Which bottle trap is best for a countertop basin?

Many of us encounter various obstacles when planning a bathroom — especially when we choose individual fittings ourselves. How can you avoid missteps? The first and one of the most important steps is to think carefully about your needs. Are you about to buy a washbasin trap for your bathroom? Not sure what to look for to make sure it’s suitable? We’re happy to help! Read on.

What is a bathroom washbasin trap?

The bathroom washbasin is a staple of this room. It allows us to use running water freely. However, to ensure efficient drainage from this type of bowl, a component is needed to make it possible — the washbasin trap.

The trap connects the washbasin to the waste pipe, allowing used water to be discharged. It also has another equally important function — its special design prevents unpleasant odours from the drainage system from entering the bathroom. Various types of washbasin traps are available, which makes it easier to match them to the other components.

Which trap should you choose for a countertop washbasin?

A countertop washbasin is mounted on a worktop that very often is not enclosed in any way. The absence of a cabinet beneath it means the connected trap will be completely visible to bathroom users. So what should guide your choice to buy a washbasin trap that is as practical as it is attractive?

Types of washbasin traps — consider which you need

Traps are most often categorised by their construction as pipe traps and bottle traps. The first type, pipe traps, are U-shaped (U-bends), which makes them very efficient at draining water. This design also prevents dirt building up inside, so it requires less frequent maintenance. It does have a significant downside — it is not particularly aesthetic, so it will not work well in bathrooms with countertop basins where the trap is left exposed. If that’s the setup you want, you’ll need to consider installing a cabinet to conceal it.

As the name suggests, a bottle trap is shaped like a bottle. Its vertical design is often more convenient than pipe traps because it takes up less space. It also looks much smarter and can become a tasteful feature of an elegant bathroom, so it’s a good match for countertop basins. Do remember, however, that this shape requires regular cleaning, as debris can accumulate inside.

Washbasin trap: dimensions

Once you’ve settled on a specific type, the next step is choosing the right dimensions for the trap. This is crucial, as it determines the practicality of the whole washbasin. A trap for a small basin or a large one? If the trap diameter is too small or too large, it won’t match the basin and the draining water will leak. To avoid this, check in advance what size you need.

Full trap or half trap for a washbasin?

The answer depends on which bathroom components you’ve already purchased. A half trap will only work if it’s combined with a waste that is integrated as part of the basin tap set. If the tap doesn’t include such a waste, you’ll need a complete trap with all the mounting parts.

Trap design versus installation location

Don’t forget about the trap’s look if you’re opting for a model that will be part of an unenclosed countertop basin. You’ll find interesting variants in our online shop. How do you choose the best one?

Consider which colour scheme dominates your bathroom. Should the countertop basin trap blend in, or would you prefer it to be a striking contrasting feature? A classic choice that suits any style and palette will certainly be a white or silver trap. If you want to draw the eye, go for matt black, polished gold or rose gold. Choose what suits your taste, and the result will be as practical as it is attractive!

Already know which trap to choose and now wondering how to fit a washbasin trap? It’s quite simple and you should be able to do it yourself without specialist tools. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Connect all the parts, secure the seals and make sure everything is watertight. And you’re done!