An overview on how to select the right kitchen sink for your home

Kitchen sinks are part of a crucial work area in our kitchens. Right from washing dishes and hands to cleaning vegetables and fruits, kitchen sinks handle most of the cooking preparation and cleaning-related tasks. Besides this, modern kitchen sinks come with a system to attach food waste disposers to avoid blockage. Food waste disposers grind the waste food items and leftovers thrown in the sink into a thin paste before draining.

Installing the right sink is equally important as installing other equipment and fittings in your kitchen. An ideal kitchen sink reflects how functional, comfortable and modern your kitchen is. A good-looking and efficient sink also enhances the overall appeal of your kitchen.

Whether you are renovating a kitchen or constructing a new one, choosing the right sink for your kitchen from various options can be a bit overwhelming. But don't be concerned, as we have listed down different types of sink materials and key factors that will help you select the right kitchen sink.

Different types of materials in sinks:

While installing a new kitchen sink or replacing the old one, many consider its size and design, but examining the sink's material is also an important part. Some materials are extremely tough and resistant to stains, scratches, and scuffs, while others are more delicate and best suited for mild to medium use. So keep reading to learn about the best kitchen sinks to make the best decision for your kitchen makeover.

• Stainless steel sink:

The most popular and preferred material used to make kitchen sinks is stainless steel, which provides a sleek, contemporary design, especially when matched with wood, granite, or stone countertops. In addition, stainless steel sinks require low maintenance and are easy to clean. For a long-lasting and strong sink, go for a 16 to 18 mm thick sink.

Additionally, ensure the steel sink you are purchasing is non-magnetic. These sinks contain some amount of nickel and chromium, which helps avoid corrosion and damage at high temperatures.

Pros:

• Durable
• Affordable
• Easy to clean
• Low maintenance

• Copper sink:

With their countryside look and an inviting, rosy-colored appearance, copper sinks are gaining prominence among modern customers. Available in both hammered and smooth finish, the copper sink designs are incredibly rustic and perfect for farmhouse-style kitchens.

These sinks offer health benefits as copper has the potential to destroy 99.9% of germs naturally. In addition, copper molecules punch holes in bacterial membranes, limiting metabolism and preventing growth. This is one of the main advantages, making copper one of the finest kitchen sink materials, especially as cooking space might be a germ breeding ground.

Although the copper kitchen sink price is a little expensive, they are worth every single penny. Copper sinks are priced depending on their design, size, and brand. Any high-quality model made of 99% copper and 1% zinc, ranging between 14 to 18 mm, can be a great choice. However, do not invest in lower-cost copper kitchen sinks because they have thinner metal and may get damaged easily.

Pros:

• Appealing finish
• Contains antimicrobial properties

• Stone sink:

Sinks, such as marble or even petrified wood, provide a striking look to the kitchen. Every stone sink is unique, all thanks to its natural coloring and variegations. These sinks are carved from a single block, making minimum changes to the look and texture. Stone sinks are ideal for all types of use and a fine choice for kitchens with wooden or natural stone countertops.

While stone is tough, it is also porous, and this issue can be avoided by proper sealing. Taking regular care of these sinks is necessary to prevent scratching, damage and discoloration from cleaning solutions and other chemicals. Stone sinks are also relatively heavy and should be installed on cabinetry or either need countertop support. Stone kitchen sink prices are comparatively costly, but they lend a rich look to the kitchen.

Pros:

• Long lifespan
• Heat-resistant
• Classy and adds to property value

• Composite sink:

These sinks are made from a combination of quartz, dust, and acrylic resins. Composite sinks are trending in modern Indian kitchens as they lend the appearance of stone and are less costly. These sinks are available in numerous colors, sizes, designs, and forms. Kitchen sinks made of composite materials are incredibly durable and do not require any extra sealing. These sinks can be fitted in both old-fashioned and modern kitchens for all kinds of use.

While these sinks may withstand extensive use, avoid exposing them to extreme heat to prevent fracturing or harming the surface.

Pros:

• Moderately priced
• Available in a plethora of styles
• Does not require sealing

• Solid surface sink:

Solid surface sinks are produced from manmade acrylic resin and can be easily molded according to the buyer's needs. These sinks have the appearance of enamel sinks except for their exorbitant cost and weight. Solid surface sinks are mostly installed in contemporary kitchens and can be installed with lighter-weight countertops and cabinets.

Choose a better quality sink in this category as a cheaper and poor-quality solid surface sink may have a filler of calcium powder and become dingy and yellowish after a year. Good quality solid surface sinks have higher-quality acrylic resins that maintain their white tone and glossy sheen despite everyday use.

Pros :

• Can last for extended periods
• Customizable and economical

• Enamel sink:

These sinks are classic kitchen sinks made of cast iron and finished with a glass-based glaze that comes in a range of colors. Enamel offers a softer and calmer appearance than metal sinks. In addition, the enamel kitchen sink designs are simple and can lend a beautiful look to your kitchen if well kept. These sinks are ideal for light and medium use and look great in both contemporary and traditional kitchens.

These sinks come on the heavier side and require the support of cabinetry and countertops. On the other hand, enamel sinks are posh, delicate, and the best kitchen sinks. To clean and remove any stains from these sinks, you can use mild detergents or acids like vinegar. Avoid scratching them with abrasive sponges and use a soft scrub. In case the enamel surface gets damaged by any means, it can be restored with a DIY kit or by a professional.

Pros:

• High durability
• Classic look

• Fireclay sinks:

The brand belongs to the family of enamels and is generally made from white clay combined with glaze by heating at extremely high temperatures. Best for spacious modern and farmhouse-style kitchens, these sinks are ideal for light to medium use.

These kitchen sinks look like conventional cast-iron enamel sinks but are stain and scratch-resistant. However, the surface of these sinks may require re-glazing over time and based on the usage. Like enamel and other vintage sinks, these fireclay sinks are also pricey, heavy, and need the support of cabinetry and countertops.

White and off-white fireclay are commonly used in kitchens. However, dramatic blue and black fireclay sinks are also gaining lots of popularity these days. In addition, the deep and single-bowl kitchen sink designs are also widely preferred by people today.

Pros:

• Long lifespan
• Easy to clean
• Highly durable

Key factors to keep in mind before buying kitchen sink:

Now that you know the different types of sinks and their benefits, here are a few other things to consider before deciding which sink to purchase. Consider the following points to design the kitchen of your dreams.

• Material:

Choose the suitable sink material that best meets your requirements from the types mentioned above. If you are looking for low-maintenance and tough sinks, stainless steel material is the best, but if you prefer a more stylish look, consider enamel or stone sinks

• Installing style:

Consider your needs before choosing between drop-in and undermount style sinks. Underm__unter/" rel="nofollow" counter space because it lies underneath the counter, keeps the countertop clean, and adds to your property's selling value. A drop-in sink usually is less expensive than an under mount sink and is easy to install.

• Size:

When picking a sink size, always consider your budget; the larger the sink, the more expensive it will be. Considering the design scale is also important if the kitchen is small, there is no point in installing a large sink as it will only occupy more space.

• Style:

Sinks are available in various styles and weights. Before choosing the style, ensure the cabinetry has the correct depth and strength to support the weight of the new sink.

• Bowls:

If you have space and the funds, go for a double-bowl sink out of the single and double bowl sinks. Double-bowl sinks ease the cleanup procedure and are ideal for a large family. Those looking for a single large usable space without the partition in the middle can opt for a large single bowl sink. These sinks are perfect for washing large serving dishes or pans.

Conclusion:

Installing a new sink is a significant investment that will transform your kitchen's functioning and enhance its appearance too. However, we hope the provided information helps you understand what type of sink material is right for your kitchen and other key points to know before making the buying decision.

Moglix is one of the reputed online marketplaces to buy different types of sinks and other products. The site offers attractive discounts, quality products from top vendors, and fast delivery, ensuring customer satisfaction.

Kitchen Sink: FAQs

Q. Which is the best sink for the kitchen?

A. The most popular and common type of material for kitchen sinks is stainless steel. These kitchen sinks are heat and stain-resistant as well as come in a range of shapes, types, and sizes.

Q. Which stainless steel kitchen sink is best?

A. Some of the best stainless steel sinks for the kitchen are:

• Crocodile 37x18x10 inch Stainless Steel Square Diamond Cut Single Bowl Kitchen Sink with Drainboard
• Crocodile 24x18x10 inch Single Bowl Stainless Steel Square Golden Matt Finish Kitchen Sink
• Crocodile 24x18x10 inch Single Bowl Stainless Steel Hi Gloss Finish Kitchen Sink with Square Coupling
• Crocodile 37x18x8 inch Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink with Drainboard
• Crocodile 45x20x10 Inch Double Bowl Stainless Steel Matt Finish Silver Kitchen Sink with Tap Hole

Q. What type of kitchen sink is the most durable?

A. Kitchen sinks made of stainless steel, composite, copper, fireclay, and solid surface materials are the most durable than most other materials.

Q. Which type of kitchen sink is best?

A. There are various kinds of kitchen sinks and you can choose them depending on your style, requirements, and personal preference. However, a stainless steel sink is the best choice for the kitchen because they need low maintenance and are affordable.