2021 ᐈ

Types and features of choosing sinks

As mentioned above, only water lily sinks are suitable for combination with a washing machine. This type of washbasin is classified into different types depending on the shape, size and materials of manufacture. There are models with and without a hole for the mixer.

In the latter case, the plumbing fixture can be mounted on the wall, thereby freeing up the washbasin for placing cups with toothbrushes and a soap dish.

Advantages of a sink over a machine

The main advantage of placing the machine under the sink is getting extra square meters. More precisely, about 0.25 - 0.35 m2 is freed up (depending on the size of the equipment), but this is quite enough in conditions of limited space.

An additional advantage of this solution is the exclusivity of the design. The sink has a rectangular shape and is selected according to the size of the upper surface of the washing machine. The range of water lilies (flat shells) is large, since they are produced for almost all types of cars. As a result, a harmonious alliance is created, stylized as an interior

Another plus is that the small gap between the plane of the machine and the sink can be used as a shelf. Of course, you shouldn’t fill this bonus space to capacity, but the essentials for washing will always be at hand.

Materials

Water lily sinks are made from the same materials as other washbasin models:

Ceramics.

Two types of materials are used to make sinks: porcelain and earthenware.

Compared to metal, they both have a lot of weight. Unlike earthenware, porcelain is more expensive, has a noble whiteness, is less porous and rarely develops small cracks on the top layer of glaze during long-term use.

Glass.

A stylish, modern solution that is suitable for bathrooms decorated in high-tech, techno, futurism, and avant-garde styles. Glass combines perfectly with chrome surfaces. Unlike ceramics, the material weighs less.

Manufacturers offer a wide variety of color solutions: from plain sinks to original models with an ombre effect and streaks.

Glass is a durable, durable material. However, it is afraid of detergents with an abrasive effect and requires daily cleaning, since smudges and traces of dried water droplets are noticeable on the surface. A glass sink will cost several times more than a ceramic washbasin.

Metal.

Compared to stone and ceramics, the material is lightweight. It is durable, and with careful use (regular cleaning with non-abrasive compounds) it will retain its original appearance even after years of use.

The material cannot be damaged or split when drilling technical holes.

The disadvantages of metal sinks include only an increase in the noise of flowing water, which does not happen when the flow collides with ceramics or stone.

Stone.

Natural stone is rarely used to make water lilies. Among all types of materials, it has the most impressive weight, which creates difficulties when installing a washbasin (very reliable fastenings are needed).

However, stone is an environmentally friendly material, it is not afraid of absolutely anything and fits perfectly with the popular eco style.

The artificial analogue is cheaper, visually practically no different from the original, but can break if the washbasin is dropped during installation.

It is very rare to find sinks made of plastic and wood on the domestic market. The first ones have not yet reached our country and have not taken root in local plumbing stores, but are gaining popularity abroad.

Wooden sinks are considered exclusive, which are not durable, but will certainly amaze guests with their colorfulness and originality.

Shape and size

Water lily shells are available in five variations of shapes:

Semicircular and round;
Square;
Rectangular;
Angular;
Non-standard forms.

The latter option can be found in designer collections of expensive plumbing fixtures. Such an exclusive is not suitable for budget options. As for sizes, water lilies are available in many variations, among which the following models lead the variety:

Mini or Compact. Its dimensions are only 50x64 cm. The rectangular washbasin is compactly placed in any corner of the bathroom.
Light. Dimensions 60x61cm. The model is notable for the presence of an offset drain and the absence of a hole for the mixer.
Luxe Light. It differs from the “simple” Light version by only 1 cm; the dimensions of the model are 60x62 cm.
Bolero. The dimensions of this round corner model are 60x64 cm.

There are also models with euphonious names “Deal”, “Uni”, “Victoria”, “Elegant” . They differ not only in size, but also in shape. Most models are available in only one variation (according to the material used).

Drain

Water lily sinks can have a horizontal or vertical drainage system. The latter is considered more convenient, since water under pressure goes down faster, which reduces the risk of blockages. The “water lily” together with the washing machine can only have a horizontal drain.

This feature is due to the increased danger of contact with electric current.

The water will drain slowly, periodically stagnate in the sink and, unfortunately, washing your hands for a long time without turning off the tap will not work. There are non-standard models (usually corner ones), in which the drain is located on the side.

Benefits of the solution

The main and decisive advantage of installing a washbasin directly above the washing machine is space. The smaller the bathroom, the more relevant this is. After all, both objects are quite large, and it is impossible to do without both on the farm.
If everyone has long been accustomed to appliances built into cabinets and cabinets, then installing a sink above a washing machine is not the most obvious option. Therefore, we have selected several examples and are ready to share their secrets.
The variety of washbasin models is now such that there is an option for any interior. There are also many installation methods, so you can certainly choose something for yourself.

Sink above the washing machine - why is it convenient?

The first and most important advantage of a sink placed above the washing machine is, of course, saving space. And not only in the bathroom, but throughout the entire apartment - because otherwise the machine would have to be located somewhere else.
The second important advantage is that it gives the restroom individuality. Washbasins designed to be placed above the washing machine come in different sizes and shapes, and it is quite possible to choose an option that will not only “expand” the room, but also bring elegance to it.

Disadvantages and difficulties

Before installing a sink above a washing machine, be sure to familiarize yourself with the possible pitfalls. There are only a few, but they are important.

The first problem is the most obvious: the wrong choice of location. Calculate all the distances down to the millimeter and carefully consider whether it will be comfortable for you. So that you don’t end up with literally nowhere to turn around in the bathroom.

A more serious problem is directly related to the combination of plumbing and electrical appliances. If you don’t have experience, trust the installation to professionals, because it’s about safety. And a short circuit is not the worst possible consequence.
The most difficult thing is to choose a siphon. But this can also be solved! Take a closer look at the special sinks that are already sold complete with it and are designed for just such an installation.
Also keep in mind that the water from the sink will drain worse than with a regular vertical drain. This means you will have to carefully use and design the system in such a way as to avoid stagnation.

Place under the countertop

With this layout, the washing machine, washbasin and end part of the bathtub are located along one wall close to each other. A countertop that will be located above the washing machine and under the sink will help you use the space to your advantage.

You can also screw a wall-hung sink directly above the bathtub, but not everyone will like this option for organizing space.

In this case, it is not the sink that hangs over the bathroom, but the countertop. There is storage space below.

Equipment: options

In addition to the simple option of installing a sink above the machine, you can install a sink with a cabinet, if the dimensions of the room allow. In this case, the sink is located not above the machine itself, but near it, which is safer and facilitates installation. In this case, you can use deeper options, because there is no connection to household appliances.

The convenience of this option is that it is possible to place bedside tables and shelves under the sink, where all the little things needed in everyday life can be conveniently placed.

The location of the washing machine under the countertop allows you to protect it from any penetration of moisture, both from above and from under the sink. Stylistic options for such designs can be very diverse. The main negative point in this case will be the cost of such furniture.

Usually it is several times higher than installing a regular sink, and not every bathroom has the space to accommodate such a number of elements.

If you want to make a sink with a countertop, you can order it from craftsmen or try your hand at this matter. To make a base for a sink, you need to decide on the material. The most popular are wood and all its variants and stone. It is better to entrust working with stone to professionals, but you can try to handle wood yourself.

However, the most convenient material for making countertops yourself is considered to be plasterboard.

To work with this material, you need to ensure that you have the following tools and materials:

profile, preferably aluminum;
self-tapping screws for metal work;
sheet of moisture-resistant plasterboard.

To make a countertop for a sink, you need to correctly determine the height of the future structure and fix the profiles at this level. After this, the creation of the future frame begins, which will later become the tabletop.

Once everything is ready, the frame is covered with pieces of plasterboard prepared to size, holes are made for washing and drainage.

Before installing the sink and pipes, you need to finish the plasterboard structure, for which mosaics or small tiles are best suited. It is convenient to make the remaining space under the sink in the form of a cabinet with shelves or a bedside table.

The choice of option depends on both material and personal capabilities, whether there is a desire to build something with your own hands.

Advantages of placing the sink above the washing machine

A washing machine under the sink will be an excellent solution if it cannot be placed elsewhere or the bathroom is very small. This is also true if the bathroom has a corner bath or a large shower.

The main advantages of placing the machine under the sink in the bathroom include the following:

ease of use of the machine - it is obvious that a washing machine located under the sink will be a solution that can be used in small apartments with a small bathroom. After all, it is here that one must be able to most rationally arrange all the essentials in order to carry out with the greatest comfort those tasks for which the bathroom exists: washing, taking a bath or shower, washing clothes;
compactness of the washing machine, which can be installed under the sink in the bathroom. And, although the volume of laundry that can be washed in such a machine is small, the ability to install the machine in almost any free corner makes it especially convenient;
Such a washing machine, which fits under the sink, will be a real godsend when you need to install, for example, a second washing machine. If there is another washing machine with a larger size, in which larger quantities of clothes are washed;
A small washing machine is also convenient when you need to wash specific items. For example, a washing machine in a hairdressing and beauty salon: here, according to sanitary standards and rules, a washing machine must be installed without fail. Its purpose is to wash towels for the hairdressing salon. According to the same standards, such a machine must be used only for this purpose. And here just such a washing machine is suitable - it has a compact shape and fits under the sink.

Another example of a special purpose, small-sized washing machine can be its use, for example, in a stable, where it is used only for washing horse textiles - blankets, saddle pads, bandages. This equipment, made of knitted fabric, must be washed and ventilated regularly. Since it has a distinct specific smell, it should be washed in a washing machine specially designed for this purpose.

As can be seen from the above, a washing machine, which can be installed under the sink, is a necessary attribute in strictly specific areas. However, its value for home use cannot be underestimated.

Small washing machine under the sink

Choosing a washing machine

Height is the main parameter; it will ensure comfortable operation of the water lily sink. The best option is up to 700 mm, since if we add the height of the bowl to it, we get the most acceptable level.

It doesn't matter in what order you decide to purchase the kit. Remember that the main thing is to understand the ratio of equipment sizes and the technological gaps between them.

Today, small washing machines have extensive functions, including several dozen programs for washing clothes. The dry load of such models ranges from 3 kg.

If you are lucky, you can immediately purchase a sink kit with a machine, which will simplify installation.

Requirements for installing washing machines under the sink

Since most often the bathroom space is quite small, you should carefully consider the process of choosing a washing machine. The “washing machine – sink” set is an excellent option for small bathrooms , since all the features of such a duo are already provided for.

The sink under which a small machine will be installed must have a certain shape, since not every sink can accommodate a washing machine. For example, if the sink has a riser (drain pipe), which is formed into a ceramic container of any shape, it will not allow placing a washing machine here.

The sink is in the shape of a water lily and has a shape that is most preferable for installing a small washing machine underneath it. A machine under the bathroom sink can perform several basic functions at once.

The machine in the bathroom is designed for washing dirty clothes.
Located under the sink, the washing machine can become an additional surface , and, as we know, there are always not enough of them, especially in the bathroom. Of course, a washing machine located under the sink will have a small usable area, but still, you can put some small things here.
As a detail of the bathroom interior, a machine installed here can play one of the main roles in interior design. Whether you choose a machine separately or as a set with a sink, the choice is always yours. And here you can give room for your imagination, because the machine can be chosen either to match the sink above it, or in a diametrically opposite color, thereby creating a unique color contrast.

Interesting ideas in the interior

A sink, combined with a washing machine into one functional element of the interior, is in itself considered an original and non-standard idea. And this option is used not only in bathrooms, but also in kitchens.

In the culinary area, the equipment is additionally masked by the façade of the furniture.

Due to the growing popularity of the symbiosis of a sink and a washing machine, not long ago special models of washing units began to appear on the market, to which a washbasin bowl is already attached. In some variations, they are complemented by a narrow side cabinet for storing household chemicals.

In order for the “set” to seamlessly blend into the interior of the bathroom, the washing machine is installed in an open “cabinet”, the top of which is crowned with a countertop with an overhead sink.

The furniture element itself is covered with tiles to match the ceramic tiles that decorate the shower or bathtub area. Some designers, in an effort to emphasize this design feature, even create a “path” on the floor of the room. It is made of ceramic tiles of a different color (different from the shade of the tiles used in the rest of the floor finishing), which seem to “lead” a person from the entrance to the washing machine and sink.

Sink with countertop

A countertop sink is considered a safer option. A large space is created at the bottom, which provides a choice for placing a washing machine. For safety reasons, it is installed under the countertop, and the space under the sink, which is located next door, is filled with shelves, towel holders (a very original idea) or a closed cabinet.

This option has only one significant drawback - high cost.

Installing a sink into a countertop

Another original option is countertop sinks, the bowls of which are literally installed on the countertop, rather than mounted into it. This is a very popular design solution, which has become fashionable in parallel with the popularization of eco-style and original washstands made of stone and wood.

Models made from these materials look most impressive.

In general, the solution can be called “well forgotten by the old,” since the designers returned to the roots: to the very bowls that were used a long time ago, even before the invention of plumbing. Overhead sinks can come in a variety of shapes (square, rectangular, semicircular), but round and oval bowls are considered the most popular.

Smooth lines emphasize their originality and soften severity.

The solution is suitable not only for the above-mentioned eco-trend, but also for high-tech, Scandinavian style, modern and even classic. A distinctive feature of overhead sinks is the absence of a hole for the faucet. Installation of the bowl is not particularly difficult. The model can be easily combined with washing machines.

The list of steps for installing equipment will have to be supplemented with one more step for the master - securing the countertop, which will precede the installation of the bowl itself.

Sink above the washing machine: types

A water lily sink may have a drain hole in the center or on the side. Models with a drain in the center have greater depth - the outlet pipe requires space. On average, the depth of such a water lily sink is 18-20 cm. When installed, there is a significant gap between the bottom and the top cover of the machine. On the one hand, you can store small things there, but on the other hand, cleaning is not very convenient.

But there are a majority of such models, since with this structure fewer requirements are placed on the balancing (stability) of the washing machine - the gap allows you not to worry about vibration during operation.

From the point of view of electrical safety, this option is not the best - if the siphon leaks, water will pour onto the machine. In this case, there is a high probability that it will get on live parts, which will cause breakdown of the machine. So when installing the washing machine, pay special attention to sealing. Perhaps, in addition to gaskets and seals, it makes sense to use a sealant.

Just take silicone, not acrylic, and it’s better for aquariums. It definitely lasts a long time.

Side and rear drain

Side drainage is less common. In this case, the pipe is shifted back and to the side and is located behind the machine body.

With this structure, the sink can practically be placed on the top cover. The bottom is almost flat, the sides are level with it or may even be slightly higher. The depth of such models in the front part is smaller - about 10-15 cm, and the back part, where the drain pipe is located, also has a height of about 20 cm.

There are few models with this structure. In our stores (online stores) we found only a few options - PAA CLARO made in Latvia. A ceramic soap dish is installed above the drain. In fact, it simply covers the drain hole and can be removed if desired.

In warehouses it is usually available in white, but upon request it can be made in a colored version - more than 20 colors and shades.

There is a clone of it - the Belarusian model Belux Idea . The difference in price, I must say, is not too big - $234 for the Baltic version and $211 for the Belarusian one.
There are several more options in Latvian stores: STATIO Deja, POLYCERS izlietne Compactino . These are also works of local companies. There is a similar model made in Russia - Water Lily Quatro .

What is good about this type of sink? The drain is shifted back, which means that even if a leak occurs, water will not get onto the machine, which means it will not harm it.

Rear drain

There is a slightly more familiar variety - the drain is moved back, but without moving to the side. All the advantages of this design are the same, the category is a little more numerous - they don’t look so unusual. There is also a non-standard option in this group - the BELUX EUREKA (made in Belarus).

In Eureka (pictured on the right) the mixer is shifted to the side, since the part covering the drain is removable for cleaning.

There are many more of these sink models. There are about the same number of them as there are with plums in the center, so there is a choice. The range in prices is quite decent - from the Russian Santek Pilot 50 (size 60*50 cm) for $36 to the Finnish Ido Aniara 1116601101 for $230 (size 60*59 cm).

If you search, you can probably find both cheaper and more expensive.

With table top

If the space situation in the bathroom or toilet is not so critical, you can install a sink above the washing machine with a countertop. The machine is installed under the countertop. This option is the most preferable from an electrical safety point of view.

There is one drawback - sinks with countertops are expensive.

To remove the dissonance between the part occupied by the body and the empty space under the sink, doors are attached to the second part, and shelves or drawers can be made inside for storing chemicals or other things.

There are other models - angular, rounded, etc. They must be selected for each specific interior with its own dimensions.

Flat sink

A flat sink above a washing machine suggests a flattened shape, which is not entirely convenient or familiar for ordinary people. From an aesthetic and design point of view, this option wins. But if there is very little space, it is unlikely that you will be able to find a suitable washbasin.

In addition, a flat bowl implies a large amount of splashes, so manufacturers make them very wide.

For most Khrushchev-era apartments and apartments with a small area, it is best to choose practical options with a normal sink depth. Modern and trendy flat sinks are suitable for spacious bathrooms.

But on the Internet you can find a large number of options for small inclined flat sinks. This expresses the design idea and saves space.

Installing a sink above a washing machine

Whatever lily sink you choose for your restroom, several rules are mandatory in any case:

Parts of the sink - in particular the drain pipes - should not come into contact with the washing machine. The point here is not only the risk of short circuiting, but also vibration - from constant shaking, the pipes can simply “loose”.

The washbasin must protrude slightly forward above the machine. This reduces the likelihood of accidental water entering the surface of the latter.

All wires of the washing machine must be in perfect order - in good condition, with strong insulation. Do not forget that even with the most careful installation there is still a risk of water getting on them.

And finally, before installing the washing machine, you need to read the instructions for it in order to finally understand whether the unit can be installed in close proximity to water appliances.

How to install a sink above a washing machine

To install a sink over a washing machine, you don’t have to resort to the help of specialists - you can do it yourself, there’s nothing complicated here. Installation proceeds as follows.

First of all, brackets are attached to the wall, on which the sink “sits”. Most often they come complete with plumbing fixtures; if not, it’s okay - you can buy them at any hardware store.

Before drilling the wall and screwing in the fasteners, figure out “roughly” whether the washbasin will fit comfortably. In other words, place it a few centimeters above the washing machine and see if this height suits you. If the faucet for the bathtub and sink will be shared, make sure that it rotates freely between them and that the water will not flow onto the floor or along the walls, but evenly into the bowls.

After this, you can begin the work itself - attach the brackets, place the sink on them and additionally fix it using a special hook that comes with the sink.

The edge adjacent to the wall must be sealed with a special agent.

Rules for installing a water lily sink siphon

The siphon is attached before the sink itself is fixed above the washing machine.
The flexible drain tube is attached directly to the siphon of the “washer”, and on top this structure is strengthened with a “clamp” - this way you don’t have to be afraid that the connection will accidentally break.
And only after this the drain hose is inserted into the sewer pipe.

It is important to remind once again that parts of the sink should not come into contact with the surface of the washing machine - constant vibration will disrupt the strength of the connections. In addition, when installing a sink above the washing machine, before use, check whether the siphons and pipes are securely fastened, and whether water is leaking from somewhere.

What sizes are there? Photo examples

50 x 50 sink is small in size, suitable for small and narrow spaces. The proportions should be taken into account in combination with the washing machine - which should be smaller around its perimeter.
The size 60 by 50 is not much different from the first option, but the difference is noticeable. Width matters; if you have free space, it is better to take a larger size.
The 60 by 60 size is perfect for installation above miniature washing machines. You should take a good approach to measuring the sides of plumbing fixtures and equipment, since the slightest defects will lead to unpleasant consequences. At a minimum, you will have to travel and change equipment to a more suitable one, which will take a lot of time.

Below you will find many photos of different photo examples of shells.

In a niche

In most Khrushchev buildings it is possible to make a small niche using a projection into the corridor. Later, this ledge will perfectly hide a built-in closet or hallway. A niche will give the bathroom additional space above the washing machine. It can be used to place a vertical cabinet or wall rack.

An example of a washing machine in a niche with shelves at the top.

You can install a washing machine even in the smallest bathroom, but in most cases this will require minor remodeling from the owners. The main condition is that the environment in the bathroom should be comfortable for all family members.