Plumbing fixtures are here considered solely from a sanitary point of view. Types are discussed but not the various modifications or makes. Those may be seen in the show rooms of plumbing supply houses or very natural illustrations of them can be seen in plumbing supply catalogues.

Plumbing fixtures are receptacles for soil and waste water from which it is discharged into the drainage system. There are several classes of fixtures, each fixture being classified according to its use. Thus: Soil fixtures include water closets, urinals, school sinks, bidets, slop sinks, and all other fixtures into which soil is discharged. Scullery fixtures include kitchen sinks, pantry sinks, laundry tubs, and any fixture used in the preparation of meals or washing of household goods. Laving fixtures include wash basins, bath tubs, needle, shower and spray baths, and any fixture used for cleansing the person. Clean water fixtures like drinking fountains form a group by themselves.