A table-top basin sits fully on top of a counter, like a bowl on a table. A counter-top basin, in the trade sense used by many Indian factories, is set into or onto a counter, and includes under-counter and semi-recessed types. A pedestal basin is fixed to the wall and stands over a ceramic column that hides the pipes.
The names are not used consistently. One factory's "counter-top" is another's "table-top". Always order basins by drawing and model number, not by the label.
The main basin types
- Table-top or vessel basins sit on the counter surface, with a hole cut only for the waste. They need a tall basin mixer or a wall-mounted tap.
- Under-counter basins fix below a stone or solid-surface counter, so the counter edge shows around the bowl.
- Semi-recessed basins sit partly into a cabinet, with the front edge projecting.
- Inset or drop-in basins drop into a cut-out from above, with a rim resting on the counter.
- Wall-hung basins fix directly to the wall with brackets or bolts.
- Pedestal basins are wall-hung basins with a full-height ceramic column; half-pedestal versions use a short column fixed to the wall.
What changes between types
Each type has different fixing, tap and waste arrangements. Table-top basins usually have no tap hole and no overflow, or a small hidden overflow. Pedestal and wall-hung basins usually have one or three tap holes and an overflow. Under-counter basins need a rim that is flat and true so they seal against the counter.
Weight and packing also differ. Large table-top basins are often thick-walled and heavy for their size. Pedestals ship as a separate piece and must be counted and matched to basins at loading.
What to specify
- Model number and drawing with external dimensions, bowl depth and wall thickness.
- Number and position of tap holes, or none.
- Overflow or no overflow, and waste hole diameter.
- Fixing method, and whether brackets or bolts are included.
- Glaze finish and colour, explained in sanitaryware glaze finishes.
- Whether the pedestal is packed with the basin or separately.
Quality points for basins
Check flatness of the rim and the base, since warped basins rock on a counter or leave gaps against the wall. Sanitaryware warpage covers how to measure it. Look for glaze defects on the visible outer surface of table-top basins, where every side is on show. In Europe, wash basins fall under EN 14688; in the US and Canada, under ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1.
For under-counter and inset basins, ask for the cut-out template the counter maker will use, and check a sample basin against it. A template that does not match the real piece is a frequent cause of site complaints.
Next step
We match basin drawings to your market's taps and counters, check samples, and count basins and pedestals at loading. Book a free sourcing review.