How to Find the Best Kitchen Sink for your Home

No wonder, your kitchen sink is the hot spot of your daily household activities, from prepping for meals to watering the plants and bathing your kids. There are a variety of kitchen sinks available that fulfill your functional needs and lets you express your unique taste. This guide helps you find the kitchen sink of the right size and configuration that perfectly matches your style too.

Size of the Kitchen Sink

Finding the size of the kitchen sink is the first task when buying a kitchen sink. The size of the countertop, depth of the sink base cabinet, and usage will dictate the length and depth of the sink. If you love cooking and cook larges batches of food, you will need a sink that is bigger and deeper for large cleaning utensils. To get the right measurements, you need to measure the width and length of the sink, from edge to edge, and the depth of the basin. Also, check the location of the plumbing and space for garbage disposal and water filter system under the sink.

Kitchen Sink Installation Types

Drop-in Sink

Drop-in kitchen sinks are installed into the pre-cut hole in the countertop with edges resting on the countertop. One of the most popular sink types, these sinks are quite easy to install, and they fit almost all types of countertops.  They can be easily installed without making any changes to the existing plumbing.

Undermount Sink

Undermount sinks are mounted under the sink with their edges resting at the bottom of the counter. These sinks are secured by heavy-duty clips or adhesives and are an ideal option for solid surface countertops. They are easier to clean as crumbs and other food particles could be swept directly into the sink.

Farmhouse Sink

Farmhouse sinks are also known as apron sinks. They look like a small size bathing tub. They are wide and deep with an exposed front. Ideal for cleaning large pots and pans and or bathing kids and pets, these sinks add a rustic feel to your kitchen.

Kitchen Sink Material and Finishes

While planning to buy a new kitchen sink for your kitchen, the material and finish will depend on your usage. A large family would need a sink with a durable finish that needs less attention. A small family with less usage can go for delicate finishes that need care and maintenance. Also, you need to consider the material of other fixtures while finding the right material for your kitchen sink.

Stainless Steel Sinks

One of the most popular, durable, and cost-effective kitchen sinks, stainless steel is available in almost all types of kitchen sinks. Easier to clean and maintain, kitchen sinks of this material are less prone to scratches and dents. High-quality kitchen sinks are made with 18-16-gauge stainless steel. The lower the gauge, the higher the thickness of the steel. Vibration- damping foam insulation is used to reduce the sound produced while using the stainless-steel kitchen sink.

Cast Iron: These sinks are made of cast iron with a coating of porcelain enamel to make it hard and durable. They have a smooth glass finish making them easier to clean. These are heavy sinks that weigh more than 125 pounds and can withstand a heat of 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. They are available in various drop-in and under-mount configurations.

Copper: Kitchen sinks made with copper are strong and durable that doesn’t rust or tarnish. It develops a layer known as patina. These are known for their antimicrobial properties that resist bacteria and viruses.

Granite/ Quartz Composite: Granite sinks are made with a mixture of 80 percent quartz and 20 percent resin. This blend makes the sink durable, scratch and stain-resistant, and can withstand heat for up to 537 degrees Fahrenheit. Available in a wide range of colors and kitchen sink types.

Fireclay: Typically used in farmhouse-style sinks, fireclay sinks are made from hard-fired clay. This highly durable material is smooth, shiny, and non-porous and resists scratches, chips, and acid damage. It is available primarily in white color, but other colors are also available.

Number of Bowls

Kitchen sinks are available in single, double, and triple bowl configurations. In double and triple sink kitchen sinks. While choosing the number of bowls for your kitchen sink, consider the amount of work in your kitchen and your counter space and make your choice accordingly.

Single Bowl Sinks: Single bowl sinks are an ideal choice for small kitchens with less counter space. Large cookware is much easier to clean in single bowl sinks since you can set them flat at the bottom and not worry about trash overflowing onto the counter.

Double Bowl Sinks: In double bowl sinks, there is a segregation of different ratios (50/50, 60/40, and 70/30) for cleaning, rinsing, and soaking. They are an ideal option for larger kitchens with good counter space.

Triple Bowl Sinks: Triple Bowl Sinks are a great choice for multitaskers as it gives excellent functionality and reduces work time. The bowl on one side can be used for soaking or drying the dishes and the bowl on the other side can be used for prepping with a garbage disposal installed underneath. The center bowl is for doing lighter tasks like washing hands or rinsing or draining.

Hole Specifications:

Check the hole specifications of your sink to coordinate the faucets, hand sprayers, and sink-mounted dispensers. Kitchen sinks come in one-, two-, three- and four-hole options. The number of holes in the sink will limit your options for kitchen sink faucets. Look for a sink that can fit your preferred kitchen faucet, whether it's a single hole or a bridge faucet.

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