Bathroom renovation from scratch – washbasin installation and height

Planning a bathroom renovation, or already in the middle of one? Wondering how to design the space so it’s not only striking but also functional? Start with the basics. Focus on choosing, purchasing and installing the key pieces of sanitaryware such as a bathroom washbasin, a bath or a shower. In this article, you’ll find the most important information on correctly fixing and setting the height of the washbasin in your bathroom. Ready for a hefty dose of knowledge? Let’s get started!

Why is the correct washbasin height important?

What is the best height for a washbasin? Many of us ask this question. Unfortunately, there isn’t a single definitive answer. What matters most is who will be using the newly renovated bathroom. Will it be only healthy adults, small children and older or disabled users, or perhaps people of above-average height? The key to success and satisfaction for you and your loved ones is to take all possible criteria into account.

When adjusting the key parameters of a bathroom washbasin, it’s worth focusing not only on the material it’s made from and the colour, but also on its width and height. Only by considering the build and abilities of the bathroom’s users can bathroom washbasins be mounted at the right height. The correct distance from the floor allows comfortable washing for able-bodied adults, small children, and people who have difficulty moving around or performing many personal hygiene tasks. So, let’s get down to specifics…

At what height should you install a washbasin in the bathroom?

If you’re replacing a washbasin or other sanitaryware, you can take inspiration from a publication written nearly half a century ago. It is titled Technical Conditions for the Execution and Acceptance of Construction and Assembly Works: Sanitary and Industrial Installations. According to it, washbasins should be positioned about 75–80 cm above the floor. However, it’s worth making small adjustments of a few centimetres to reflect, among other things, today’s generally greater average height. Thanks to these minor changes, using the washbasin will be very comfortable for most of us. Currently, the optimal height from the floor for a wall-hung model is about 85 cm. The same applies to the other version. A countertop washbasin should have the upper edge of its rim about 85–90 cm above the finished floor level. Accordingly, the worktop itself should be set correspondingly lower. A sensible approach is to calculate the difference between the upper edge and the full height of the washbasin. On this basis, it’s easy to determine all the remaining parameters.

How are bathroom washbasins installed?

Contrary to appearances, installing a bathroom washbasin isn’t as complicated as it seems. You can do it yourself with the right knowledge, preparation and all the necessary materials. To this end, carefully check all the pipes supplying cold and hot water to the tap. You should also get sanitary silicone sealant. If you’re worried you might do something wrong, don’t proceed on your own. To be sure everything has been done properly, you can ask a specialist team that handles this type of work.

When fitting out a bathroom in a home with small children, the most advantageous solution is to buy a special step stool, which will greatly help the youngster use the washbasin. For seniors and people with disabilities, a sensible decision is to provide a pull-out basin together with raised worktop edges, so there’s no need to set aside mobility aids such as a wheelchair.

To sum up, when deciding to purchase any sanitaryware, you should first and foremost take into account your own and your loved ones’ individual needs and adjust the height of the fixtures accordingly. With the right choice, you’ll ensure the highest level of safety and user comfort.