Bathroom sinks are made from a variety of materials of which vitreous china sinks are by far the most common today. Other materials like tempered glass, metal, stone and acrylic are also used in the manufacture of sinks and each has its advantages and disadvantages.

We discuss the most common materials used to manufacture sinks below to help you decide which one is best suited to your lifestyle and home.

China

Vitreous china sinks come in a variety of versatile shapes and colors

The most common material used for bathroom sinks, vitreous china is popular due to its versatility as a material. Vitreous china sink surfaces can come in a variety of colors to match the décor of your bathroom, making them a versatile choice. China is also highly durable, making it an ideal material for bathroom sinks. Some vitreous china sinks can be damaged by harsh cleaning chemicals and china can also be damaged by impact. China glazes can be scratched quite easily due to daily use and this may mar their appearance over time.

Metal

A metal sink with a hand hammered finish

Stainless steel and copper sinks are relatively easy to clean, scratch resistant and not prone to extensive damage on impact. Metal sinks are also a natural choice for better hygiene as metal retards the growth of many bacteria. Metal sinks come in a variety of interesting shapes, finishes and designs, from the ultra modern to the traditional, and can be a unique element in the decor of a bathroom.

An Unusual stone sink

Acrylic

A relatively newer choice of material for manufacturing sinks, acrylic sinks are a contemporary and more avant garde choice. If your tastes run towards bold colors and accent elements that create a startling focal point, acrylic is the material for you. Sinks made from acrylic can come in contemporary neon colors and unusual shapes.

A bright blue acrylic sink

Glass

Glass sinks can come in swirling colors and bespoke designs or be sleekly transparent and contemporary. The only caveat with glass as a material is the probability of it chipping or cracking if used roughly. A glass sink can be a vivid splash of color in an otherwise understated bathroom or be a beautiful modern contrast to traditional decor.

A unique glass sink with a pattern of swirls

Unusual

Other than the commonly used materials, sinks nowadays can be made of the most unusual elements from roughly hewn stone receptacles to lit from within molded opaque glass, the choices in the market are endless and inexhaustible. Wood and stone are also being used in more contemporary avatars to create unusual and eye-catching décor.

A rough stone sink for a rustic contemporary look

While a wood sink may be a savvy style statement it may not be the perfect choice for daily rough use or even in kids’ bathrooms. Similarly glass is an attractive choice but better suited for adult bathrooms because glass may crack and injure a child. Keep in mind that sinks are subjected to water at varying temperatures and sink surfaces should be treated to withstand both heat and cold.

An ultra modern sink that uses a combination of tempered glass and acrylic

Other than budget constraints the primary issues to keep in mind when choosing the appropriate material for your bathroom sink are durability, scratch resistance, maintenance and compatibility with your décor choices.