"A guide to successfully installing a new bathroom sink yourself, broken down into seven easily-followed steps"
Installing a new bathroom sink can be an exciting project, especially for those looking to refresh their small bathroom. This guide will walk you through the key considerations when choosing a small bathroom sink and the steps involved in its installation.
Finding the Right Small Bathroom Sink
When selecting a small bathroom sink, it's essential to consider the layout of your current bathroom, as the right sink largely depends on the available space. For small bathrooms, a shallow depth (around 16 to 18 inches) and a narrow width (single-sink vanities between 24 and 30 inches wide) help save space while still providing functionality [1].
Additional important factors to consider include:
- Space between fixtures: Maintain at least 15 inches between the vanity edge and the toilet center, and ensure at least 21 inches of clearance in front of the sink for comfortable usage [1].
- Type of vanity/sink: Wall-mounted or pedestal sinks take up less floor space, making them ideal for small bathrooms. Freestanding vanities tend to be larger and may not fit well in constrained areas [2].
- Storage needs: If storage is limited, choose a vanity with efficient storage options such as drawers or shelves that suit your toiletries, but avoid bulky units that crowd the bathroom [2].
- User height and comfort: Vanity height typically ranges between 30 and 36 inches, with taller adults favoring the higher end for comfort [1].
- Sink shape and design: Compact rectangular or oval sinks with smaller footprints (e.g., about 18" length by 13" width) optimize usability without overwhelming tight spaces [3].
Essential Tools and Supplies for Bathroom Sink Installation
Before you begin the installation process, gather the necessary tools and supplies, including an adjustable wrench or spanner, basin wrench, pipe wrench, plumbers putty or silicone sealant, pipe cutter or hacksaw, tape measure, level, screwdrivers, a bucket and towels, and a Stabila 70 Single Plumb Box Section Spirit Level Set.
Preparing for Installation
Before starting the installation, turn off the water supply and drain down the system. If replacing an old sink, clean up the area before starting the installation. Flexi tails, such as the Haiba Kitchen/Basin Monobloc Mixer Tap Connectors Flexi Pipes, can be useful for connecting the water supply to the sink.
Installing the Bathroom Sink
When attaching a bathroom sink, it's recommended to attach the faucet and drain before setting the sink in place. When fitting a countertop basin, pay close attention to the size of your vanity unit to ensure the basin will fit. To put a bathroom sink into place, pop it onto the countertop or vanity and check it's centred and level before securing it with plumbers putty or silicone sealant around the edges.
During installation, the P-trap (curvy pipe) should be assembled and connected to the drainpipe.
DIY Bathroom Sink Installation
A confident DIYer who's tackled simple plumbing tasks before can install a bathroom sink with guidance. However, if you're unsure or uncomfortable with any aspect of the installation, it's always a good idea to seek professional help to ensure a successful outcome.
[1] Bathroom Sink Buying Guide
[2] Bathroom Sink Installation Guide
[3] Small Bathroom Sink Ideas
- For ideal small bathroom remodeling, consider wall-mounted or pedestal sinks to save floor space.
- When choosing a small bathroom sink, keep in mind the available space and the layout of your current bathroom.
- To ensure convenience, maintain a minimum of 15 inches between the vanity edge and the toilet center, and provide at least 21 inches of clearance in front of the sink for comfortable use.
- You may need a Stabila 70 Single Plumb Box Section Spirit Level Set and other tools such as an adjustable wrench and pipe cutter for the bathroom sink installation.
- After gathering essential tools and supplies, turn off the water supply and drain the system before starting the installation.
- When installing a bathroom sink, ensure the faucet and drain are attached before setting the sink in place, and pay attention to the size of your vanity unit when fitting a countertop basin.
- A successful lifestyle upgrade involving home-and-garden projects like building a new bathroom sink can be easily guided with proper design, tools, and home-improvement ideas.
- To optimize usability, choose a compact rectangular or oval sink with a smaller footprint, and ensure that storage options suit your toiletries without crowding the bathroom.
