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Types of Basin Wastes

Published on: 02/01/2016
Last Updated: 09/06/2022
Basin Waste

Deciding on the type of basin waste can be a challenging task for anybody not well-versed with the types that are available. Fitting the incorrect type may lead to unnecessary hassles. It is, however, good to note the fact that many taps come as a complete package with a waste. Therefore, selecting your tap first can have its advantages. Most wastes will be available in both slotted and unslotted forms. The type of waste you need will depend on whether the basin has a built-in overflow or not. The following types of waste are available in the market.


Slotted and Unslotted

Slotted and Unslotted Basin Waste

If your basin has an in-built overflow, you require slotted waste. If it lacks an overflow, then what you need is an unslotted version. This is a very crucial aspect when deciding on waste for your sink, as the wrong choice can cause serious damage to your entire basin.

What is the role of an overflow? The overflow helps in the drainage process by allowing air into the drain when the sink is filled with water. The air helps water in the sink to drain out faster, whereas a basin without an overflow opening will generally drain slower. Slotted wastes allow the water passing through the overflow to flow efficiently through the holes into the drain.

The same principle applies to unslotted wastes. These come without holes and should only be installed into systems that do not incorporate an overflow. The drawback is that, in this case, a faster draining of water is not possible.


Plug and Chain

Plug and Chain Waste

Still hugely popular, the conventional plug and chain is an all-time classic choice for many. The plug and chain waste now comes in traditional and contemporary styles and carries the same timeless appeal. Easy on the pocket and long-lasting, it is a safe choice. However, today the majority of basin designs lack a hole for the chain link, so you may think of first checking it out.


Pop-up

Pop-Up Basin Waste

Another prevalent choice is the pop-up. Pop-up waste is a fitting that joins a sink or basin to the waste pipe at the plughole. It comes with a plug or stopper that is operated with a lever that gets pulled up when you want the plug lowered and pushed down when you want to have it raised. Usually, they come along with the basin taps and are managed through a control which is normally at the rear of your tap.


Pop-down

Pop-down basin wastes are relatively new on the market and, although expensive, are easier to clean than pop-up options.


Push Button

Push Button Basin Waste

Advances in bathroom design have brought about modern waste options like the clicker or push buttons. These are operated by a central button that you simply push down to allow your vessel to fill up, and then you push again when you are done for it to open and let go. This is quite popular with the modern minimalistic bathrooms being easy and simple to use. This waste is also called click-clack waste or sprung plug and is more expensive than the other varieties.


Flip Top

Flip Top Basin Waste

This type is also quite popular as it complements the minimalistic bathroom design. They are controlled through revolving a stopper. The stopper may be left lying flat to play the role of a plug, or you can rotate it to allow water draining.


Other considerations

Current trends are leaning towards minimalism, and if you want to stick with that style, it’s important to choose a basin waste that fits perfectly and complements the rest of your bathroom. Basin wastes typically come in two sizes, with a diameter of either 32mm or 40mm – opting for the wrong one could damage your basin, as well as spoil its appearance.

Basin wastes come in a variety of colours, so it shouldn’t be difficult to find one that fits in with your other bathroom fixtures. Flip top and push button wastes are great if you want to stick with a minimalistic look, but pop-up/pop-down options can also be integrated into a sleek style.

All basins require a waste. This is typically designed to fit snugly within the standard hole in your basin through which wastewater exits. It keeps your bathroom clean and hygienic. So, as you select yours, ensure you choose the one designed for your particular type of basin. No matter what you choose, you’ll find our prices very agreeable, without compromising the quality of the product.

Sarabeth Asaff

Sarabeth Asaff
Sarabeth Asaff is a former kitchen and bathroom designer who now works as a home and garden industry writer and expert. She has a working knowledge of all areas of the home improvement industry, and specialises in functional design and material advice.