Should you stay in the round, or is it hip (for your sink) to be square?
Oval and rectangular sinks are popular with different types of homeowners.
Both have pros and cons to consider carefully.
Oval bathroom sinks save space and have a classic, traditional look.
Rectangular sinks look modern and take up more room.
Oval sinks are easier to clean and can cost less than rectangular sinks.
A new sink can transform your bathroom. Even without a full bathroom remodel, installing a new sink gives an updated space and look. When buying a new bathroom sink, oval vs. rectangular is one of the biggest decisions. In this guide, we will explore key differences between these two types of bathroom sinks, look at the pros and cons of each, and discuss various factors to consider.
Just one look and you will see the biggest difference between oval sinks and rectangular sinks: It is all about the edges. Oval bathroom sinks have a smaller profile that is more compatible with smaller bathrooms, while rectangular sinks take up space with their defined corners. That shape difference also gives the two options distinctive feels. Oval sinks look more traditional, making them easier to pair with almost any style; on the other hand, the stark silhouette of rectangular sinks gives them modern flair. Cleaning oval sinks is also usually easier than scrubbing out the corners of rectangular ones.
Oval bathroom sinks have rounded edges, making them a great option for smaller spaces. They often come in pedestal and basin styles, and their classic design has a versatile, unfussy look that complements various bathroom styles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Space-saving design for small bathrooms | May look too small in larger bathrooms |
| Versatile, classic look goes with most decor | Can look outdated against modern decor |
| Bowl shape for deeper water, less splashing | Rounded edges do not offer storage |
| Easy to clean | |
| More affordable than rectangular sinks |
Best for:
Traditional and classic bathrooms
Smaller bathrooms
Homeowners who want easy-to-clean fixtures
Rounded corners make all the difference. Oval bathroom sinks have a smaller footprint, whether they are a pedestal sink, a basin sink, or part of a bathroom vanity, so they are usually the smartest choice for smaller bathrooms. Their classic, versatile shape looks great with most decor styles, and you can choose different faucets to give them a more distinctive style.
The bowl-shaped basin also allows you to fill the sink with deeper water and helps prevent water from splashing out during use. With no corners to collect dirt and suds, you will find oval bathroom sinks easier to clean than square or rectangular sinks. Their commonality and popularity also means that oval sinks are likely to be less expensive than other shapes. To add to that, they may be an easier option if you are wondering how to install a bathroom sink yourself.
While they have a lot of pros, there are a few cons particular to oval bathroom sinks. The biggest one is that, while they do go with many styles, oval sinks can appear outdated in more modern bathroom designs. What some people see as a timeless design, others see as too traditional. Homeowners may prefer their smaller profile in smaller bathrooms, but that means they can look too small in larger bathrooms, in larger vanities, or in rooms that could benefit from the visual anchor of a larger, more substantial sink.
Rectangular sinks have squared-off corners and clean, straight lines, giving them a sleek, contemporary look that is perfect for modern bathrooms. If you prefer a modern aesthetic and have a bigger bathroom that can accommodate a more sizable sink, a rectangular basin can be a great choice.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Less common, more unique shape | Take up more space in smaller bathrooms |
| Sleek, modern-looking design | Not as deep as oval sinks |
| Take up space in bigger bathrooms | Often require bigger vanities or countertops |
| Wider basins for more elbow room | Can be harder to clean |
| Bigger rims may add storage space | Can be more expensive than oval sinks |
Best for:
Modern, contemporary bathrooms
Bathrooms with large vanities or big countertops
Larger bathrooms with physical and visual space for bigger sinks
Turns out, it is hip to be square—especially if you have a bigger bathroom and room for a rectangular sink. These sinks are less common than oval sinks, so they stand out as a bold decorative choice. Their modern, sleek-looking design also complements contemporary bathrooms.
And bigger can be better, especially when you have a bigger bathroom that can accommodate a larger rectangular sink that acts as a visual anchor point for your room. With a bigger average sink size, they take up more visual and physical space in bathrooms, and they give you more elbow room and sink surface than round or oval sinks with a similar capacity, since they tend to be wider but less deep. Many rectangular sinks also have bigger, wider rims that allow you to store or set items on the sink edge.
Rectangular sinks have a number of cons to consider. The biggest is their oversized footprint. They require more space, including bigger countertops and larger common vanity sizes to hold them. But while they are wider and take up more room, they are not as deep as oval sinks, so you will sacrifice water depth and risk more splashing.
Cleaning can be a bigger chore, too. Their corners make it harder to rinse down debris and wipe them clean during use. The cost can also be higher, as there are fewer options compared to oval sinks. You may want to hire someone who installs bathroom sinks to install a new rectangular sink because of its size and weight, which can increase the overall sink installation cost.
Your preferences and needs will vary, and oval and rectangular sinks both have their place in modern bathrooms. Here is how they compare.
Oval sinks have a more timeless, traditional look, so they are more likely to fit in visually with almost any bathroom style. For this reason, they are a more versatile choice. Rectangular sinks have a more contemporary, modern look and tend to look best in homes with modern bathroom decor. Your home’s style and your personal preferences will be the best guide when choosing a new bathroom sink.
The rounded shape of oval sinks gives them a smaller footprint, so they are a better choice for smaller bathrooms. Rectangular sinks are generally larger, and the protruding corners mean they will take up more space than an oval sink with the same capacity. If you have a bigger bathroom or want a sink with a more commanding presence, rectangular can be a great choice.
Rectangular sinks have corners and crevices where dirt and soap scum can accumulate; oval sinks are easier to wipe out and keep clean.
Oval sinks are generally more affordable compared to rectangular sinks, so they are usually a more budget-friendly option. That said, you can find rectangular sinks to fit most budgets. For professional sink installation services, call a local sink installer near you.
