Choosing a bathroom sink for your renovation? You’re not alone – with more materials available than ever, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Your pick will shape everything from the look of your loo to long-term maintenance costs. Let’s cut through the noise with a no-nonsense breakdown of popular options.
Quick Access
- Ceramic Sinks
- Acrylic Sinks
- Stainless Steel Sinks
- Porcelain Sinks
- Natural Stone Sinks
- Glass Sinks
- Timber Sinks
- Copper Sinks
- Solid Surface Sinks
- Concrete Sinks
1. Ceramic Sinks
The classic choice, ceramic sinks are moulded pottery fired at high temps for that glossy finish we all recognise.
Pros:
• Smooth, waterproof surface resists stains
• Budget-friendly with endless shapes/styles
• Dead easy to wipe down
Cons:
• Can chip if you drop heavy objects
• Harsh cleaners may dull the glaze
2. Acrylic Sinks
Lightweight and versatile, these plastic-based sinks are a tradie’s dream for quick installations.
Pros:
• Surprisingly tough for daily use
• Scratches buff out with a bit of elbow grease
• Comes in bonkers colours if you’re feeling bold
Cons:
• Shows scratches easier than ceramics
• Avoid abrasive scrubbers – they’ll leave marks
3. Stainless Steel Sinks
More common in kitchens but gaining traction in modern Aussie bathrooms.
Pros:
• Naturally antibacterial – hygiene win
• Recyclable and low-maintenance
• Handles heat like a champ
Cons:
• Shows water spots unless religiously polished
• Cheaper grades dent if you knock ‘em
4. Porcelain Sinks
Ceramic’s posh cousin, offering similar looks with extra durability.
Pros:
• Non-porous surface stops water absorption
• Available in colours beyond basic white
• Long lifespan if treated gently
Cons:
• Heavy buggers – get help installing
• Prone to chipping around edges
5. Natural Stone Sinks
This is for those wanting a slice of the Outback indoors. Think marble, granite or sandstone.
Pros:
• Heat-resistant and utterly unique
• Adds instant luxe factor
• Simple to clean (once sealed)
Cons:
• Needs resealing twice yearly
• Installation costs will make your eyes water
6. Glass Sinks
The show ponies of bathroom sinks – perfect for making a statement.
Pros:
• Wipe-clean convenience
• Comes in every colour under the sun
• Tempered versions resist shattering
Cons:
• Shows water marks like nobody’s business
• Not ideal for clumsy toothpaste users
7. Timber Sinks
Bring the bush to your bathroom with these organic beauties.
Pros:
• Sustainable options available
• Teak resists mould naturally
• Warms up sterile bathroom designs
Cons:
• High maintenance – think daily drying
• Scratches easily if not babied
8. Copper Sinks
Industrial chic meets antimicrobial smarts.
Pros:
• Develops a unique patina over time
• Naturally kills germs
• Works with farmhouse or modern styles
Cons:
• Pricey compared to basics
• Reacts badly to acidic cleaners
9. Solid Surface Sinks
The new kid on the block, made from resin blends.
Pros:
• Seamless design stops grime buildup
• Mimics pricier materials convincingly
• Small scratches buff out easily
Cons:
• Can’t handle hot hair tools left lying about
• Stains if you leave spills too long
10. Concrete Sinks
Urban edge meets DIY potential.
Pros:
• Surprisingly durable for daily use
• Custom shapes/colours galore
• Cheaper than natural stone
Cons:
• Requires regular sealing
• Expect “artisan” imperfections
The Bottom Line
Your sink choice hinges on three things: how much elbow grease you’re willing to invest, your budget, and what look makes your heart sing. Modern renos might lean towards steel or concrete, while traditionalists stick with ceramic. Remember, even “low maintenance” options need some TLC. Whack a reminder in your phone for resealing stone/concrete sinks, and maybe avoid glass if you’ve got rowdy kids.
