What Is A Wash Trough?

What is a Wash Trough? | Washware Essentials

A wash trough is a long, communal handwashing basin designed to accommodate multiple users at once. Often found in schools, commercial washrooms, public restrooms, healthcare environments, and industrial settings, wash troughs provide a practical and hygienic solution for high-traffic handwashing needs.

Unlike traditional individual basins, a wash trough is typically wall-mounted or surface-mounted and features a continuous bowl with one or more taps. This communal setup promotes efficiency, reduces installation costs, and enhances overall hygiene standards.
 

 

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At Washware Essentials, we supply wash troughs in three main materials to suit various environments and design requirements:

    Stainless Steel

    Corian® Solid Surface

    GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic / Fibreglass)

Each material offers unique advantages, making it easier to select the right wash trough for your project.

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Benefits of a Communal Wash Trough

1. Space-Saving Design

A key advantage of a communal wash trough is its compact, streamlined design. Rather than installing multiple individual basins, one long wash trough can serve several users at once, maximising wall space and freeing up valuable floor area.

2. Improved Hygiene

Communal wash troughs are easier to clean and maintain than traditional basins. Their seamless design helps prevent the buildup of grime and bacteria, especially when made from non-porous materials like stainless steel or Corian®. With fewer joints and crevices, there’s less chance for cross-contamination - ideal for healthcare or food preparation environments.

3. Cost Efficiency

Installing a single wash trough is generally more cost-effective than multiple basins. You reduce the need for plumbing fixtures, pipework, and installation time. Additionally, wash troughs are long-lasting, offering a great return on investment.

4. Modern and Functional Aesthetic

Whether you’re outfitting a school, office, or leisure facility, wash troughs offer a sleek, modern appearance. They complement a wide range of interiors and can be customised in length, colour, or configuration to suit your space.

 

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Material Guide: Stainless Steel vs Corian vs Fibreglass

Stainless Steel Wash Troughs

    Durability: Extremely robust and resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for high-use environments.

    Hygiene: Non-porous and easy to clean, perfect for schools, healthcare, hospitality, or industrial use.

    Appearance: Offers a clean, professional look suitable for commercial spaces.

    Eco-Friendly: Fully recyclable at end of life.

Corian® Wash Troughs

    Aesthetics: Seamless, modern finish available in a variety of colours.

    Hygiene: Solid surface material that’s non-porous and antimicrobial.

    Customisation: Easily shaped and cut to fit bespoke washroom designs.

    Maintenance: Resistant to stains and easy to repair if scratched.

Fibreglass (GRP) Wash Troughs

    Affordability: Cost-effective alternative to metal or solid surface options.

    Lightweight: Easier to install in tight spaces or on lightweight walls.

    Chemical Resistance: Suitable for industrial or chemical-heavy environments.

    Durability: Resistant to impact and daily wear.

Choosing the Right Wash Trough

When selecting a wash trough for your facility, consider the following factors:

    Number of users

    Mounting style (wall-hung or floor-mounted)

    Environment (industrial, commercial, educational, etc.)

    Material preference and design aesthetic

    Budget and long-term maintenance

At Washware Essentials, we offer a wide range of wash troughs in various sizes and finishes. Whether you need a compact handwash station for a school or a heavy-duty unit for a factory, we have the ideal solution.

Final Thoughts

A wash trough is more than just a sink - it’s a smart, efficient handwashing solution for shared spaces. Whether you choose stainless steel, Corian®, or fibreglass, you can count on a durable, hygienic, and space-saving addition to your washroom setup.

Explore our full range of wash troughs here or contact our expert team for tailored advice on your project requirements.

 

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Posted by Paul Thorn
27th July 2025

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