Concrete basins have rapidly become a favourite in modern bathroom design and for good reason. With their effortlessly sleek look and unrivalled durability, they bring a unique blend of function and flair to any space. But like any premium material, concrete requires a little attention to keep it performing - and looking - its best.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to maintain your concrete basin, including daily maintenance, deeper cleaning techniques and long-term care tips.
Why choose a concrete basin?
Concrete might not be the first material that comes to mind when thinking about bathroom basins, but it offers a stunning alternative to more traditional options. At Tap Warehouse, our concrete sinks are crafted using high-quality, sealed concrete that is highly resistant to water, heat, and stains.
With a range of styles, finishes and colours to choose from, and with subtle variations in texture and tone, each piece offers its own individual character. Whether you opt for a countertop model or a wall-mounted design, a concrete basin adds a sophisticated, architectural touch to your bathroom.
Benefits of a concrete basin
There are lots of benefits to owning a concrete basin, here’s some of the key reasons for choosing this type of basin for your bathroom.
Durability: Our concrete basins are built to last with strength and practicality at the heart of the design. Each piece is sealed with a dual-layer coating providing a waterproof, anti-grease surface that is resistant to heat, scratches and stains.
Style: With a range of styles and colours to choose from, concrete basins offer a real chance to inject some personality into your bathroom. These are a fun way to upgrade your bathroom and make a statement.
Range: From vibrant orange to more authentic concrete shades, countertop styles and cloakroom sizes, there really is a basin for every mood and space. Our range has over 32 different products with varying styles, colours, finishes and sizes.
Low maintenance: Concrete basins are very low maintenance which is a real win-win for busy bathrooms. Keep reading for our full care guide below.
Space-saving: Our range of concrete basins include wall-hung and countertop styles which are really useful in smaller bathrooms for helping to save space. They free up valuable floor space, open out a room and give off the illusion of a bigger room overall.
Looking after your concrete basin
Although concrete is robust, it’s important to follow a consistent care routine to maintain both the sealant and the underlying material.
Daily essentials
Concrete basins are finished with a protective coating that repels water and resists staining, making daily maintenance easy. After each use, simply rinse with warm water to remove any residue from soap, toothpaste or cosmetics.
-
Use a soft microfibre cloth or non-abrasive sponge to wipe down and dry the surface.
-
Avoid leaving standing water in the bowl for extended periods.
-
Skip the harsh chemicals - a mild, pH-neutral detergent (such as diluted washing-up liquid) is all you need. Even though the sealant is durable, strong chemical cleaners can wear it down over time, allowing water and dirt to penetrate the concrete.
Weekly TLC
For a more thorough clean, aim to do the following routine every week or two, depending on usage. This helps to remove any build-up and keeps the surface looking pristine.
-
Remove any items or accessories from around the basin.
-
Prepare a solution of warm water and a small amount of mild washing-up liquid.
-
Using a soft cloth, wipe down the entire surface in circular motions.
-
Rinse thoroughly with clean, warm water.
-
Dry the surface with a clean microfibre cloth to prevent water marks.
Disinfecting your concrete basin
If you’re looking to disinfect the surface, we recommend using diluted white vinegar or an antibacterial washing-up liquid. Apply sparingly with a soft cloth, rinse immediately and dry thoroughly.
Avoid letting the solution sit for too long. Concrete is porous by nature and overexposure to acidic or alkaline cleaners can cause surface wear.
How to prevent damage
Concrete basins are strong, but a little precaution goes a long way:
Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Bleach, acidic solutions (like lemon juice), abrasive powders and scouring pads are all off-limits. They can damage the sealant and compromise the concrete underneath.
Use Neutral, Gentle Products
Stick to pH-neutral cleaning agents and soft cloths to maintain the integrity of the basin’s surface.
Avoid Thermal Shock
Don’t pour boiling or ice-cold water directly into the basin as extreme temperature changes can cause cracks over time.
Be Mindful with Heavy Items
Avoid placing or storing heavy objects around the basin, especially on slim-edged designs. Dropping items can cause chips or dents.
Prevent Standing Water and Product Residue
Leftover toothpaste, makeup and skincare products can lead to stains if not wiped away quickly.
What If Your Basin Gets Stained?
Concrete basins can sometimes develop marks from mineral deposits or cosmetic products. Don’t panic - spot cleaning can usually resolve it.
-
For general stains: Apply a mild washing-up liquid to a damp cloth, rub gently in a circular motion, then rinse and dry.
-
For oily or greasy marks: A baking soda paste (water and bicarbonate of soda) may help lift the stain. Use sparingly, as baking soda is slightly abrasive.
Remember to spot test any new cleaning methods on a hidden area first, and never allow your cleaner to soak on the concrete for long periods.
Concrete basins are an outstanding investment for those who appreciate design, texture and long-lasting quality. With just a bit of regular care and the right cleaning products, your basin will retain its elegance and functionality for many years to come.
For more expert cleaning and bathroom care advice, explore our How To guides and product recommendations across the Tap Warehouse blog.
Looking for bathroom taps to complement your basin? We have an extensive range of wall mounted taps, as well as mini taps perfect for cloakroom spaces and smaller basins.
