Enamel basins were used usually for washing hands and face at home and in hospitals. Water was heated and added to the cold water in the basin. Water was heated on the stove and then mixed with cold water for washing people prior to hot and cold water being available by taps. This basin may have been used at home or at the Tawonga District Hospital in the Kiewa Valley.Large round pale yellow enamel basin with green rounded edge. It has straight slightly sloping sides with a rim.enamel basin. washing. hospitals. hygiene.