Choosing Vessel Sinks: Glass, Ceramic, Stone and Metal

You want to change the look and design of your bathroom, and you hope to bring a touch of elegance to the space. One of the best ways to do this is by bringing in a new vanity with a vessel sink. This is a way to instantly change the style of your bathroom. However, these types of sinks can work for just about any type of bathroom, not just those who want a contemporary style. It could become one of your favorite pieces in the entire house, not just the bathroom.

What Is a Vessel Sink?

If you aren’t familiar with this term, it’s time to take a closer look. Most of the sinks today are under-mount sinks, which have the sink installed under the counter. A vessel sink means that rather than being under the counter, they sit on top of the vanity countertop.

However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t apply to all of the vessel sinks. There are other options including semi-recessed and recessed.

A semi-recessed vessel sink has just part of the sink mounted below the counter. The rest is above the counter. One of the benefits of this option is that the sink will have a lower height than an above counter vessel sink, and more height than one that is fully recessed. Depending on the vanity you have and what works best for you, this could be a better option.

Although fully recessed vessel sinks are available, they tend not to be as common. This is because not all vessel sinks can be recessed into all countertops. If this is the option that you would like, you need to be sure you buy a vessel that has a rim on it, which will allow the sink to attach properly. This type of installation tends to be more difficult.

Vessel sinks have some great advantages. For starters, they can add quite a bit of style to the bathroom. They look great, and they are not something that you often see in bathrooms. These types of sinks tend to be easy to install apart from the recessed variety. You could do it yourself, or you could hire someone to handle it for you. Quite often, you will also gain some added counterspace by having the sink on top of the vanity.

Of course, cleaning has the potential to be more of a chore since you have to clean the area between the base of the sink and countertop. It’s not difficult, but you need to remember to clean this area whenever you clean the bathroom.

Related: Pros & Cons of Vessel Sinks

22 Inch Bathroom Vanity with Travertine Vessel Sink

What are Vessel Sinks Made From?

The sinks can be made from a host of different types of materials including stone, glass, ceramic, and metal. Let’s learn more about each of these below, along with how to care for each of them.

Stone Vessel Sinks

Stone vessel sinks are incredible and can look like little works of art. They are made from a single block of stone, and since it’s a natural material, each sink is unique. The sinks will have their own color and style variations, even when made from the same types of stone. Some have a natural look like a rock plucked from outside and carved into a sink. Others have been polished and shaped.

Some of the types of stone include sandstone, onyx, green jade, travertine, granite, and marble. They each have a different look and feel.

These sinks can typically be cleaned with mild dish detergent or a specialized stone cleaner. When you get the sink, you should seal it if it wasn’t already sealed by the seller. This will help to ensure it keeps looking good for years t come. Keep in mind that oil-based sealers and plumber’s putty should not be used with the stone sinks, as they can cause the stone to stain.

Natural Stone Canoe Vessel Sink in Emperador Marble

Glass Vessel Sinks

If you would like a more modern look, consider getting a glass vessel sink. These can be formed into a range of shapes and styles and can look great. They are typically clear, but it’s possible to find them in a wide range of colors and designs, as well. you could opt to choose a color that will work well for the other decor in your bathroom.

These tend to be affordable, and they are easy to maintain. All you need is some standard glass cleaner, along with a soft cloth. Clean them at least once a week or more often if you notice that they need it. Be sure not to use any abrasive materials when cleaning the sink, or you could scratch the glass.

True Planet Glass Sink Bowl

Ceramic Vessel Sinks

Ceramic vessel sinks are beautiful. They are made from water, clay, and powder, just as other ceramics are. They are shaped to the right size and then heated to harden. These sinks have a strong surface, just as you would expect from other ceramic materials. They tend to resist scratches and chipping, which is important since the sink will see so much use.

You will also appreciate that ceramic can come in so many different colors, styles, and shapes. You can find some beautiful, creative options.

Cleaning and maintaining ceramic will be easy because it is sealed. Dirt can’t penetrate the surface. Use a soft sponge along with a gentle all-purpose cleaner. Avoid using anything abrasive, which could damage the ceramic. Clean the sink, then wipe it down and let it dry to avoid a buildup of soap scum.

72 Inch Double Ceramic Vessel Sink Bathroom Vanity in White

Metal Vessel Sinks

You can also find vessel sinks made from a range of different types of metals. These include stainless steel, copper, nickel, bronze, and brass. Again, they are available in a range of sizes, styles, and shapes. Cleaning and maintenance tend to be easy, but you will want to be sure that you are following instructions for whichever type of metal you choose.

Semi Recessed Dark Copper Vessel Sink

Other Things to Remember

In addition to all of the above, you also need to think about the vessel sink faucet you choose. Not only do you need to choose a style that will work well for the material of your vessel sink, but you also need the right size. You could opt for top-mount faucets with a long stem, or to have a wall-mounted faucet. It will depend on your design preference and the way your bathroom is set up.

Vessel sinks are fantastic. Just spend some time thinking about what you want out of yours.