Kitchen Sink - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2022
Shopping for a new kitchen sink? You can find almost any shape, size, configuration, material and color you want.
However, making the wrong decision could be costly, so the Real Indian team set out to analyze the market and investigate the product's range of strengths and weaknesses.
We've provided our favorite kitchen sinks on the market, and these highly rated products qualify for our list of the best. Below you'll find information based on our product research to help you select the perfect sink for your kitchen.
Types of Kitchen Sinks
Before you go to the store, you'll need to answer a few basic questions. What shape and size do you prefer? How many bowls do you want? And what type of accessory best suits your kitchen setup?
Selecting a Shape
Most kitchen sinks are rectangular in shape. However, depending on the material used by the manufacturer, virtually any shape is possible. Beyond the basic rectangle, round or triangular sinks are often seen in homes.
Triangular corner sinks are common where space is tight, although some people find them cramped.
Round kitchen sinks look nice, but some consider them a waste of space. You can almost always fit a larger rectangle in the same area.
Selecting a Size
How wide should your sink be? The most popular width is 30 inches; 25 inches is a sensible minimum. However, those who live in tight spaces may find a 15-inch sink more appropriate.
As for depth, we don't advise anything less than five inches deep. A sink that is 9 or 10 inches deep provides plenty of capacity while still being comfortable.
Keep these tips in mind when selecting your sink size:
- If the sink is too narrow, it might be difficult to fit pots and pans inside.
- If the sink is too wide, it may not fit with your current cabinets.
- If the sink is too deep, you may experience back strain or other physical discomfort from standing in it.
- If the sink is too shallow, you could end up with water splashing everywhere.
Choosing a Configuration
Do you prefer a sink with a single, double or triple bowl?
A single-bowl sink is often the cheapest option because it's the easiest to make. A single bowl can exude everything from traditional elegance to modern beauty, depending on what it's made of.
Double bowl sinks add versatility to your kitchen. Split 50/50 or 60/40, you have separate areas to soak dishes, prep vegetables, or even fit a garbage disposal.
Triple bowl kitchen sinks take the double bowl idea one step further by including a narrow center bowl dedicated to waste disposal.
Choose an Accessory
The way the kitchen sink fits falls into one of four categories:
- Top Mount
Also known as a "drop-in," this type of sink sits through a hole in the countertop and is secured underneath. A lip protrudes around the edge of the sink. It rests on the top of the counter to prevent liquids from entering the cabinet below.
- Under the Mount
This type of sink is similar to the top mount sink in that you drill a hole and secure the sink from below. (An extra support can also be added). However, this sink is rimless and ends flush with the countertop or, depending on design preference, below it. Installation of an undermount sink requires precision and is best left to the professionals.
- Cabinet Mounting
Most often seen in farmhouse kitchens, the cabinet mount sink is also sometimes called the Butler or Belfast sink. This sink is effectively a freestanding unit that rests on top of a half-height cabinet.
- Seamless (or Integrated)
Because it is part of the countertop structure, this type of sink is not really considered a fixture. High-end seamless sinks are expensive.
Materials for the Kitchen Sink
Once you've settled on the basics, the shape, size, configuration, and fit, it's time to determine which kitchen sink material you like best. Here are the pros and cons of eight common sink materials.
- Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel is a very popular material for kitchen sinks. In today's market, you'll find cheap, basic stainless steel sinks as well as complex models that cost much more. You'll find sinks of different thicknesses, from 23 gauge (the thinnest) to 16 or 17. Interestingly, testing doesn't show a marked increase in durability based on gauge.
Pros :
Often the cheapest option. Rust and stain resistant. Durable and easy to clean.
Cons :
The industrial look of stainless steel doesn't appeal to everyone. Hard water and fingerprints can leave marks, and scratches are difficult to remove. It's easy to clean, but it's not easy to keep this material looking pristine.
- Acrylic
Acrylic is another popular material for consumers who want a cheap sink. Acrylic sinks are made from polycarbonate and are typically reinforced with fiberglass.
Pros :
Available in many styles and colors. Lightweight and easy to install like a DIY. Stain resistant and durable.
Cons :
May scratch and chip (although the color is the same all the way through). Excess heat from a hot pan will melt or burn it. Not everyone likes the feel of acrylic.
- Granite or Quartz
Granite or quartz Kitchen Sinks, also known as faux stone, are not really made of one homogeneous material. Rather, they are a mixture of 70 to 80% granite or quartz and 20 to 30% polymer resin.
Pros :
Looks and feels like natural stone. Quartz is hard; granite is even harder. Both are unlikely to get scratched or chipped. High heat resistance (granite composite is rated over 500°F).
Cons :
Frequent cleaning is needed. The material is porous and can stain. Available only in matte finish.
- Enamel and Porcelain
Enamel and Porcelain Kitchen Sinks exude a traditional look that many consumers appreciate, and they are available in a plethora of colors. Some have a cast iron core; others are built on cheaper metal alloys.
Pros :
Classic look. The metal core retains water temperature better than plastic or stone. Resists stains and odors. Easy to clean.
Cons :
Steel versions are not as stiff as cast iron. Because cast iron is extremely heavy, specialized cabinets may be required. Surfaces may chip or crack. The sink can rust if moisture creeps into the substructure.
- Clay
Clay Kitchen Sinks are made from clay fired at 1800°F or higher, and finished with a thick glaze. This is possibly the best material for those who want a white sink.
Pros :
Very durable; often called "harder than rock." Resistant to chips, scratches, stains, acids, alkalis and odours. Easy to clean.
Cons :
Available only in white. The faucet cannot be mounted on the sink itself. Extremely heavy. Ruggedized cabinets are required, and professional installation is recommended.
- Soapstone
Soapstone, also known as soapstone, is softer and denser than some types of rock (hence its name). For centuries, people have cut and carved soapstone to carry water.
Pros :
Great look and feel. Each unique soapstone sink is handcrafted. Highly resistant to heat, stains and chemicals. Easy to clean.
Cons :
Limited range of colors. Heavy. The material will patina (change color slightly) over time. The material is difficult to chip or scratch, but it is possible.
- Copper
Copper is a practical but unusual material for the kitchen sink. If you decide to go the copper route, choose 99% copper instead of a low-quality alternative.
Pros :
Durable. Naturally antibacterial. does not rust Different surface textures and polishing options.
Cons :
Requires extra care when cleaning. The surface can react to chemicals and hot pots, and finer copper surfaces can bend and dent.
- Natural Stone
Sinks Made of Natural Stone, marble, quartz, and other solid materials can be a real luxury, especially if your sink and countertop are made of identical materials.
Pros :
Continuous flow from countertop to sink. Ideal for modern kitchens. Easy to clean.
Cons :
Expensive and often heavy. Custom cabinetry and professional installation are typically required. The material may chip or smudge (depending on what it is), although the natural pattern can help hide the damage.
Kitchen Sink Cleaning Tips
First of all, you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer of your sink.
The following cleaning tips have been tried and tested, but if in doubt, always consult a qualified professional!
Address spills immediately to minimize the chance of staining.
Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive pad on the surface of your sink. Never use a scourer.
Most sink surfaces require a bit of liquid soap to clean. Lemon juice and vinegar work too, but both are acidic. Never leave an acidic material on your sink's surface to "soak in" — and never use it on copper.
Don't use floor or oven cleaners in your sink. Also, don't use sprays unless specifically approved by the sink manufacturer. (Don't believe the manufacturer of the aerosols!)
When cleaning a stainless steel sink, always clean it with the grit.