedestal models require different fitting methods. If the walls need reinforcing or the pipework needs moving, use a qualified plumber.