Features of the washbasin, distinguishing it from sinks and washbasins

We usually don’t think about whether there is a difference in the meaning of the words “washbasin”, “washstand” and “sink”. Is it the same thing or not? What's the difference, if only you could wash your hands, your face, and your teeth. We do not care about these subtleties exactly as long as the need does not lead us to a plumbing store. And there, the variety will make your head spin. This is where confusion in terminology comes in.
So let's figure it out and continue to use the names correctly and in the right context.

What is a washstand

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

Washstand in the past

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

The simplest devices of the past were equipped with a handle for hanging them, and a spout for flowing out water.

Outwardly, antique items for washing remind us of a kettle we are used to..

You can guess for a long time about the purpose of a vessel with two nozzles on opposite sides. But this is also a washstand. Preserved richly decorated clay specimens, as well as objects made of expensive metals - copper, bronze, silver.

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

The fact is that the water in the tank was consumed uncontrollably and ran out very quickly. A valve tip was designed for cost-effective reasons.. 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. Several such movements were enough to rinse the face and palms.

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

Modern models

Sometimes we hear that such items are in the past. In fact, they also exist today.

If you ask for a washstand in the plumbing department, you will most likely be offered a product that looks like a mini-sink. Do not wonder!

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

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

In summer cottages, devices are also widely used.

Traditionally, the kit includes the following items:

• large capacity for water;
• heating element for heating;
• tap with a valve;
• sink;
• sewer device;
• curbstone.

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

The difference between the washstand and other plumbing equipment

It would seem that everything is already clear. But if we're in a plumbing store, the confusion will start again. The variety of models, the variety of names and the abundance of proposals will make your head spin. To figure it out, you'll have to go into details again.

Sink

A sink is any plumbing device you need to wash your hands or small items.

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

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

The most famous shell model is called the "tulip".

In the shape of the washing compartment, it really resembles an opened tulip bud. Such a sink is mounted on a faience leg to match. For many years, the tulip sink occupied the first place in the top of the sanitary ware.

Now at the height of fashion is the water lily shell.

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

Wash basin

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

As plumbing equipment washbasins are quite impressive in size. Another difference is the presence of cabinets in washbasins.

Washbasins are not only meant for washing the palms. Above the wide and deep sink of the washbasin, it is convenient to brush your teeth, wash your face, shave, do cosmetic procedures and the like.

Obviously, the washbasin, the washstand and the sink have one common function - they make us and our life much cleaner.