Five years ago, vessel sinks were everywhere. They showed up in magazines, on Pinterest, and in every new build from Toronto to Tampa. But now, in early 2026, you walk into a showroom and notice something different. The vessel sink is still there-but it’s not the star anymore. So, are vessel sinks still in style in 2025? The answer isn’t yes or no. It’s more like: vessel sinks are still used, but they’ve lost their monopoly on modern bathrooms.
Why vessel sinks took off-and why they’re fading
Vessel sinks exploded in popularity between 2015 and 2020 because they looked different. They sat on top of the counter like a sculpture, not tucked inside it. They came in glass, stone, ceramic, copper-you name it. They were easy to install, didn’t need complex cabinetry, and gave a high-end look without a high-end budget.
But that’s also why they started to feel dated. The same features that made them popular became their weakness. The exposed edges collected water, soap scum, and toothpaste splatter. Cleaning them was a chore. People got tired of wiping down the counter every other day. And as bathrooms got bigger and more functional, homeowners started wanting more storage, more space, and more practicality.
In 2025, the trend isn’t about looking different. It’s about looking clean, quiet, and effortless. That’s why undermount sinks are back in control. They sit flush with the countertop. Water drains right off the surface. No ridges. No corners to scrub. That’s why 68% of new bathroom renovations in Canada and the U.S. now use undermount or integrated sinks, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s 2025 Design Trends Report.
Where vessel sinks still work in 2025
Just because they’re not the default doesn’t mean they’re dead. Vessel sinks still have their place-when used intentionally.
In small powder rooms, especially ones with bold wallpaper or a statement mirror, a vessel sink adds character without taking up visual space. A single ceramic vessel sink on a narrow console table in a guest bath? That’s still a winning combo. It’s not about function-it’s about mood.
They also shine in high-end, design-forward spaces. Think of a custom stone countertop with a hand-thrown porcelain vessel sink from a local artisan. These aren’t mass-market pieces. They’re one-offs. They cost $1,200 to $3,500, and they’re installed by professionals who know how to seal the gap properly. In those cases, the sink isn’t a trend-it’s a centerpiece.
And let’s not forget the rise of hybrid sinks. Some manufacturers now make vessel-style sinks with hidden drains and integrated overflow channels. They look like traditional vessel sinks from above but function like undermounts underneath. Brands like Kohler, Robern, and TOTO have released these in 2024 and 2025. They’re the best of both worlds: style without the mess.
What’s replacing vessel sinks in 2025
If vessel sinks are stepping back, what’s stepping up?
- Undermount sinks-still the top choice for 72% of homeowners. They’re seamless, easy to clean, and match the rise of quartz and solid surface countertops.
- Integrated sinks-same material as the countertop, molded as one piece. No seams. No edges. Just a smooth, uninterrupted surface. Popular in minimalist and Japanese-inspired designs.
- Wall-mounted sinks-gaining traction in small bathrooms. They free up floor space and create a floating effect. Often paired with smart mirrors and hidden storage.
- Rectangular trough sinks-long, narrow, and sleek. Perfect for double vanities. Often made from brushed bronze, matte black, or concrete. They look modern without being flashy.
These aren’t just trends-they’re solutions. Homeowners today don’t want a sink that looks cool. They want one that works with their daily routine. Someone with three kids doesn’t have time to wipe down a vessel sink after every handwash. A busy professional doesn’t want soap scum building up on their vanity because the sink design is “aesthetic.”
The real cost of vessel sinks in 2025
Let’s talk money. A basic ceramic vessel sink runs $150-$400. But here’s the catch: you can’t just drop it on any countertop. You need a thick, solid surface-granite, quartz, or custom wood. You need extra clearance for plumbing. You need a faucet with a tall spout. And you need a professional installer who knows how to seal the gap without leaks.
Compare that to an undermount sink: $200-$600, installed with the countertop in one go. No extra sealing. No special faucet. No hidden costs. The total installed price for an undermount sink is often $200-$400 less than a vessel sink setup.
And don’t forget maintenance. A 2024 survey by HomeAdvisor found that 41% of vessel sink owners regretted their choice within two years because of cleaning difficulty. That’s not a small number. That’s almost half of people who thought they were buying beauty-and ended up buying a chore.
When to choose a vessel sink in 2025
So, should you install one? Only if you’re clear on why.
Choose a vessel sink if:
- You’re remodeling a powder room or guest bathroom-not the main family bath.
- You’re working with a designer who understands how to pair it with the right faucet, lighting, and countertop.
- You’re willing to clean it daily or hire someone to do it.
- You love the look of art on your vanity and aren’t worried about practicality.
Don’t choose a vessel sink if:
- You have kids, pets, or a busy morning routine.
- You’re on a budget and want to avoid hidden costs.
- You’re trying to maximize resale value. Most buyers today prefer clean, low-maintenance sinks.
- You’re installing it in a master bathroom. It’s too high-maintenance for daily use.
What designers are saying in 2025
I talked to three bathroom designers in Ontario and Quebec this winter. All of them said the same thing: “We still specify vessel sinks-but only for clients who know exactly what they’re getting into.”
One designer in Burlington, where I live, told me about a client who insisted on a hand-blown glass vessel sink for their master bath. “They had it installed, then came back two weeks later asking if we could replace it with an undermount,” she said. “They didn’t realize how much water pooled around the base. It was ruining the wood countertop.”
Another designer shared a success story: a client who used a single, thick-walled stone vessel sink in a tiny powder room with a mirrored wall and no overhead lighting. “It became a piece of art,” he said. “People stop and look at it. They don’t touch it. They just admire it.”
That’s the key difference now. Vessel sinks aren’t for everyday use anymore. They’re for moments. For accents. For rooms you don’t live in every day.
Final verdict: Are vessel sinks still in style in 2025?
Yes-but only in the right context. They’re no longer the go-to choice for most homeowners. They’ve been replaced by cleaner, smarter, lower-maintenance options. But they haven’t disappeared. They’ve evolved into a niche design element.
If you love the look, go for it. Just don’t expect it to be easy. Don’t expect it to be cheap. And don’t expect it to last without care.
For most people in 2025, the best bathroom sink isn’t the one that looks the most unique. It’s the one that disappears into the routine-so you don’t have to think about it at all.
Are vessel sinks outdated in 2025?
Not outdated, but no longer the default choice. Vessel sinks are now considered a design accent rather than a standard fixture. They’re used in powder rooms, luxury spas, or as statement pieces-but rarely in family bathrooms where practicality matters more than style.
Do vessel sinks increase home value?
Usually not. Most buyers prefer undermount or integrated sinks because they’re easier to clean and more durable. A vessel sink might impress a design enthusiast, but it can deter practical buyers. In resale markets, especially outside luxury neighborhoods, vessel sinks can even be seen as a liability.
Can you install a vessel sink on a laminate countertop?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Laminate isn’t thick or strong enough to support a vessel sink properly. Water can seep into the edges, causing warping or mold. Most professionals advise using quartz, solid surface, stone, or custom wood instead.
What’s the easiest sink to clean in 2025?
Undermount sinks and integrated sinks win by far. Both sit flush with the countertop, so water and debris slide right off. No crevices. No edges. Just a smooth surface you can wipe in one motion. That’s why they dominate new installations.
Are vessel sinks making a comeback in 2026?
Not in a meaningful way. The design world is moving toward minimalism, functionality, and low maintenance. Vessel sinks are too high-effort for most daily use. Hybrid designs that mimic their look without the mess are the real future-not traditional vessel sinks.
What to do next
If you’re planning a bathroom remodel in 2026, start by asking yourself: “What do I need this sink to do?”
- Is it for a guest bathroom you rarely use? A vessel sink might be a fun choice.
- Is it for your daily routine with kids, pets, or a busy schedule? Go with undermount or integrated.
- Are you working with a designer who can help you balance style and function? Then you have options.
- Are you on a budget? Skip the vessel. It’s not worth the hidden costs.
The best bathroom sink isn’t the trendiest. It’s the one you won’t hate in six months. In 2025, that’s usually the one you barely notice.
kelvin kind
January 7, 2026 AT 22:36Undermount all the way. No debate.