Basin Wastes

Slotted vs Unslotted Basin Wastes

The most important decision when buying a basin waste is whether you need a slotted or unslotted type. A slotted waste has a small gap cut into the side of the waste body — this allows water from the basin overflow channel to drain through the waste fitting rather than backing up. Slotted wastes are required for any basin that has an overflow hole. An unslotted waste is a solid body with no slot and must only be used in basins without an overflow. Fitting an unslotted waste to a basin with an overflow will block the overflow channel and cause water to back up around the rim. Check whether your basin has an overflow before ordering.

Finish, Size and Operation

Basin wastes in this range operate as click-clack closures — a single press opens or closes the waste without a plug and chain. Most are 32 mm, which is the standard size for UK basins; a small number of larger basins require a 40 mm waste. Check the product specification if replacing an existing waste. All three finishes — chrome, matt black and brushed gold — are available across both slotted and unslotted types, so you can match the waste to your tap and trap. For the matching trap, browse Basin Traps. To coordinate the overflow cap, see Basin Overflows. To buy the tap and waste together, visit Basin Tap & Waste Sets. Return to Basin Fittings for the full range.