A Full Guide to Trough Sinks | Hanex Solid Surfaces

A Full Guide to Trough Sinks

Are you fed up of unattractive, hard to clean, damage prone sinks? Look no further, known for their sleek design and functionality, solid surface trough sinks are perfect for high-traffic areas, offering multiple users the convenience of a shared space. Throw in the benefits of solid surface materials, and you get a durable, hygienic, and customisable option that fits seamlessly into any environment.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes trough sinks unique, why solid surface materials are worth considering, and how to care for your dream sink to keep it looking and performing at its best. Whether you’re outfitting a school, gym, restaurant, or office, this guide will help you decide if a trough sink is the perfect solution for you.

Island style sinks in the centre of the restroom with views of the runway

What is a Trough Sink?

A trough sink is probably pretty similar to what you might think. It is a long, usually rectangular sink, that is designed for multiple people to be able to use it at the same time. They typically have a shallow basin and an elongated design, often taking up a significant portion of the countertop. Trough sinks are commonly found in commercial settings, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits.

Is Solid Surface Worth It?

If you haven’t considered solid surface for your project before, you’re missing out! Solid surfaces offer a durable, versatile, and stylish option that allows for seamless designs and low maintenance.

Durable

Made from high-quality, non-porous materials, solid surface sinks are resistant to stains, scratches, and impact, making them a great option for sinks in busy commercial settings. With their ability to maintain a perfect appearance, without compromising functionality, they offer a long-lasting and reliable solution suitable for high-traffic areas and demanding environments.

Hygienic 

No matter the setting, hygiene is non-negotiable. The non-porous nature of solid surface materials makes them resistant to bacteria and mould growth. This means cleaning requires only mild soap and water, ensuring a hygienic environment with minimal effort.

Endless Design Possibilities 

Whether your brand exudes a bold, standout vibe or a more understated, sophisticated style, the versatility of solid surface materials allows you to customise your sink to perfectly suit your taste. With a smooth, easy installation process, a wide range of colours, shapes, lengths, and the option to create a completely bespoke design, there’s something to match every aesthetic.

Kinder to the Planet 

As businesses whenever we can be more eco-friendly, we should. That’s why we are pleased to let you know that our solid surface material, Hanex, uses natural minerals to reduce our use of acrylic and be kinder to the environment. We use 100% recycled water, rather than a chemical process; which is used by other brands on the market, during the manufacturing process.

Why should I consider a tough sink design?

Shared Space

Perfect for busy shared spaces such as a commercial washroom or kitchen, trough sink designs provide ample space for multiple users at the same time, enhancing efficiency and convenience. Their elongated shape and streamlined design make them a practical and stylish solution for high-traffic areas. Additionally, they are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a hygienic and functional option for shared environments.

Integrated Drainage

Solid surface wash troughs are often well-used to due their busy environments, so having a reliable drainage system is a great feature to have, while also reducing the risk of flooding. They are also designed to be deeper than traditional sinks to minimise splashes, making maintenance easier, and your spaces safer with reduced chances of slips!

Space saving

Due to its slimline design trough sinks are a smart choice for areas with limited space. Their efficient design ensures practicality without overwhelming compact environments. You should also consider a trough sink if you are looking for a style to conceal unsightly pipework and plumbing that will create a sleek, minimalist appearance. Why not pair your new sink with some mounted taps to enhance the overall aesthetic of your space?

Who would benefit from a trough sink?

There are no set rules for who can or can’t have a trough sink, however we can explore some of the most popular use cases for solid surface trough sinks to help you decide if this versatile and practical option is the right fit for your space.

Schools

School bathrooms are a great place for trough sinks, with their ability to accommodate multiple users hand washing at once, their durability to withstand heavy daily use, and their easy-to-clean, hygienic design. Because of their clever, deeper basin design that reduces splashes, you can expect dryer bathroom floors and the need for far less wet floor signs – phew! 

Leisure Centres or Gyms

With their space-saving design, durability, and easy maintenance, trough sinks are a popular choice for leisure centre and gym toilets, offering a hygienic and modern solution for high-traffic facilities. Having a trough sink made from a solid surface makes creating other matching custom pieces even easier. We can picture it now, sleek matching vanity units for members to get ready at, the perfect way to evoke a true feeling of luxury for your guests!

Restaurants 

A solid surface wash trough is an excellent choice for restaurants thanks to its stunning, space-saving design, which allows multiple users at once, eliminating the need for long bathroom queues—perfect for those fully booked evenings! It’s seamless surface makes cleaning and maintaining hygiene effortless, a must in any food-focused environment! Combining a modern look with durable materials, a trough sink adds both style and practicality, making it a strong choice for restaurants that want to impress in both terms of style and practicality, allowing guests to spend less time in the restroom and more time eating your delicious food!

Commercial spaces – office spaces, public rest rooms, galleries etc 

A solid surface trough sink is a standout choice for commercial spaces like offices, public restrooms, and galleries because it combines sleek design with unparalleled functionality. Its minimalist, streamlined look elevates the aesthetic of modern spaces. The non-porous, seamless surface not only resists stains and bacteria but also offers a tactile, premium feel that elevates the user experience. Durable and customisable, it’s an investment in both practicality and style, making it a perfect blend of form and function for any sophisticated commercial environment.

How do I maintain a solid surface trough sink?

It is important to look after your solid surface sink to maintain its durability and appearance, ensuring it remains free from stains, scratches, and damage for years to come. 

Regular cleaning

  • Clean your sink with a mild dish soap and water solution at least once a week to remove grease and food debris. 


Soft cleaning tools

  • Use a soft microfibre cloth or non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the surface. 


Immediate spill clean-up

  • Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent staining to your solid surface sink.


Hard water removal

  • For hard water buildup, use a diluted white vinegar solution (¾ water, ¼ vinegar) to clean your sink. 


Avoid harsh chemicals

  • Do not use abrasive cleaners, bleach, or other harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. 


Heat protection

  • Use trivets or mats under hot pots and pans to prevent heat damage to your solid surface sink.


Solid surface wash troughs are more than just a practical addition to commercial and high-traffic spaces—they’re a statement of style, functionality, and efficiency. Whether you’re outfitting a school, gym, restaurant, or restroom, their space-saving design, durability, and easy maintenance make them an excellent investment.

Choose Hanex for your high-traffic space and enjoy the perfect blend of functionality and style with sinks designed to maximise any area. Contact us today to learn how our experts can transform your space, or order a sample, delivered straight to your door, to begin your journey with Hanex Solid Surfaces!

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