How were washstands used in bedrooms?

Before plumbed bathrooms became standard, washstands held ceramic basins and water jugs for morning and evening washing routines. Servants filled the pitchers from larger reservoirs, and wastewater collected in the basin below. Today, these stands adapt well as hallway side tables, bathroom vanity supports, or decorative plant stands within period homes.

Can complete jug and basin sets still be found?

Complete sets combining a matching water jug and washing bowl survive together, though many were separated over decades of domestic use. Ceramic pieces frequently suffered chips or cracks from daily handling. When a matching pitcher and bowl remain paired, they offer a clear glimpse into nineteenth-century tablescapes and bedroom decoration.

What is a corner washstand?

A corner washstand is a triangular piece of furniture engineered to fit neatly into the corner of a room. Georgian and Victorian makers favoured this form to maximise bedroom space. Many feature tiered shelves, splashbacks, and hinged tops that concealed the washing bowl when not in use.

How do I care for antique wood and marble?

Wooden surfaces require gentle cleaning with mild wax to preserve the patina and protect the grain from moisture. Marble tops benefit from regular wiping with a soft, damp cloth and prompt removal of spills. Avoiding harsh chemical cleaners ensures the original finishes survive for future years.

Home > Wash Basin > Page 5

Antique Wash Basin

117 items · page 5 of 8

← Page 5 of 8 →

An antique wash basin brings tangible heritage indoors, offering practical vessels and stands shaped by Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian domestic life.

Original Antique Georgian Mahogany Corner Wash Stand Occasional Lamp Plant Table C1830

18th century

Save

Original Antique Georgian Mahogany Corner Wash Stand Occasional Lamp Plant Table C1830

From Lincoln Restorations

£395

3+ MONTHS AGO

furniture

19th century

Save

Georgian Mahogany Corner Washstand

From James Reeve (Quinneys of Warwick)

£265

3+ MONTHS AGO

furniture

A Large Rare Chinese 18th Cenrury Crackle-glazed Bowl Qianlong with Export Seal

18th century

Save

A Large Rare Chinese 18th Cenrury Crackle-glazed Bowl Qianlong with Export Seal

From Sandbanks Antiques

£5,950

3+ MONTHS AGO

ceramics

Victorian 4 Pc Doulton Burslem Jug and Basin Set

19th century

Save

Victorian 4 Pc Doulton Burslem Jug and Basin Set

From Sinclairs Antiques and Interiors

£350

3+ MONTHS AGO

jugs

19th century

Save

Antique Cranberry Glass Jug & Bowl Set.

From The Antique Shop

£265

3+ MONTHS AGO

glass

Large Rare Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Bowl with Peony Decoration. Circa 1890.

19th century

Save

Large Rare Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Bowl with Peony Decoration. Circa 1890.

From Dragoncharger Antiques

£950

3+ MONTHS AGO

metal

19th century

Save

Large 19th Century Copper Log Bin / Garden Planter

From Merchant House Antiques

£645

3+ MONTHS AGO

metal

19th century

Save

19th Century Copper Log Bin / Garden Planter

From Merchant House Antiques

£545

3+ MONTHS AGO

metal

19th century

Save

French Copper & Iron Cauldron

From Graham Price Antiques Ltd.

£150

3+ MONTHS AGO

metal

19th century

Save

Rare 19th Century Verwood Antique Wash Bowl & Soap Dish

From Miles Griffiths Antiques Ltd

£245

3+ MONTHS AGO

ceramics

Available forms range from Georgian folding corner stands and Victorian marble-topped cabinets to railway sleeping compartment sinks and copper cheese vats.