How does a washbasin differ from a sink and a washbasin?

We usually don’t think about whether there is a difference in the meaning of the words “washbasin,” “washstand,” and “sink.” Is this the same thing or not? What difference does it make, as long as you can wash your hands, face, and brush your teeth. We don’t care about these subtleties until necessity takes us to a plumbing store. And there the variety will make your head spin. This is where the confusion in terminology comes into play.
So let's understand and continue to use names correctly and in the right context.

What is a washstand

The name of this type of plumbing is derived from a combination of words and denotes a device that is necessary to wash your palms.

The washstand is a thing of the past

Reference. A washstand is a vessel for washing that can be hung on a wall or other vertical support.

The simplest devices of the past were equipped with a handle by which they were suspended, and a spout for flowing out water. Externally, antique washing items resemble a familiar teapot..

One can guess for a long time about the purpose of a vessel with two spouts on opposite sides. But this is also a washstand. Richly decorated clay specimens have been preserved, as well as objects made of expensive metals - copper, bronze, silver.

But the most common option was a small cylindrical or conical water container with a stem with a valve.

The fact is that the water in the container was consumed uncontrollably and ran out very quickly. For rational savings, a tip with a valve was invented. By bringing his palms to the rod and lifting it up, the person opened the valve for a short time and received a dosed portion of water. A few such movements were enough to rinse your face and palms.

In the last century, such a device hung in every house where there was no central water supply. And these were the majority.

Modern models

Sometimes you hear that such items are a thing of the past. In fact, they also exist today.

If you ask for a washbasin in the plumbing department, you will most likely be offered a product similar to a mini-sink. Do not be surprised!

Reference. Modern small-sized washstands are designed for public places: bars, cafes, restaurants. They are also installed in sanitary rooms of hypermarkets, train stations and other buildings with large numbers of people.

In order to save space, they are also installed in apartments - in the toilet or bathroom. Given the general trend towards minimalism in interior design, this option looks practical and very modern.

The devices have also found widespread use at dachas.

Traditionally, the kit includes the following elements:

• large water tank;
• heating element;
• faucet with valve;
• sink;
• sewerage device;
• cabinet.

Plastic structures are comfortable and lightweight, metal ones are strong and durable.

The difference between a washbasin and other sanitary equipment

It would seem that everything is already clear. But if we find ourselves in a plumbing store, the confusion will begin again. The variety of models, many names and abundance of offers will make your head spin.To understand, you will again have to delve into the details.

Sink

A sink is any plumbing fixture needed to wash hands or small objects.

The main difference between a sink and a washstand is its size. The sinks are larger than compact washstands.

Sinks are made of earthenware, ceramics, and less often - metal or artificial or natural stone. Modern designs come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

The most famous sink model is called the “tulip”.

The shape of the washing compartment really resembles an open tulip bud. This sink is mounted on a matching earthenware base. For many years, the tulip sink occupied first place in the top category of sanitaryware.

Nowadays, the water lily shell is at the peak of fashion.

It is shallow, but quite spacious in width. Its peculiarity is that most often it is built above the washing machine and, accordingly, has the same dimensions.

Wash basin

Initially, a washbasin was any device that supplies water. Today, a washbasin is a cabinet with a water container and a sink for draining.

How to plumbing equipment washbasins are quite impressive in size. Another difference is the presence of a cabinet in the washbasins.

Washbasins are not just for washing your palms. Over the wide and deep washbasin, it is convenient to brush your teeth, wash your face, shave, do cosmetic procedures, and the like.

It is obvious that the washbasin, washbasin and sink perform one common function - they make us and our lives much cleaner.