Inset Basins Buying Guide
An inset basin, also called a drop-in basin, fits into a cut-out in the benchtop with its rim resting on the surface and the bowl sitting below. This collection includes Caroma Riviere, Liano II, Contura II and Luna inset basins, plus semi-inset basins from Fienza and Kaskade and the Clark round inset basin with tap landing. It suits family bathrooms, ensuites and any vanity where you want a practical, easy-to-fit basin.
What is an inset basin?
An inset basin is lowered into a hole cut in the vanity top and sealed around its rim. The rim protects the cut edge of the benchtop from water, and the bowl sits inside the cabinet. It gives you bench space around the basin with a neat, lipped edge, and works with stone, solid surface, laminate and timber tops.
What is the difference between inset, semi-inset and undermount?
An inset basin sits in the bench with only the rim on show. A semi-inset basin, like the Fienza Sarah or the Kaskade Arundel 385mm stone basin, sits partly in the bench and partly above it, so more of the bowl is visible. An undermount basin fixes beneath the benchtop with no rim on top. Some Caroma basins, such as the Liano II 580mm pill, are made to fit either under or over the counter.
Do inset basins come with tap holes?
Many do. The Caroma Riviere inset basin comes with no tap hole, one tap hole or three tap holes, with or without an overflow. The Caroma Contura II 530mm inset basin is available with a tap landing and one tap hole, and the Clark round inset basin has a tap landing too. A basin with no tap hole needs a bench- or wall-mounted tap. Choose the basin and tap together.
What size inset basin do I need?
Choose a size that leaves enough benchtop around the basin and suits the cabinet depth. A 400mm round basin, such as the Caroma Liano II 400mm round inset, suits a compact ensuite vanity. A 530mm basin, like the Contura II or Liano II 530mm pill, suits a standard vanity. Each basin lists its cut-out size; give it to your benchtop maker before the top is cut.
Are inset basins easy to install?
Yes. They are one of the simplest basins to fit because the rim covers the edge of the cut-out, so the cut does not need a polished finish. The basin is bedded on sealant and connected to the waste and tap. For a replacement, an inset basin can usually be removed without damaging the benchtop.
Which finish should I choose?
Caroma inset basins come in gloss white and matte white, with Contura II also available in Matte Clay and Liano II in Matte Speckled. Gloss white is easy to wipe clean. Matte finishes have a soft, modern look and hide water spots. Clean with mild detergent and a soft cloth, and avoid abrasive pads.
Completing the room
Pair your basin with a basin mixer and a basin waste that suits its overflow, then choose a vanity from bathroom vanities and furniture.
